The Secret Behind Glass Walls

Chapter 16

After David and Gary left to pick up Cass and Will, Rob spoke with Julie and Andy “Have a seat.” He said kindly. Julie looked around but could not find any chairs, she looked over at Andy strangely. He only smiled and put his fingers to his lips indicating for her not to ask.

He turned his head and looked down at the ground, Julie followed his gaze and to her awe, the chairs was pushed from the floor. She smiled as she took a seat and caught a glimpse of Rob looking at her. She turned away embarrassingly “Sorry, I’m just awestruck at everything here.”

Rob laughed with his head shaking “Don’t be sorry. This is the Unit, although we are not government owned, we do have great devices, probably better than the FBI.” He turned to Andy “I want to show you something.”

Andy nodded “How about now?”

“Okay, Julie why don’t you come along too?” he got up and straightened his white suit as he placed his hands clasped behind him and led them down a hallway. Halfway down there, he stopped and turned to the wall to the left “Open.” He commanded. The once plain metal wall was now sucked into the back and appeared a whole special room. It was not white like the Unit nor was it dark like that very same hallway. This was bright with hundreds of different colors flying around a white room. Again Julie was at awe, Andy smiled remembering why he found her so adorable.

Rob turned and waved Andy over. His face grew solemn as he saw a weapon in a display box. As he came closer he recognized it “Is this…”

The Head nodded with a proud smile “Yes. This is the weapon we have been working on for the past five years. It’s finally done.” He pressed a button at the side of the tube that held up the display as it opened up allowing Rob to take it out.

“What is the name?” Andy asked. He’s never seen anything like it.

“We call it, the Head Stealer. It was made for only one purpose, like it’s name. At one whip it will take away any human, machine or animal’s head of it’s body within seconds. It’s a deadly weapon and I will only allow one person to use it.” He held it up and let go of the edges as it fell in a long metal rope. The texture was smooth with tiny bumps when he smoothed his hands over it. Rob smiled “Those bumps you feel can be deceiving. Take a look.” Rob moved away from Andy giving himself room to show him. He rolled it up around his elbow as his hands covered the metal whip. He quickly whipped it against the ground causing the tiny bumps to appear even sharper and longer. It looked like spiked strip. “Each needle contains 1 ounce of a tranquilizer type of potion that works on humans as well as machines when it attacks their wires. You can release it by holding down this button.” He showed Andy at the handle which gripped around the hand like a mold.

Andy took a hold of the handle “What makes you think I will be able to learn all of it’s uses? There are probably hundreds….” He was reluctant for once in his life.

Rob smiled “There are exactly 102 uses, most of which you don’t need to learn. What you need to know is how to use it when you attack your enemy.”

He couldn’t get over how well the handle fit his hand, it was almost like it was especially designed for him. Julie stood at the side with her arms crossed. Andy turned to her questioningly “What do you think?”

She smiled, her face thoughtfully as she approached the sprawled weapon carefully “It’s so crazy, it might just work. Why don’t you give it a try and see how well you pick it up. If it’s hard to control, at least the Unit will know then to improve it. Can we mass produce this?” she asked Rob.

He shook his head “I’ve thought about it, but my main concern is that our spies will take it for personal use. It is a deadly weapon and you will die if the spikes catch onto your skin. I would not trust half of the spies to carry it on with great respect and carefulness. I only see Andy using it.”

Julie looked at him with proud eyes “If the Unit has great expectations for you, why don’t you give it a try?” she urged.

Andy had never been nervous in his life, but to take on a such a great honor. He knew it would be dumb to pass it up. He was glad Julie was there to cheer him on “Okay. When do I start training?”

Rob laughed heartily “Great! You will start training immediately with James Chung, the creator of this weapon.”

Andy and Julie exchanged glances “James?” they asked in unison.

The Head nodded “You are probably surprised why James Chung would create something that could destroy his own monster machine creations.”

Andy nodded “I could only guess the reason.”

Rob raised his eyebrows in curiosity “I want to hear it.”

The young spy crossed his arms as he paced the weaponry room “The monsters or PX11 is a magnificent killing machine. But where do you go after you have conquered your biggest accomplishment? You create something else that can top the last creation. In this case a weapon that can prove you still have what it takes to create something better.”

Rob clapped his hands while shaking his head “That is why you are my top spy. Not only do you think of a spy’s point of view, you think of the enemy’s point of view.”

Julie tilted her head thoughtfully “What I don’t understand is why he would be helping us.”

“I do not work for Hung Fung.” The group turned and found James Chung standing by the doorway “Who ever offers me an opportunity to create something bigger and better, I will go to them. I have no contracts with anyone.” The man looked confident and his eyes showed greed and power.

