In Mars Central Command, an atmosphere of apprehension hung heavy as leaders and scientists gathered in the meeting chamber. Holographic displays flickered to life, revealing images of the obliterated scientific facility, still smoldering from the aftermath of the catastrophe.

Commander Shio Okomo, a resolute figure with silver streaks in her hair, addressed the assembly.

Okomo: "Earth is lost," she began, her voice steady but laden with sorrow. "After Earth's destruction an unidentified object was expelled from it. We don't know what it was but whatever it was flew so fast that I can't believe that the destruction it made was minimal. But…It struck one of our most important facilities with a force never witnessed."

Dr. Wakame Hana, the lead scientist, took the floor, projecting holographic images of the vanished sun particle.

Wakame: "This was no random incident. Our facility was researching a solar particle, an elemental force of immeasurable power. It disappeared, and the repercussions could be catastrophic."

A murmur of concern took over the assembly. Senator Axel Thorne, a veteran of Martian politics, leaned forward, his expression etched with gravity.

Axel Thorn: "Are you suggesting that someone wants to start a war? Could this be an attack from an external force, seeking to seize our scientific advancements? Aliens? After all these years?"

Admiral Nadia Malik, head of Martian Defense, shook her head.

Malik: "There's no evidence of an external attack. Our surveillance systems detected no incoming threats. This could be something as simple as a meteor, a rock, expelled by the force of the explosion."

As the leaders grappled with the gravity of the situation, Dr. Wakame spoke again, her tone resolute.

Wakame: "Either way, we must act swiftly. This particle in the wrong hands could endanger humanity as a whole. We need a specialized team to investigate and retrieve it."

Commander Shio nodded in agreement.

Okomo: "I propose the formation of a rapid-response military unit. H.E.A.T — High-priority Exploration and Acquisition Team. We must ensure the security of Mars and know the truth behind this situation."

The decision was met with a unanimous vote.

As the leaders exited the meeting, Commander Shio turned to Dr. Wakame.

Okomo: "Hana, assemble the squad carefully. The fate of Mars rests on their shoulders."

***

Sar'ka Base of Operations

At the edge of a Martian city called Sar'ka, a diverse group gathered, the members of the H.E.A.T squad were getting ready to begin their mission.

Captain Kell Thorn, a military strategist with dark brown eyes matching his short military haircut, addressed the squad.

Thorn: "We're the frontline. Earth is gone, and Mars may be under threat. Our mission is to find that solar particle called H.E.A.T and neutralize any threat it poses. This won't be easy, we might be searching for months, maybe years. The possibility and chances of finding this particle is almost zero. Sounds ridiculous I know, but it is our job."

Lieutenant Anya Marlow, a brilliant scientist with short black hair and glasses adorning her asian/german face, added,

Marlow: "We must understand the potential of this particle. It's not just a matter of retrieval; it's a matter of preventing another catastrophe."

Sergeant Yuri Kuznetsov, a strong figure, with long blond hair and a slightly muscular body, surveyed the group with a piercing gaze.

Kuznetsov: "Stay focused ok? We might not be alone after all. If this particle is what they really said it was, we are gonna have a hard time acquiring such a thing."

Dr. Elara Simmons, a compassionate medical expert with a holographic interface on her wrist, spoke firmly while keeping her eyes on the interface,

Simmons: "Let's just take care of each other." she said, making a pause to lift her gaze to the rest of the team, "We're a team after all, as long as we stick together everything should be fine."

Tech Specialist Akio Tanaka, a young prodigy with medium length black hair, adjusted his augmented reality glasses.

Tanaka: "I'll keep us connected and monitor for any anomalies. But yeah, I agree, we gotta stick together. Not all of us are that good at hand on hand combat or with firearms, right, Tatsuki?"

As the squad geared up for their mission, a weird looking guy wearing a red space helmet with a really shiny black visor (Impossible to see through), steps forward. Tatsuki, in his red space suit, stands out amidst the team. After almost ten seconds of silence offered a simple,

Tatsuki: "Yes." As an answer to Tanaka's question.

Captain Thorn nodded, smiling but trying to keep the laughter under control after such an act.

