June 19, 2021. 15:08. Rome.
Alessia glances toward the reception desk.
"Ah, I'm afraid I should get back to preparing the guest groups. We're just about ready to begin."
"Of course," Linh replies. "Don't let me keep you."
"Thank you!"
Alessia turns toward me. "Gina, I'll see you shortly."
"Absolutely!" I say.
She excuses herself, leaving me standing with Linh.
Oh, wonderful.
For a brief moment, neither of us says anything.
Then Linh gestures toward the enormous botanical installation near the center of the lobby.
"Quite an impressive building, isn't it?"
I follow her gaze. "It really is. I was just telling Alessia how beautiful the architecture is."
"Yes. Biotechnica has invested considerably in making this facility both functional and presentable."
"It certainly shows."
"Hopefully you'll find the tour equally impressive."
"I'm sure I will!"
She smiles at that.
Just then, Alessia's voice carries across the lobby.
"Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention, please?"
Oh?
The conversations around us gradually quiet down as guests turn toward the reception area. A few people finish their drinks, while others put away their phones and begin making their way toward the center of the lobby.
"Ah, it seems we're beginning," Linh remarks.
I nod. "Looks like it."
"Shall we?"
"Of course!"
Linh gestures for me to go ahead, and I follow the other guests toward the reception desk.
Alessia stands near the center of the lobby, accompanied by two other employees and a distinguished-looking gentleman wearing a charcoal suit. Several security personnel remain stationed near the elevators, while another pair of employees organize the guests into smaller groups.
Linh walks alongside me for a few steps before excusing herself.
"I'll leave you to enjoy the presentation, Gina. I have a few colleagues to speak with before rejoining the tour."
"Oh! Of course," I say. "It was lovely meeting you!"
"Likewise."
She offers another pleasant smile before heading toward a group of corporate representatives near the front.
I watch her leave.
Huh. Still can't believe I ran into her.
Alessia then begins her announcement with a bright smile.
"First of all, welcome to Biotechnica's Rome facility! We're absolutely delighted to have all of you joining us this afternoon."
A few guests offer polite applause, and I join them.
"My name is Alessia Conti, and I'll be one of your coordinators for today's private event. On behalf of our communications and public relations team, I'd like to thank everyone for taking the time to visit us."
She gestures toward the enormous Biotechnica logo behind the reception desk.
"As many of you know, Biotechnica operates across a wide range of industries, from agricultural biotechnology and renewable energy to pharmaceutical research and advanced biological engineering."
Yep. Definitely sounds like Biotechnica.
"Today, we've prepared a guided tour of several designated areas within our facility, where you'll have the opportunity to learn more about some of our ongoing research initiatives, technological developments, and future projects. Following the tour, we'll proceed to our product showcase and reception, where representatives from Biotechnica and our participating partners will be available for networking and further discussion."
Nice.
So, science first. Fancy corporate party afterward.
Works for me.
"Before we begin, however, there are a few important guidelines we'd like everyone to be aware of."
Ah. Here comes the security talk.
"First, please keep your visitor badges visible at all times. Certain areas of the facility require additional authorization, and our staff will be assisting with access throughout the tour."
She gestures toward the security checkpoint.
"Second, photography and recording will be restricted in designated sections of the building. We understand that many of you are here in a promotional or media capacity, so we'll make sure to identify the areas where photography is permitted."
Figured as much.
"Finally, for everyone's safety, we ask that you remain with your assigned group and follow any instructions provided by our guides or security personnel."
She pauses, looking around the gathering.
"Please understand that this is an active research facility. While we've prepared several demonstrations for today's event, some departments and laboratories will remain inaccessible to visitors."
A few guests nod.
"Other than that, we hope you enjoy your visit!" Alessia concludes with a smile.
With that, our tour officially begins. We're introduced to several Biotechnica research staff members, who give us an overview of what we'll be seeing throughout the afternoon, including the company's latest developments in agricultural biotechnology, renewable energy, and other research initiatives.
Apparently, some of these technologies are already being implemented commercially, while others are still undergoing development.
The entire tour is scheduled to last about an hour or so, with the staff explaining that we'll only be visiting designated observation areas, since most of the actual laboratories are restricted.
Which is... well, obvious.
It's not like they're going to walk a bunch of journalists, investors, and models into their most confidential laboratories.
Although that would certainly make for an interesting afternoon.
The rest of the tour is practically a blur.
It's a combination of wandering through hallways, listening to lengthy presentations about innovation and progress, and occasionally smiling for the cameras while trying to look like I understand the subject matter on some deeply academic level.
