Summary: 
    Looking at people like Fang reminds you of the past that was, the present that cannot be and the future that will never come. It fills you with dread, pain and regret. And yet, it also fills you with hope and drive. Looking at people like that makes you believe that not everything is lost, and there is still a chance for redemption.

    I will not lie, for the last few years, you've been living a life that was fueled by nothing but sheer spite and memories. Every day you'd come back home you would lie down on your couch with a cigarette in your fingers and booze on your table and just dream. Dream of the possibility which long since has been lost. And when your cigarette finally burns out, your bottle is finally empty, you are dragged back to reality. To be exposed to a bitter, broken present and give up all hope.

    Fang and Anon give you strength. The job is not yet done. Do it. Save those you can. And if it will cost you your sanity, your life, so be it. Once again open your eyes and fight. Today is yet another day at work.

    - The-one-that-sings-a-lullaby, the book master that writes the past.


 I am shocked and cannot comprehend what is in front of me. Just a moment ago I was having fun, finally rediscovering my passion for music, and now here we are. In front of me - Anon's back, which protects me from the monstrosity of a human being who tries to grab my hand. This human being is known as Detective Rando. Probably one of my father's goons. The person who just knocked out my friend Stepan. And why? Did he come here for me and Stepan was just collateral? Will this psycho hurt Anon as well? I cannot allow it! I need to fight, if I back up Anon I bet we can take that guy. I was fully preparing myself for an assault… Before the Detective lowered his hand and made a step backwards.

 

"Relax, spice girl, I am not here to cause you harm."

 

With those words, he walked away from us and to the stage. He lifted himself on it, sat down and hung his legs from the side. After that, he took a small box out of his jacket, opened it and picked a cigarette from it. He lights it with a strange lighter and takes the first blow. He puffs the smoke into the air and looks at us with his strange hollow gaze.

 

"Third one today. Damn, I spent all my freebies in the first half of the day."

 

He laughs at himself, but there is no joy in it. It is more like he goes through the motions. Anon still stands by my side, preparing himself to flee with me in hand if he needs to. I think the detective noticed it, because the next moment he took a gun out of his holster and… placed it on the stage near him.

 

"In my team, we call it a "call for negotiations", simple premise really. This action dates to… ah, sorry, almost rumbled about history there."

 

Anon relaxes a bit, but I can sense that he is still tense. Damn, I wanna run… If we make it to the other street, I can call the taxi, we can then go to the station and…

 

"And then what, Miss Fang? I bet you have no money to buy a train ticket, let alone start your life somewhere else."

 

This man, he can read me like a book. He is worse than Dude when it comes to mind-reading bullshit. Fuck, what can we do?! Suddenly, Anon makes a step forward, as if he is putting his feet down, trying to intimidate the Detective. The latter raised his eyebrow observing this scene.

 

"Why are you here? Are you here for Fang?"

 

The detective took another drag from his cigarette before bursting into laughter.

 

"Hahaha, Is that why you two are acting this way? The big and scary detective came to take the damsel away to the castle of the evil blimp of a pterodactyl? Pfhahahaha!"

 

His laughter scares me for some reason. It sounds like approaching disaster like something is going to sweep you away. Fang, come on, stop being scared, even Anon tries to be brave!

 

"You two… You two are such a treasure of dumb and funny, I can't… Phew."

 

Finally, the Detective stops laughing. His expression is serious once more.

 

"If I came to take her away, do you think I'd come to the place with three people that can try to fight back, instead of, I dunno, ambushing her near her house or something? I mean come on."

 

He does make a good point, but I cannot let my guard down. This man is working for my father, and if my father orders him to bring me in, he will. Suddenly, the Detective stands up and approaches the instruments on the stage. He touches them, observes them, and inspects them. One instrument grabs his attention in particular. That being Stepan's keyboard synth which still was plugged in. The detective hits a few keys, producing a random assortment of sounds.

 

"You two don't have to worry, I am here to interrogate Stepan, not taking Fang to her dad. Even if he orders me to do that, I won't."

 

The detective hits a few more keys. The sound becomes more harmonized but still makes no sense.

 

"Then… Why are you talking to us?"

 

"Simple, because you two piqued my interest. Also because I wanted to check on you, Anon."