Thorn: "We embark on a mission that will define the future of not just Mars but humanity. Our goal is clear — find that particle, and let no one stand in our way. We get our pay and go home. Simple right?"

"Yes, Captain!" The group said unanimously. Except for Hot who said it after a couple seconds.

With that, the H.E.A.T squad set forth, leaving Sar'ka behind as they ventured to Mi'ro the city were the incident happened. The red soil beneath their boots will whisper tales of retribution and cosmic secrets.

***

The H.E.A.T squad traversed the Martian landscape in a sleek rover, while the crimson soil rolled beneath its wheels. Inside the vehicle, the low hum of the engine blended with the tension that hung in the air. Captain Thorn sat at the front, eyes focused on the Martian horizon, while the rest of the squad engaged in a strategic discussion.

Captain Thorn's voice cut through the ambient hum.

Thorn: "Our destination is the remains of the facility. Intel suggests that whatever struck it originated from Earth. Our mission is clear, like I said before: retrieve the sun particle and assess the situation."

Lieutenant Marlow, takes out a holographic interface and starts scanning data,

Marlow: "The missing particle has unknown capabilities. We need to understand its nature before it falls into the wrong hands. We gotta be cautious. "

Kuznetsov: "Unknown doesn't mean harmless. We must be prepared for anything. Enemies, anomalies, or even the remnants of that object from Earth. The worst thing about this, is that we don't know where exactly this particle is, or what it looks like, which makes it difficult for us to act at the right moment, we should be alert of our surroundings all the time."

Dr. Simmons, her holographic interface projecting vital signs, chimed in,

Simmons: "Our health and well-being are crucial. We don't know what we might encounter. Stay vigilant, and report any physical or psychological anomalies immediately."

Kuznetsov: "That's exactly what I tried to say genius." said the blond soldier in a lower tone while looking through the glass.

Tanaka, adjusting his augmented reality glasses, spoke up,

Tanaka: "I've enhanced our communication network. We'll maintain real-time contact, and I'll monitor for any electronic interference or potential threats. I would suggest not to separate from the team, no matter what. We are six in total, and each one of us has a different job specialty, so we need each other regardless."

As the squad absorbed the briefing, Hot, seated in the corner, remained silent. Captain Thorn turned to him, seeking for any suggestion.

Thorn: "Tatsuki, want to add anything?"

Hot remained silent for six seconds before answering with a simple,

Tatsuki: "No."

Captain Thorn nodded, hiding a laugh.

Thorn: "I like this guy." Said the captain turning back his view to the red dusty roads and added, "Let's stay focused. We're the first line of defense for Mars in this mission. Communication is key, so let's keep that point as a priority on this mission team."

The rover continued its journey, leaving behind the Martian landscapes as the squad ventured towards the remnants of the facility, the red horizon reflecting the uncertainty that awaited them.

***

Mi'ro Science Facility and Research

The rover rolled to a halt near the remnants of the scientific facility, a skeletal structure against the Martian night. The sun had long dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the crimson plains. The squad disembarked, the crunch of red soil beneath their boots marking the beginning of a perilous mission.

Captain Thorn surveyed the remains, his expression somber.

Thorn: "This was a hub of scientific progress. Now it's a testament to tragedy. Stay sharp, team."

Lieutenant Marlow adjusted her scientific equipment, her gaze lingering on the damaged facility.

Marlow: "The impact from the object was devastating. We must tread carefully."

Dr. Simmons, a medical scanner in hand, added,

Simmons: "Let's keep an eye on each other. The emotional weight of this incident could affect us. Mental resilience is as crucial as physical."

Tech Specialist Tanaka surveyed the damaged facility with a mix of fascination and caution.

Tanaka: "I'll scan for any electronic anomalies. We need to find clues without falling into a potential trap." said Tanaka with a fascinating smile "This is awesome." added in a low voice talking to himself

Tatsuki, standing stoically amidst the remnants, observed the devastation.

The squad moved forward, entering the dilapidated facility. The air inside was heavy with the scent of scorched metal and remnants of the fire that had consumed the once bustling research center.

