The time machine trial had finally begun. Scientists, technicians, and personnel from various divisions at Fortex Headquarters gathered in the test chamber—a vast hall with transparent walls separating the observation area from the time machine apparatus. Tension hung thick in the air, not just among members of the Time Travel Division but throughout the entire facility. This was the moment they had awaited for years—historic seconds that promised a profound shift in humanity's understanding of time.
Furqon and Zafran stood at the forefront of their team, monitoring a holographic display filled with data streams and machine parameters. From the technical podium, Dr. Irzi led the operation, issuing instructions in a voice that was firm yet composed. Meanwhile, Dr. Jarir watched from the observation room alongside members of the Liaison Council. Every eye was fixed on the small, cube-shaped device at the center of the test chamber—the first prototype of the time machine.
"All systems are stable," one of the technicians reported, their voice echoing through the quiet room. "Synchronization complete. The machine is ready for activation."
Dr. Irzi gave a nod. "Initiate Phase One. Engage the temporal wave."
Furqon pressed the primary activation button on the control panel, triggering the startup sequence. The small cube began to glow, emitting rhythmic pulses of blue light—almost as if it were breathing. But mere seconds after activation, a sharp alarm blared. The holographic display lit up in red, warning of a critical system disruption.
"Temporal wave instability!" a technician shouted. "We're losing control of the energy core!"
"What's happening?" Zafran demanded, his tone urgent and sharp.
Dr. Irzi immediately took command. "Shut it down! Now!"
"Emergency protocol activated," Furqon responded, his fingers moving swiftly over the control panel. But just as the shutdown command was issued, a small explosion erupted from the time machine. The blue light dimmed, and silence returned—broken only by relieved breaths and the steady beep of instruments stabilizing.
"Status report," Dr. Irzi ordered.
One technician, clearly shaken, responded,"No major damage, but the energy core overheated and destabilized the temporal wave. We'll need time to repair the issue."
Dr. Jarir stepped onto the podium, his expression composed despite the setback."Today's trial is officially postponed. We cannot risk moving forward without full operational safety."
Furqon and Zafran exchanged a glance. They knew how crucial this test was—for their team and for all of Fortex Intelligence. But they also understood the necessity of the decision.
Outside the test chamber, the charged atmosphere began to settle into subdued conversations. Members of other divisions gradually left the facility, while the technical team remained behind to assess the collected data.
"At least no one got hurt," Zafran said, trying to offer some reassurance.
Furqon gave a slow nod. "But it means we'll have to start all over again."
Dr. Irzi approached them, digital clipboard in hand."I know this is disappointing, but we've gathered critical data from this trial. Adjustments will be made, and we'll try again soon. Don't lose heart."
Furqon and Zafran managed faint smiles, though frustration lingered. They knew this path wouldn't be easy—but they also knew that every failure brought them one step closer to success.
As time passed, the base returned to its usual rhythm. The Time Travel Division dove into system repairs, while Furqon and Zafran remained steadfast—waiting for the next opportunity to prove that they could conquer the dimensions of time.