Tiger Temptation ~ An Urban Dark Fantasy Romance Genetic Engineering

12

Angelina found herself in a hallway leading up to the stairs as the door closed behind her. The place was eerily silent, devoid of the usual din of the crowd. It was a soundproof room.

"After you," Doctor Reiner extended a courteous invitation, a subtle wrinkle appearing at the corners of his eyes as he smiled kindly. He gestured towards the only circular marble staircase present.

Of course, it was white, adding to the room's empty and bright appearance. Angelina climbed the stairs with the unsettling sensation that a hyena was stalking her as if it might pounce and devour her internal organs at any moment.

Angelina's steps halted in an empty room, prompting her to search for a light switch. Two CCTV cameras faced the white wall. Their presence drew Angelina's gaze. She began examining the wall when she heard Doctor Reiner's chuckle from behind.

"A smart rat..." he remarked.

A rat?

Angelina was offended by the nickname she had earned. However, before she could protest, Doctor Reiner, the Psychopath, had already walked to her side and pressed a concealed switch.

The artificial wall ascended, revealing a surprising sight before Angelina's eyes.

*****

They found themselves in a viewing room, a giant rectangular window covered in stickers concealing the interior. Angelina also noticed a row of push-button machines, CCTV cameras, and four black padded wheelchairs. But what drew her attention next were two other individuals seated in the wheelchairs.

Who were they?

Angelina met the curious gazes of a middle-aged Malay man and woman. Both wore party masks, just like the other guests.

"Good evening, Doctor Gading, Doctor Siti," greeted Doctor Reiner. Both guests stood up and exchanged handshakes before their attention settled on the motionless Angelina.

"Allow me to introduce you. Doctor Angelina is filling in for Doctor Fonda. These individuals represent the Malaysian branch of Genma, Doctor Angelina."

"Good evening, Doctor Angelina," Doctor Siti, the woman with her dark brown skin and modern black robe, offered a bright smile. "I'm confident our Hantu Raya will defeat your Inyiak again."

"Doctor Siti is quite ambitious," Doctor Gading chimed in cheerfully. The white-bearded man sported fairer skin and wore a blue batik outfit with black cloth pants. "I hope our accounts will flourish after this match."

Doctor Gading and Doctor Siti erupted into laughter, causing Angelina's heart to quicken. These individuals seemed to view Ramaik's life as mere amusement.

"As far as I know, Ramaik recently faced Hantu Raya," Angelina protested. "I find it unethical to arrange a fight where the outcome is predetermined."

The laughter abruptly ceased. The two guests regarded Angelina with puzzled expressions.

"Forgive Doctor Angelina's forthrightness," Reiner chuckled. "She's simply dedicated to her work."

"Doctor Angelina, please don't fret. This rematch is at my request." Doctor Reiner approached an empty chair, turning it toward Angelina. "Have a seat and enjoy watching our hero triumph tonight."

*****

The giant digital clock displayed only a few minutes until seven in the evening. Four bodyguards from each of the two opposing fighters appeared, adorned in their respective national attire. The home team wore the white costumes of Jambi from the olden days while the foreign contingent donned matching black, representing two nations of the same lineage.