SWITCHBLADE (Choi Ziyi Book 1) Page 7

  Xiao was hosting a party on the two hundred and sixty-eighth floor of the Imperial Chinese Bank Building in Central for some of the Empire's richest citizens, to gain more funding for the space program and further expansion into the outer colonies. Planets were literally for sale at the right price as long as any potential owner registered them as part of the Empire. It wasn't an ideal situation but no one wanted to fall behind the United Arab Empire's progress into space. Having lost Earth, the U.A.E. was determined to win the battle for the stars.

  Ziyi checked the small pistol in her clutch bag again. Fourteen rounds of armour-piercing nine millimetre bullets in a Norinco P97. Not as powerful as she'd like but it would get the job done. She'd have preferred the P127, twenty-five millimetre fully automatic, with optional heat-seeking rounds. It had enough stopping power to drop a soldier in full body-armour, but the weapon was too big for a bag and turning up wearing a shoulder holster would cause quite the wrong impression amongst Xiao's guests. It certainly didn't fit Ziyi's image as the beautiful and dutiful girlfriend.

  Normally the only real danger was dying of boredom at Xiao's fund-raisers. She hoped tonight would be no different as she glanced at the clock. Five minutes to seven. They'd have to leave soon. Her stomach tied itself in knots as she waited, aware of the cries of the dead at the fringes of her mind, and prayed no more would join them.

  "I don't understand why you're so unwilling to cooperate," said Deng. "Your father is in Beijing. Your sister flew in yesterday to be by his side. He has asked for you to join him there as well, and yet you insist in staying in Hong Kong to go to a party."

  Xiao jabbed a finger at Deng. "Remember who you're speaking to. As much as it may surprise you, you're not the Emperor. If you wish to live another day, it will do you good to keep that in mind."

  Deng bowed stiffly. "Forgive me, your Imperial Highness. It is only my concern for your safety that made me speak out of place."

  "Well, you've spoken. Your objections and advice are noted. Now you can leave. I've a function to host."

  Deng stared at Xiao for a moment before nodding his assent. "I hope you enjoy yourself, your Highness."

  "Ziyi, if you are ready," said Xiao, his cheeks flushed. He headed for the landing pad without waiting for her. The flight crew scrambled to their positions as he approached.

  Ziyi slipped into place behind. Her high heels clacked on the marble floor, the only sound in the room. She could feel Deng's eyes boring a hole in her back as they stepped outside. She didn't blame his frustration but their duty was to obey, and Xiao had made his decision. It was for the good of the Empire after all.

  The heat and humidity hit them once they were free of the air-conditioning. The air had an almost physical presence as the flyer's engines hummed in anticipation. Overhead, two police craft hovered as they waited for the Imperial flyer to get underway, adding to the noise. Ziyi was grateful it was only a short walk to the flyer.

  Chen waited for them by the steps leading up to the craft's doorway. Three replacements for the men lost in the restaurant attack stood nearby. They wore the stiff formality of all agents on their first Imperial assignment. Being so close to either the Emperor or Xiao took a lot of getting used to. Most agents retreated into the security of their training as a way of dealing with their nerves. The fact there still existed a clear and present danger wouldn't be helping them settle into their jobs any easier.

  Four other agents in full combat gear were stationed inside the craft, with assault rifles nestled in their arms. Xiao and Ziyi took their seats before Chen and the others joined them.

  "Ready for take off on your command, your Highness," said one of the pilots over the intercom.

  Xiao moved his finger.

  "We're a go," said Chen.

  "Control, this is Imperial One going airborne. Repeat Imperial One is airborne," radioed the pilot and the flyer tilted forward into the air. He flicked a switch as they climbed above the Imperial residence. "Dispersing drones." The black spheres launched with a hiss from both sides of the aircraft.

  Ziyi watched them slip into position. The drones could deal with any incoming air traffic and intercept all air-to-air or ground-to-air missiles. The police flyers followed a short distance behind, providing even more protection. Ziyi could relax for the next five minutes.

  "I shouldn't let him anger me," said Xiao. "But he's a dinosaur that hasn't worked out that his time is over."