Captain Thorn signaled for a moment of silence.

Thorn: "Let the gravity of this place sink in. Whatever happened here, we're here to make it right."

The squad traversed the corridors together, each room revealing a different aspect of the tragedy.

***

Mi'ro's Control Room

In the control room, Lieutenant Marlow meticulously examined the charred remnants of high-tech consoles, her cybernetic eye glasses scanning for any trace of the missing particle. The rest of the squad gathered around, their expressions a mix of anticipation and concern.

Marlow:(furrowing her brow) "The impact here was intense. It's a miracle anything survived. I'm scanning for data backups, but it's going to take some time."

Thorn:(nodding) "Take the time you need, we can't afford to miss anything. The particle could be the key to understanding what happened here."

Kuznetsov: (surveying the room) "Place looks like a battleground. We need to find out who or what we're up against."

Tanaka: (tapping on his augmented reality glasses) "I'm detecting residual electronic signals. Looks like some systems might still be operational. I'll try to access what's left."

Marlow:(nodding) "I'll do my best. The data here is encrypted, and the fire damaged most of the storage units. This won't be easy."

As Lieutenant Marlow continued her examination, the squad waited in tense silence. The control room, once a hive of scientific activity, now held the weight of unanswered questions. Each console, though charred and broken, hinted at the secrets that might be buried within the data logs.

Tanaka: (finding a partially functional terminal) "I've got access to a fragment of the data. It looks like there were experiments involving solar energy manipulation. The sun particle was at the core of their research."

Marlow: "If they were manipulating solar energy, it explains the potential danger. The sun particle might hold more power than we can comprehend."

As the conversation unfolded, the squad began to piece together the fragments of information. The control room, now a haunting relic of scientific ambition, held the keys to understanding the cosmic forces at play. In the dim glow of damaged screens, the squad delved deeper into the mysteries that shrouded the missing sun particle and the cataclysm that befell the Martian research facility.

Thorn: "Let's move to the laboratory." ordered the captain, "Maybe we'll find something else there." he added while leading the team to the room mentioned.

***

Mi'ro's Laboratory

In the scorched laboratory, the remnants of shattered equipment and the acrid scent of burnt chemicals filled the air. Dr. Simmons, Sergeant Kuznetsov, and Captain Thorn gathered around, while the rest of the team kept watch, their surroundings holding the echoes of a once-vibrant space of scientific exploration.

Thorn: (surveying the wreckage) "This place was the heart of their discoveries. Dr. Simmons, any signs of what they were working on?"

Simmons: (scanning the room) "It's a mess in here, but I'm looking for any research notes, samples, anything that survived the fire. We might find clues to what exactly they were doing."

Kuznetsov: (eyeing the damaged equipment) "This doesn't look like a typical lab. Too advanced. What were they doing?"

Simmons: (examining a partially melted container) "I've found remnants of some samples. The containers are compromised, but I might salvage something. Let me analyze these substances, and we might get a clearer picture."

As Dr. Simmons worked on salvaging samples, Captain Thorn and Sergeant Kuznetsov continued to inspect the laboratory with the others.

Kuznetsov: (pointing to a damaged console) "This technology isn't basic at all. Advanced, even for Martian standards. Someone was funding some serious shit here."

Thorn: (leaning closer) "We'll need to find out who was pulling the strings. If this goes beyond Martian research, it could have implications for the entire galaxy."

Simmons: (holding a damaged vial) "This sample survived the heat. It's a combination of solar particulates and something else. I'll need to run more tests, but it's definitely not something you'd find in a typical lab."

As the team continued their investigation, the laboratory revealed fragments of the experiments conducted within its walls. The damaged equipment and surviving samples hinted at the mysteries surrounding the missing particle. The squad, bound by a shared determination, pressed forward, to uncover the truth buried within the facility.

***

Mi'ro's Server Room

In the dimly lit server room, Tanaka and Lieutenant Marlow huddled around a partially functional terminal, its flickering screens casting an eerie glow on their faces. The rest of the squad stood by, their eyes scanning the room for any signs of the missing sun particle.

