In the early 22nd century, the global population had soared to an astonishing 13.7 billion people, and the surge in energy demand continued to grow.
[Breaking News on Kapamilya 24-Hours: America and Russia in Intense Race for Fission Fuel Security! Tensions Grow Between Nations…
In a shocking development, unidentified individuals have been caught red-handed distributing fake Bubble Teas laced with a delayed-action toxin. The government continues to deny their involvement…]
“Ahh give me break, why can’t you act just like what I have always do, world?” Rody thought as he turned off the television.
[Knocks] “Sir, the time has come, it’s about to begin.” His assistant behind the door.
He cleared his throat, “Yes, I’ll be there shortly.”
At just 29 years old, Rody Marcial, the descendant of esteemed politicians in the Philippines, had been duly elected as a Senator in the year 2141.
A Privilege Speech at the Metro Manila Senate July 1, 2146, Rody spoke passionately,
"My fellow compatriots, shall we stand idle and let malice run free? Or are we beings capable of change through reason and diplomacy? Fear not, as long as I serve, I won't tolerate such insolence towards our Constitution and Motherland. Let's make a point and celebrate our national independence memorably on 12th of July, Thursday."
After his speech, he returned to his seat, while taking a sip of water.
A flirty smile greeted him, “Your speech moved my heart, sir. My son wants to be just like you.” His female assistant offered him the seat.
Rody chuckled humbly, “It wasn't that great, but I appreciate the sentiment.”
“So, sir, what are your plans for the upcoming elections next year? Around 100 million Filipinos or 64.6% support your candidacy for presidency in 2147, according to popular unofficial polls circulating on the Internet.” The assistant became more excited.
Rody touched his forehead and leaned down for a moment, he then replied,
“Rushing a decision brings bad luck, you know? Our party needs more information of this development to our own advantage.” Rody smiled and patted his female assistant lightly.
"I’m sorry sir... I won't do it again" The assistant felt dejected.
Later that evening, Rody called the 'Marcial Security Agency' for a ride. As he gazed at the radiant city lights at night, he couldn't help but contemplate the weight of his responsibilities:
"Look at these people, they're so happy and ignorant while their elected leaders scheme in plain sight. Their freedom might be snatched away without them even realizing it."
“If only… I can reset this world, maybe it would be much much better… nah I’m no god, it would be a pain in the ass.”
Just as he was about to close his eyes, his phone vibrated. He glanced at the message, Rody couldn't help but let out a startled shout.
“WOAH!”
His driver asked, "Sir, is everything alright?" as he kept a vigilant eye on their surroundings.
"Oh, sorry, it's just a message, nothing serious," Rody calmly assured his driver.
The driver nodded, "You sure you're okay, sir?"
"Yeah, I'm fine," Rody trying to regain composure. "It was just unexpected, that's all."
His driver continued to observe him through the rearview mirror,
"If there's anything you need, don't hesitate to let me know."
Rody smiled, "Thanks, I appreciate it. Let's continue the journey, and sorry for the momentary panic."
Reading the message in silence, he chuckled in relief,
"Hey it's me, Albert, my old friend. I just built the impossible machine the 'Quantum Charged Resonator' you guys called ‘impossible’ seven years ago, remember? (smug face emoji).
I want all seven of us (plus one) to celebrate this epic moment in my facility on our National Independence Day. See you there, bye-bye."
Rody went silent for a moment.
He smiled, then thought, "Looks like I won... another victory is mine."
As days have passed, the day of the reunion has arrived, everything is now in place. From Japan and all the way to U.S, Rody and his friends are on the way.
Day of Reunion: 12 June 2146, 4 PM. Meister Facility, Cebu.
[Hums] “I wonder how they'll react when they see my babies, 'Fusion-powered smartphone,' 'Portable Railgun,' and my new sister from the latest 5th generation of Nirvana Robotics, Akira!" Albert said it out loud.
Albert Meister the most famous and renowned Scientist of the time, age 27.
While Albert sets up the facility, Akira asks in a bewildered look, "What's your deal with them? You're too cheerful and lively; it's creeping me out, oniichan."
Albert pats Akira's head. “Nah, just excited to prove their common sense wrong.”
Their conversation ends with the doorbell's ring. “Oh, someone's at the door.”
A man in shades brings the delivery. “GrabPanda Express delivery. Your order is here...”
Albert takes his pen and signs the receipt. “Thanks, man. Good thing you're available despite the festival and holiday.”
The delivery guy replied, “We're flooded with orders... Anyway, goodbye, sir, and thanks,” then leaves immediately.