  "I'm sure he means well," replied Ziyi.

  "We need people with more vision leading the Empire into the future. When I form the Government, it will be time for Deng to step down."

  Ziyi smiled and nodded. It was the only diplomatic response she could think of. The First Minister had served the Emperor for over forty years and his record was impeccable. Despite her position by Xiao's side, it wasn't wise to criticise someone of Deng's authority. It wouldn't surprise her to find if at least one of the agents on board reported directly to Deng.

  "I'm sorry, my dear," said Xiao. "I'm sorry you saw that. Tonight is too important for my plans for the future. Most of my staunchest allies will be there."

  "Just make sure his Imperial Highness doesn't get shot," said Chen.

  Xiao wagged a finger at the bodyguard. "You all need to do that."

  "I will do my best, Highness," replied Ziyi.

  The ICBB loomed ahead. After the Imperial Residence, it was Hong Kong's most striking building. Steel and glass jutted this way and that up into the heavens. Two columns straddled the harbour before joining into the single tower piercing the sky. Its perfect feng shui design gathered all the prosperity flowing into the city.

  Ziyi clicked open the telephone link to Control. "Comms check."

  "Reading you loud and clear," replied Wing. "His Imperial Highness' GPS link and vitals looking good."

  Ziyi closed her eyes. Xiao's GPS tracker appeared on her eyelid with a strong reading. It could track him anywhere on the planet so, if they ever got separated Ziyi would be able to find him easily enough. She fluttered her eyes and switched over to his vitals. His heartbeat registered at seventy-eight beats per minute with another strong reading. She opened her eyes again. "All internal systems operational. Touch down in one minute."

  "Stay sharp in there, Ziyi. The AFA is still at large," said Wing.

  "We'll be okay with you watching our backs," said Ziyi.

  "Hasn't anyone told you?"

  Ziyi glanced at Xiao and then back out the window. "Told me what?" she said, dropping her voice.

  "Xiao's forbidden all cameras in the venue. We're going dark the moment you arrive."

  "What?"

  "Xiao ordered it himself. He wants absolute privacy. Whatever happens in there, stays in there. So watch yourself. Call me if you need me." Wing terminated the link, and Ziyi listened to the silence in her ear while she thought about the implications of what she'd just been told. The Empire's strength came from its constant surveillance of its citizens. Everyone was taught from childhood of its value. Only the guilty had things to hide. If anything happened at the party, any help would be delayed while one of the team radioed for help. Precious seconds would be lost.

  "Your Highness?" said Ziyi. "Forgive me but Control have just told me they won't have eyes inside the party tonight."

  "That is correct," answered Xiao. "We need a certain amount of privacy if we are to achieve our aims tonight."

  "But the danger..." said Ziyi.

  "We'll be surrounded by some of our closest friends. There's no danger," said Xiao. "And, if there is, you will deal with it."

  "Yes, Highness." Ziyi lowered her head in acceptance but she couldn't ignore the uneasy feeling growing in her stomach. Maybe the thought of the American terrorists still at large was making her more paranoid than usual but all her instincts told her to order the flyer to turn back.

  She looked at Chen but he just shrugged. There was nothing they could do except follow Xiao's orders.

  The flyer hovered over the ICBB's landing
pad while the pilot waited for the all clear to land. Bodies rushed out ready to greet Xiao. Faces peered through the windows for their first glimpse of the heir and some, no doubt, to see her. She braced herself for the inevitable scrutiny she would have to endure inside. She envied Chen for the straightforwardness of his role. If only she could do her duty likewise, life would be so much simpler.

  The flyer settled on the deck with the slightest of bumps. Once more the heat greeted them as the doors hissed open. Xiao climbed out first, followed by Ziyi. The bank's president waited for them on the red carpet. Wong Kuo Fung was rumoured to be in his seventies but no one knew his real age. The best cosmetic surgery and mek enhancements left him looking nearer forty. He ran the bank with a fierceness that few younger could compete with.