Marlow: (typing commands) "This server room might hold some information regarding the research. Tanaka, can you access any data that survived the fire?"

Tanaka: (tapping on his augmented reality glasses) "The fire damaged a lot, but there might be some data we can retrieve. Let me dig into the system."

As Tanaka delved into the server's remnants, Lieutenant Marlow surveyed the room with her cybernetic eye glasses scanning the damaged server racks for any hidden information.

Tanaka: (frowning) "I've found encrypted data. They're heavily protected, but I might be able to hack through. Give me a moment."

As Tanaka worked on decrypting the data, the air in the server room seemed to hum with anticipation. Lieutenant Marlow, sensing the significance of the data, leaned in closer.

Marlow: "What do you think they were trying to achieve with this level of encryption?"

Tanaka: (nodding) "This goes beyond regular experiments so... There we go."

The terminal's screens flickered, revealing a series of documents. Tanaka and Marlow exchanged a glance, realizing they were onto something substantial.

Marlow: "Solar energy manipulation, advanced experiments, and encrypted files. What are they hiding?"

Tanaka: (scrolling through the data) "Wait, look at this. There's a section labeled 'Project Sol.' It's heavily redacted, but there's mention of an artifact connected to the sun particle. A source of immense power."

As the squad gathered around, intrigued by the discovery, Lieutenant Marlow and Tech Specialist Tanaka delved deeper into the files, unraveling secrets that hinted at a connection between the missing sun particle and an enigmatic artifact. The server room, once a silent witness to scientific endeavors, now held the key to a cosmic mystery that extended far beyond the confines of Mars.

As they investigated, a low hum emanated from the depths of the facility. Tatsuki, his gaze fixed on a dark corridor alerting the squad,

Tatsuki: "There. I hear something." Said while adapting a martial art position.

The squad, now on high alert, pressed forward into the heart of the devastated facility, their mission unfolding amidst the echoes of a cosmic tragedy.

The squad proceeded stealthily down the corridor. Captain Thorn led the way, Tatsuki lingering at the rear. As they approached a closed door, the faint hum transformed into distant murmurs. Captain Thorn signaled for everyone to halt.

Thorn: (whispering) "Lights off. Move quietly."

Silently, each member turned Off their lights. Tanaka, eager to speak before engaging with whatever is in the room, began, 

Tanaka: "Captain, I think someone's mi—"

Captain Thorn swiftly hushed him, a stern look keeping the squad in check. The door creaked open, revealing an armed squad within, their Mi'ro PD Patches shining in the dimness.

Thorn: (softly and confused) "What are you doing here?"

Officer 1: "I ask you that same question. We were sent to investigate the facility."

Officer 2: "We've got orders from Mi'ro's Headquarters. Also, scientist Monoka is also helping with the investigation."

Thorn: (skeptical) "A scientist? In a place like this? Something's not right."

The officers showed some paperwork, explaining their mission, but the mood shifted when another Officer came to the room agitated, 

Officer 3: “Monoka” Said out of breath, “Is Missing.”

Captain Thorn, examining the documents, sensed the trap.

Thorn: "I knew it sending a scientist and basic officers to a place like this? This is a setup."

Panic swept over the officers as they grappled with the reality of the scientist's disappearance. 

Officer 1 “But, how did it happen?! You were supposed to stay with her at all times!”

Officer 3: "That's the thing, she was walking towards the basement when she told me to wait for her and ordered me not to follow her and by the time I reached for the radio to notify you, she disappeared. Obviously afterwards I came running.” responded the Officer with a weight of fault over his shoulders.

Officer 2: “Damn it!” Spit freaked out, “We messed up.” Added with a weak trembling voice.

Captain Thorn, remaining calm, suggested, 

Thorn: “Let's stick together and look for her. You said the last time you saw her was near the basement right?” asked Thorn to Officer 2.

The Officer nodded. 

Thorn: “OK guys, this seems really suspicious…Obviously. This team was not supposed to be here. This just turned into a rescue mission, so everyone, stay alert.”

“Roger” Answered the team before the captain added 

Thorn: "I don't know who, or why someone would ask Dr. Makoto to be here, but this is no good. Kuznetsov, I need you to be in the back of the  formation. Let's advance towards the basement.”