 

He turns to Anon, who is taken aback by that revelation. 

 

"I was serious yesterday, you know. I was worried for you. You look like… someone I used to know. Well, before they… It isn't important now."

 

Was that sadness? The first genuine emotion this strange person shows to us? It felt so strange, but when he said that I felt… Relieved. Like the monstrosity in front of me has shed its skin and revealed a normal person beneath it. As I contemplate this scenery, strange music begins to play. The Detective has found his tune.

 

And it was sad. I could not tell at first how sad exactly, because the melody was in major chords, but the longer I listened to it, the more I understood. This music is supposed to be happy, supposed to be joyful, and yet… It feels incomplete. Like something is missing, and then it hits me. It was made with 2 or 3 instruments in mind. This is an accompaniment. Desperately searching for someone to step in, but receiving no reply. A sad melody of the person left behind. And then it stops, never to be finished. The Detective stands there for a moment, before smiling.

 

"Still got it, muscle memory guy."

 

And then he steps away from the keyboard. Am I calm? I didn't even realize it, but somewhere along the line, both me and Anon relaxed and completely let our guard down. Was this guy's plan all along? The detective stands on the stage, looking at us from above. He finishes his cigarette and puts it into a small tube that he took out from his pocket. Then he just looks at us.

 

"So, we three finally meet at last. Allow me to introduce myself again. Detective Rando P. Erson. We saw each other last night, Mister Anon, Miss Fang."

 

Why is it that this person uses my stage name? It is as if he knows that this name is more important to me than my real one… I just realized… The way he talked to me yesterday like he knew me and Anon…

 

"You were observing us, weren't you?"

 

The Detective does not flinch. In fact, he is as calm as he was before. Damn, I think he specifically made it so we would figure this out. Then he sighs.

 

"Yeah, sorry about that. Your daddy's order."

 

The moment I hear that I tense once again. No, not him, this bastard he…

 

"Relax, all I did was just tell him how you do… plus make sure that your life is not in danger. You know how Skin Row can be. I did not reveal where you were working, or where you lived… Although I know everything."

 

Everything? How much is "everything"?

 

"... Everything is everything, Miss Fang. Including your less… conscious moments."

 

This fucker observed my every step? Damn it! Fuck! I feel my cheeks getting redder! Does this asshole know everything? Including me getting wasted every Sunday and walking the street where Anon's apartment used to be? Or when I was performing every day half-dead? Wait, so he is the reason I had that uncomfortable feeling of being watched? Did he tell my father about any of it? Oh fuck…

 

"Calm down, miss Fang. I did not tell your father about everything you've been through. Just that you are alive and only slightly unwell."

 

I am going to kill that asshole and… wait, yesterday…

 

"You… you gave me that journal to…"

 

"Make you and Anon meet? That is correct."

 

… I just realized something that I shouldn't. Even all these years later some asshole tries to manipulate me and Anon into getting together. This asshole is just like Naomi. I feel the rage boiling within me. Three years. Three fucking years and this shit is happening again. I stand up from the chair and forcefully push Anon away. I am walking towards the stage and the Detective steps down to meet me on the ground level. I grab the Detective by the collar. 

 

"You… You!"

 

I cannot form a single sentence. I was observed by this man for god knows how long and then he has a gal to manipulate me and Anon again! Why is this happening, what did I do wrong to be treated this way? To be a pawn in someone's sick game of life? I want to tear this smug fucking smile off this bastard's face… only to realize that he isn't smiling. His gaze is yet again a terrifying one.

"Miss Fang. Two things. One: if you decide to hurt me, I won't fight back… however if anything happens to me, you will be liable for the assault on the officer of the police. I may be tolerant of that idea, but others will find you and drag you to the station. And you know what that means?"

 

Arrest. Imprisonment. Meeting my father. Ruining any chance at achieving my dream…

 

"And second: before losing your temper like this, make sure to look at those near you."

 

What? What did he mea-

 

ANON!? I turn around and see him on the ground, rubbing his face. Is that blood? Then I realized it, I used both of my hands to push him away… And I did not even notice that I clawed his cheek. Fuck, it is happening again! I get angry and hurt those around me who I hold dear! Fuck it, fuck everything! Before I can process the entire situation, my legs carry me to the garage gates. I need to walk away from here, somewhere just not here. Before I could leave, someone grabbed my hand.