I'm a model, not a fucking scientist… c'mon.
Not that I'm completely uninterested, of course. Some of the technology is genuinely fascinating.
What makes things a little strange, though, is Linh.
Throughout the tour, she occasionally reappears, moving between the connected hallways and speaking with various employees and corporate representatives. Every now and then, she'll glance toward our group before returning to whatever business she's handling.
At certain points, she even joins us, stepping forward to deliver surprisingly polished explanations about Biotechnica's international partnerships.
Apparently, the corporation works with agricultural producers, energy companies, manufacturers, and various institutions to bring its technologies into commercial use.
Of course, I listen, occasionally glancing toward the other guests.
And I won't lie, she's pretty damn good at this.
If I hadn't already encountered her as Artemis, I probably wouldn't think twice about any of it.
She's professional and incredibly articulate—perfectly comfortable addressing a room full of businesspeople.
Nothing about her behavior suggests she's involved in espionage or special operations.
Then again, it's not like she goes around advertising that part of her job.
Well, aside from practically announcing it when we first encountered her.
As for the tour itself, our first major stop is the agricultural biotechnology division, where enormous indoor growing chambers house rows upon rows of genetically engineered crops beneath artificial lighting.
Automated machinery monitors the plants, while technicians oversee everything from enclosed control stations.
The whole thing looks like someone decided to build a farm inside a spaceship.
I end up asking a few questions—just to keep appearances and the like—while Alessia and the research staff happily explain the advantages and limitations of the technology.
Apparently, some of these systems are designed to improve crop production in places where conventional agriculture isn't particularly practical.
Sadly, that still isn't possible with larger scale operations, but maybe one day Canada could have that too once everything is settled.
We eventually move on to another section showcasing experimental plants intended for industrial applications, including renewable fuels and specialized manufacturing materials.
From there, the tour transitions into industrial biotechnology and biofuels.
There are enormous stainless-steel tanks, complicated machinery, interconnected pipes, and enough scientific equipment to make my head spin. It doesn't help that the staff keep droning on about Biotechnica's methods of converting biological materials into alternative fuels and industrial products.
I understand most of the general concepts.
But the technical details? Ehhhh… I'll leave those to the scientists.
And judging by the questions being asked, the investors are particularly interested in the commercial applications.
At one point, someone asks how Biotechnica intends to compete with established energy producers.
The question eventually gets passed to Linh, who effortlessly explains how Biotechnica approaches commercial partnerships, working with existing industries to integrate its technologies into established production and distribution networks.
Several guests ask follow-up questions about international markets and infrastructure development, which she answers with surprising ease.
Not that I ever doubted her intelligence or anything of the sort.
It's just that the last time I saw her, our interactions involved considerably more guns and death.
Eventually, the tour moves on to the internal logistics of how Biotechnica intends to "save" agriculture, energy, pharmaceuticals, industrial manufacturing, and just about every other industry imaginable.
Y'know... practically anything and everything our world relies on.
Just like every other megacorporation promises.
And when one of the research staff starts discussing regional production facilities and international supply chains, I can't help thinking about everything that's happened over the past few weeks.
Still, before I can dwell on it for too long, Alessia announces a short break before the next portion of the tour.
Several guests begin chatting among themselves, while others wander toward nearby displays showcasing Biotechnica's international projects.
I take the opportunity to examine a large interactive map mounted along the wall, casually listening in on the conversations around me.
Different regions are highlighted, with information about agricultural development, energy infrastructure, and industrial partnerships.
Wow, these guys really are everywhere.
I tap one of the displays, bringing up a summary of several European initiatives.
Nothing especially confidential, just the usual corporate promotional material.
Investment figures, projected development plans, timelines, and enough optimistic language to make every project sound like it's going to save the world on its own.
"Finding anything interesting?"
I glance over.
Linh walks up beside me, holding a tablet at her side.
Oh.
"Actually, yes!" I smile. "I was just looking through some of your international projects."
"Ah, I see." She glances toward the display. "Quite an extensive portfolio, isn't it?"
"It really is! I knew Biotechnica was a major corporation, but I didn't realize how many different industries you were involved in."
"Most people are surprised by the scale of our operations."
"I can imagine." She smiles. "Was there anything in particular that caught your attention?"
I genuinely consider the question.
"Honestly? The agricultural projects were so far the most fascinating, especially the idea of growing food in places where conventional farming isn't practical."