Andy brought out his hand “I believe we have not gotten the chance to meet, I’m Andy.”

James was polite as he shook his hand “Ah…Agent Chu. We’ve met but standing on difference sides. I’m glad to be on your side this time.”

Andy smirked “You are fearful of your own design?”

James laughed “Fear? If I was fearful, I would not switch sides. I don’t believe in loyalty, I go with the wind, wherever it is the strongest you will find me there.” His smile faded “But to be honest, I want to retire after this invention. It has taken years off of my body and soul.”

“How long will this training last?” Andy asked.

“3 months. I will spend 3 hours with you everyday.” James instructed.

“Why don’t you do longer training hours so then the training will be done so we can finish our project?” Julie asked in curiosity.

James snickered “Don’t underestimate the power of this weapon. It may be small and simple but it’s powers will take your energy if you hold onto it too much.” He flicked his eyebrow at Andy “Try letting go of it.”

Andy handed it over to Rob. The minute he did that, his arm weakened like it was broken. His eyes widened “How…”

James laughed “One of the greatest features of this weapon is that it will soak up your inner strength if you are not using it. It will treat you like an intruder stealing something valuable. Only when you learn to use it will it recognize you and allow you to hold onto it longer.”

Julie shook her head fearfully “Only a mad scientist would create a weapon with a mind of it’s own.”

“Or a genius.” Andy commented.

James covered his smile “Now, now, no more compliments please.” He turned to Andy with a more serious expression “We’ll start at 8am tomorrow morning.”

***************

Cass, Will and Leann were in disguises when they approach the monterail train center. They looked around cautiously before entering the station. “It looks clear.” Cass said when she did not spot any FBI agents around. “Come on.” She waved for them to follow her.

The minute the reached the entrance of one of the trains a loud siren rung throughout the station. Lights flashing as a group of uniformed men rushed to them holding up their laser guns ready to shoot. Cass and Will looked at each other in defeat while Leann was a scared little rabbit.

They were surrounded when to their left, the men began to move to side and allowed a person to pass. It was Leo Fung. “Gor?” Leann called.

He turned to her angrily “I’m not your brother, traitor!” he barked. His smirk returned when he looked at Cass and Will “Did you think you would get away with taking someone from Toys Domination? My father has not released her.”

Cass smiled shortly “But he did allow us to save her. I don’t believe he would be happy to know that you came here without his consent.”

Leo only laughed at her attempted threat “That old man doesn’t know right from wrong. That’s why I’ve taken over. If you must know, he is in the hospital resting from a heart attack.”

“Father…” Leann whispered worriedly.

Will leaned into her ear “Don’t believe everything you hear.” She looked up at him strangely as he winked at her with a smile telling her that he knew more than she did.

“Get them.” Leo ordered as half of the men inched closer.

“Anymore great plans?” Cass asked sarcastically. At the minute she said her words a round metal device was thrown in the center of the group.

“Bomb!!” Someone cried causing a diversion between the uniformed men as they closed around Leo to protect him. Suddenly the device erupted with a dark smoke as it quickly spread throughout the station.

Cass felt a hand grabbing her arm as it yanked her towards the train. She could not see through the dark smoke as she fanned her hand in front of her face “Will!!”

“He’s safe, don’t worry.” The familiar voice eased her nerves.

When she felt the train begin to move, the smoke began to disappear and her face quickly brightened as she recognized the figure that saved her “David!” she hugged her friend dearly but she quickly pushed him away “Where’s Will and Leann?”

David smiled “They’re in the train behind us.” He turned in time to see Gary, Will and Leann coming from the car behind them. The clear glass doors opened and allowed them to see each other.

“Clear of agents.” Gary said happily as he united with the other two. “Cass!!” he said loudly as he rushed to her hugging her in a tight bearhug.

“I missed you too…” Cass gasped for breath.

He let go of her with a laugh “It’s been years…” Gary turned to Will “I see you found a new boyfriend. At least break up with me first.” He joked openly.

Cass laughed “I would if we actually dated.” She reached for Will’s hand “This is William but call him Will. And this is Leann.” Cass pointed to the timid girl.

David looked at her with a smile as she turned away shyly “Don’t be afraid, we won’t hurt you.” His voice was soothing.

Leann nodded with a smile “I know.”

Cass looked from Leann to David, it was the first time she saw this outspoken girl who was not hesitant when she was cruel to her but in front of David, she turned into a soft kitten. Cass smiled at Will as they took a seat comfortably “Looks like someone’s got a crush.”

Chapter 17

Andy and Julie were discussing the plans with Rob when Gary popped in “Guess who’s here?” he sang happily.

