Chapter 57: A Shocking New Threat
Deep underground, hidden beneath the Roland Kingdom, was the Syndicate’s main headquarters. It was a huge, secret base. Billy stood in a simple room before a powerful leader known as Master 22.
Master 22 wore dark, fancy robes and sat on a big chair, like a throne. The most noticeable thing about him was the rabbit mask he wore. It hid his whole face except for his eyes, which shone dangerously in the dim light.
Bryan stood a little behind Billy. he was still nervous because of the armed guards he had passed and the tense feeling in the command center.
Even though Billy was usually calm, he felt a little nervous. He had given a quick report about why they were there, but he still had to share the most important, and terrible, news. He took a breath. His voice was a bit scratchy.
"Master 22," he started, then looked down. "I... I’m sorry to tell you... Master Oliver... he’s... he’s dead."
The room, already quiet, became dead silent. Then, Master 22 slowly stood up. As he did, you could almost feel the pressure coming off him—a feeling of great power. The air seemed to buzz, and the room suddenly felt colder.
Suddenly, Master 22 disappeared from his spot by the throne.
Billy’s eyes widened a tiny bit, but he didn’t move. He knew what was coming.
Faster than Billy could blink, Master 22 was suddenly standing right in front of him, just inches away. He hadn’t made a sound or even a blur; he was just there. Malkor gasped and stumbled back. Bryan flinched and bowed his head lower.
Master 22’s eyes, seen through the mask, stared hard at Billy. Even with the mask and dim light, Billy could feel the cold, sharp anger in his stare. It felt like a heavy weight, a warning of pain to come.
Master 22’s voice was a low, angry growl. "Say that again, Agent Billy."