opportunity & inferior ghostnet

Makhoa pondered the next steps in his vigilante journey as he delved into his books, a guise for his true endeavors. Each day, he immersed himself in the dual life of a student and a burgeoning crime-fighter. The creation of his mini Ghostnet, aptly named 'Icon,' marked a significant milestone.

With the smartwatch acting as a conduit to 'Icon,' Makhoa could summon news updates at will. However, the tranquility of this world irked him. The absence of the chaos and challenges he thrived upon in his previous life left a void. He missed the adrenaline-fueled nights where he wore the mantle of the Ghostmaker, a vigilante with exceptional martial arts skills, a mastery of the blade, and an adept hacker.

As he engaged with 'Icon' in search of excitement, he couldn't help but feel the emptiness in this seemingly peaceful world. The monotony weighed on him, a stark contrast to the dynamic life he led before. In the quietude, Makhoa heard a knock on his door, and his mother's voice followed.

(Lysandra): "Hey, my baby boy, can I come in?"

The term 'baby boy' struck an odd chord with Makhoa, reminding him of the contrast between his actions and his age of ten.

(Kid): "Yes, Mom."

Lysandra entered, finding Makhoa seemingly engrossed in his studies, an intentional façade. She initiated a conversation, seeking a glimpse into her son's thoughts.

(Lysandra): "Hey, my boy, how are you doing?"

(Kid): "I'm good, Mom. How's Dad?"

(Lysandra): "Oh, your father's great. And how are your studies going?"

(Kid): "It's actually going great, Mom. Look at this test paper."

Makhoa handed over a school test, showcasing his proficiency in mathematics. Lysandra, unaware of any formal schooling, expressed genuine delight.

(Lysandra): "Oh, my baby boy, you passed the test with such an awesome grade, all with the help of the AI."

Her joy was palpable as she hugged him, proud of his achievement. For Lysandra, it was a moment of relief, realizing that her son's AI was proving to be an effective tool for his education.

(Lysandra): "So, tell me, how does this AI work?"

Makhoa ushered her to his chair, revealing 'Icon' and explaining its functionality. The AI served not only as a tutor but also as a defender, acting normal if others used the computer in Makhoa's absence.

(Lysandra): "Wow, it can help you with so much studying. It won't be boring, and it can even create animations for any book. Just wow."

Lysandra marveled at the capabilities of 'Icon,' relieved that her son was excelling in his studies with the help of this advanced technology.

The peace and contentment in Makhoa's life, however, stirred an unsettling feeling within him. He longed for the thrill of his past, the life of a playboy businessman in the daylight and a formidable vigilante, the Ghostmaker, when darkness fell. Lysandra, unaware of this internal struggle, departed with a contented heart, thinking her son's studies were progressing smoothly.

As she left, Makhoa couldn't shake off the sadness of not revealing the true extent of his technological prowess. Nevertheless, he forged ahead, maintaining the ruse of diligent studies.

(Lysandra): "Oh, look at the time. It's 7:15. I have to go cook for the night now."

(Kid): "But, Mom, you have maids. Let them do it."

(Lysandra): "Yes, but if I let them, the taste won't be the same as mine."

Makhoa accepted her reasoning, knowing that the personal touch in her cooking made all the difference. Lysandra bid him farewell, reminding him of upcoming exams.

(Kid): "Mom, what if I get an A+ in the exam?"

Lysandra, intrigued, turned back to face her son.

(Lysandra): "If you do, I'll give you whatever gift you want."

(Kid): "Then I want a multiple PC setup."

(Lysandra): "What? Why? You already have a PC."

(Kid): "I made a friend at school who wants to play games with me—Quantum Combat Arena and SuperStrike Royale."

Lysandra, pleased that her son was socializing, agreed to the request with a smile. She left, and Makhoa, now armed with a goal, resumed his activities with a renewed purpose. As he worked on his studies and continued his clandestine work on Ghostnet, the promise of an enticing reward fueled his determination.