Nathan Caldwell sat at the head of the long conference table as NSA Director Greg Mathis and CIA Director Linda Harrington entered the room. Both officials wore expressions of controlled urgency, their movents brisk and purposeful. Behind them, a team of aides and security personnel quietly took their places.
"Thank you for eting with us," Mathis said, offering a firm handshake.
"Of course," Caldwell replied. "We understand the situation. Let's get straight to it. You're concerned about the new cybersecurity protocols we've implented."
"Concerned is putting it lightly," Harrington said, settling into her chair. "Your new system has effectively cut off vital intelligence streams that we've relied on for years. We need to understand how it works and—more importantly—how we can access it."
Caldwell leaned forward, maintaining a calm but firm posture. "I appreciate your candor, Director. However, I need to clarify sothing upfront: Facebook didn't develop this system in-house. It was created by a third-party company."
Mathis raised an eyebrow. "A third-party company? Which contractor?"
"It's not one of the usual defense contractors," Caldwell replied. "The system was developed by a startup called Sentinel Systems. They're based in the Philippines."
The room fell silent for a mont as both directors processed the information.
"Wait," Harrington said, narrowing her eyes. "You're telling that the most advanced cybersecurity system we've ever encountered wasn't developed by a U.S. firm but by a startup from the Philippines?"
"That's correct," Caldwell confird. "Sentinel Systems is led by a young engineer nad Matthew Borja. We ca across them during an R&D initiative. After extensive testing, we signed a contract with them to provide the cybersecurity solution you're now seeing."
Mathis shook his head in disbelief. "A small company in the Philippines? And they managed to create sothing this sophisticated? How did you acquire the system?"
"We're on a subscription model," Caldwell explained. "We pay $2.5 million per month for ongoing support, updates, and enhancents."
"Subscription?" Harrington repeated, leaning back. "So, they're profit-driven."
Caldwell nodded. "Exactly. They're a private company, and like any business, they're motivated by growth and revenue. That said, they've been very professional and protective of their intellectual property. We don't have direct access to their source code or algorithms—only the operational components we contracted."
Mathis exchanged a glance with Harrington. "This changes things," he said quietly. Turning back to Caldwell, he continued, "We need contact information for Sentinel Systems and this Borja. We intend to reach out to them."
Caldwell hesitated for a mont. "I'll inform them of your interest, but I need to stress that they have a strict policy regarding proprietary information. You'll need to approach this delicately if you want their cooperation."
"We understand," Harrington said. "But national security is at stake. We're authorized by the President himself to pursue this matter. Make sure Borja understands that."
"I'll notify him imdiately," Caldwell said. "But keep in mind—Sentinel Systems is a small but independent entity. They might not be eager to cooperate with intelligence agencies."
Mathis smirked slightly. "Everyone has their price. Let's see how Mr. Borja handles a direct conversation."
Matthew Borja's phone buzzed on his desk, displaying an international number he didn't recognize. Frowning, he hesitated before answering.
"Hello, this is Matthew Borja."
"Mr. Borja, this is Greg Mathis, Director of the National Security Agency," ca the deep, authoritative voice on the other end. "I'm joined by Linda Harrington, Director of the CIA. We need to discuss your cybersecurity system."
Matthew blinked, montarily stunned. He exchanged a glance with Saimon and Leo, who were watching him with curiosity.
"Uh, Directors," Matthew finally said, clearing his throat. "This is… unexpected. How can I help you?"
"Mr. Borja, we're contacting you under direct authorization from the President of the United States," Harrington said. "Your system has significantly impacted our national security operations. We'd like to arrange a eting to discuss its capabilities and potential applications for U.S. defense."
Matthew leaned back in his chair, choosing his words carefully. "I appreciate the interest, but I'll need more details before agreeing to anything. Our contract with Facebook includes strict confidentiality and intellectual property protections."
"We understand your position," Mathis said, his tone asured but firm. "However, we believe that your technology could play a critical role in safeguarding our nation from foreign threats. We're not asking you to break any agreents with Facebook. We're proposing a potential partnership on cyber defense."
Matthew hesitated. "I'll need to consult with my legal team before proceeding. Sentinel Systems is a private entity, and we have obligations to our existing clients."
"Of course," Harrington replied. "Take the ti you need. But understand this—your technology has caught the attention of so very dangerous actors around the world. China and Russia won't hesitate to pursue it by any ans necessary. Working with us could provide you with both protection and significant opportunities for growth."
Matthew's mind raced. The stakes had just escalated far beyond what he had anticipated. "I'll consider your proposal and get back to you soon."
"Good," Mathis said. "We'll be expecting your response. In the anti, stay vigilant, Mr. Borja. You've beco a valuable player in a very complex ga."
The call ended, leaving Matthew in a tense silence. Saimon and Leo stared at him expectantly.
"That didn't sound like a friendly chat," Saimon said.
"No," Matthew agreed, exhaling slowly. "They want access to our system for national defense. And they're not the only ones who might co knocking."
Leo crossed his arms. "So, what now?"
"Now," Matthew said, "we lawyer up. This just beca a high-stakes ga, and we're going to play it on our terms."
The three exchanged determined glances. Sentinel Systems was no longer just a startup—it was now at the center of an international cyber defense race.
"Let's call our lawyer and schedule a strategy eting," Matthew said, already scrolling through his contacts.
"Don't worry, they are just one phone call away. I wonder how they would react if they were to find out our technology piqued the interest of the most powerful agency in the United States," Saimon grinned.
"They'll expect a premium pay if that were to happen. But it could also be a win-win for them since they will have an opportunity to discuss with those agencies, it will be an honor."
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