Chapter 252: Going Deeper

February 2nd, 2028

In a secure room within the CIA's Manila station, John Harris and Stacy Mitchell prepared for their video call with CIA Director Elizabeth Turner. The room was equipped with state-of-the-art encryption and communication technology to ensure that their conversation would remain confidential. Harris checked the video equipment one last time while Mitchell reviewed their notes.

"Everything set?" Harris asked, glancing at Mitchell.

"Yeah, we're good to go," Mitchell replied, nodding as she adjusted her laptop. "Let's connect."

The large monitor on the wall flickered to life, displaying the familiar face of Director Turner. She looked as stern and composed as always, her piercing eyes focusing on the agents through the screen.

"Agents Harris and Mitchell, good to see you," Turner began, her voice steady and authoritative. "What do you have for me?"

Harris took a deep breath and began the report. "Director Turner, we've gathered some significant information regarding Michael Reyes and his VR technology. It's more advanced than anything we've ever seen, and there are several red flags we need to address."

Turner leaned forward slightly, her interest piqued. "Go on."

Mitchell continued, "We interrogated one of Reyes's employees, Carlos Mendoza. He confirmed that the technology they're working with is unlike anything currently available. The VR system uses an advanced neural interface that directly taps into the brain, creating incredibly realistic experiences. Mendoza described it as being ahead of its time."

"Did Mendoza provide any details about the origin of this technology?" Turner asked, her brow furrowing.

"That's where it gets interesting," Harris said. "Mendoza mentioned that Michael Reyes personally conducted all the briefings about the technology. For someone at his level to be so involved is highly unusual. Reyes demonstrated the technology, explained how to operate it, and emphasized strict confidentiality."

Turner raised an eyebrow. "Reyes himself? That is unusual. What else did Mendoza say?"

Mitchell glanced at her notes before responding. "Mendoza saw a blueprint with strange symbols on it, in no language he recognized. When he inquired about it, he was told it was just a prototype design and not to worry about it. Additionally, most of the components were delivered pre-assembled with no identifiable marks or labels. They were very secretive about the manufacturing process."

Turner nodded thoughtfully. "Anything else?"

"Yes," Harris said. "Mendoza mentioned the presence of security personnel who behaved more like military operatives. They were disciplined, always alert, and subtly armed. They were around during certain tests and briefings but never interacted directly with the regular employees."

Later that day, Director Turner sat in her office, pondering the implications of the information provided by Harris and Mitchell. The revelation about Michael Reyes and his advanced VR technology was alarming. Turner needed to relay this information to the President.

Within an hour, Turner was on a secure video call with President Thomas Greene. His chief of staff, Emily Hartman, was also present.

"Elizabeth, what's so urgent?" President Greene asked, his tone indicating he was ready for bad news.

"Mr. President, we've uncovered some critical information regarding Michael Reyes and his technology," Turner began. "Our agents in the Philippines have been investigating Reyes Corporation and have discovered several alarming details."

President Greene leaned forward, his expression serious. "Go on."

"Reyes has developed a VR system with capabilities far beyond anything we currently have. It uses an advanced neural interface that taps directly into the brain, creating experiences indistinguishable from reality, which is advertised in their product. Which is also so advanced to the point they are ahead two or three decades away from DARPA."

"Why is this a cause for concern again?" President Greene asked, his brow furrowing.

Turner leaned forward, her expression serious. "Mr. President, consider the implications. Who knows what advanced technology the Reyes Corporation might develop next? Even this VR system can be used as a weapon. Imagine the potential for mind-altering or control applications.

If this technology fell into the wrong hands, it could be catastrophic."

Emily Hartman interjected, "You mean it could be used for brainwashing, inducing compliance, or even creating false memories?"

"Exactly," Turner replied. "The potential for misuse is enormous. And the secrecy surrounding Reyes's operations suggests he might already be aware of these risks. This goes beyond a corporate innovation—it's a potential threat to national security."

"What do you recommend we do, Elizabeth?"

"We need to increase our surveillance and intelligence-gathering efforts on Reyes Corporation," Turner said. "This includes monitoring all communications, financial transactions, and any interactions with external entities. We also need to identify and secure any other employees who might have insider information."

Hartman nodded. "And what about Michael Reyes himself?"

"We need to keep a close watch on him," Turner continued. "His movements, meetings, and any other activities must be monitored. If he's hiding something, we need to find out what it is and neutralize any potential threats."

"I understand, do it."