As the Captain leads the way to the basement, the Squad and the officers closely, lights off except for the Captain and Kuznetsov. 

***

Mi’ro’s Research Basement

In the dimly lit basement, Tatsuki noticed flickering lights. A discreet touch to Tanaka and an alert glance to Captain Thorn redirected their path. The squad and officers, tension palpable, followed Captain Thorn towards the basement. 

As they reached the basement's depths, flickering lights unveiled an eerie chamber.  The squad, and officers stood at the threshold of a mystery that surpassed the missing sun particle—a mystery entangled with the shadows lurking in the facility's hidden recesses.

Thorn: (whispering) "Stay close. We don't know what we're dealing with. Tanaka, any insights?"

Tanaka: "One of my scanners is getting life signals, two of them, to be exact. Both standing still."

The Captain lifted his hand as a signal for the team to stop walking. “Two life signals?!” Thorn asked in surprised whispers, turning his face to Tanaka who was behind him. 

Tanaka Nodded. 

Tanaka: “One signal seems to be weaker than the other.” The Tech pointed out.

Thorn: “Officers” Started the captain, “Were there any other officers with you?”

“No.” Answered Officer 1 while Officer 2 shook his head as a negative answer. 

Captain Thorn knew something was wrong the minute he saw the squad in the other room. Now that he knows there could be a threat in the room he is in, he is trying to figure out a plan to intercept both signals. One of them has to be Monoka, but what could be the other? 

After a brief moment Dr. Simmons suggested, 

Simmons: “The weaker signal could be someone hurt or it could be just an animal. But by analyzing the situation Dr. Monoka could've been hurt. So I suggest approaching the weak signal first just in case I have to  provide any assistance.”

Thorn: “Good thinking. Tanaka, I want you to keep an eye on that other life signal while we approach the weak one. Make sure to relay any information regarding that signal.” ordered Thorn.

Tanaka: “Roger that captain,” said Tanaka, keeping his eyes on the signal.

The squad, now fully attuned to the enigmatic aura surrounding them, advanced cautiously into the depths of the facility's basement. As the squad approached the mysterious chamber, the ethereal flickering lights unveiled a gruesome scene—the scientist's body sprawled on the floor, bearing the harrowing aftermath of an unknown force. Her face, etched with horror, revealed severe burns that seemed to have seared beyond the surface. A gaping hole in the center of her chest left a macabre sight—her insides were in a state of grotesque disarray, melting away, yet her heart was still beating and eerily untouched. She was alive!

Simmons: (rushing forward) "This is not good."

Dr. Simmons, faced with a scene both baffling and horrific, knelt beside the scientist's contorted body, her medical expertise grappling with the inexplicable nature of the injuries. The air thickened with an unsettling tension that the squad felt in the presence of the tragedy.

Marlow: (examining the test tube on a rack in front of the body) "Captain, take a look at this. Test tubes filled with different components. She is also holding one. It's as if she knew they held some significance. This seems to be similar to the ones Simmons found in the Laboratory. "

Lieutenant Marlow meticulously inspected the test tubes, each containing a concoction of viscous substances. 

As Marlow and Simmons immersed themselves in their respective tasks, Tanaka approached Captain Thorn with an urgent whisper.

Tanaka: "Captain, the life signal is moving, but barely."

Captain Thorn surveyed the room, his gaze shifting between the gruesome injuries inflicted upon the scientist and the flickering lights that hinted at a presence on the opposite side of the room.

Thorn: "Stay vigilant. Officers, Hot, stay here with Marlow and Simmons. Kuznetzov, Tanaka, follow me." The captain turns on the flashlight attached to his plasma rifle before adding, “I’ll lead, Tanaka you’ll be in the center and Kuz cover from back, ok?” Both of them nodded, and Thorn continued, “Tanaka, keep your eyes on that scanner, if it moves, I want you to shout “Move” and I want everyone running towards the life signal.” They nodded once more. “Ok, let’s move.”

The squad, now divided between providing medical assistance, analyzing the test tubes, and engaging the life signal, stood amidst the mystery that surrounded them. 

