The night in Hong Kong glittered with lights, the skyscrapers casting dazzling reflections on Victoria Harbour's waters like a dream that never slept.
But for the six, the beautiful scenery meant nothing now. They hurried through the hospital corridors, their minds focused on one thing—Marcus Chen's safety. As the leader of the Watchers, Marcus was not only their friend and supporter but also the key figure connecting the global disaster prevention network. His attack might signify a larger conspiracy.
"Which room is he in?" Yeh Yao asked urgently at the front desk, his voice tense with worry.
The nurse checked her computer. "Mr. Chen is in the VIP ward, Room 1507. But visiting hours are over, and his condition—"
"We're his family," Alicia interjected smoothly, her tone gentle but firm. "We just flew back from overseas. Please understand our concern."
The nurse hesitated, then nodded at their anxious expressions. "Alright, but keep quiet and don't disturb other patients."
The elevator ascended to the 15th floor, and the six strode toward Room 1507. Outside stood two burly bodyguards, their expressions stern and alert. Seeing the group approach, they immediately stiffened, adopting defensive stances.
"Halt," one ordered. "No visitors allowed."
"We're Marcus Chen's friends," Yeh Yao explained. "We just returned from Indonesia after hearing about the attack."
"We need to verify your identities," the guard replied, unmoved.
Just as tensions rose, the door opened, and a young woman stepped out. She wore a simple black suit, her long hair tied into a neat ponytail, her face weary but sharp-eyed.
"It's fine, Mr. Lee," she told the guard. "These are the guests Mr. Chen mentioned."
The guard stepped aside, and the woman gestured for them to enter.
"I'm Lin Meiling, Mr. Chen's personal assistant," she introduced herself softly. "He said you might come."
Inside, Marcus Chen lay on the hospital bed, hooked to monitors. His face was pale, his head and chest bandaged, his right arm in a cast. Yet, seeing them, he managed a weak smile.
"You're here," he said hoarsely. "Sooner than I expected."
"Marcus," Yeh Yao stepped forward, concern heavy in his voice. "What happened? Who attacked you?"
Marcus motioned for Lin Meiling to close the door, ensuring no eavesdroppers, before speaking. "This wasn't a random attack. The assailants knew our plans, the Watchers' existence—even your identities."
"What?" Michelle gasped. "How is that possible?"
"I'm not sure," Marcus winced in pain. "But they were highly trained, clearly professionals. If not for my guards, I'd be dead."
"Did you see the attackers?" Kristina asked, her soldier's instincts kicking in.
"Masks, all in black," Marcus replied. "But one thing was strange—their movements weren't normal. Almost... enhanced."
The six exchanged wary glances. The description sounded eerily familiar.
"You mean, like the creatures from the hellgate?" Nasser asked carefully.
"Not exactly," Marcus mused. "They still looked human, but their speed and strength were beyond normal. And they didn't react to pain like humans do."
"That sounds like bio-enhancement," Michelle analyzed. "Genetic modification or performance drugs."
"But who would do this? And why?" Eunice voiced the question on everyone's mind.
Marcus sighed, his expression darkening. "Before the attack, I received an anonymous message warning me to stop interfering with the 'natural course.' It mentioned the Cataclysm being necessary—a catalyst for human evolution."
"That sounds like Dr. Morris's theory," Alicia said, startled. "But he's gone. We changed that future."
"Maybe not him personally," Yeh Yao reasoned. "But someone or some group sharing his ideology."
"I looked into it," Marcus continued. "There's a secret organization calling itself the 'New Humanity Alliance.' They believe only through extreme environmental pressure can humanity evolve to the next stage. They likely see our warnings and preparations as threats to their plans."
"So they're trying to stop us," Kristina concluded. "Even with violence."
"Worse," Marcus said gravely. "My intel suggests they've already begun their own plan—accelerating and amplifying natural disasters to ensure the Cataclysm happens as intended."
The revelation felt like ice water dumped over them. They'd thought their biggest challenge was convincing the world of their warnings—now they faced humans actively working to bring about disaster.
"We need more intel," Yeh Yao decided. "On this 'New Humanity Alliance'—their leaders, bases, members, and exact plans."
"Ms. Lin has compiled a preliminary report," Marcus said, nodding to his assistant. "But information is scarce. This group is extremely cautious, leaving almost no traces."
Lin Meiling handed Yeh Yao a tablet. "This is everything we have. But as Mr. Chen said, it's limited."