Albert pauses: “Hmm, I'm forgetting something, like coins and stuff… yeah, tipping. Oh well, never mind.”
Around 30 minutes later, as Albert prepared the living room, the arrival of his friends diverted his attention.
"Hello, fans! I've come from America to take over thy lands!" Cordon's voice echoed through the garden.
Cordon Ramses arrived at the doorstep, sporting an orange beach attire. Accompanying him was Marie Tesse, who wore stylish sunglasses and formal attire.
"Jeez, you embarrassed me at the airport. I shouldn't have come with you." Marie sighed.
Cordon flashed a mischievous grin. "Is that how my bodyguard treats her client?"
"Who... the... hell... are you calling a bodyguard? Grrrrr... We're supposed to stay low-profile!" Marie raised both arms in fury.
Cordon Ramses, a famous celebrity chef is dubbed as the “demigod” in culinary and showbiz world at the age 27.
Marie Tesse, a cool and brave investigative journalist who isn’t afraid to take bold steps in uncovering the truths at the age of 26.
Albert greeted them with joy, "You guys haven't changed a bit. Well, Cordon got more handsome, and Marie... uhhm, grew bigger? Heh?"
Marie flushed with embarrassment, quickly covering her chest as she exclaimed, "Wh-where are you looking at? Pervert"
While they’re laughing at the entrance, a big man arrives, placing his arms on Albert's shoulder.
He says, "Are slutty specimens your new research goals?"
“HAHAHA” The man laughed out loud.
"HA?? THE HELL ARE YOU CALLING SLUTTY? MR?" Marie glared at the newcomer.
As the voice reached his ears, Albert's head snapped around, his face lighting up with a radiant smile. Ishi Del Rosario and Danisse Creisper had just arrived.
“How are you dear Albert? Have you received my wonderful ‘chilled’ gift?” Danisse giggled.
Ishi! Danisse! Ah, it's been too long. Come on in, everyone!
Ishi Del Rosario, a stoic and straightforward person who is currently the commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines at the age of 31.
This novel's true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.
Danisse Creisper, the most respected person in the medical world. She is highly knowledgeable in drug development, surgery and biology at the age of 31.
Stepping inside the facility, they embraced the familiar surroundings.
As they walked through the hall, Cordon’s stomach growled, "Man, I'm starving. Albert, what do we got?".
"Alberto's Pizza... with Pineapples.” [Tee hee]. Albert giggled.
"P-I-N-E-A-P-P-L-E... ?? Gahh. Nonononono Nooo… that's not Filipino food. We should celebrate our national independence with our own cuisine?"
"Heh, I eat them everday.".
Cordon looked at him head to toe. "Hmmm… No wonder you looked underweight."
"Ahh, no worries, I got more brainfat for maximum power... Nyahaha."
"Tch. Let me cook, we still have time. Do you have the ingredients?" Cordon grabbed his white apron in the bag.
"Yeah, we got what you need in the freezer... oh, just avoid meats with dates on them."
"Huh? Why?"
"They're infected with deadly infectious diseases."
"What the hell?? Mixing dangerous stuff with human food??"
Danisse laughed in amusement after she overheard their conversation.
"Well It's for efficiency purposes that’s all... So, handsome chef, are you gonna cook or what?"
"Jeez, you're unbelievable." Cordon grabs his knife set and heads to the kitchen.
Time passed as they chatted in the cozy living room.
Day of Reunion 12 July 2146, 5:30 PM. Meister Facility, Cebu.
“Thanks for the ride. Please, don't ever mention this personal event to anyone, okay?” Rody stepped out of the car.
Rody’s bodyguard checked his phone. “Yes, sir. The facility perimeter seems secure, and the security personnel's communication appears to be fine. Enjoy the evening, sir.”
Leon placed both of his hands on the shoulders of his bodyguard. "You heard the man, right? Don’t worry, we'll be fine! No need for you to stay here; it might raise suspicion."
As Rody and Leon strolled through the garden outside the facility, Leon exclaimed, "Damn, I missed sightseeing here in Cebu," stretching his arms and legs.
He asked Rody, "Do you think this is going to work? I'm betting my money on it."
Upon reaching the entrance, Rody typed in the password. “I'm sure it will. I'm certain of it." He met Leon's gaze with a smirk.
"Good thing the entrance password is still the same, just as it should be..."
Rody and Leon entered the living room, both wearing smiles on their faces.
