Chapter 9: Greetings.
Neo-Vatra city, central district, Eidolon industries west coast branch.
The building towered over everything in its surroundings and could be seen from almost anywhere in the city, though most would never have the chance to see it up close.
The upper floors of the majestic work of architecture were reserved for high-ranking personnel. The corridors were wide and long with barely any decorations in sight, a minimalist approach that added to the eeriness of the silence enshrouding such places, making the walk to the conference rooms quite unnerving.
Veronica hated being forced to make such trips. She never voiced any complaints, however. She couldn't. Not if she wanted to keep her position and the benefits it provided. That said, it simply wasn't possible to remain stoic considering the reason she had to take that elevator today.
She found herself at the door of the conference room before long. Holding a hand to her chest, she breathed in deeply and took hold of her nerves. The idea of getting one of those emotional regulation implants appealed to her more and more by the day.
Entering, Veronica remembered to keep her head down the entire time. A spotlight fell on her from above and followed her every step. Everything beyond the small circle of light was shrouded in darkness, but if she were to look up, she would see twelve distinct insignia placed in a circle with even gaps between them. Only three of those insignia emitted a bright red glow.
"From the look on your face, I can assume the mission was a failure."
A gruff voice echoed in the dark room and Veronica broke into a cold sweat. She struggled to keep her voice from breaking as she delivered the news.
"Director Cohan has been found dead."
"That is irrelevant." Another voice spoke, this one soft and high-pitched, like that of a very young girl. "The item?"
"We failed to retrieve it."