Yeh Yao took the tablet, and the six huddled to review. The report was brief but chilling—the "New Humanity Alliance" appeared to be a secret group of scientists, elites, and extremists convinced humanity needed purification through disaster. They had advanced tech, vast resources, and possible infiltration into governments and militaries worldwide.
"This is far worse than we imagined," Michelle said grimly. "They're not just fanatics—they're a well-organized, well-funded enemy."
"And they likely know our identities and abilities," Eunice added worriedly. "That puts us in danger."
"We need a plan," Yeh Yao said, returning the tablet. "Continue disaster prep while investigating and stopping this Alliance."
"I suggest splitting up," Kristina proposed. "Some focus on disaster work, others investigate the group."
"Agreed," Nasser nodded. "But we stay connected, ready to support each other."
After discussion, they split into two teams: Yeh Yao, Alicia, and Michelle would handle global disaster coordination, while Nasser, Eunice, and Kristina would investigate the Alliance.
"I'll provide all possible support," Marcus promised, though he clearly needed rest. "The Watchers' resources and network are at your disposal."
"You need rest, Marcus," Alicia said gently but firmly. "Let us handle this. You've done enough."
Marcus reluctantly agreed but insisted Lin Meiling serve as liaison for both teams.
Leaving the hospital, the night was deep, but Hong Kong's streets still bustled, neon lights holding back the dark. Yet the six couldn't share the city's vibrancy—they'd just learned their enemies weren't just natural disasters but humans determined to cause them.
"We need a secure base," Yeh Yao said as they walked. "Somewhere to coordinate and share intel."
"Marcus has several safehouses in Hong Kong," Lin Meiling offered. "I can arrange one. It's spacious, equipped, and discreet."
"Sounds good," Kristina approved. "But we'll need enhanced security. If the Alliance targeted Marcus, they may know these locations."
"I'll handle security," Lin Meiling assured. "Military background—I know defense and surveillance systems."
Led by Lin, they reached an unremarkable apartment building in Kowloon City. Outwardly ordinary, inside it was specially modified with advanced security and comms gear.
"This will be your base," Lin said, showing them around. "Plenty of space to work and rest. Kitchen's stocked, closets have clean clothes. Anything else, just ask."
"Thank you, Ms. Lin," Yeh Yao said sincerely. "Your help is invaluable."
"Call me Meiling," she smiled. "We're on the same side. And Marcus believes in you. I know you can stop this."
Settling in, the six gathered around the living room table to strategize.
"First, we need more on the Alliance," Yeh Yao said. "Leaders, bases, members, plans."
"I'll tap my military contacts," Kristina offered. "See if any intel exists."
"I'll check historical records," Eunice added. "See if similar groups existed before."
"I'll ask my adventurer friends," Nasser said. "They explore remote areas, may have noticed odd activity."
"Meanwhile, disaster prep continues," Michelle stressed. "Especially in predicted hotspots."
"I'll liaise with governments," Alicia suggested. "Ensure they heed warnings and act."
"I'll analyze the latest geological and weather data," Michelle said. "Update predictions and advice."
With plans set, they sprang into action. Kristina, Eunice, and Nasser began digging into the Alliance, while Yeh Yao, Alicia, and Michelle continued global disaster coordination.
Over the next days, both teams made progress but faced hurdles. The investigation team found the Alliance's traces worldwide but few specifics. They seemed active in science, military tech, and finance—likely using these to advance their plans.
The disaster team met skepticism. Though their accurate prediction of Indonesia's eruption boosted credibility, many officials and scientists still doubted their larger-scale warnings.
One evening, the six regrouped in the safehouse to share findings.
"We've got leads," Kristina reported. "The Alliance is linked to a company called 'Evolution Tech.' Officially, they research gene therapy and bio-enhancement, but they might be conducting more extreme experiments."
"I found historical parallels," Eunice added. "Groups believing disaster and suffering purify humanity. But the Alliance seems more scientific and systematic."
"My adventurer friends spotted strange facilities in remote areas," Nasser said. "Especially Antarctica and Siberia—unusual activity there."
"Valuable intel," Yeh Yao acknowledged. "But we need concrete proof of how they're accelerating disasters."
"Progress on our end too," Michelle reported. "Next major disaster may hit Alaska—abnormal crustal activity could trigger a massive quake and tsunami."
