The News Update
"Scientists across the country are working to identify the source of the mysterious mist that blanketed our cities last night. Early analyses suggest traces of an unknown compound in the air, though further details remain classified. Interestingly, the Maikai Co. Foundation, one of the largest organizations in our country, has stepped forward to provide significant funding for the research. For context, the Maikai Foundation occupies 39% of our nation's land area, an unprecedented scale for a single organization. Their involvement is a notable development."
Khusi frowned. "Why is Maikai so interested in this? They're into tech and industry, not science... right?"
Aryan tapped her shoulder and pointed at the screen. Another report was breaking, and this one grabbed everyone's attention.
"In a shocking turn of events, a major bank was robbed early this morning, around 2 a.m., under the cover of the thick mist. Authorities report that valuables worth 1.7 million units have been stolen. The timing and method have raised suspicions, as the mist provided perfect cover for the robbers. Investigations are underway, but details remain unknown."
The screen switched to grainy footage from a security camera. Shapes moved like shadows through the fog, barely distinguishable. A reporter at the scene described the situation:
"The thick mist made visibility nearly impossible, even with streetlights. Police say the robbers managed to bypass advanced security systems, adding another layer of mystery to the case. Given the circumstances, some are questioning whether the mist itself was a deliberate distraction."
Khusi's eyes widened. "Do you think the mist and the robbery are connected?" he asked, glancing at Aryan.
Aryan didn't respond, but his furrowed brow showed he was deep in thought.
Their mom shook her head. "This is all too strange. First the mist, now this robbery... What's happening to our country?"
Khusi leaned closer to Aryan. "What are you thinking? You've got that look on your face."
"All schools were given temporary holidays for students because of the strange situation they were facing. So, Khusi and Aryan stayed back at home all day."
Inside the Maikai Organization, chaos rippled through the halls, though most of the staff worked in silence, aware of the consequences of stepping out of line. On the upper floors, in a high-tech meeting room surrounded by holographic displays and glass walls, Mai's anger was palpable.
"Worthless idiots!" Mai's voice thundered, echoing through the room. He slammed his hand on the desk, causing several nervous subordinates to flinch. "How much longer do you need to catch a single human? We don't have enough time! Hurry up!"
The tension in the room was suffocating, but no one dared to respond.
The Ground Floor – Restricted Access
Deep below the organization's main complex, in a heavily guarded section, only few knew existed, the atmosphere was entirely different. Scientists in pristine white lab coats bustled around a massive containment chamber, its glass walls glowing faintly with an eerie blue light. Inside, the figure of a woman floated, her body suspended in a viscous liquid. Tubes and wires connected to her arms, legs, and head, pulsing faintly with a rhythmic glow.
Kai, the colder and more composed of the two brothers, stepped into the room. His presence immediately drew the attention of everyone present.
"Professor," Kai called, his voice low but commanding. "How's it going? I need an update on the progress."
The lead scientist, "We've made some advancements, sir, but we still face limitations. We can't control the main body yet. However, the prototype has proven capable of maintaining the power flow within her. We're currently at 78% stabilization."
Kai raised an eyebrow. "78%? That's not enough. What's the issue?"
The professor hesitated before responding. "The core body is too volatile. The energy output exceeds our containment parameters. We've managed to replicate a portion of her abilities in the prototype, but…" He trailed off, his expression grim.
"What about the lab rats?" Kai asked coldly.
The professor's voice dropped, as if discussing something taboo. "Seventeen girls have died in the last two weeks during the trials. The rate of fatalities has increased significantly."
Kai crossed his arms, his expression unreadable. "Seventeen, huh? That's quite a jump. How many subjects do we have left?"
"Don't worry, boss," the professor replied quickly. "Our hunter can bring in as many as we need for the experiments. The supply won't be an issue."
Kai's lips curled into a faint, almost sinister smile. "Impressive. Keep up the work, and bring me good news next time. I won't tolerate failure—or excuses."
The professor bowed slightly, understanding the weight of the warning.
Kai and Mai – The Siblings' Conversation
Kai left the lab, his mind calculating the next steps. He made his way to Mai's office, where the older brother was pacing, clearly still fuming over the lack of progress.
Kai leaned against the doorframe and spoke with a smirk. "Are you available now, Mai? Care to accompany me for a bit?"
Haison felt the familiar vibration on his wrist as his watch lit up with a notification.
"You idiot, don't use such a great power for child's play. Be careful with it and stay within limits. Don't go blinding the entire city with mist!"
Haison's buddy, lounging nearby, chuckled. "Who's that jerk to tell us what to do?"
Haison smirked. "Yeah, he's totally a jerk. A jerk with great inventions and a knack for staying alive in oxygen tanks for seven years. His name's Keller. The underground calls him 'Dark Doctor.'"
His friend raised an eyebrow. "Dark Doctor, huh? Sounds dramatic."
"It's not just a name," Haison muttered, his smirk fading. "He's the kind of guy you don't mess with. Half the tech we use comes from his warped genius."