Two weeks after the first serum breakthrough, Z-Tech Labs had already made headlines across the country. News outlets called them "The Young Scientists Who Beat the Clock." Investors sent endless e-mails; pharmaceutical companies wanted exclusive rights. But one name stood out among them all — VoltCorp Industries.The message arrived in a sleek envelope sealed with silver wax. Inside was an invitation printed on carbon fiber:
To the founders of Z-Tech Labs,
Your innovations have drawn our admiration. VoltCorp believes partnership can accelerate your work. Join us in Perth for a private proposal.
Allen Christopher (Sugar) turned the card over in his hands.
"They move fast," he said.
Steve Joseph (Salt) frowned. "Too fast. We haven't even published data yet."
Stacy Rivera leaned closer. "Maybe they have the tools we need. Imagine scaling this serum worldwide."
Lily Evans crossed her arms. "Or imagine them owning it."
Still, curiosity won. The next day the team boarded a flight arranged by VoltCorp. At the corporate tower, everything gleamed — glass floors, automated reception, a panoramic view of the ocean. They were greeted by Mr. Daren Holt, VoltCorp's operations head, and a tall, calm figure in a charcoal suit — Professor Volt himself.
"Brilliant work, all of you," Volt said smoothly. "Z-Tech represents the next generation of science. We can fund your lab, expand your reach, and put your serum in every hospital on Earth."
He placed a slim data tablet on the table. The screen showed numbers that made even Allen's breath catch — funding in the millions, global facilities, patent rights under shared ownership. "Shared?" Lily asked.
"Fifty-fifty," Holt replied. "You retain credit. We handle logistics and safety."
Steve's jaw tightened.
"And what happens if we say no?"
Volt smiled faintly.
"Then your work stays small, limited… forgotten."
A silence heavier than steel filled the room. Stacy looked at Steve, torn between ambition and instinct. Allen closed the tablet slowly.
"We'll think about it."
Volt's voice followed them as they left.
"Do think carefully, gentlemen. The world rewards those who cooperate."
Outside the VoltCorp tower, the wind howled off the sea. Steve's hands were clenched.
"We're not selling our soul for funding," he said.
Allen nodded. "Then we'll grow Z-Tech our way — even if the world tries to buy it."
Above them, unseen, Volt watched through tinted glass, already plotting his next move.