"I've alerted U.S. and Canadian officials," Alicia added. "They've agreed to increase monitoring but hesitate on mass evacuations."
"We need stronger evidence," Yeh Yao mused. "Maybe an Alaska trip to gather data firsthand."
"We should also investigate Evolution Tech," Kristina suggested. "Find more Alliance links."
After discussion, they split again: Yeh Yao, Michelle, and Nasser would go to Alaska, while Alicia, Eunice, and Kristina probed Evolution Tech.
Next morning, both teams departed. Yeh Yao's group took a Watchers-chartered flight to Alaska, while Alicia's team headed to Evolution Tech's Hong Kong HQ.
Alaska's winter was brutally cold and dark. Landing in Anchorage, Yeh Yao, Michelle, and Nasser felt icy winds cut through their heavy coats.
"Never imagined this cold," Nasser grumbled, accustomed to Hawaii's tropics. "Worse than I thought."
"Just the start," their local guide, John, warned. "Where we're going is even more remote and freezing."
They rented an SUV and drove north toward a remote geological station reporting abnormal crustal activity.
"Latest data shows quake activity spiking here," Michelle explained en route, checking her tablet. "If this continues, it could trigger a magnitude 9+ quake, then a tsunami."
"Fits Dr. Morris's predictions," Yeh Yao noted. "But the timeline's accelerated. Is this natural or manipulated?"
"We'll soon know," Nasser said, watching snowy landscapes flash by. "Either way, we must prepare for the worst."
Hours later, they reached the station—a small facility nestled in mountainous terrain, surrounded by dense evergreens and steep slopes. Inside, scientists anxiously monitored equipment readings.
"Situation's worse than we thought," chief scientist Greg Thompson told them, pointing to screens. "Crustal stress is skyrocketing—fault line pressure nearing critical."
"How soon till the quake?" Yeh Yao asked, studying data.
"Current trend suggests 48 to 72 hours," Greg said worriedly. "But the odd part is, this surge doesn't look natural. Almost... artificially accelerated."
"You're saying someone's deliberately triggering a quake?" Michelle asked, shocked. "How?"
"Theoretically, deep drilling or explosives at precise fault points could destabilize it," Greg explained. "But that requires massive equipment and expertise."
"Noticed any unusual activity nearby?" Nasser asked. "Unknown personnel or gear?"
Greg hesitated, then nodded. "Actually, yes. Two weeks ago, a group claiming to be a government research team set up a temporary base about 20 kilometers north. Said they were studying climate, but we never got official notice."
The three exchanged glances. This could be their lead.
"We need to check that base," Yeh Yao decided. "See what they're really doing."
"But carefully," Michelle warned. "If they're Alliance, they're dangerous."
"We've got the relics," Nasser reminded them. "We can use their power if needed."
With Greg's directions, they pinpointed the base's location and planned to investigate at dawn.
Meanwhile, in Hong Kong, Alicia, Eunice, and Kristina were probing Evolution Tech, a high-tech firm in Central's financial district, ostensibly focused on gene therapy and biomedical research.
"We need a reason to get inside," Kristina said as they watched the building from a café across the street. "Breaking in is too risky."
"Maybe pose as potential investors or partners?" Eunice suggested.
"Or," Alicia considered, "leverage Marcus's name. As a prominent businessman and philanthropist, he might warrant a meeting."
She contacted Lin Meiling, who arranged a meeting with Evolution Tech's R&D director under the guise of the Marcus Chen Foundation considering investment.
"You'll represent the foundation," Lin explained via phone. "Assess if their research aligns with the foundation's goals."
"Perfect," Alicia thanked her. "This gets us inside legally."
Dressed professionally, the three entered Evolution Tech's sleek, high-tech headquarters. The receptionist politely escorted them to a conference room.
R&D director Alan Zhao soon arrived—a man in his forties, neat in a lab coat and glasses, friendly but slightly tense.
"Welcome to Evolution Tech," he smiled, shaking hands. "The Chen Foundation has always been a desired partner."
"Mr. Chen is very interested in your research," Alicia replied professionally. "Particularly innovations in gene therapy and bio-enhancement."
"We're honored," Alan said. "Let me show you our facilities and ongoing projects."
For the next hour, Alan led them through departments, showcasing various research and equipment. On the surface, everything appeared legitimate—focused on treating genetic diseases and improving health.
