The Dread Piranha

Chapter-8: The Unraveling

When they arrived at the hospital, Adam's team was already at the entrance, deep in discussion with the doctor. As soon as Henry, Serena, and her team approached, the conversation abruptly halted, and the air became thick with tension. Serena stepped forward and introduced herself to the doctor, who nodded, acknowledging her reputation. "I've been following the news closely, Agent Blackwood," he said, before turning his gaze to Henry.

Clearing his throat, the doctor addressed Henry directly, "Mr. Carter, we need you to confirm if the body is your brother's."

Henry, his face lined with apprehension, nodded and entered the examination room. Two minutes later, he emerged, his expression grave. "It's Felix," he confirmed, his voice barely above a whisper.

The group moved to the doctor's office, where he explained the cause of Felix's death. "Mr. Carter," the doctor began, "your brother was killed by a piranha."

Henry's eyes narrowed in disbelief. "How can you be so certain?"

Before the doctor could respond, Adam interjected. "Felix was working on a project called Chimera Genesis. He successfully created a mutated species known as the 'dread piranha,' but the experiment spiraled out of control. The same piranha ended his life. There's a small outlet in the lab that leads to a river. The piranha likely escaped through that and made its way to Marina Bay, as the two locations are connected by the same waterway."

Serena listened intently, piecing together the grim puzzle. "Now everything makes sense," she muttered.

Henry, overwhelmed by the revelation, sank into a nearby chair. He took a deep breath before speaking. "I'll do everything in my power to help with this investigation. We need to catch one of these piranhas alive so I can study it thoroughly. It might give us clues on how to stop them."

Serena agreed, recognizing the urgency of the situation. "We also need to warn the public immediately. No one should go near the water until we have this under control."

Henry nodded in agreement. "Piranhas are rapid breeders. Even a small number can be lethal."

That evening, Serena called a press conference, urging the public to avoid all water bodies until further notice. The gravity of her words hung in the air as the media scrambled to spread the warning.

Later that night, Serena noticed Adam hunched over his notes, scribbling away. "What are you working on?" she asked.

Adam glanced up, a tired smile on his face. "Just wrapping up my report. I'm planning to submit it tomorrow and request four days off to recharge."

Serena returned his smile, appreciating his dedication. The next day, Adam submitted his final report to the FBI headquarters. He met with the higher-ups, informing them that the case was concluded and requested his well-earned leave. One of the senior officials, however, shook his head.

"Your work isn't done yet, Adam," he said, handing him a new assignment.

Adam frowned, puzzled. "By whose orders?"

The officials exchanged glances before replying, "Serena Blackwood. She specifically requested you, saying you're the best fit for this type of mission. She believes that with you by her side, the case can be resolved quickly. And if you do, you'll get four weeks off, not just four days."

Reluctantly, Adam returned to the safe house where Serena and her team were staying. He knocked on the door, and as soon as it opened, Serena stood there, a knowing look in her eyes. "So, how's that four-day leave going?" she teased.

Adam sighed, realizing he wouldn't be resting anytime soon. "Looks like I'll be sticking around a bit longer."