Chapter 10 – The President's Speech
The next morning, every screen in the country froze on one broadcast.
The President of the United States stood at a podium draped in blue and gold. She looked strong — early fifties, sharp features, voice that could cut through glass. But her eyes were tired.
"Citizens of Earth," she began, "today marks one month since the disappearance of our planet's greatest protector — Ultra Buff."
Cameras flashed. Soldiers stood like statues behind her.
"She has saved this world countless times. Yet she was more than a hero. She was… my daughter."
The crowd gasped. The world gasped.
Tim nearly dropped his spoonful of cereal. "Wait—what?"
The President continued, voice cracking just once. "Her name is Amara Buffington. To you, she was Ultra Buff. To me, she was family. She sacrificed more than anyone will ever know. And I ask — no, I beg — the world to remain calm and united until her return."
Reporters shouted questions, chaos breaking out across every feed.
But Tim only heard one thing: Her mother believes she's still alive.
The System pulsed quietly.
Data correlation: Hero Amara Buffington. Status: Missing in alternate probability field.
Recovery potential: 12%.
Tim whispered, "Then maybe… I can raise that percentage