But Kristina noticed odd details—certain areas marked "Authorized Personnel Only," guarded by armed security; researchers who grew nervous at their presence; equipment that looked more military than medical.
"Impressive projects," Eunice remarked as the tour concluded. "But we've heard you have more... cutting-edge research? Perhaps on pushing human limits?"
Alan's expression flickered, a flash of wariness in his eyes. "Not sure what you mean. We've shown you all our work."
"Really?" Kristina asked softly. "Then what's in those restricted zones?"
Alan's demeanor cooled. "Those are highly confidential projects. Even potential investors can't access them without signed NDAs. If Mr. Chen is truly interested, he must visit personally."
"Of course, we understand," Alicia said smoothly, sensing the shift. "We'll report back. He'll be very impressed."
Leaving the company, the three found a quiet park bench to debrief.
"Something's definitely off," Kristina stated. "Those guards weren't regular security—they had military training."
"And Alan's reaction to the restricted zones was suspicious," Eunice added. "He's hiding something."
"We need more intel," Alicia decided. "Maybe through employees or ex-employees."
She contacted Lin Meiling to help find an inside source, then updated the Alaska team on their findings.
In Alaska, Yeh Yao's group was preparing to infiltrate the mysterious research base. At dawn, they drove their SUV along rugged mountain roads.
"According to Greg, the base should be in the valley ahead," Michelle said, checking maps. "But we'll need stealth to avoid detection."
"I can use the Earth Shatterer to tunnel underground," Nasser suggested. "Approach unseen."
"Good idea," Yeh Yao agreed. "But first, let's scout the base's layout."
They parked in a secluded spot and hiked the rest of the way, using trees and rocks for cover. Reaching the valley's edge, they saw the base below—temporary structures and equipment, surrounded by electric fences and patrolled guards.
"That's no climate research facility," Michelle whispered, observing through binoculars. "Those are deep-drilling rigs—used for oil or geological surveys."
"And those guards," Nasser noted. "Military-grade weapons and gear. Definitely not researchers."
"We need a closer look," Yeh Yao decided. "Nasser, can you tunnel us to the base's edge?"
Nasser nodded, summoning the Earth Shatterer. With a light tap, he opened an underground passage toward the base. The three crept through until near the perimeter, where Nasser created a small peephole for observation.
From this angle, they saw scientists operating complex machinery, screens displaying geological data, and a central control room—likely the command hub.
"They're tampering with the fault line," Michelle realized, watching the screens. "Injecting high-pressure fluids to accelerate tectonic movement. A classic method to induce quakes."
"We have to stop them," Yeh Yao said firmly. "But we need proof linking them to the Alliance and their motives."
"The control room likely has what we need," Nasser suggested. "But how do we get in undetected?"
Just then, Michelle spotted a familiar logo—Evolution Tech's emblem on some equipment and documents.
"Look at that logo," she pointed. "It matches the Hong Kong company. This confirms the connection."
"We need to alert Alicia," Yeh Yao said, pulling out a satellite phone. "And plan how to stop this operation."
He called the Hong Kong team, sharing their discovery. Alicia reported that Lin Meiling had found a former Evolution Tech employee willing to talk.
"He says the company is secretly conducting gene experiments," Alicia relayed. "Attempting to create 'superhumans' who can survive extreme environments. The real leader is a young scientist named Alexander."
"Alexander?" Yeh Yao repeated, stunned. "That can't be a coincidence. It must be a younger version of Dr. Morris."
"But we changed that future," Michelle said, confused. "Dr. Morris shouldn't exist in this timeline."
"Unless... time is more complex than we thought," Yeh Yao mused. "Some events or figures might be fixed points, existing regardless of timeline changes."
"Regardless, we now know our enemy," Nasser said. "We need to stop their plans."
They devised a plan: Yeh Yao would use the Phoenix Blade to create a brief portal into the control room, allowing them to gather evidence and sabotage the equipment.
"Ready?" Yeh Yao asked, summoning the Phoenix Blade.
Michelle and Nasser nodded, calling forth the Dragon's Wrath and Earth Shatterer.
Focusing, Yeh Yao visualized the control room and slashed the blade through the air, tearing open a spatial rift.
"Quick," he urged. "It won't last long."
The three leapt through, materializing inside the control room, startling the scientists inside.
"Don't move!" Nasser barked, raising the Earth Shatterer. "We don't want to hurt anyone, but this experiment stops now."
