I stepped into the dimly lit warehouse, the air thick with the smell of rust and decay. Nova, shrouded in shadows, gestured for me to follow. We navigated through rows of dusty crates and cobweb-covered machinery, the only sound the creaking of old wooden beams.
Nova stopped at a makeshift workstation, surrounded by laptops, cables, and scattered notes. The fluorescent light above cast an eerie glow on their face, revealing a young woman with piercing green eyes and raven-black hair. Her expression was intense, her voice low and measured.
"Ethan, we've been tracking your search for answers. We know about your parents' research." Nova's gaze locked onto mine. "The Eclipse Project was more than just a scientific inquiry. It threatened the status quo." She handed me a worn leather folder. "This contains your parents' original research. Study it, Ethan. The truth is hidden within."
As I opened the folder, a mix of emotions flooded me. Yellowed papers, scribbled notes, and cryptic diagrams spilled out. Nova's eyes softened. "Your parents were brilliant, Ethan. They uncovered a conspiracy involving corrupt government officials and corporate interests. They were willing to risk everything to expose the truth."
My mind reeled, struggling to process the implications. Could it be true? Had my parents' research threatened powerful forces? Nova's voice cut through my thoughts.
"We've been compromised. You must leave, Ethan. Now." The sound of sirens echoed outside, growing louder. Nova swiftly dismantled her workstation, shoving laptops and cables into a backpack.
"Who's coming?" I asked, alarm rising.
"Those who want to keep the truth buried," Nova replied, her eyes locked on the exit. "We'll meet again, Ethan. Be careful." With that, she vanished into the shadows, leaving me alone amidst the chaos.
I sprinted out of the warehouse, the folder clutched tightly in my hand. The night air was crisp, the sirens closing in. I knew I had to disappear, at least for now.