The consortium's first move was subtle.
No direct attack.
No overt threat.
Just a series of "accidents":
Medical supplies delayed
Security cameras briefly disabled
One of Dr. Hart's assistants mysteriously vanished for a few hours
Lin Chen observed calmly.
[System Log: Consortium Interference — Minimal.]
[Recommended Response: Monitor and Counter.]
He made one call.
"Activate the contingency plan," he said.
---
Within minutes, backup labs came online.
Security grids realigned.
Personnel were rerouted.
The consortium's minor disruptions were neutralized without confrontation.
A message came through a secure channel:
"You're playing with fire, Doctor Lin."
Lin Chen replied, simply:
"I am fire."
---
Outside, city whispers grew louder.
Rumors of miraculous recoveries fueled curiosity and fear alike.
[System Log: City Control Progress: 38%.]
[Threat Level: Elevated.]
The first strike had failed.
But it had revealed the enemy's reach.
Lin Chen smiled faintly.
"Then we expand faster."