Julie turned and saw her sister walking in with Will “Ga Jei!” she exclaimed with excitement before pouncing on her sister. They giggled like old friends “I’m so glad you’re okay.”

Will cleared his throat and Julie just ignored him while she chatted on with her sister “I’m glad your back too Will!” he mocked.

Andy laughed as his head shook back and forth “I’m glad you’re safe, Will.”

“Thank you!” Will cried with his hands flapping to his sides.

Andy turned to Rob “This is Will, another FBI turned spy.”

Rob shook Will’s hand “Nice to meet you, Andy’s told me plenty about you. I’m glad you’ve joined our forces.” His eyes wandered to Leann who stood close to David “And this must be Miss Leann Fung?”

Leann nodded with a smile “Yes.”

“You understand that there are no outsiders who are allowed to be in the Unit?” her smile slowly faded as she comprehended what he was trying to say “The penalty is death…”

The group turned to Leann with a worried look “Rob, she is innocent…” Andy began.

Rob turned to the group with a solemn face “You all should know the rules by now, especially you, Andy being the senior spy here.” He paced slowly with authority “There is one thing…” everyone turned to him with hope “There are no rules saying that the family of a spy cannot stay here.”

This time everyone turned to David seeing that there was an obvious connection between the two. Cass smiled at Leann as she spoke up “If you two get married, it would not be breaking the rules. Think of it as acting in a movie? When this war is over, you two can forget about the marriage, that way you won’t be obligated to stay with David.” She gave her fellow spy a little knowing wink.

David only smiled at her “I will respect any decision you have.” He said to Leann.

The outspoken girl, who found herself lost for words “I…I don’t have any comments. If that is what I have to do, then I will…marry you.” She nodded.

Julie clapped her hands “Great! We need some good news…even if it is fake.” She quickly added when Leann began to blush. “This is gonna be so much fun!!” she squealed with excitement. Her sister and Andy grinned at her response.

The wedding was small and cozy, because it was a ‘fake’ marriage, not many were invited. It was taken place at the Unit where Rob was the witness and the person who performed the ceremony. Leann wore a simple white dress while David wore his white suit uniform. They looked like a match made in heaven. The group drank until the late hours. It was not only a celebration of a wedding, it was the last day they would be able to have any fun. The war with the machines was inching closer by each day. They all partied hard knowing that the following days would only bring on more death and destruction.

While everyone drank and talked, Julie snuck away to an area where the night sky was visible; a room that they used for an emergency exit if they were ever under attack. She learned of this room during on of the long talks she had with Andy. She noticed the moon was extra bright that night. Because this room was made of solid steel, it trapped in the cold air from the night. She wrapped her arms around her body. Suddenly she felt a warm coat covering her bare shoulders. “What are you thinking about?” Andy asked as he placed his arm around her.

She smiled as she turned to the night moon “Sometimes I wonder why we were put into this life of suspense and danger. You think if we had normal lives, it would be better?”

Andy let out a sigh “There are too many ‘what ifs’ in this world. You don’t ask why something has to happen, you simply embrace it. If you take it in and accept your destiny, you will realize there is a reason for everything. We are blessed to be the chosen ones to fight this war and possibly save mankind. If we die, I believe it is fate that mankind is to be run by a dictator and his machines.”

Julie pulled herself away from her entrancement of the moon, she turned to Andy “Are you scared?”

He shook his head “No. My only fear is that if we die, I won’t ever see you again.” Andy was honest as can be and it made her heart flutter in fear. She leaned against his chest as his arms came protectively around her waist “We’ll be okay.” He said with much confidence.
*****************

For the next two months, the Unit was at high alert. Everyone was in training for the battle day, which would be the day Andy was finished with his training. The top spies went through beginning courses of training to advanced. Julie preferred to practice on her own. She seldom saw Andy since no one was allowed to be in the same room with him except for James and Rob. Although she was worried since she heard that he was constantly exhausted from the new weapon. He would practice three hours and then fall asleep.

It was James’s suggestion to keep Andy away from everyone especially Julie since he would be easily distracted. Even though Julie understood, she found herself missing him terribly. It seems that everyone else had their own companions. Cass and Will were training together while Gary and David continued their partner training. Leann was allowed to watch since she was now David’s wife.

Julie tend to stay in one of the quietest training rooms. It was dimmed with little light and the weapons they had were hung from the walls. She found herself growing attached to something they called ‘The Bleeder’ which was equivalent to a sword. But this weapon was much sharper as it could cut through stone as well as steel and it was thin as can be. She practiced for hours with The Bleeder and soon perfect this weapon. She knew its uses were great if she would put her effort in it.

