Chapter 1

The ambient glow highlighted the determination in his gaze as his sturdy jaw tightened.

Jerson's smug expression persisted as he effortlessly surpassed the average typing speed, the rhythmic clicks of his keyboard shattering the silence in the room. His mouse movements were equally precise, showcasing his adept control.

With a satisfied grin, Jerson leaned back in his chair, gazing proudly at the screen as if he'd crafted a masterpiece. A deliberate tap on the space button and a decisive press of enter initiated the playback of an online video, filling the room with visual and auditory stimulation.

The online tape, often mistaken by users as a standard murder documentary, is, according to experts, an unscripted recording of a real crime. The circumstantial evidence suggests the authenticity of the footage, depicting gruesome scenes with bloody bodies and victims strangled with cords.

Jerson, undeterred by the disturbing content, resumed control of the mouse, clicking the next button to continue watching the footage. His intention to share and exploit the content on the internet became increasingly apparent.

The chilling footage unfolds the first victim's demise—a crude slipknot of an extension cord around the neck, an overturned office chair below, and a poignant handwritten apology from his wife on the desk. The video lays bare a trove of potential incriminating evidence.

Shock rippled through the viewers as the tape revealed CCTV footage, dispelling the initial perception of a suicide. The revered political figure who was admired for his views, missions, and wisdom, was now seen taking a life with his own hands, leaving viewers in disbelief.

"SOMEONE WAS TRYING TO DEFAME ME."

Surprised by the swift response from the Diplomat, Jerson found it absurd that his target would deny the evidence and claim to be framed, especially after witnessing the incriminating footage.

The absurdity heightened as blind supporters unquestioningly believed the diplomat's denial, overlooking the evidence. Jerson, seizing an opportunity, uploaded a banned article exposing the diplomat's misdeeds. Tragically, the journalists and reporters involved in making those articles met a grim fate. Their retaliation was silenced so ruthlessly by powerful families.

Articles were banned because they contained information that'll wake the citizens from arbitrarily advocating politics. However, people's stupidity had surpassed the highest level. They disregarded these facts and believed claims that lacked testimony or evidence.

Absurdity, indeed.

"Do you think that's enough to seize him down?"

Shit?!

In a swift, calculated move, Jerson retrieved his pistol from the cabinet, orchestrating a dramatic turn of his swivel chair as he faced the door where the man stood. A tense silence hung in the air as Jerson pressed his lips, the muzzle of the pistol now pointed directly at the intruder's head.

"What an actual piece of shit!" he cursed. Jerson's teeth clenched with anger as he glared at the grinning intruder, frustration evident in his expression.

"Relax, Mr. Jerson Luiselli. I only stopped by for an important business," the guy replied playfully.

"Relax, my ass! You almost gave me a heart attack, bastard!"

Jerson took a deep breath before he deliberately brought down his hand and laid his gun on the countertop. He started disassembling the gun before putting it back in the drawer. His furrowed brows and frowning expression softened slightly as he laid eyes on the family photo he had cherished for years, a brief respite amid the tension.

Despite years of solitary living, a deep longing for family lingered within Jerson. The desire for someone who cares about him, especially missing his parents, subtly contradicted his usual apathetic expression.

"I'm sure that they are proud of you," Noah murmured.

Jerson stopped typing for a while and tilted his head. A thought crossed his mind as he wondered, 'Is he talking about my parents?’

Suppressing his frustration, Jerson pressed his lips, bit his tongue, and let out a sigh. The irritation he felt towards Noah was so intense that he couldn't tolerate even a moment alone with him. If given the choice, Jerson would leave without notice, but circumstances demanded he stay.

"You know that we were not on good terms when they disappeared, right?" Jerson asked, still facing the screen of his computer.

"I know."

"You know? And you still dared to…?" Jerson sighed. He stopped himself from talking midway.

"I meant what I said. Your parents were proud of you!"

"Noah, that's enough. Tell me, what is it that you want this time?" Jerson calmly said. He was trying his best not to shout.

Noah, sensing Jerson's irritation in his tone, chuckled triumphantly. His laughter abruptly ceased when met with Jerson's annoyed gaze. He let out a discreet cough. "We have a new mission."

Pressing his lips in contemplation, Jerson weighed the options of using a leave as an excuse or outright declining the mission. Both choices aimed at avoiding Noah. The resolve to quit his job now seemed more real than ever.

Despite not wanting to abandon Noah, Jerson recognized that staying wouldn't lead him any closer to finding his parents. The heaviness of the situation outweighs him to make a decisive move; he had to prioritize his mission and that is to find his parents.

