Alex

Results

Robert Ashcroft sat in his wheelchair, staring out over the city from his office at the top of The Consortium headquarters. The skyline stretched before him, a vast expanse of steel and glass under a brooding sky.

With a voice like cold iron, he began, each word measured and deliberate. "We have investors expecting a demonstration of our program in two days." He paused, letting the words sink in. "And now, one of our most highly skilled soldiers, along with our lead scientist, have gone missing."

Ashcroft turned from the window, his eyes blazing with controlled fury as he bore down on the man standing before him. "So," he said, the air thick with menace, "tell me what we're going to do about it."

"We tracked the getaway vehicle to a farm upstate," the man replied, not meeting Ashcroft's eyes. "We sent a recovery team to find the assets and bring them home."

"Marcus, how long have you worked for me?"

The man swallowed hard, surprised that Ashcroft knew his name. "Ten years, sir."

"And you have been head of my security team for the last four years, is that correct?"

"Yes, sir."

Ashcroft leaned back in his wheelchair, his fingers steepled, his gaze narrowing. "So tell me, Marcus, in all those years, have I ever tolerated incompetence?"

Marcus shifted uneasily, his jaw tightening. "No, sir."

"Then explain to me why, despite all our resources, my so-called recovery team returns empty-handed." Ashcroft's tone was icy, each word a measured threat. "They left our facility undetected. They managed to stay hidden for days. And now, with investors on their way, my patience is wearing thin."

Marcus felt a bead of sweat form on his brow. "Sir, the team reported that the farm had advanced shielding. They couldn't get a precise reading. We believe Meyers has a sophisticated setup to mask their location."

Ashcroft's lips pressed into a thin line. "I didn't ask for excuses," he snapped. "I asked for results. I want them found-today. Double your resources, track every last detail, and bring them back. Or I'll find someone else who will."

"Understood, sir." Marcus gave a sharp nod, backing away quickly, knowing his next steps were critical.

As Marcus left, Ashcroft turned his gaze back to the city. His fingers tapped on the armrest, each tap signaling his growing impatience. "Time is running out, Daniel," he murmured to himself. "And I won't be made a fool."