One day while she practiced her stances, she heard the door to the practice room screech open. Her back was turned as she flipped back towards the door, The Bleeder swoosh in the air as it came pointing to the intruder. She snapped her head to the shadow and noticed her sword was millimeters from Andy’s neck. She pulled the weapon away as she touched his neck “Andy!”

He smiled as he shook his head “I’m okay.” He touched her hand, which was grazing his neck “Someone’s been practicing overtime. You’re getting quick.”

Julie smiled “Just a little.” She returned the sword in its place. “How did you escape?” she teased.

Andy laughed “Actually, it’s a surprise day off. James and Rob were in a meeting therefore I couldn’t train. So what more would I want to do but to spend it with my beautiful girlfriend?”

“Sweet-talker.” She joked. They walked out from the Unit and caught sight of Will and Cass coming their way. “Looks like I’m the popular one today.”

When they came closer, Julie saw the solemn expressions on their faces “What’s wrong?” Andy asked.

“They’re coming our way.” Cass sighed.

“How? How could they have found us…” Julie turned to Andy “Leann.” She said bluntly. “How could we be so stupid!! I should have known, since I was a victim of Leo’s homing device.”

Andy tapped her on the shoulder “It’s not anyone’s fault, no one thought of it. We were so busy trying to help her.” He turned to his long time partner, Cass “How is she taking it? Assuming that Leann knows.”

Will nodded “She does. She over heard David and Rob talking. She feels awful. It’s been removed but it’s useless since they already found us.”

“How long until they reach us?” Julie was afraid to ask.

“3 hours.” Cass said shortly “We have our lookout crew, the machines are slowing them down. They would have been here by now. How is your training?”

“I’ve gotten about 80% down, but there is still more. This weapon is complicated as it is dangerous.” Andy said. “Have you guys talked to Rob?”

“No, we came to get you guys first.” Will said.

The four walked back to Rob’s office. They found James inside, the two seemed to be involved in their conversation. Rob spotted the group “Come in.” he waved to them. “James and I were just discussing the tactics for diverging them long enough for Andy to finish his training.”

“What do you need us to do?” Cass asked.

Rob stood up and nodded “They are coming from the east. So we should cover the other three quadrants. Will and Cass, you two take the South. David and Gary will take the North and Julie, take the West.”

Andy turned to Rob with a worried expression “There’s no one else that will help Julie?”

Rob smiled warmly “I know you are worried for her. Don’t be distracted from your training. I’ve seen her these past two months, she has improved in every aspect of a spy should learn. I trust she will be able to defend herself. We will have our own army of backup to help them.” He patted Andy on the shoulder “Concentrate on your training for now.” He nodded to James as he got up and led Andy back to the training center. Andy gave Julie a glance as she nodded firmly indicating for him not to worry.

“Should I get Gary and David?” Cass offered.

Rob shook his head “They are getting ready. Why don’t you three go and set up? I’ll meet you at the white room.”

The three took their orders to get prepared. Julie raced back to her training room as she grabbed The Bleeder. When she reached the white room, it was jammed pack with spies in white suits. Rob stood in the front as he commanded everyone “Now, everyone should know where they are to be covering. Remember, we are not to let any machine or human for that matter slip through the cracks. This will not be a pretty one, be careful and fight with no mercy. I hope we will all meet again.” He bowed his head and then pulled it up “Good luck, everyone.”

The group saluted him with a palm at the heart, the Unit’s secret code to each other. They began to scatter sequentially. Cass and Julie crossed paths as they hugged each other “Be careful!” Cass said almost in tears.

Julie pulled away as her eyes were red too “I will.” She turned to Will “Take care of her.”

“I will.” He said firmly.

The three split up in their own directions as they finally saw daylight. Julie stood with her army of 100 men and women of the Unit. Her breathing quickened when she began to feel the earth tremble from the giant machines coming their way.

Will and Cass were closest to the where the machines were stomping from. They had over 100 spies behind them. Cass took a step back when she saw the first sign of the machines. They stepped their way closer to them while Will reached down and gave her hand a squeeze. Their eyes met and it said a thousand words, they both gave a quick nod as Cass commanded the army behind her “Get ready!” she cried.

Gary paced back and forth as he held tight to his laser gun. “Stop it, you’re making me nervous!” David cried.

“Just aim and shoot…aim and shoot.” Gary mumbled to himself over and over.

David then realized how nervous his partner really was. He sighed and tapped him on the shoulder “Don’t be scared…”

Gary laughed “I’m not scared…just a little nervous. We’ve never been in battle before.”