As the captain approached the signal, Dr. Simmons' voice started resonating through the room. 

Simmons: “Everything will be alright Monoka, you are doing good.” 

Thorn, trying to remain calm and focused on the matters at hand, he keeps advancing towards the signal. Midway to their destination a scream was heard, 

“Captain, Wait!” 

It was Harlow’s voice which took over the chamber with a resonating echo that startled the captain, a second after Tanaka shouts 

Tanaka: “MOVE!”

The group started running towards the life signal. When Thorn turned around the corner, he felt like everything stopped and everything went blank.

As Captain Thorn turned around the corner, a celestial being was there—a being of radiant sky-blue, a humanoid composed of stars. The faceless entity, resembling a female silhouette, dazzled the room with a constellation of brilliance. In an instant, a blinding light took over the chamber, similar as if you were staring directly into the sun. As the radiance subsided, the room regained visibility, but the celestial being vanished, leaving only a burning mark—an ethereal trace of its existence.

Stunned by the enigmatic encounter, Captain Thorn asked both Tanaka, and Kuznetsov, 

Thorn: “You guys saw the same thing?”

Tanaka shook his head and proceeded to add, 

Tanaka: “I was focused on the scanner, sorry.”

Kuznetsov: “I only saw the light.” said Kuznetzov lost in thoughts. 

Thorn, now confused about what he saw, stood on the spot analyzing the remnants left by whatever that thing was. 

Tanaka: “Captain, you ok?” Tanaka asked, worried. 

Thorn: “Yes, sorry, let’s go back with the others.” Said the captain with a hurrying pace. 

Kuznetzov followed and Tanaka took a second to take a picture of the burning mark before joining the others. 

On the opposite side of the room, a bizarre turn of events unfolded. The heart, untouched moments ago on the Monoka’s body, had disappeared. Dr. Simmons, grappling with the bewildering turn of events, muttered in disbelief.

Simmons: "It was there a second ago... how could it just disappear?"

The officers, burdened by the strange occurrences, turned away, unable to comprehend the inexplicable nature of the event.

Captain Thorn, shaken by everything that has happened, declared, 

Thorn: “I guess this is the end of this mission, we failed both tasks, finding the particle and saving Dr. Monoka.” with a deep sigh he continued, “ Let’s go back, this doesn't seem to be a safe place to be at this point. Officers report what happened here to your superiors and this is not me trying to be an asshole, but next time ask your supervisors to double check orders before sending you guys where you are not supposed to be. Hopefully they learned from this.” said Thorn in a tired but compassionate tone. 

Dr. Simmons began the solemn task of packing her equipment, and the team, shrouded in a mix of confusion and frustration, filed out of the basement. Tatsuki and Tanaka lingered, staring at the now-empty space where the heart had rested.

As Dr. Simmons completed her preparations, she left a beacon and a transparent protective shell covering the body—a signal for the forensic team who will take possession of Monoka’s lifeless body. Tatsuki, still fixated on the empty space where the heart once lay, felt Tanaka's reassuring hand on his shoulder.

Tanaka: "It's okay, Tatsuki. Let's go." Said Tanaka and both  left the room behind.

***

Outside the Mi’ro’s Facility

Captain Thorn contacted their commander, suggesting the arrival of a forensic team to take charge of the situation. The captain detailed what happened, the deceased scientist and the mysterious test tubes. The commander acknowledged the situation and confirmed the dispatchment of a forensic and advanced science team to the location. 

The officers, already gone, and part of the team boarded the vehicle waiting for the final members to join. Captain Thorn turned around and Dr. Simmons, Tanaka, and Tatsuki emerged from the facility. The captain reassured them, acknowledging the challenges they faced.

Thorn: "We did what we could. Don't blame yourselves."

"Thanks, Captain," replied Dr. Simmons as the team settled into the vehicle. Before Captain Thorn joined them, he cast one last contemplative glance at the facility, pondering the mysteries that remained elusive within the Martian research facility.