"I know that kind of annoying expression on your face... and no! I need you to be with me," Noah declared.

Jerson frowned. "You said I can quit whenever I wanted, right? Why are you forcing me to do this now?"

"You are most congenial with this type of work, Jerson, and I trust you can do this more than anyone," Noah declared. "Tracing and hacking are your forte, Jerson. All you have to do is sit on that chair and hack all the CCTV scans while I'm catching the target," he explained, which made Jerson's brows puckered. "You're the only one I could trust with this."

Jerson sighed. 'He made it sound like it was a piece of cake. Just how many CCTVs does City B own anyway?'

He frustratedly massaged his temple. Does he have another choice?

The answer is obvious.

Jerson observed his computer screen once more. The video had gone viral, sparking widespread discussion. Those who are roleplaying detectives shared their findings with links and references, while trolls from dummy users garnered attention for their nonsensical logic as they infuriated the netizens. Both groups played pivotal roles in disseminating the video until it became a hot topic.

Only a hot topic.

Aware that the video alone wouldn't be sufficient to tarnish the politician's image, Jerson recognized the influential diplomat's ability to make various plans to repair his public appearance.

Jerson shrugged his thoughts off. He can always find more ways to ruin the mentioned bastard.

"Just how much will you pay me this time?" Jerson asked while tapping again on his computer's keyboard.

"Depends on your performance," Noah retorted. "I might give you my brother as compensation.” He laughed and looked at Jerson who was glaring at him. “You know what people said? Innocent men are the best in bed."

Jerson snorted. "You need to shut up. I'm a man.”

Noah chuckled. "He's a man too. But oh well… Who knows? He might have a change of the heart once he sees you."

Jerson raised his hand, forming a fist with a raised middle finger directed at Noah. Instead of being offended, Noah simply laughed heartily at Jerson's rebellious gesture.

Noah stared at Jerson.

Jerson possesses a well-built physique, with veiny hands reflecting his rigorous training. He also has a sharp jawline, cold eyes, and dark hair complementing his attractive features, including a perfect nose and naturally rosy lips. Despite his allure, not a single soul captivates his interest, and he feels no sexual attraction to any of his numerous admirers.

"Vishnu would be a perfect fit for you tho," Noah muttered silently, but it was still loud enough for Jerson to hear. "I wonder what it's like when two indifferent people get together? Would it look good?" he asked himself curiously.

Jerson shook his head.

"It's time," Noah mumbled as he checked the time on his watch. "I'll get their fucking ass while you have to make sure to report their moves correctly. I want this done smoothly, Jerson."

Jerson bobbed his head as a response.

Noah, witnessing Jerson's apathetic expression, is reminded of his brother. Reflecting on the complexities of life, he wonders if things might have been different for them if circumstances had been less complicated. But there are things that has to be done and needed to happen no matter what the consequences are.

When Noah got out of the apartment, Jerson began clicking the number keys, symbols, and codes.

Jerson's brows knitted in concern as he reviewed the records, revealing an anomaly. While the official data indicated five CCTV cameras on each corner of the streets, his findings suggested that the number of the cctv cameras doubled, hinting at unauthorized installations. Recognizing the potential danger, particularly in the direction Noah was headed, Jerson sensed a looming threat.

Jerson, having formulated these deductions, sighed with weariness before rubbing his eyes. Gritting his teeth, he returned his focus to the computer, which diligently accessed the records of each camera installed in City B. His screen displayed the exploitation of databases in progress.

After the infringement, he saw Noah being surrounded by five people.

Observing the unfolding scenario on his computer, with random strangers tailing Noah, Jerson's realization struck: Noah was in imminent danger.

He got his phone on the table not far from his computer and dialed Noah’s number.

Noah wasn’t answering.

"So troublesome," he whispered.

Jerson started to install a rootkit at the municipality computer in charge of monitoring the CCTV. His lips twitched when he got in easier than anticipated.

‘What's happening with the Municipality's security?'

Jerson called Noah’s number again but to no avail. He began to squirm his restless right foot as he anxiously examined the whole situation through the computer.

Feeling anxious and restless, Jerson decided to get out of his apartment to help Noah who was currently on the verge of being caught. He connected his IPad to his laptop before walking out of the room. After Jerson accessed the recorded data, he transferred all the information into his IPad without leaving any trace. He brought the key to his Ducati.

Even before he could start the engine, a loud bang disturbed the city and the crowd began to panic.