David nodded “Don’t worry, I’ll cover you every chance I get.”

“You better start now.” Gary said with widened eyes. He pointed behind David. They’re here.”

David raised his right hand in the air “Ready?!!” he asked the army behind him “Don’t let one pass you.”

“Yes sir!!” the group roared.

Julie stood in her place as she began pacing nervously. She could hear the battle going on just miles away to her left and right. She wondered how they were doing and if they were safe. But she could not leave her cover, all they could do was wait and pray that everything was going as planned. She closed her eyes when she heard cries of pain coming from her fellow spies. The machines were ripping them apart. It wasn’t until she heard one of her men cry “There’s one!” did she open her eyes.

She whipped out The Bleeder as it pointed to the ground “Get ready!” she cried as she gripped the handle harder. The machine came charging towards them and Julie raised her sword in the air. It was their cue to attack as the first group of 10 began shooting away their guns. She stood there, her heart thumping and her brows furrowed. She didn’t remember them being so strong. It took a good 10 minutes for her people to destroy the one machine that got away.

When the monster fell to it’s death, the army began to jump up and down in victory. “Hooray!!” they cried happily. But Julie knew it was only the beginning. She raised her sword at the sign of another machine coming and another before she realized how many there were, the group was already being attacked. She dodged from each punch and laser beam that was shot her way.

The army with Gary and David were quickly defeated within an hour as only a handful actually survived the battle. Gary was injured while David supported him as they retrieved to Will and Cass’s battleground.

By the time they reached the place, it was more horrific than their own battle. Body parts spread everywhere. Some were still alive but might as well be dead since they were missing arms or legs. They found Will scarred on the forehead and his lips were bleeding. He was holding only Cass, who was knocked out unconscious. “Will! Cass?” Gary called. The two fell to their knees next to Cass “Is she…” Gary was afraid to say it.

Will shook his head “No, she was knocked out.” He touched the purple bump on her forehead. “You okay?” he asked Gary.

“She’s waking!” David exclaimed. “Cass.” He reached down and tapped her over the face.

Cass looked up but flinched in pain when her bump pounded like a horrible migraine. “Will…” she smiled, glad to see him. “You two are okay…” she said slowly to Gary and David. She sat up straight and looked around. Her smile faded “So much killings…Julie?!” she suddenly cried, startling Will. “Is she okay?” she squeezed his arm to give herself support to stand up. “We have to get to her.”

The two nodded “Come on.” Will wrapped his arms around Cass as they rushed to Julie.

Chapter 18

Julie used all her strength to dodge and attack the machines that came her way. She dropped a total of four machines in over an hour. Her concentration was quickly diverged when she spotted a helicopter floating above them. When she felt a pang of pain slicing through her very arm, she felt to the ground, her sword dropping with her. She breathed in pain as her wound began to bleed uncontrollably. She inched back while she watched her army being quickly defeated. Suddenly, she heard a motor sound. Her head spun around and she found Andy flying a motored scooter. He jumped off and let the scooter fly into one of the machines. Julie turned her head when it exploded into pieces.

He wasted no time as he whipped out The Head Stealer and slashed it around the head of the machine that was ready to take Julie’s life. With one yank it took its head off and the machine fell to the ground lifeless. Andy reached down as he pulled her to her feet “Sorry, I’m a little late.”

Julie smiled “Better late than never.” Her faced turned solemn as she pulled him to the ground “Watch out!” the machine swung at them.

Andy whipped his weapon as it caught onto the machine’s head, he gave it a little tug and it gave way easily falling to the ground. The two stood up as they stepped back seeing the 30 something machines inching their ways towards them. “Stand back.” He pushed her back as he stepped forward and gave his hand a little twist, he whipped The Head Stealer as the spikes came out at his command. He swung the whip in circles as tiny needles began to fly out randomly, the venom flowed through the machine’s wires as they began dropping like flies. From behind, they saw Cass, Will, Gary and David coming their way.

Cass smiled happily when she saw Julie safe and sound “Julie!” she waved her hand frantically as the four rushed over to them.

Will turned to the fallen machines “It looks like that weapon is working.”

“Not quite.” Gary said slowly as he pointed to the machines as they began pushing themselves up.

Andy put away the whip “I guess James underestimated their power. Either that or the Fungs’ have found a way to improve this machine.”

“Looks like we got company.” Julie said shortly as she looked up to the sky where the helicopter was hovering around them. It came down slowly as its wings caused a whirlwind at everything around them. The group stood solidly while their clothing and hair flew wildly.