Upon seeing them, Albert's eyes welled up. “RODY!! Leon! Finally, we're all back together!"
"Ayy, why'd you take so long? We were about to eat some boring industrial food," Marie teased them lightly.
As Rody and Leon entered the living room to take a seat, they were greeted warmly by the rest of the group.
Cordon emerged from the kitchen with a tray of delicious-looking dishes, placing it on the table in the center of the room.
"Alright, the feast is ready!" Cordon announced, his eyes gleaming with pride at his culinary creations.
"Fellow fans, I present you: Chicken Adobo, Salmon Kinilaw, Bulalo, Spaghetti, Ube cream, and Roasted Peanuts. Birahi na dayun."
Everyone smelled the aroma of their favorite comfort food.
"Hey, Cordon, it's been too long!" Rody exclaimed, extending a hand for a friendly handshake.
"Yeah, man, good to see you again," Leon added, a warm smile on his face.
Cordon shook their hands firmly. "Likewise, guys. You know I can't resist cooking up a storm for my favorite people."
"Wow, what a tasty feast." Danisse smiles.
"Where's the pizza earlier?" Albert asked in wonder.
"Ah, I fed it to your pet raccoon while I was cooking. It's cute pet food, after all."
They enjoy the meal and share interesting stories, making up for lost time.
The night was a blast, filled with karaoke, Redhorse beer, spin the bottle, Tong-its, and Blind man's buff - all in good fun.
As the time approached 11:30 in the evening, they decided to wind down the festivities.
“Everyone, I think it’s time… Come follow me downstairs.” Albert lead them to the basement where the mysterious device awaits them.
There, they found themselves at the heart of the facility, a black, squarish structure adorned with vibrant illuminated lights; it feels like an enigmatic energy calling to the eye of the observer.
“Wow, you’ve finally done it Albert!” Cordon was impressed and patted Albert on the back.
“Erm. Why do you always carry a bagpack?” Leon asked Danisse in curiosity.
“Ohh ahh this?? This is my all in one first-aid kit (well everything but most of the common drugs and medicine). You just never know if some accidents or injuries happen right??” Danisse cheerfully said it.
The rest of the team is puzzled and observing the device.
"Alright, everyone, I present to you my state-of-the-art 'Quantum Charge Resonator.' We shoot a sufficient amount of electromagnetic waves inside this protective barrier. While some waves may get swallowed by the blackhole and lost forever, the spinning nature of the contained blackhole allows the remaining waves to slide through the Ergosphere, where they are then amplified each time they bounce on the mirrors. This mechanism is known as 'Superradiant Scattering,' meaning the waves grow stronger with each bounce…”
As Albert explains the theoretical mechanics and principles, Leon couldn't contain his confusion anymore.
“HOLD IT! HOLD IT! HOLD YER HORSES! To be honest, I somehow understand the first half, not gonna lie. But the rest of it I am already lost in words.” Leon scratched his head in perplexity.
"Indeed," Albert said, adjusting his glasses. "Let me break it down for you. It's capable of generating energy enough to power up the entire Solar System. In simple terms, it's a generator capable of harnessing the energy of a mini spinning blackhole," Albert explained."
"But blackholes? Isn't that dangerous? I don't want the Earth to be spaghettified. I'd rather cook spaghetti myself. Hehe," Cordon a chuckled.
Both Creisper and Ishi froze and didn’t say anyword.
Marie slapped the table, “If you’re building this for the last 7 years after we parted ways in our graduation? Why haven’t I heard or read any related developments in Science like this? “
“But how is is possible” Marie stood up and walked around it, “According to my knowledge in Science back in College, Blackholes evaporate at these tiny sizes due to whatever constant that is”
"Uhum,” Albert cleared his throat and didn't look her in the eye, “I've found ways to stabilize the blackhole and prevent the Hawking Radiation using a protective barrier that generates a force field around it, thanks to my colleagues at the Large Hadron Collider. We're keeping it hidden from the scientific community to prevent potential misuse.”
“And don't worry, if any errors occur, safety measures will immediately expose the blackhole into the external unstable environment, causing it to disappear safely." Albert touched the Resonator, sweating.
Danisse looked puzzled, "It's all fascinating, but I find it hard to believe what I just heard."
Rody contemplated, in his mind: “Finally, nothing one can stop humanity.”
He then voiced out, “So Albert, you’re saying that we can now finally save the world? Preserve liberty and finally commence the plans on terraforming Venus and Mars we’ve been planning on for more than a century?”