 

"Fang, calm down, please!"

 

Anon stops me. Why aren't you angry? Why are you quick to catch me? You must realize that I am the same bitch that abandoned you back at the beach. Stop acting this way! Push me away, hate me, walk out on me, just…

 

"Fang…"

 

His eyes are pleading for me to stay. And it finally hits me. If I leave, it will hurt Anon the most. He was killing himself over letting me down for all these years, never forgiving himself for letting me go. If I walk out on him now, he will hate himself the most. Fuck… I fell to my knees. This all is just so exhausting. I am tired of this psychological bullshit. Someone, please, just end all this…

 

"Miss Fang, I believe there is a misunderstanding."

 

I hear him, yet I cannot raise my eyes to meet his. I just continue to look… somewhere, I don't know where.

 

"Miss Fang, please, recount yesterday. What has happened. And what would have happened if I did not set up a plan for you and Anon to meet each other."

 

All the memories of yesterday start flowing through my head. If this man did not give me that journal, did not give me that advice… Anon would have been… No, I can't think about this, I don't want to think about this.

 

"If you didn't do that, I would've…"

 

Anon… he also processes that information. I lift my gaze to see Anon in front of me, on his knees and holding both of my shoulders. He looks at the ground beneath him. His eyes are filled with fear. If this man did not do what he did… Anon would not have been here, in front of me.

 

"It was never my intention to manipulate you two. I am sorry for this. But I couldn't just sit this one out and not interfere. When I saw Anon that day, I knew what he was planning… And I could not allow it to happen. The only thing I could come up with is to set up a meeting between you both, and well… you know everything else."

 

Is he telling us the truth? This charade… was done to save Anon's life? But why would some random detective do that? Why would he take the time out of his life to help us? 

 

"Would you believe me if I said I just wanted to do some good for once?"

 

Huh, he did it again, reading me like a book. But that sentence… It sounded weird? It is not a lie but also does not feel like the truth. Maybe he was just reminded of something else when he was observing us and… decided to act like he couldn't back then. Maybe he helped us because he could relate to this situation.

 

… The Detective turned to the side, hiding his face. Maybe I am wrong and just trying to push my ideas onto someone else again… But what if…

 

Fuck, it doesn't matter now, I need to stand up, my knees are hurting. As I raise myself, Anon is there to help me. The Detective looks at the backdoor.

 

"Hmmm, your friend will come out any second now, so let's wrap it up here for now… well, before that."

 

He takes something else out of his pocket… Is that a flip phone?

 

"You two, give me your numbers?"

 

"... Why?"

 

I ask him, totally confused by the set of events. Suddenly, the Detective smiles.

 

"I know what you two are planning, saw your comedy act of "let's achieve our dreams" nonsense. I want to help… As a payback for being your stalker for a year."

 

For a year… Damn, I would not have figured it out if he never told me. Wait, he wants to help us? 

 

"Yes, I do."

 

So this is how Anon feels when I point out that he mumbles.

 

"You need a venue for your show, right? I am sorry for sounding like an asshole, but you two would never find one even if you will search for it your entire life. Your band has no connections here, nobody will take you in… I know the place that will IF I give them my word."

 

Now this… this is fucking weird. Just a moment ago I believed that this man will drag my ass out to meet my dad, but now he wants to help me with something my father would be against?

 

"Indeed, Miss Fang. While your father is my boss, I think of him more as a big, overly serious brother. This will be a good way to get back at him for forcing me to clean his office for that "Liquid Time" fiasco."

 

Again he smiles, and it is as fake as ever. But this time it does not feel dangerous. No, this time it feels dramatic. Like he is planning some mischief. I should be wary, but something tells me that he is not lying to me. Damn it, I look at Anon. He looks at me and nods.

 

"I don't think he is lying, Fang. This morning I tried to find some places online and, well, it is harder than I thought… And I think we need help here."

 

Fuck, even Anon, the person with paranoia issues is considering this preposition… Ah, what the hell. I take out my phone.

 

"Alright, bastard Detective. You probably bullshitting me, but fuck it. Here is my number."