They watched as Leo Fung and his men came out of the plane. They saw three of the men stop to help Hung Fung get out of the plane. In Leo’s hand was the control for the machines. He pressed a button and the machines began to line up in two solid lines giving their master room to walk through. He clapped his hand as he approached the group “Great work.” He said smugly. “You managed to kill a handful of my machines.”

“Don’t worry, it’s just the beginning. Those are next.” Andy pointed the ones that now stood in a line behind Leo and his father.

Leo waved his hand angrily “Whatever. Where is my sister?” he ordered.

“Where do you think you are? Your home?” Julie snorted “You may be the big guy at home, but this is our place. Anyways, she is our people now.” Julie turned to David.

“If you are speaking of my wife, she is in a safe place.” He said firmly.

Hung Fung growled “Wife?! What have you done to her?”

“Father!” Leann cried as she ran out from the woods with James and Rob. She stopped when she saw the machines and her brother, suddenly her head spun from one person to the next. She quickly spotted David as she ran to him happily “David.” She hugged him warmly “I’m so glad your okay.”

“Leann! Get back over here!” Leo ordered.

Leann turned strangely at him “Why should I?”

“You are my sister and father wants you here.” Leo said matter of factly.

“I thought I was no longer your sister?” she frowned “Father, please stop this killing. It’s wrong for so many lives to be lost.”

Hung Fung’s eyes turned cold “Nonsense! This world would be a better place if it was better dictated and controlled. No one would every pick on our country ever again.”

Leann shook her head sadly “When did you become so power hungry?”

“Shut up! If you’re not going to come back here, you can join them in hell!” Leo pressed another button on his control and the machines obliged to his order as one began inching towards them.

Andy stepped up as he pulled Leann back “You won’t even let your sister go? Are you sure you’re human?” he asked Leo “Most ones that I know have warm blood.” He was tempting Leo to order more machines his way. It seemed to work as one by one, the machines began to awaken until there were five standing in front of Andy. He took a hold of the whip handle on his belt as he yanked it out from its slumber. Andy worked his magic as he did a group of acrobatic flips and turns as the whip took a hold of the heads and he yanked them to the ground.

Leo frowned angrily “Where did you get that weapon?!” he roared.

Andy smiled as he turned to James “Did you have to ask?”

James stepped up with his hands crossed “My machines may be a great invention but it is nothing compared to what you see in Andy’s hand.” He turned to Andy “Show him what else it could do.”

Andy nodded “Gladly.” He began whipping it in a circular motion as it exploded into tiny sharp edges. He aimed perfectly to one of their men that stood next to Hung Fung. Suddenly the guy fell to the ground with a thump “Each needle has a venom strong enough to take out the strongest of humans as well as machines…although…” he turned to James slowly.

He turned back when Leo began cackling like a madman “Don’t you think we already thought of it? You are too cocky, James, thinking you are the only mastermind in this project? That venom you are talking about has an anecdote. He snapped his hand as one of the men behind him came over and gave the fallen man something to drink. Within seconds, the remainder of the Unit saw the unconscious man suddenly up and about. “Let’s have some REAL fun.” He said evilly as the machines began coming towards Andy.

He tried the other uses that James had taught him but it was useless since the machines began immune to any attacks that came their way. After a while, Andy too fell to his knees when the machines got a good hit on his back and The Head Stealer fell out of his hands as it bounced its way over to Leo’s feet. He picked it up with his left hand while his right hand held onto his control. Leo put it away as he pulled out his laser gun, he grinned wildly “Nice weapon. Maybe I’ll keep it as a toy…” he laughed hysterically while everyone stared at him disgustedly.

Julie rushed to Andy as she looked up at the hackling Leo “Let me get it back.” she reached for her sword but was quickly stopped by Andy.

“No…let him hold it.” He whispered and she soon realized what he meant. She nodded as she helped him up.

“Leann, this is my last request. Father would like you to stand with us.” Leo said through clenched teeth.

Leann stepped up as she shook her head firmly “No, I don’t belong with you two anymore.” She turned to David as he stepped up next to her. “He’s my family now.”

Leo nodded angrily “Fine. Suit yourself.” He held up the gun and aimed it at David. He fired away but to his dismay, Leann saw it coming as she covered her ‘husband’ and took the shot. The laser beam flew threw her as she fell into David’s arms.

“Leann!!! Leann!!!!” David cried as he held onto his wife. Eventhough they had promised that their marriage would be fake; their feelings had grown within weeks and they began to grow fond of each other. He knew she would be the first person he’s ever loved. Tears flowed down his face as he held onto her tightly. Everyone was moved by the saving attempt as Julie and Cass cried openly for their friend. “You monster!” he growled at Leo.

