Chapter 120

The evening sun dipped low over Lakeside City, casting golden hues over the horizon as Alex wrapped up his Flowstrike training. His movements had become more precise, more powerful, and each practiced strike left him with an exhilarating sense of control and strength. Sweat dotted his forehead, glistening in the fading light. He paused, catching his breath, feeling the energy of his advanced mental strength. It was remarkable. Ever since achieving Level 4, his body and mind had grown in ways he couldn't fully understand—yet.

As he headed back to his study, Alex's thoughts began to race. What if his new strength had roots deeper than he'd assumed? Perhaps something hidden within his very genes—an untapped code within himself—could be the source of his growing power. He felt a shiver of excitement at the thought. Maybe if he could analyze his genetic makeup, he could uncover the secrets behind his abilities.

Back in his dimly lit study, he called out to Eva, his AI assistant. "Eva," he said, pacing the room, "I need to talk with you about something important."

Eva's voice responded instantly, smooth and professional. "Yes, Alex. What would you like to discuss?"

"I've been thinking... What if there's something in my genes that's connected to my new abilities? I want to study my genetic makeup, see if there's anything unusual," he explained, feeling a surge of anticipation. "But I'll need advanced genetic testing equipment to do it."

Eva paused as if processing his request. "That's a fascinating hypothesis, Alex. However, setting up a laboratory for genetic analysis would require significant resources."

"I know," he said, nodding. "But I'm willing to make that investment. The challenge is doing it discreetly. I can't afford to draw attention."

"Understood," Eva replied. "A suitable solution would involve locating a space that's both isolated and secure. Perhaps an abandoned warehouse or unused commercial property here in Lakeside City would fit the purpose. We could refurbish it into a lab."

Alex considered this and nodded slowly. "That makes sense. If we keep it inconspicuous, it won't raise suspicions. I want everything to look as ordinary as possible from the outside."

"There's also the matter of acquiring equipment," Eva continued. "High-end genetic analysis tools aren't easy to come by without attracting attention, but we could source the equipment through anonymous channels or even second-hand markets."

"Good point. I'd rather avoid official channels as much as possible," Alex replied thoughtfully. "We'll need everything—from sequencing machines to advanced microscopes. And we need it all to appear as if it's just an ordinary research lab."

Eva's voice was calm and steady as she responded, "I can begin the search for available properties and reliable suppliers immediately. Additionally, if we frame the laboratory's purpose around environmental or agricultural research, it would help to maintain a low profile."

"Perfect," Alex said, feeling excitement surge through him. "And once we're set up, we can explore my genetic structure without anyone the wiser."

He felt as if he were on the verge of a breakthrough, poised to unlock the hidden potential within himself. With Eva's assistance, he could venture into the unknown, determined to uncover whatever secrets lay dormant in his DNA.