***

Sar’ka Base of Operations Meeting Room

In the meeting room inside the headquarters building, Commander Keiko Mori, a woman of Japanese descent, commanded attention with her authoritative presence. Her jet-black hair, neatly pulled back into a professional bun, framed a face adorned with sharp features. Piercing dark eyes reflected a no-nonsense demeanor, and her military uniform, crisply pressed, displayed commendations that spoke volumes about her service. 

As Captain Thorn explained the incident, Commander Mori's expression remained unwavering, embodying a calm authority that defined her leadership style. Despite the tension in the room, her posture exuded control and resilience, emphasizing the resolute figure she cut in the face of cosmic mysteries and unforeseen challenges on Mars.

Thorn: "After looking for clues in the Server Room, we heard a hum coming from a room, we found some Mi’ro Police Officers in the room. At that moment I knew something was off, since you never mentioned the facility being occupied. Then another officer appeared mentioning the disappearance of Dr. Monoka and by default I prioritized the disappearance of a civil over the main mission an—"

The gravity of the situation hung in the air, but as Captain Thorn attempted to steer the mission toward a potential rescue, the commander halted him with unwavering resolve.

Mori: (interrupting) "By default?! Changing the mission’s priority?! That people were not supposed to be there in the first place. Their poor choices and lack of communication with the headquarters led them to their own doom BY DEFAULT! Changing the mission was not an option regardless of who or what stands in the way. Was I not cleared the first time? Our priorities remain unchanged and that's that"

Undeterred, Captain Thorn pressed on, emphasizing the life at risk talking about the disappearance of the scientist. Yet, his words met the commander's unyielding stance.

Thorn: (excusing himself) "With all due respect, a life was at risk. I can't stand by—"

Mori: “I said—!” promptly Dr. Wakame stepped in and defused the escalating tension.

Wakame: "Commander, allow me to provide context.” Said the scientist telling the commander to sit down waving her hand as she continues, “Captain, the mission has restrictions, and the complexities of our objectives demand unwavering adherence."

As Dr. Wakame took charge of the conversation, she explained the complexity that governed their mission's rigid structure. The captain, recognizing the limits imposed by command, excused himself with a heavy heart.

Thorn: "I understand, but now we're dealing with something unknown, something that could pose a threat beyond our mission parameters."

Despite the plea, the commander remained steadfast. Dr. Wakame, composed yet empathetic, gave the Captain a somewhat ultimatum.

Wakame: "Captain, will you be able to execute the mission accordingly or not?."

Thorn gave up his pleas and answered with an emotionless, “Yes ma'am.”

Wakame: “Good. Now continue with your report.”

The captain continued his report, mentioning every single detail to both the commander and the scientist. As he explained, the scientist and him exchange words about some of the things the team discovered while in the facility. The commander (Somewhat moody about the recent situation) listened closely on a side of the long desk to the report. Amazed and confused about so many things, she decides to keep questions to herself until the meeting is over. When the captain starts to describe what he saw, Dr. Wakame interrupts, 

Wakame: “Mori, you can go now. Everything you’ve heard so far is classified. You know the drill. Keep it to yourself. I will send you a copy of this report via e-mai—”Mori tries to interrupt the scientist lead,

Mori: “But Docto—” she fails, 

Wakame: “Mori!” Said the Scientist with a plain demanding voice. “Leave.”

As everyone stays quiet in the room, the commander stands up and walks toward the door. When she opens the door she turns her head back now staring at Wakame, 

Mori: “I’ll be waiting in your office.” said with a plain voice before she steps outside the room and closes the door. 

Wakame: “Now, Captain Thorn. Continue your report.”Said the Scientist. This time with a curious but really serious expression.

***

Outside the Sar’ka’s Meeting Room

When Captain Thorn left the room Dr. Marlow was waiting outside.

Thorn: “Marlow, what are you doing here?” said the captain, surprised.

Marlow: ”We’ve been waiting for you.”said the lieutenant, making a pause before continuing,  “We would like to discuss some things… Together… as a team. Some discoveries and curiosities that you might find intriguing.” finish Marlow while she holds some paperwork on top of her chest and begins walking towards the barracks.