Hung Fung was gripping on the handle of this mechanical wheelchair “Leann…” he whispered. “Leo, drop the gun!!” he was still pointing at David with it. “You’ve killed your sister, its over.” He said sadly. The man quickly became devastated over the loss. He loved his daughter so much, it was the last thing he wanted to do was to cause his little girl to lose her life over his attempt to take over the world. Nothing was worth that loss.

Leo shook his head in disgust at his father, the gun was pointed to the ground “Father, I’m so disappointed in you. You always taught me, you must do anything and everything to get what you want; even if it means giving up the people around you. Look at you now, old man. Crying over a daughter that is standing with the enemy. You make me sick!” he spat.

The elder man’s face hardened “Not at the cost of Leann’s life. She is family, she is not just people! Do you understand?” he cried with rage, his face red from frustration and anger.

Leo snickered “Old man, you will never learn. There is a price for everything.” He pulled the gun up as it aimed at his own father.

Andy reached for his own gun as he aimed it at Leo’s hand, he fired away and it knocked the gun out of Leo’s hand “As much as I want to see this man locked away, I won’t allow you to kill your father too.” He stepped closer to Leo “Look at your sister!” he pointed to the lifeless body in David’s arms “You want to do that to your own father too? I think YOU’RE the sick man.”

“You will die for being so meddlesome.” Leo promised.

Andy’s eyes came down to his weapon still in Leo’s hands “You want to fight? Drop the weapon. Fight like a man.” He urged before dropping the laser gun to the ground.

Leo was cocky enough to think that he would beat Andy as he too let got of The Head Stealer. The minute he did, his hands became weak with energy, it fell limp to the side. Andy was quick to not let him get away as he reached for Leo’s stronger hand and twisted it behind him sending him to his knees in pain. Andy quickly handcuffed him. “Son…” Hung Fung said as he reached towards Leo. The men behind the old man pulled out their guns but he put up his hand to stop them and they retrieved their weapons. He turned to Andy “Can I see my daughter one last time?”

Andy turned to David, whose eyes hardened like cold ice “No.”

The man nodded understandingly “Very well. I surrender.” He handed Andy the control to the monsters. He was in defeat, not only mentally but physically.

They took Leo and Hung Fung into custody with the government. They fined them both into jail for eternity. Each would be in solitaire confinement. They would not be able to see sunlight for the rest of their lives. Before Hung Fung was put into maximum security prison, he was called into the visitor room to await a guest that requested to see him. The man looked older than his age, his white hair growing longer. His face was tired and depressed. He did not want to go see the visitor but his heart told him he should go.

The prisoners were separated from the outside world with an indestructible glass wall. His head pointed to his hands as he waited for the person. At the corner of his eyes, he saw a shadow walking towards him and the person took a seat across from him. “Father.” She spoke into the intercom. The man looked up, unable to believe the soft voice was his daughter.

Surely enough, his eyes met his little girl’s as he began to cry, he reached for the glass but was quickly shocked by the energy flowing through the glass keeping the prisoners from attempting to break through. Her eyes turned worried as he shook his head “I’m okay…now that I see you. They were able to save you?”

Leann wiped her tears as she shook her head “That wasn’t me. It was a duplicate machine that James designed during the two months that I was living there. He said it would be their final tactic to stop you and Gor. I’m just glad it worked. I don’t want to see you die.”

The man nodded with a small smile “I’m happy that they won this battle. For years I tried to convince myself that this world would be better if I could run it. But I realized that nothing should be more important than the safety of those loved ones that are still by your side.”

She nodded “I agree. I’ll come back and visit you as much as I can.” Leann promised.

Hung Fung shook his head “I have to serve a lifetime of imprisonment, with no visitation. Only one and I would not want to see anyone else but you.”

She sobbed while watching her father being taken away forever. She got up and left the visitor center where David was waiting for her outside. He hugged her dearly “At least he’s safe from his own destruction.” Leann nodded, understanding what he meant.

They returned to the Unit as it was up and running, although they lost hundreds of spies, they were able to recuperate. The government gave them full authority privilege just like the FBI after finding out that Sergeant Liu was taken into custody and thrown in jail for siding with the madman.

The group of nine met up at the restaurant for dinner as all were in high spirits “Great job everyone! Let’s drink to that!” Rob announced as everyone raised their glasses and drank together. “We finally got approval from the government to continue our services.”

“Bad people watch out!” Julie said excitedly.

“Bad people? Don’t you mean the crazy masterminds of the world?” Will quipped.

Julie rolled her eyes “James is a crazy mastermind, it doesn’t mean we have to take him out. Although I would do it the minute he changes sides.” She winked at him teasingly.