  "Your Highness, so pleased you could join us tonight," Wong said, with a barely adequate bow. Chen tensed, ready to punish the offence, but Xiao laughed, defusing the situation.

  "I wouldn't have missed it for the world, old friend," said Xiao. He turned and held out his hand to Ziyi. "Have you met Ziyi?"

  The old man kept his eyes on Ziyi as he bowed. She stiffened, shocked at the lust in his gaze. She forced herself to bow in return as manners dictated, but inside she bridled at the lack of respect. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Mr. President."

  "The pleasure is all mine, my dear." Wong gestured to the penthouse. "Let's get you both out of this dreadful heat. We've many people looking forward to meeting you."

  Ziyi followed two steps behind Xiao and Wong, allowing the two men to talk in relative privacy.

  The drop in temperature sent a shiver down Ziyi's spine as they entered the room, gaudily decorated in an ancient European style mixed with as much scarlet and gold as feng shui demanded. A massive pool in the centre of the room rippled with golden koi fish. There was no doubt money was the only priority in the room.

  Some eighty guests were already inside the penthouse. She scanned the faces as she always did for anyone who looked out of place, but all she saw were a lot of nips and tucks and outrageous mek amongst the guests. No one seemed to be paying attention to whoever they were talking to — their eyes hunted for others who were more important or wealthy than they were. Waiters mingled with trays of canapés and champagne, ignored by all unless needed.

  The conversation died as they entered the room. Everyone bowed as one.

  "Thank you. Thank you," said Xiao. He waited for everyone to straighten again. "Tonight we're here to talk about the future of our glorious Empire. By Heaven's will, in the last fifty years, we have colonised six planets. A great success many would say, but in that time, the United Arab Empire have claimed eleven. These planets may be nothing more than balls of dirt and sand, but we can't fall behind. We owe it to all the generations to come not to falter in this divine mission.

  "But, as they say 'the sky is big and the Emperor is far away.' We need help, my friends, if we are to achieve our dreams in these new worlds. We need the people in this room.

  "I look forward to meeting you all tonight, and discussing how each and every one of you can have a vital role to play. In the mean time, enjoy yourselves, drink and eat to your hearts content. Remember though — what we have achieved on Earth, we shall surpass in the Heavens."

  The room erupted in applause. Ziyi was always impressed at Xiao's effect on a room and the way his passion for the Empire could win over everyone he met. Xiao waited for only a brief moment before holding his hand up for silence once more. He thumped his fist against his chest. "For the Emperor. For the Empire."

  "For the Emperor. For the Empire," the room replied, followed by more applause.

  Xiao smiled and waved to all corners of the room before Wong led him to a group were gathered in the far corner.

  "Your Highness, I'd like to introduce the Tsui family. They've been eagerly waiting to meet you," said Wong.

  "Just one moment, please," replied Xiao. He signalled a waiter to approach with a tray of champagne and Xiao took two glasses, handing one to Ziyi.

  "No thank you, Highness," she said. She never drank on duty.

  "Come. Have at least a sip. What will they all say if my great love doesn't drink with me? Remember, the world always watches," he said, indicating the rest of the room with a raised eyebrow.

  They stared at each other. The argument continued unspoken. But Ziyi knew Xiao would win. He always did. He confirmed the point with a smile. "That's my girl. Now let's see if we can change the world." She took the glass and took a sip. Her smile in return was plainly forced, provoking a hearty laugh.

  A second later an explosion rocked the entire building.

  8

  Wing

  Wing stared at the monitors that should have been playing images from the ICBB penthouse. He stared at the static that was there instead, feeling helpless.

  "This is ridiculous. How are we supposed to do our jobs?" he complained to no one in particular. "Privacy! Fat lot of good that will do them if they all get killed."

  "The place is surrounded. They're two hundred and sixty-something levels above the ground, drinking with people with enough money to buy planets. Calm down. Everything will be okay," said Bao Yu. "Send more drones to monitor the exterior. At least we'll be able to see some of what's going on."

  A buzzer sounded by Song. She answered the call and a policeman appeared on one of her monitors. She listened intently for a second before telling him to hold. "Guys, you need to hear this," she said. She clicked the call back online. "Officer, I have you on speaker. Please repeat what you told me."