"Mhm… a worthwhile area of research."
"Definitely! I was actually thinking about how useful something like that could be back home."
"Oh? Where's home?"
"Vancouver."
"Canada?"
"Mhm, that's right!"
"Ahhh… yes, I do recall visiting. Admittedly, I've only ever been there on business. A few times, but nothing more than that."
Mhmm... "business," sure.
I smile. "Really? That's wonderful!"
"Although I can't say I've had much opportunity to explore it properly."
"Aw, that's a shame! There's quite a lot to see."
"So I've heard." She studies the display for a moment. "Vancouver has certainly undergone considerable changes over the years."
"That's putting it lightly," I reply with a small laugh.
Linh chuckles. "Indeed."
For a moment, we stand together, looking at the map.
Then she turns toward me.
"Tell me, Gina. What interested you in attending today's event?"
Oh? Is this just small talk, or is she trying to get something out of me?
Unfortunately, I can't quite tell.
Well, better play it safe.
"Well... aside from the invitation?" I smile. "I thought it sounded like a wonderful opportunity to learn something new."
"A commendable attitude."
"Thank you! I mean, most of my work revolves around fashion, so I don't usually get to see this side of things."
"Naturally."
"And honestly, I think it's important to understand the companies and organizations you're working with. Especially when you're involved in promotional partnerships."
Linh nods approvingly. "A very sensible perspective."
I laugh softly. "Besides, I was curious!"
"Curiosity is rarely a bad thing."
Depends on what you're curious about. But I keep that thought to myself.
Instead, I gesture toward the display.
"So, do you work with these kinds of projects often?"
"Some of them," she replies. "My responsibilities vary depending on the assignment."
Assignment, huh?
I continue my facade, clasping my hands together.
"Oh! That sounds exciting!"
"It can be." She smiles faintly. "Although much of my work involves coordinating between departments, evaluating potential partnerships, and making sure projects proceed according to their intended objectives."
"That sounds like a lot of responsibility."
"It certainly keeps me occupied."
"I can imagine!" I tilt my head slightly. "Ah, but do you travel a lot for work?"
"Quite frequently."
"Oh, wow! That must be interesting."
"It has its advantages."
"And disadvantages?"
"Naturally…" Linh chuckles. "Long flights, unpredictable schedules, and occasionally finding yourself in places you'd rather not be."
Oh, you have no fucking idea how funny that is.
I laugh. "Tell me about it! Traveling for work sounds glamorous until you're dealing with delayed flights and terrible hotel beds."
"Precisely!" She gives me an amused smile. "Although I imagine your profession has its own challenges."
"Oh, absolutely!" I gesture lightly with one hand. "People see the photographs and the outfits, but they don't always see the hours of preparation, the fittings, the rehearsals, or the amount of time spent waiting around for everything to be ready."
"That sounds familiar."
"Right?!"
We share a laugh.
For a moment, I almost forget who I'm speaking to.
Almost.
"Although, I must admit, it's been a particularly exhausting few months," Linh continues with a small sigh.
"Oh? Really?" I raise a brow.
"Unfortunately. Between all the traveling and meetings, I haven't had much opportunity to rest."
"Aw… I'm sorry to hear that!"
"Thank you. Although I suppose it's simply part of the profession." She glances toward the display, absentmindedly adjusting the tablet in her hands. "At least some of our more troublesome matters here in Italy have finally been resolved."
What does she mean by that?
"Troublesome matters?" I ask.
"Security concerns, primarily," she says. "There was a rather significant operation recently involving an extremist organization."
...Wait is she referring to the Neo-Tanwir raid earlier?
I maintain my smile. "Oh! Was that the thing on the news recently?"
Linh turns toward me. "You heard about it?"
"A little!" I reply, tilting my head. "I remember seeing something about an operation against a terrorist group. I think it involved some pretty serious fighting?"
"Indeed. It was a rather complicated affair."
Oh, you don't fucking say.
I give her a sympathetic look. "That sounds awful. Were you involved?"
"To an extent, yes."
To an "extent". Right...
"Wow! Well… I'm glad you're alright!"
"That's very kind of you." Linh sighs, looking genuinely appreciative. "Although I must admit, the aftermath has involved a rather exhausting amount of paperwork."
"Oh, really?"
"Unfortunately. Sometimes I think the administrative work is more demanding than the actual assignments."
I laugh softly. "Seriously?"
"Quite." She smiles. "The compensation is… certainly generous, and I have no complaints about my position, but there are days when I find myself looking forward to retirement."