Albert looked Rody in the eye. “Yep, my friend. We can now finally save humanity from destruction and violence, just like we promised 7 years ago.”
“But you see Albert, with great power comes with great responsibility. If we have the power in our hands to create, we also have the power to destroy with the same weight.” Rody asserted it with clarity.
“Don’t worry, everything is safe. I’ve partially tested it multiple times. This device is both designed and programmed to halt whenever there are errors in calculation or parameters. It’s fine, you can trust me.”
Then, the room fell silent.
Albert then prepares the equipment to boot up the machine.
“Little girl psst, Akira right? Can you take us pictures?” Marie whispered.
Akira replied softly, “I’m sorry oneesan, No, picture taking allowed in this area. Anyone who violate will be disposed.”
“Uwahh, scary!” Marie stepped back.
Danisse noticed something metallic and matte finish besides the under a table near where they were standing. Upon inspecting, it has Radioactive symbol that with an engraving:
‘Meister Technologies: Portable Nuclear Fission Reactor’
“Ara-ara, what is this dear Albert?” She smiled with a hint of mischief.
“Ahhhh, nothing really, it’s just a toy” Albert’s voice quivered.
“Hmmmm??? Haven't these technologies been banned long ages ago, dear Albert?”
She whispered, “Don’t worry, it’s just between us, just like what we used to do, right?” Then, she stepped back to where her backpack had been placed.
Leon realized that they had no reception. “Oy, Ishi, isn’t that strange? I've lost coverage from the outside.”
Ishi also grabs his phone, “Hmm that’s weird, I didn’t receive any signal jamming schedules earlier in this area for the 200th year celebration of the Philippine Independence.”
“Hey, Albert, did all your colleagues go home?” Leon raised his voice across the distance.
Albert replied as he plugged in the output cables, “Yeah, everyone went home except the facility guards outside. This is some Top Secret tech, after all.”
Leon whispered to Ishi, “Ishi, something's not right here.”
In his mind: “I can't quite put my finger on it, but there's definitely something amiss with this place.”
"Yeah, I'll have to deal with my subordinates later after this demonstration. Ugh, can't I catch a break?" Ishi grumbled.
“Hehe, that’s our best Military commander ever in history appointed by the President himself.”
"Best, my ass”, Ishi retorted back.
But Marie interrupted their conversation, "Shhh, it's about to start".
Albert took a deep breath and turned back to the Quantum Charged Resonator, he muttered:
"Capacitors check, sensors check, lasers check, temperature check, nozzle, and valve check. Fusion energy output consistency check. Akira, are we ready?"
Akira agreed, “Okie, my organic Oniichan. Enter the password, and let's fire up this baby. Connecting the Resonator to the power grid... successful.”
"Everyone, let's count down: 3, 2, 1, 0. For the future of humanity!" Everyone joined in the countdown.
The electricity buzzed in the room, causing the lights to dim and flicker for two minutes while the Quantum Charged Resonator powered up.
The Resonator's core was a glass chamber, its translucent surface surging with plasma that glowed bright. The very essence of infinite energy seemed to swirl and surge, a spectacle of power beyond compare.
As the lights goes back to normal, Akira read the status with her boring and monotonous voice:
"Artificial blackhole generation, successful. Shooting up some electromagnetic waves, commenced... successful. Calibrating the angle of the mirrors for efficient wave trajectory... successful. Nobody died… successful"
Everyone laughed in relief.
Albert wiped his sweat, "Akira, let's demonstrate its power in a controlled and safe manner. We'll use a small portion of the energy output to show its potential."
"Wow, look at the blue glow from the core. That's really cool," Cordon commented.
“I wonder if this can be also used to aid advanced medical equipment that needs enormous amounts of electricity.” Danisse asked with full enthusiasm.
Albert replied with enthusiasm, “I told you right? This technology is the frontier of human life, it can revive a planet back to its full vitality.”
While everyone was celebrating their achievement, little did they know that a ticking time bomb is about to explode
Countdown: 3, 2, 1, 0. [BANG!!!!]
A loud explosion rocked the front gate of the facility, which then followed by another explosion at the south gate
Glass windows and debris splashed in every direction, sending everyone sprawling to the ground.
The force of the explosion short-circuited electrical wirings, causing sparks to fly and igniting the basement.
"Everyone, stay calm, Cover your heads!" Albert trying to maintain composure amidst the chaos.
Marie's voice trembled with fear, "What do you mean calm down? We're going to die!"
Leon's instincts kicked in, "I knew it, enemy assault.”
He thought of evacuating the team immediately, but Ishi swiftly stopped him.