“I’ll be too scared to even think about it.” James kidded while everyone exploded with laughter.

“So what are your plans? I suspect you will all be on vacation?” Rob asked David first.

Leann and David nodded “We’re going to go on our honeymoon.” He replied

Julie and Cass smiled at each other as they squealed like little girls “It started from fake love to real love, isn’t that sweet?” Julie said with giggles while Leann looked away blushing profusely.

Rob smiled with his head shaking “How about you two?” he asked Will and Cass.

Will smiled “We will get married…”

Julie furrowed her brows when she noticed he stalled on his words “What’s holding you back?”

“A divorce.” He said bluntly.

Julie’s face was covered in a sly grin “Oh, now you need a favor!” she tapped her chin playfully “Let’s see…I do need a new car…and a new house. New clothes would help…” the group began to laugh when Will was blushing. Julie giggled when Cass pushed at her arm. “Okay, since Ga Jei is threatening me, I’ll let you two off. Just send me the papers and I’ll have them signed fast.”

“How about you two?” Rob questioned.

Julie turned to Andy “Ask him.” She pointed.

Andy smiled “We just want to travel around together.”

“Where are you going?” Cass asked curiously.

“It doesn’t matter.” Julie shrugged. Cass smiled at them enviously, she admired her sister for being so spontaneous. Although she would not change her life with Will if it was the last thing she did.

Gary sat quietly until this very moment when he exploded “Why doesn’t anyone ask me what I will be doing? What am I chop liver?”

Rob laughed “If you were patient you will realize that the next person I was going to ask is you. So, what are you doing?”

“You mean besides throwing a tantrum?” Julie teased “Here’s a free advice, don’t pick fights with girls.”

“Don’t you mean don’t pick fights with Julie?” David quipped.

Gary pouted “Ha ha, that’s very funny.” The group laughed at his displeasing attitude.

Rob stood up as he clapped his hands “Okay, well, this dinner is over as we speak. I hope to see you all report to headquarters in a month. Don’t forget, we have the ceremony of destroying the glass building.” Everyone turned to Leann to see her reaction.

Her face clouded over “All my father’s hard work…I guess it wasn’t meant to be.”

Andy looked thoughtful as he asked Rob “Why can’t we turn this one into the Hong Kong headquarters; since it’s been destroyed by Hung Fung? It’s only fair that we take over his place. After all, we do have a complete map of all the secret passageways.”

Leann smiled thankfully at him “I think it’s a great idea.”

Rob nodded “I’ll ask the government. But I think it’s wonderful that we would be able to preserve this magnificent building.” He smiled around the table “Thank you all for your hard work, I know we didn’t get as much prestigious as we should get.”

“Why don’t you give us another month off?” Julie cracked.

Everyone nodded simultaneously “Nice try.” Rob shook his head firmly “I will not be left to run this new place on my own. They have assigned me to take over the Hong Kong headquarters until it is up and running smoothly. At least now we don’t have to be in hiding.”

Everyone nodded in agreement “To the new office.” Gary put his glass up as everyone followed “To the new office!”

***********

The following week, Julie and Andy returned to Hong Kong as they stood by the harbor looking out into the glass building. “It’s not as scary as it once was.” Julie sighed at the building she once despised.

“Things change.” Andy said with a hint of mystery in his voice.

Julie smiled as she turned to him “Are you trying to tell me something?”

He only grinned “Maybe. If you can catch me, I’ll tell you.”

Her eyes trapped him in, she knew he was about to jump into the water but she was quick as she pulled his hand, yanking him back to her. Suddenly, a surprised expression came on her face as her head tilted downwards, entwined in their hands was a small metal box. She pulled her hand away “What is that?”

Andy smiled as he held out his palm and pressed on the side of the box. Metal wings popped out on the sides as it began flapping and it flew up in front of Julie’s face. The box opened up and inside was a beautiful platinum diamond ring. “It’s a promise that I will be here, whenever you need me. A promise that you will only have laughter and never tears in our live together. I will be the best husband in this world if you would allow me to.”

Julie’s face clouded over “I would say yes but…”

His brows furrowed as he wondered “But what?”

“…I need a divorce.” She bursted into giggles as he hugged her affectionately. “But my answer is yes. I guess you already know.” He squeezed her even tighter while she continued to laugh. He rocked her back and forth until the sun set behind them. They pulled apart as he put the ring on her finger. They both had grins wide enough to be seen miles away. Their fingers entwined as their hands swung back and forth while they walked down the busy sidewalk almost empty except for the new couple. Their pace quickened as Julie began to skip, she urged him while pulling on his hand. Andy usually more conservative was now skipping in beat with his new fiancé.

THE END

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