The Annihilation Code

Chapter Twenty-One ➹ Atlas Contreras ➹

We stood together on a bridge on the northwest side of Ikigai II. This is the end of the road, the X on the treasure map.

Chase enhanced his cybernetic vision, zooming in on the sign of the closest building. "Sparkling Oasis Spa and Wellness Center." He read aloud. "Are you sure this is the right place?"

I gave a decisive nod, even though I was far from certain.

Katrina shot me a skeptical look. "This doesn't look like an evil lair."

She was right. The exterior looked unassuming with its large glass windows and outdoor waterfalls, but I knew better. "Most evil lairs don't look like evil lairs from the outside."

Katrina shrugged. "I guess."

As we marched towards the spa, a couple stared us down with a menacing gaze.

I flashed my knives in their direction, daring them to attack.

"There's no need to threaten random people," Marisa scolded.

"They're working for Bionic Corp. I know it!" I signed.

I noticed the look that passed between Marisa and Katrina. They thought I was crazy. Maybe I am. I don't know if it's possible to remain sane after everything I've been through. Right now, I'm desperate for something to believe in, so I'm choosing to believe the Annihilation Code is here because I don't know what I'll do if it isn't.

I marched up to the glass door. I hesitated when I reached for the handle. Was I prepared to face whatever was inside?

Chase gave me a reassuring smile. "No matter what happens, I've got your back," He whispered."If anything goes wrong, I'll rescue you because I'm so brave and heroic."

A small smile spread across my lips and I rolled my eyes. My hero, battling Bionic Corp all by himself with no combat experience.

Chase reached out and opened the door for me. "Let's kick some ass!"

I gave a confident nod and stepped into the spa lobby.

I scanned the surrounding area, looking for proof something nefarious was going on here, but it looked like an ordinary spa waiting room. It was a wide-open room, with stark white walls and tall glass windows. Smoky gray chairs and couches formed a comfy seating area. There was a large fountain in the center of the lobby, and potted plants nestled in every nook and cranny. At the very back of the room was a man sitting behind a tall wooden desk. He was playing a game on his Holowatch instead of working. Behind him stood a door with clouded windows.

My boots made an irritating squeaking sound with every step I took on the shiny vinyl floor. So much for stealth.

The man behind the desk sprung to his feet and frantically adjusted his glasses. "I'm sorry, but we're fully booked for today! You're going to have to leave! I'm sorry for the inconvenience."

I grabbed him by the throat and lifted him in the air.

"Where is the Annihilation Code?" Chase asked.

"I don't know what you're talking about," He croaked.

I tightened my grip on his neck.

"Don't play dumb. We know it's here," Chase barked.

We didn't know anything for certain, but he didn't need to know that.

"I don't know! I swear I don't know!" He let out a long string of coughs and then passed out in my arms.

I tossed his limp body aside like an old rag doll. His crumpled form landed in the fountain, causing a large splash. Well, he was no help. We'll have to find the code ourselves.