  "This is Officer Zheng from Kowloon station. We've received a message warning of an imminent bomb attack." The man looked shaken. Never a good sign.

  "Play it," ordered Bao Yu.

  The image switched to a woman's face. Foreign. Caramel coloured skin. Wing recognised her instantly as one of the AFA suspects.

  "My name is Nadine Michel. I'm a member of the American Free Army. Today I will strike a blow against the Imperial murderers and shake its false Empire to its core. Today, they will learn that we'll never give up our fight for freedom from the Chinese oppressors. My name is Nadine Michel. I willingly give my life for my country. God bless America."

  The screen switched back to the officer. "I called you immediately we received this."

  Wing fed Michel's image into the CCTV cameras in central Kowloon, starting with the more obvious targets like the transport terminals, hoping she'd be picked up by facial recognition. But with so many people out and about, he knew it'd take hours.

  "Place all police stations and emergency services on full alert," said Bao Yu.

  "Thank you, Officer," said Song. "Join your men."

  The screen died.

  "Song, draw up a list of high-priority targets and get police units out to them now. I want bodies on the ground," said Bao Yu. "I'll get in touch with Chen at the ICBB and get it locked down. Someone tell me how much explosive they'd need to bring that building down."

  "You'd need a nuke..." The words tasted like ash in Wing's mouth as his imagination filled in the horror of what a weapon of mass destruction could cause in Hong Kong. He couldn't bring himself to say anything else out loud.

  Something caught his eye on a screen. The main track at Tsim Sha Tsui subway station. A woman had stepped onto the track. He zoomed in as alarms sounded and Michel's face filled the screen. "Found her. Level Ninety, TST."

  "Calling all units in the vicinity of Tsim Sha Tsui Mass Transit station," said Song. "We have a terrorist suspect on the main track on level Ninety. She is considered armed and dangerous. Repeat. We have a terrorist suspect on the main track. Approach with caution. Lethal force is authorised."

  "What's she doing?" asked Bao Yu.

  "I'm stopping the trains," said Wing. His fingers danced across the keyboard. On a monitor, he watched dots begin to stop but not quickly enough. "Shit. We have one still entering the station."

  "Shut it down," shouted Bao Yu.

  "I'm trying!
" He could feel the sweat break out across his forehead. He wanted to scream with frustration at the confines of the chair and all the fucking wires holding him back. Nothing happened fast enough.

  They all watched Michel turn to face the train. She spread her arms as if she was about to embrace a lover.

  "Where's the police?" said Bao Yu.

  "Pulling up to the station now," replied Song.

  The train turned the corner into the main platform section. Sparks flew from the tracks as its brakes fought the built up momentum.

  Michel smiled and closed her eyes. Every monitor showing the station went blank simultaneously.

  "Fuck," said Wing.

  Multiple alarms roared into life in Control, colouring their pure white world in red, like gushing blood. "Multiple reports of a massive explosion in TST," said Song. "Emergency services on way. Diverting access to effected areas." The screens rotated through all cameras still operating in the area. Smoke billowed out of street level exits. People ran in every direction. Shattered glass from nearby windows littered the ground.

  "All too fucking late," said Wing. "How many dead?" he smashed his fist into his keyboard. "Fuck!"

  "Wing!" said Bao Yu. "Calm down. Turn the alarms off so we can concentrate. Do your job. Save the hysterics for later. Get Michel's data uploaded and back track her movements. I want to know where she's been, where she stayed and whom she talked to. Everything."

  "On it," said Wing. It would be easier now they had a confirmed location for Michel. To run through the twelve million cameras in Hong Kong and Kowloon would take an hour but they'd have everything.

  "Another explosion in Mong Kok," said Song. "Level One Twenty. Golden Shopping Arcade."

  More devastation played out over more monitors. Death filled every screen.

  "Why Kowloon? Why civilian targets now?" asked Wing.

  "Maybe they accepted they couldn't reach Xiao and this was all that was left," suggested Song.