That morning, a heavy atmosphere hung over the time machine facility. The failure of the first time machine trial had left a bitter taste for everyone involved—especially Furqon and Zafran. They sat in the briefing room with Dr. Irzi and Dr. Jarir, waiting for further news from the Fortex Intelligence Liaison Council. A major decision was about to be made—and they knew it might bring significant changes to their roles.
Dr. Irzi entered the room, his expression serious but composed. Behind him, Dr. Jarir held a holographic tablet carrying an official message from Fortex headquarters.
"We've just received orders from the Liaison Council," Dr. Irzi began. "After reviewing the results of yesterday's trial, they've decided that you—Furqon and Zafran—will be temporarily recalled to Fortex Headquarters."
Furqon raised his eyebrows, surprised. "Recalled? But our work here isn't finished."
Dr. Jarir interjected gently, his voice full of understanding."We know how dedicated you are to this project. But the Council believes your presence is needed more urgently at HQ—for now. The time machine facility will remain operational, and the technical team will focus on repairing the system."
Zafran, usually the more resolute one, looked confused. "Does this mean they've lost faith in us?"
"Not at all," Dr. Irzi replied quickly. "It's a matter of strategy. By bringing you back to headquarters, the Council intends to keep the Time Travel Division under direct Fortex oversight. They also believe your time there can be used to refine strategic planning while repairs are underway."
Furqon let out a long sigh. He understood the logic behind the decision, but he couldn't shake the sense of disappointment. This project was a core part of his life, and leaving it—even temporarily—felt like defeat.
"When do we leave?" Zafran asked at last.
"This afternoon," said Dr. Jarir. "A transport ship has already been arranged to take you back to Fortex HQ."
Hours later, Furqon and Zafran stood in the hangar of the time machine facility, preparing for departure. The technical team and several other division members came to see them off. Though the mood was formal, there was an unspoken sense of loss, especially from those who had worked closely with the two.
Dr. Irzi approached them before boarding."I know this is difficult, but I believe this is only a temporary step. We all want this project to succeed, and you both remain an essential part of it."
Furqon nodded, his smile faint. "We'll be back soon. Make sure everything is ready when that time comes."
"You have our word," Dr. Irzi replied, shaking their hands.
As the ship lifted off, Furqon looked out the window, watching the time machine facility slowly fade from view. It was painful to leave, but he knew their journey with Fortex Intelligence was far from over.
Zafran, seated beside him, spoke in a quiet voice."We're not really leaving this behind. We're just stepping back—for a bigger leap."
Furqon offered a small smile. "You're right. This isn't over."
Fortex Headquarters awaited them, with new challenges no less complex. Meanwhile, the time machine facility continued operating without them—like a massive engine that never stopped. Furqon and Zafran knew that this journey, though momentarily paused, was far from finished. They were determined to return with a better plan—and to make sure that their first failure would be nothing more than the beginning of a much greater success.