Ishi raised a firm hand and gesture.
He calmly told everyone his orders, "Wait- Wait! We can't rush out blindly. We need to stay low and hold our ground. There may be hostile forces still lurking nearby, waiting for us to expose ourselves."
Everyone stopped moving everywhere.
“Quick! Follow my lead, let’s hide behind this sturdy equipment. Watch out for any intruders. Get your guns ready. Leon, Rody, you ready?” Ishi grabs his gun.
Amidst the chaos, Akira's voice trembled. "Oniichan, the Resonator is behaving weirdly. The safety valve appears broken and blocked, evaporating the Blackhole is impossible."
"Oh no. Akira, shut it down now! Everyone, stay close, and we'll get through this together!" Albert shouted, trying to gather everyone to safety.
Akira accessed the interface of the Resonator in hopes of regaining control.
“Akira, what about the underground tunnels? Why aren’t they opening up during such critical emergencies??” Albert coughed out heavily.
“Oniichan! the emergency doors appear to be disabled by an unknown protocol 6.46 days ago.” Akira shouted.
“Shit!” Albert looked everywhere for safe exit routes in confusion.
The Resonator emitted a deep, reverberating hum as energy waves multiplied, steadily reaching critical levels.
Before they could evacuate, another explosion struck only 200 meters from the facility entrance, knocking everyone to the ground.
Cordon's cried out, "I think I'm going to die. We'll never make it out of here!"
Albert shouted again, "Akira, leave the Resonator, we're leaving now!"
Albert stood up, the Resonator emitting an ear-piercing sound akin to an earthquake, its glow shifting from green to a blinding white, brighter than the Sun.
The light expanded, flooding Rody's mind with vivid imagery of nature—forests, lakes, and even a community—each reminiscent of something familiar to him.
Surreal images blended with the blinding brilliance of the light, leaving him momentarily dazed.
Amidst the chaos, Ishi's voice broke through the trance, shouting, "Damn, this doesn't look good!"
The abrupt surge of cataclysmic energy caused the machine to violently implode, releasing an immense force that shook the very foundations of the basement.
A blinding burst of light that consumed everything in its embrace.
Time seemed to freeze for an agonizing moment, and then, as quickly as it had started, the blinding light vanished, leaving behind an eerie silence.
The room was empty, void of both the Resonator and the entire team, as if they had never existed in that space.
Meanwhile, far from the facility, an agent is speaking into a radio.
“It seems no one exited the facility, did they escape?” Agent Vodka expressed confusion.
Tch... Stand your ground," Agent Gin commanded, "I'm ready to shoot at anything that moves outside that building. Positioned on the opposite side, he had a clear view of the rear exit.
Agent Vodka replied, “Are you sure about that, Aniki?”.
While the facility burned in the distance, Agent Gin reached into his pocket, retrieving a small object. With a deft flick of his lighter, he ignited it, filling the air with the scent of tobacco.
"We rigged all the blast doors leading to the underground safety tunnels days ago. There's no way they can escape without detonating them with an RDX explosive." Gin paused,
A sinister grin spread across his face as he continued, "Even if they tried during that momentary ground shake just now, it would have been suicidal."
“It doesn't matter," he said as he opened the case and placed the sniper back inside,
"The grand finale is about to begin. The last firework is ready to explode, completing the job. Our contract here is done.”
As the countdown began once again, a massive explosion erupted from within. The shockwave could be felt in the distance, and the entire facility blew up into pieces.
"Mission Success. We're going back to Japan," Agent Vodka voiced out, then both turned off the radio transmission.
As they prepare to leave the scene, Agent Gin's phone buzzes with an incoming international call.
He tipped his hat and then answered the call, "The mission was a success [——], it's all now in their own hands. The Organization's interests are finally secured.”
Gin smiled as they vanished from the vicinity, leaving no trace behind.
In a dimly lit and secluded location, the mysterious contractor received Agent Vodka’s last active radio transmission. A wicked smile crept across their face as they savored the taste of victory.
The spotlight revealed the identity of this figure—Former General Ver.
He gazed into the distance through a scope:
“I have eradicated the pests of this world that plagued it. These self-righteous devils believed the world owed them big, and their privileges would shield them from consequences.”
"Isn't that right, Rody Marcial? Your deeds from the past 7 years will haunt your soul as you journey through the afterlife." His words hung in the air like a menacing echo.
As he disappeared into the shadows, a final remark escaped his lips,
"You can run, but remember, no one can ever escape fate.”