𝗩𝗘𝗡𝗚𝗘𝗙𝗨𝗟 𝗣𝗔𝗦𝗧

2. A Hunter's Grudge

"Vengeance is a fire that burns within, it consumes the soul, but it also forges the strongest steel. It is both a curse and a weapon—wield it wisely young one, or be consumed by its flames."

[Pierce Alder]

HE WAS A YOUNGER MAN  when everything came crashing down. Time had dulled many memories, but some remained vivid, etched deep in his mind. The night his world shattered was one of those memories.

Pierce had always admired his brother Hwan's brilliance and determination. Hwan's acceptance into Apex—a high-level research institution focusing on human cognition and enhancement- was a moment of pride for the entire family. Yet, as the months went by, Pierce noticed changes in his brother—shadows swarming in his eyes, a constant air of tension swirling around him like a menacing aura.

"Stay out of this!" Hwan had yelled during their last heated argument. It was the only time they had ever come to blows, words, and fists flying in equal measure. "Do not interfere!" His voice had been desperate, a mix of anger and fear. Pierce had tried to understand, but Hwan's refusal to explain only deepened his concern and fears.

And on that very night, Hwan had stormed out, leaving Pierce with a sinking feeling in his chest and confusion filling his mind. He had wanted to follow, but something held him back. Maybe it was the fear of the unknown or maybe it was the fear of uncovering something he wasn't ready to face.

A few days later, Pierce stood in a cold, sterile room. The flickering fluorescent lights cast harsh shadows, illuminating the lifeless body of his older brother. The sight of Hwan's blank eyes staring at the ceiling sent chills down Pierce's spine. His hands trembled as he gently closed his brother's eyes, a silent vow forming in his mind. He would not back down. He would uncover the truth and find those responsible for his brother's death, no matter the cost.

 ◪◪◪

The pre-dawn chill bit at Pierce's skin as he stood on the deserted platform, the silence amplifying his heartbeat in the dimness. The soft hum of the arriving train barely registered as he stared into the distance, his mind swarming with anticipation at the thoughts of his new discovery.

His hands tightened around the strap of his bag hanging off one shoulder, the weight of his laptop and the crucial data within feeling heavier than ever. The previous night had been a whirlwind of revelations. Pierce had spent hours hacking into what he thought were just routine records, but what he found was far more interesting, no, far more sinister. Hidden within layers of highly encrypted files were detailed financial transactions that revealed large sums of money being funneled into other companies. From what he discovered and understood, Apex was using shell companies, bribing officials, and funding covert facilities, suggesting they were hiding something big, something a lot bigger and more dangerous than he had ever imagined.