Panic erupted as some scrambled to flee while others reached for alarms. Michelle swiftly summoned a water barrier with the Dragon's Wrath, blocking access to controls.
"We know what you're doing," Yeh Yao said sternly. "You're trying to trigger a quake that'll kill thousands."
"You don't understand," an older scientist protested shakily. "This is for humanity's greater good—for evolution."
"By murdering innocents?" Michelle challenged. "That's not evolution—it's genocide."
"Necessary sacrifices," the scientist insisted. "Only through extreme pressure can humanity advance. This is Dr. Alexander's vision."
"Where is Dr. Alexander?" Yeh Yao demanded. "Is he behind all this?"
"He is our leader, our prophet," the scientist said, eyes fanatical. "He has seen humanity's future and knows what must be done."
"Where is he?" Yeh Yao pressed.
"You'll never find him," the scientist smirked. "He's preparing for the new epoch."
Alarms suddenly blared, red lights flashing.
"We're out of time," Nasser warned. "Security's coming."
"Michelle, download all data," Yeh Yao ordered. "Nasser, disable the drilling equipment."
Michelle quickly connected her device to the main console, copying files, while Nasser used the Earth Shatterer to wreck the control systems linked to the drills.
"Done," Michelle said, disconnecting. "Got everything—their plans, Alliance details."
"Equipment's fried," Nasser reported. "Won't be fixed anytime soon."
"Then we leave," Yeh Yao said, reopening a portal. "We've got what we need—now to warn authorities and evacuate danger zones."
They dashed through the portal, reappearing safely at the valley's edge. Behind them, the base was in chaos, alarms wailing.
"We need to alert officials immediately," Yeh Yao said, grabbing the satellite phone. "About both the quake risk and this facility."
"But we also need to track Dr. Alexander," Michelle stressed. "He's the mastermind. Finding him could stop everything."
"The downloaded data may have clues," Nasser suggested. "We should analyze it fast."
They raced back to the SUV and returned to the monitoring station, simultaneously contacting U.S. and Canadian authorities about the imminent quake threat. Though the drilling had been stopped, the injected fluids might still trigger a quake—just smaller or delayed.
Back at the station, Michelle immediately analyzed the stolen data, searching for leads on Dr. Alexander and the Alliance.
"This is incredible," she gasped as files populated the screen. "According to these, Dr. Alexander is indeed a younger version of Dr. Morris—but he seems to have some memories or knowledge of the future and our existence that he shouldn't."
"How's that possible?" Yeh Yao asked, baffled. "We changed that future. Dr. Morris shouldn't exist here."
"Unless... time is more fluid than we thought," Michelle theorized. "Maybe when we altered the future, some consciousness or memories persisted, influencing this timeline's Alexander."
"Regardless, he's now our primary enemy," Nasser stated. "We need to find and stop him."
Michelle kept analyzing until she hit a critical detail: "These files say Dr. Alexander is at a facility called 'The Ark' in Antarctica. It's the Alliance's headquarters and their planned sanctuary to ride out the Cataclysm."
"Antarctica," Yeh Yao repeated. "Explains why Nasser's contacts saw unusual activity there."
"We have to go," Nasser declared. "But first, ensure things here are under control and regroup with the Hong Kong team."
They contacted Alicia, Eunice, and Kristina, sharing their findings about Dr. Alexander and The Ark. The Hong Kong team had news too—their informant revealed Evolution Tech was secretly shipping equipment and personnel to Antarctica for a "final phase."
"Everything points to Antarctica," Yeh Yao concluded. "We need to get there fast, stop Dr. Alexander."
"But disaster prep must continue," Michelle reminded. "Especially here with the quake risk."
After discussion, they split again: Yeh Yao, Alicia, and Kristina would head to Antarctica to confront Dr. Alexander, while Michelle, Eunice, and Nasser stayed in Alaska to assist with quake response.
"We'll join you ASAP," Michelle promised. "Once things stabilize here."
"Be careful," Yeh Yao urged. "Dr. Alexander and the Alliance are more dangerous than we realized."
The two teams mobilized, each facing separate but equally critical missions. Yeh Yao's group boarded a Watchers-chartered jet to Antarctica, while Michelle's team remained in Alaska, working with officials to mitigate disaster.
It was a race against time—a battle not just against nature's fury but against humans seeking to unleash it. The six knew their greatest challenges lay ahead, but they were determined to fight on, protecting the world and its people.