Chapter 30: Focus on kame school
After saying that, the one-eyed man set down the tablet, tapping his fingers on the desk. "Coulson, tell Rex he has nothing to fear, and try to befriend him. We need to learn more about the Kame School."
Coulson's eyebrows shot up. "Sir, with them keeping their students hidden, do we really need to worry about the Kame School?"
"Of course we do!" The one-eyed man leaned forward, his gaze intense. "When Rex says his powers are from hard work, don't you believe him?"
"I do! It's unbelievable, but we've ruled out everything else. It's bizarre, but it seems to be the only explanation, and it must be true!"
The one-eyed man sat back, his voice gruff. "So we have an organization that's found a way to unlock potential in ordinary humans. Why shouldn't we pay close attention?"
"I understand, sir. I'll get all the information I can from Rex." Coulson nodded.
His boss leaned back. "Go. This mission is now a Level 8 secret. Report any Kame School information directly to me. And for this mission, you'll have Level 8 clearance."
"Oh? So I get promoted if I succeed?"
"Yes!"
"..."
Phil turned and walked out, finding Melinda May waiting. "You know the rules, May. Level 8 confidential. I can't tell you anything."
"We're both Level 7! Neither of us is cleared for this!" Melinda frowned.
"I'm Level 8 now," Phil shrugged. "But it's only temporary."
"Humph!" Melinda snorted. "So when are we going to get that kid? I think you could tell me that!"
"We're not going to get him." Phil shook his head. "From now on, we won't use force against him unless it's absolutely necessary."
"Why?" Melinda glared. "I know he's got strange powers, but if we're prepared, we can take him down!"
"The commander has other plans."
"Fuck!!!"
"Calm down. The kid didn't hurt you. You don't even have a bruise, unlike the other agents. What's the problem?"
"He he..." Melinda gave a cold smile. "I just want to beat someone up, Coulson. Anyone!"
"..."
Coulson was stunned. "I'm going to talk to him, so you don't have to come tonight. Go get some rest."
"Is that an order, Agent Phil 'Level-8' Coulson?"
"No. If you have to come, I won't stop you. But you're just backup, and don't talk to him."
"Ha ha!"
"Hey, what does that mean? Hey! Don't just go! What does that mean?!" Coulson watched as Melinda gave him a strange look and walked away.
An hour and a half later, Coulson drove to Lee's Chinese restaurant. A man in black met him. "Our target's still inside. He's pulled down the curtains, so we can only see him with infrared. We don't know what he's doing."
"Alright, thanks." Coulson nodded, taking out his phone. "Hello, Mr. Lee. This is Phil Coulson."
On the second floor, Rex frowned. "How did you get my number...never mind. What do you want, Agent Coulson?"
"I'm nearby. Can you open the door? I just want to talk. And don't worry, I'm alone."
"..."
Opening the door and coming down the stairs, Rex said, "Coulson, I know you're a secret agent, but couldn't you just knock?"
Coulson approached the door. "I was just being polite. Calling before visiting, isn't that proper etiquette?"
"Indeed, when you actually have the number of the person you're visiting!" Rex hung up and opened the door. "Mr. Coulson, what a pleasure! You're visiting my restaurant twice in one day!"
Coulson smiled, sensing the sarcasm. "Of course, Mr. Lee. You're very valuable to us."
"Please, come in. Take a seat." Rex shook Coulson's hand, his expression unreadable.
The two men sat facing each other. "First, I want to thank you, Mr. Lee, for being so honest. We checked with the bureau, and your information was accurate."
"Well, of course! Why lie? As long as it keeps you off my back, I'll tell you everything I can." Rex played innocent.
"Thank you. It makes our job easier. We'll do our best to meet your needs." Coulson answered politely, then changed his tone. "Mr. Lee, please understand, we can't ignore someone as powerful as you. There will always be some...necessary 'attention' to your actions."
Rex nodded. "I understand. Do what you need to do. Just stay out of my store. If you're thinking of cameras, microphones, or anything like that, you better hope I don't catch you."