Thorn: “O…... .Kay?” responded confused. He sighs and stares at his watch. The time 8:38PM [Martian Time], “Can this day be over already?” said the captain to himself.

Marlow: “Captain Thorn, Hurry up!” said the Lieutenant, stopping after realizing the captain stood behind.

Thorn: “Yeh, Yeh, I'm coming.” said the Captain as he started jogging towards Marlow.

***

Sar’ka’s Barracks

In the private barracks, the team gathered around a table cluttered with files, data pads and equipment. Captain Thorn's entrance prompted expectant looks from Kuznetsov, Tanaka, and Simmons.

Thorn: "What did I miss?"

Marlow: "So, we've been looking through the data. There's something strange about those test tubes."

Tanaka: "Indeed. They contain components that defy known science. It's like the scientist was attempting to capture the essence of the cosmos itself."

Kuznetzov: “Oh please. Keep the exaggerations to yourself kid.” Said Kuz while slapping lightly on Tanaka's head.

Tanaka: “Hey!” Tanaka responded while pushing the blond beast. 

Marlow: “We'll know if that exaggeration is true, the moment we decide to experiment on this.” said Marlow while reaching for her scientific coat pocket, second later she extends her hand with a vial, a test tube, “This is the one Monoka was holding.”

Thorn: “Wait. How do you manage to get a hold of that?” asked the captain worried, concerned but also amazed. 

Marlow: “After you left in search of the other life signal Simmons handed it to me and I decided to keep it.” Confirmed the scientist with a fake smile, “Also, it is important to mention that Monoka was off the day of the incident, I found in some of the records that she was the lead scientist in charge of the team researching the test tubes.”

Thorn: “So It WAS A Setup.” says the captain, now intrigued.

Kuznetsov: “She was supposed to be part of the victims the day of the incident. After realizing that the scientist was not there, “they” sent a fake “mission” to finish the job they started?”

Thorn: “Who are “they”?” Ask the Captain lost with the situation.

Simmons: "That's…That's what we don't know…”Said the doctor while shrinking her shoulders. After a short pause she continued, “But hey, Tanaka, are you gonna say anything about what you found in the server room? It might answer that question of yours…Or maybe will give you more questions.”

Tanaka: “Oh! Right!” said the teenager while pulling a holographic screen from his watch, “In the server room, encrypted files hinted at more than just scientific data. Remember “Project Sol”? While diving into it I realized that it had tons of cryptic messages."

As the Captain exchanged a intrigued glance, Tanaka leaned forward.

Tanaka: "I decipher them, and the Particle we are looking for… is not the only one, there's tons of them. We are guessing  they are part of the components in those test tubes we found. Maybe the research team managed to divide the components of one of them, but it went missing and Monoka took advantage of the fake mission to acquire some samples for future research. I also found a video that could explain a little bit more about this hypothesis. Some facility was experimenting on some substance, I guess is the same substance inside the vials, but something weird appears."Tanaka swiped the screen and displayed what seemed to be a video of another scientific facility.

In the video, the name of the facility was displayed as “Mercury Scientific Headquarters' ', the video continues showing an experiment on a bright viscous substance similar to the ones found in the Mi’ro Facility. As the people in the video try to divide a microscopic part of the substance, a male humanoid being, brighter than the particle, appeared out of nowhere in the middle of the research room. The entity rose one hand and a suction hole similar to a black hole but as tiny as a tennis ball appeared on the palm of its hand, everything in the room started being suctioned by it. As people try to run for their lives and fail trying so, the bright substance levitates in front of the creature, the entity opens a mouth and swallows the substance. A second after the tiny black hole power increases and the video stops.

Thorn: “Guys… I gotta tell you something. This gotta stay between us. But…The particle we are looking for… Is not the substance. . . Is that thing” said the captain pointing to the entity displayed on the screen.

Simmons:“What?!”

The barrack’s door knob turns and Tanaka quickly closes the holographic display. At the door appears Commander Mori staring curious with a file on her hand, she extends the hand towards the captain and says, “I need your squad ready for departure in five hours. I suggest taking a small rest, this time the trip will be long. We found where the particle might be located. Phobos.”