It had been hundreds of years since the meteorite fell, drastically altering the course of history. In that time, only a few chosen by the meteorite's power—through what Hikari had now named Arc Serum—had come to serve their countries, wielding mysterious powers. The world marveled at them as heroes, but Hikari, buried deep in his lab, knew the truth. The meteorite's origins were still unknown, and the powers it granted were not gifts.
Location: Bulham, Hikari's Lab
Hikari stood in front of a medium-sized chunk of the meteorite, his heart pounding as he carefully examined the glowing rock. Years of research had led him to the discovery that the meteorite wasn't just a lifeless object. It was alive, an ancient entity with intentions that no human could fully comprehend. It was the source of the Arc Serum, a powerful chemical that chose only certain individuals to wield its power.
Holding a vial of the shimmering, golden liquid, Hikari's thoughts raced. "Why does it choose some and not others? What is its purpose?" His hands trembled slightly, as he understood the gravity of the situation.
Just as he prepared to make notes on his findings, the door to the lab swung open with a loud thud. Commander Elric entered, his imposing presence filling the room. The man had an air of authority that made most people nervous, but Hikari remained composed, knowing that fear wouldn't serve him here.
"Have you made progress?" Elric asked, his voice hard and impatient. "I need to know—can I gain the power of the meteorite?"
Hikari looked at him, masking his concern. "Commander, there's no way to extract power from the meteorite. It chooses people... and we cannot control that. The Arc Serum decides who is worthy."
Elric's face twisted with frustration. "Do you think I'm a fool, Hikari? I didn't get to where I am by waiting around for some rock to 'choose' me. You're hiding something."
Hikari shook his head. "No, Commander. The meteorite is not a tool you can use. It has its own will."
With a growl, Elric turned and stormed out. Hikari exhaled slowly, feeling the weight of the secret he was forced to keep. He couldn't allow Elric to learn the truth.
As Hikari left the lab, he found his old friend Jun waiting nearby. The look on Jun's face told Hikari that he had overheard the entire conversation.
"Why did you lie to him?" Jun asked, concern clear in his voice. "You've been working on the meteorite for years. You know more than you're letting on."
Hikari paused, glancing around to make sure no one was listening. He leaned closer to Jun. "I didn't lie. Some things are better left unknown."
"But you've found something, haven't you? A way to unlock the power?" Jun pressed, his eyes sharp.
Hikari shook his head. "Commander Elric only cares about money and power. If someone like him were to wield the Arc Serum... the world would fall into greater chaos. The meteorite's power can't be in his hands."
Jun frowned but nodded in agreement. "You're right. But how long do you think you can keep this secret?"
Hikari didn't answer. Instead, he walked away, the weight of his secret growing heavier with each step.