"Oh wowwww! Already?"
"One can dream, Gina."
I laugh softly. "Well, I can't blame you! If your job's been that stressful, I'd probably be thinking about retirement too."
"Quite understandable, I assure you."
"Although..." I tilt my head slightly. "You mentioned that some of your troubles here in Italy have finally been resolved, right?"
"Indeed."
"Well, that's good, at least!" I smile. "Does that mean you'll finally get a chance to relax? Or is there still more work to be done?"
Linh gives a small, weary chuckle. "Unfortunately, resolving one problem doesn't necessarily mean my work is finished."
"Oh?"
"In this particular case, the immediate situation has been addressed. But the organization responsible for the issue remains a concern."
"Ah, I see..."
I pause, appearing to consider her words.
What's the best way to respond without giving away that I already know something? Hmm... I think I'll just play dumb.
"So, wait... does that mean they managed to stop the group here in Italy, but they're still causing trouble elsewhere?"
"Precisely." Linh nods. "Their operations here in Italy have been effectively dismantled, yes. However, the organization itself remains active elsewhere."
"Oh?"
"Italy was one branch. They're… considerably more difficult to uproot than that."
Not exactly surprising.
"Wow... that's concerning," I say. "I would've thought stopping their operations here would be enough."
"If only it were that simple." Linh offers a small, somewhat weary smile. "Unfortunately, organizations of this nature rarely operate within a single country. They establish networks, recruit personnel, and maintain connections that can be difficult to identify, much less dismantle."
"I see..."
"Some are considerably more sophisticated than their public image would suggest."
Yeah. No kidding.
I glance toward the map.
"So, are they mostly former soldiers or something? I mean, I can't imagine ordinary people just joining a terrorist organization."
"Not necessarily," Linh replies. "Their membership is actually rather diverse."
"Oh?"
"Former military personnel, corporate employees, researchers, criminals, nomads, and various ideological recruits. Some join because they genuinely believe in the organization's objectives. Others have considerably more practical motivations."
Wait… nomads? Shit, could this be connected to Ras and Tetra? After all, Ras was seen fighting alongside Neo-Tanwir, even wearing their armour.
I blink. "Nomads? That's... kind of random."
"Not particularly." Linh looks toward me. "Nomad communities can possess extensive transportation networks, technical expertise, and knowledge of regions that conventional organizations struggle to access. Those capabilities can be extremely valuable to groups seeking to operate outside established systems."
"Ohhh... I hadn't thought about that."
"Of course, that doesn't mean nomad communities are inherently associated with such organizations," she adds. "Most have no involvement whatsoever. But individuals with those backgrounds can certainly be recruited."
"Ah, I see. Then… have you encountered people like that before?"
"On occasion. There was actually a case last year involving an extremist group and a nomad community."
"Oh? Really?"
"Yes. I recall it being rather unusual, particularly because the community itself wasn't necessarily involved in the organization's activities."
"Ah, I see."
"Unfortunately, individuals sometimes exploit their connections to communities that have little knowledge of what they're actually doing."
"That's awful."
"Indeed." She considers something for a bit. "If I remember correctly, the community was called Thelas."
Wait… actually?
For a fraction of a second, my thoughts come to a complete stop.
ACTUALLY THELAS?! I barely manage to stop myself from turning toward her too quickly.
What the fuck?
That's—
Holy shit.
I keep my expression pleasantly curious, even as my mind starts racing.
"Oh? Thelas?" I repeat. "What's that?"
"It's a relatively obscure nomad community that sticks to the ocean. I remember the name because it came up in several reports concerning the incident."
"Was the community involved?"
"Not necessarily. From what I recall, the attention centered on an individual with connections to them."
"Ohhh. I see."
An individual? Could that be Ras?
"Apparently, the situation became rather complicated once certain corporate interests were involved," Linh adds.
"Corporate interests?"
"Research disputes, primarily. The details were never particularly clear in the public reports."
Research?
What the hell?
I tilt my head. "Sorry, I'm not sure I follow."
"It's nothing particularly relevant to today's event," she replies with a faint smile. "There were indications that certain individuals were attempting to obtain or exchange information relating to corporate research."
"Ohhh. Like… um… industrial espionage?"
"In a manner of speaking."
Okay… I don't know how we got here but this is interesting.
"Was… Biotechnica involved then?" I ask.
"Not directly in every aspect, no. Several corporations had interests in the same research being discussed."
"Oh? Like who?"
"Arasaka was one of the names mentioned at the time."
