Volume 2, Chapter 13: Breaking the Chains

As Aurora Dynamics steadied its footing in the aftermath of Tatsumaki's sabotage, a new challenge loomed on the horizon. While Haruto and his team celebrated the return of production, Tatsumaki prepared a more aggressive move—one designed to crush Aurora's spirit for good.

The streets of Kyoto were quiet under the pale moonlight, but within Aurora Dynamics' workshop, the team worked late. Kaoru sat cross-legged on the floor, tinkering with a prototype housing unit for the Aether-2 crystals. Mina reviewed their firewall systems, ensuring they were protected from further cyberattacks.

"Haruto," Kaoru said, not looking up, "I've been thinking. Tatsumaki's getting more desperate. They're not just trying to stop us—they're scared of us."

Haruto nodded. "That fear makes them dangerous. They won't stop until they've dismantled everything we've built."

Reiko walked in, holding a tray of tea. "Then we don't let them. We've survived their threats so far. We can keep going."

Haruto took a cup, the warm ceramic grounding him. "True. But we need to do more than survive. We need to strike back—legally and strategically. It's time we exposed them on a larger scale."

The opportunity came sooner than expected. The next day, Haruto received a tip from Kenta Shirogane of SolarHaven.

"I have information on Tatsumaki's next move," Kenta said over a secure video call. "They're pressuring local governments to block your business licenses and shut down your operations. But I've also uncovered proof of their bribery and corruption."

Haruto's eyes narrowed. "How did you get this?"

Kenta smiled faintly. "Let's just say I have friends in the right places. This could be the leverage you need to turn public opinion even further against them."

Aiko, who had been listening in, leaned closer. "If we go public with this, it'll be war. Are we ready for that?"

Haruto's resolve hardened. "We've been fighting this war since the day we started Aurora Dynamics. It's time to show Tatsumaki they can't bully their way to the top anymore."

The team gathered in the workshop that evening, poring over the documents Kenta had sent. They outlined a plan to release the evidence strategically, ensuring maximum impact while protecting themselves from backlash.

"We'll leak the documents to independent journalists first," Aiko said. "They'll dig deeper and verify everything. Once it's out, Tatsumaki won't be able to deny it."

Reiko nodded. "And we'll use the publicity to highlight our work with the Aether-2. Show the world there's an alternative to Tatsumaki's monopoly."

Kaoru grinned. "It's about time the underdogs had their day."

A week later, the exposé hit the headlines. Major news outlets published stories detailing Tatsumaki's corruption, from bribing officials to sabotaging competitors. Social media erupted in outrage, with hashtags like #DownWithTatsumaki and #SupportAurora trending worldwide.

Within hours, Tatsumaki's stock plummeted, and calls for investigations flooded government offices.

In Aurora Dynamics' workshop, the team watched the fallout unfold.

"We did it," Mina whispered, her voice tinged with disbelief.

Haruto nodded, though his expression remained cautious. "This is a victory, but it's not the end. Tatsumaki won't go down without a fight. We need to be ready for their next move."

As the team celebrated, a black car pulled up outside the workshop. A sharply dressed man stepped out and knocked on the door.

Haruto answered, his guard immediately up.

"Haruto Sakamoto?" the man asked.

"Yes," Haruto replied warily.

The man handed him a business card. "My name is Shun Takahashi. I represent a group of investors who are very interested in your work. But I must warn you—your recent actions have painted a target on your back. If you want to survive in this industry, you'll need powerful allies."

Haruto studied the card, then met Shun's gaze. "We've made it this far without bowing to anyone. Why should we change now?"

Shun smiled, though it didn't reach his eyes. "Because the game you're playing is bigger than you realize. Tatsumaki isn't your only enemy. Think about it."

He turned and walked away, leaving Haruto with a sense of unease.

---