章 23: Into the Depths
Chicago, Kord Creative Technologies.
Jay arrived in Chicago around nine in the morning, seeking the headquarters of Kord Creative Technologies. The task was hardly daunting—the company's 108-floor modern skyscraper was a standout in the cityscape, its deep bronze glass facade a stark contrast to its surroundings.
He entered the lobby to find the company's electronic logo assembling itself in mid-air on a floating screen, accompanied by the melodious tones of a synthetic female voice narrating the company's glory and history. An impeccably dressed receptionist sat at the front desk, where each employee was required to clock in.
Scanning the area, Jay's eyes settled on a rotund man lounging on a couch, his suit straining against his ample belly as he devoured a piece of fried chicken from across the street. It wasn't his girth that caught Jay's attention, but the man's badge, precariously perched on a belt, threatening to snap under the strain.
With an air of nonchalance, Jay strolled by, swiftly snatching the badge in a fraction of a second, then resumed whistling casually. The man continued his breakfast, oblivious to his loss.
Blending in with the employees, Jay used the badge to access the upper floors, luckily avoiding any of the man's acquaintances. As he rode the escalator to the second floor, he saw the man discovering his badge's disappearance—Jay quietly apologized internally for the inconvenience.
Mr. Reynolds had specifically highlighted the "Quantum Research Division" of Kord Creative Technologies. Jay wasn't sure why, but it seemed like a promising lead. He noted the navigation map in the lobby, which listed the division on the fortieth floor, and took the elevator straight there.
The elevator dinged open at the fortieth floor, revealing a stark corridor lined with metal doors, each secured with advanced electronic locks. It was eerily lit with a continuous strip of blue light overhead, casting a spectral hue reminiscent of a scene from a vintage horror film.
Surveying with his X-ray vision, Jay found the walls were infused with lead—a peculiar measure outside of someone like Lex Luthor. He debated using brute force to explore, but as he hesitated, the elevator transported another visitor to this floor.
A black man in a lab coat and round glasses stepped out, frowning at Jay's presence. "Who are you?"
"Uh, a new intern? I guess I'm just lost."
"Access to this department is restricted without clearance," the man said skeptically, asking for Jay's badge.
Showing his real credentials wasn't an option—Jay's face bore no resemblance to the man on the badge. As he considered his next move, he decided against causing a scene—there were likely cameras around.
"Actually, I'm a journalist," Jay improvised, producing a temporary press pass from Perry White of the Daily Planet. He handed it over, though the excuse seemed flimsy at best.
The man inspected the badge. "Daily Planet? From Metropolis? You've come a long way."
"I've heard great things about your company and wanted to see it firsthand during my summer internship," Jay explained, diverting the conversation. "This is your Quantum Research Division? I've heard you're leading the industry, and it's my prime area of interest."
The man, Kevin Morgan, head of the division, returned the badge with a friendly smile. "You're in luck then."
"Seems so," Jay replied as Kevin escorted him back into the elevator, pressing a button several levels below the lobby. Jay's instincts told him the situation was odd, but he didn't protest, sensing he was nearing something pivotal.
The elevator descended to the basement, opening to a lavish lab bustling with researchers. The underground facility was a stark contrast to the futuristic vibe above ground, appearing like a set from a high-budget sci-fi film.
In the center, a metallic arch shimmered with purple electricity, seeming to ripple the very space around it.
"You wanted to see Quantum Research? You're here," Kevin grinned, revealing a set of perfect teeth.
Suddenly, two researchers lunged from behind, aiming syringes at Jay's neck. But the needles snapped against his skin.
The assailants froze, as did Kevin.
Rubbing his neck, Jay offered an apologetic smile. "Sorry about the syringes. But I guess they weren't too expensive, right? No harm done?"
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