Right… this probably ties back to the stupid security camera footage with Ras and Jenny…
"Wow. I thought corporations like Biotechnica and Arasaka were competitors," I say.
"No, no, we are," Linh says, nodding.
"Then wouldn't that make things complicated?"
"Sometimes." Linh smiles faintly. "But you'd be surprised how often competitors cooperate when neither side wants the public asking questions."
"That's... mildly terrifying."
"Only mildly?" Linh raises a brow and puts a hand to her hip. "I'm genuinely surprised that's your reaction. You seem surprisingly more comfortable with that."
Ah, shit. I almost let myself get too comfortable.
"Sorry, I think it's still registering." I laugh, throwing my hands up in mock surprise. "Oh my goodness! I had no clue!"
"Corporate relationships are rarely as straightforward as they appear, Gina. Competition doesn't necessarily preclude cooperation, particularly when both parties have an interest in maintaining confidentiality." Linh smiles with a soft sigh.
"I guess that makes sense," I think aloud. "Whether it's proprietary research or avoiding unnecessary public scrutiny, there are plenty of reasons for organizations to reach an understanding."
But still... what happened between Biotechnica and Arasaka?
It's not particularly unbelievable. In fact, it's pretty believable that corporations make deals with one another all the time, even when they're supposed to be competitors.
Hmm... but Thelas and Neo-Tanwir? Stealing corporate research?
What the fuck is the connection?
I glance toward Linh.
She seems perfectly comfortable, casually discussing corporate politics as though we were talking about the weather.
And for all I know, that's exactly how she sees it.
But for me?
Thelas? Of all the fucking names she could've mentioned?
I have to know more.
Unfortunately, I also have to remember that I'm currently Gina Kyung.
Someone who shouldn't have any personal interest in an obscure nomad community connected to an extremist organization.
Fuck.
Instead, I offer her a sympathetic smile.
"Well, that certainly sounds like a stressful job."
"It can be," Linh replies. "Although thankfully, not every assignment is quite so troublesome."
"That's good!"
"Indeed. I much prefer occasions like today's event."
"Oh?"
"Meeting new people and occasionally enjoying a pleasant conversation without having to worry about some unforeseen complication." She smiles at me. "And perhaps, on occasion, discussing promising developments."
I laugh softly. "Well, I'm glad I could help with that!"
"You certainly have."
If only you knew.
For a moment, neither of us says anything.
Then Linh glances toward the other guests, where Alessia is beginning to gather everyone for the next portion of the event.
"Ah, I believe the tour is about to resume."
I follow her gaze. "Oh! You're right."
"It was lovely speaking with you, Gina."
"Likewise, Linh!"
She gives me a warm smile. "Perhaps we'll have another opportunity to talk during the reception."
"I'd love that!"
"Wonderful. Until then."
"See you!"
Linh excuses herself, heading toward another group of corporate representatives.
I watch her leave, my smile remaining in place until she's turned away.
Then I glance back toward the interactive map.
...What the hell?
I stare at the display for a moment, barely registering the information scrolling across it.
Okay… so let me get this straight.
Sometime last year, there was an incident involving the Neo-Tanwir and someone connected to Thelas.
And considering what we already know about Ras fighting alongside the Neo-Tanwir, there's a pretty damn good chance he was involved.
Then SOMEHOW, corporate research got dragged into the picture. Something about people trying to steal or exchange information?
And apparently, Arasaka was involved too, although nobody seems to know exactly how or why.
But wait... does that mean all of this is connected? Or am I just putting together a bunch of coincidences?
Just what is going on?
I don't know.
And... that's the problem.
Thelas isn't just some random name to me, not anymore anyways.
My mind shifts to the thought of telling Tetra about this.
But... is this even worth telling him?
It's not like I have any concrete evidence. I'd basically just be playing messenger, passing along something I overheard.
What if I'm wrong?
Or worse, God forbid, what if Linh actually knew the entire time that I was Artemis?
But that's impossible, right? I had everything covered. Makeup, wigs, a voice modulator, even armour that concealed my figure.
There's no way she could've recognized me… right?
I glance toward Alessia, who's waving several guests toward the next corridor.
Shit. I don't know.
I straighten my posture, smooth out my outfit, and put on my usual cheerful smile.
Alright, Gina. Back to being a model first.
"Sorry, I got a little distracted!" I call, hurrying toward the group.
But as I follow them through the next set of doors, one question keeps nagging at the back of my mind.
What the hell happened to Ras?