In a dimly lit room filled with weapons, gadgets, and scattered documents, Mr. Benson was busy arranging things. He turned to Lawrence and Juice, who stood silently in a corner.
"It's been six years," Mr. Benson said, his voice rough. "Six years since you were recognized by the higher-ups. You've proven yourselves. This... is your final assignment from CODE before you become seniors."
Lawrence and Juice didn't react. They simply nodded.
Benson leaned forward. "Don't underestimate this mission. Others will be participating. It's a race to see who completes it first. That's how you stand out."
They understood. No further words were needed.
---
Chapter 2.1 — The Assassination
Later, Juice and Lawrence crouched on a rooftop.
Juice scanned the area. "Others are here... waiting too."
Lawrence studied a photograph of their target. After a moment, he burned it.
Their eyes fell to the bar below. Suddenly, several hidden operatives made their move. They swarmed a man walking out of the bar, striking with precision. But he vanished—an illusion.
The bar door opened again. The real target stepped out, confused.
Bang! Juice sniped him dead.
Other participants turned, furious.
Juice gave a peace sign. Lawrence snapped a photo of the body.
Before the others could retaliate, Lawrence tossed a small round device.
BOOM!
A blinding light flashed, disorienting everyone.
The boys made their escape.
---
Chapter 2.2 — Tragedy at Home
Later, Lawrence and Juice returned home.
Juice chuckled. "That mission was easier than I thought."
But their smiles faded.
Inside the house, the bodies of Mr. and Mrs. Benson lay motionless. The room was a wreck, signs of intense battle everywhere.
Before they could react, mechanical wristbands snapped onto their arms.
Pfft! A tranquilizer hit them. Their world went black.
---
Chapter 2.3 — A New Life
They awoke in an unfamiliar room. A man stood in the corner, dressed in a recognizable military-style uniform.
Lawrence sat up. "What happened?"
The man tossed two black uniforms at them.
"Your new names," he said. "Demon0.001 and Void. Put those on and report to the gathering room."
Moments later, dressed in their new CODE gear, they entered a room filled with other teens.
A man walked in, stepping onto a stage.
Everyone snapped to attention and saluted.
"I'm Gunther, head captain of CODE."
His voice took on a mocking tone. "Enjoyed your little trip? Good. CODE is evolving. We don't waste time on weak tools. That's why your trainers... your guardians... are dead."
Juice clenched his fists but stayed silent.
Gunther continued. "From now on, you're weapons. Tools. Our tools."
One boy snapped. "You're a monster!"
He charged toward Gunther.
Slice!
His head flew off before he got close.
The room remained still. No screams. No tears.
Gunther grinned. "Don't get attached. Any more sympathy left in the room?"
All the children shouted: "No, sir!"
Gunther smiled wider. "Dismissed."
---
Chapter 2.4 — An Announcement Interrupted
London. A massive event was being held.
Lexy, one of the top 15 heroes, read an article about a school owner's assassination.
Suddenly, Princess Merry hugged her from behind.
Lexy smiled and greeted her, congratulating Merry on her engagement.
Pandora, another top hero, joined them and introduced her little sister: Bunny.
Lexy turned to Bunny. "Not into heroes? What are you into then?"
Before Bunny could answer, the #1 hero, K20, took the stage.
Just as K20 began his speech, the event's giant screen flickered.
Dr. Anthony, a well-known terrorist, appeared.