 

I tell him my contact details and he shares his with us. Anon also gave the Detective his details. The Detective gives out a confident "hmph" and looks at his phone, before pocketing it.

 

"Ah, just so we are clear, I can only help you find the venue. Everything else is on you."

 

"Huh?"

 

"Well, I am not here to become your manager, am I? I just give you an opportunity for the show that YOU must run. You need a crew, the proper instruments, preparations, all that jazz. The place I think of is big and it can potentially have a good audience, but you need to prepare everything yourself. The place does not have many people run it, so you better find your own crew to set up a stage."

 

I guess that makes sense. Back when we were playing at Moe's, we were preparing our own stage… Back then it was a small one, so we only needed a day to set everything up. So, if this guy tells us the truth, we will need a team and time to prepare for the show this time. I looked at Anon, who was already mumbling his thoughts out, planning ahead. Damn Dweeb, he always makes me smile when he acts this way.

 

"So you two better not slack off, I don't want to disappoint my contacts."

 

… Damn, I think I am going to regret it in the future. But damn, if he speaks the truth, then this might be the best chance for me to achieve my dream. This Detective better do his part right.

 

"Miss Fang, please, refer to me as Rando, or, if you feel particularly grateful, Uncle Rando."

 

Damn, I am already regretting it. I look at Anon… I can hear him mumble still. Poor guy, he was forced along for this ride. I guess today won't become any weirder or… oh, right, Stepan situation. Detective turns to the back door which has just opened. Stepan, Dude and that weird kid that came with Rando are coming out.

 

"Well, time to do my job. And for you two probably getting some answers."

 

Stepan… What are you hiding from me?

 

***

 

HERE THEY COME. THE SUSPECT, HIS ATTORNEY AND YOUR PERSONAL DEPUTY

 

[You must prepare a set of questions that are direct and to the point. This one will lie to you.]

 

He is way too concerned that lying to you will do more harm, than telling the truth. Plus, he looks at Fang… He knows that she also deserves to know the truth.

 

The guy is all well done, Sire, he will cooperate, even if he does not like it.

 

You are on fire, brother. After this, you should take a swing!

 

Stepan and Dude approach you. Warrick runs up to you, he is expecting something.

 

"Did these two have any funny ideas, kid?"

 

"Pff, like I would let them. I watched them like the fucking pigfuck. They were just talking and shit something about someone's fang."

 

THIS KID DID A GOOD JOB, TELL HIM THAT.

 

"Not bad, kid, maybe we can make good police material out of you."

 

"Watch it, I ain't no coppa."

 

One day you might be one, brother.

 

You turn to your number one suspect/lead - Stepan. Make him comfortable, he will talk more willingly, chief.

 

You nod to Stepan and point to that fucking chair which feels like it has been the centre of everyone's attention today. The suspect reluctantly walks up to the chair and sits down. Now is the time for some professional interrogation.

 

Smooth, quick, to the point. And no fists this time, Sire.

 

"Alright, mister Kuznetsov, I hope this time you are ready to cooperate. Unlike last time."

 

"... Yeah."

 

Good, chief, first of all, ask the most obvious question.

 

"Alright, Stepan, the first question is quite simple. Have you killed the guy we found in the basement?"

 

"No."

 

Quick and direct, this is not a lie, Sire.

 

"Good, see? This is easy. Now a more serious question…"

 

WHY THE FUCK YOU POINTED A GUN AT US!?

 

"Why did you point a gun at me if you haven't done anything wrong?"

 

"Well, because I am a Neighbor Union member, and as far as I am concerned, police officers are our enemies."

 

FIGURES…

 

"And then there is the fact that you are Wicked 13…"

 

Here it is again, Sire, your reputation precedes you.

 

"They say that you are the most reckless, violent, the most psychotic officer of them all. They say that every person arrested by you arrives at the police station with broken bones and massive bruises."

 

[This is not wrong, Rando. You've been a lot more violent as of late. And even before that, you were known as a reckless detective who always gets his prep].

 

"And let me guess, you thought that I would accuse you of murder, beat you up and force you to write a confession or something?"

 

"... yeah."

 

THEY FEAR YOU, IT IS GOOD!

 

[No, it isn't. This is a disaster of a reputation for a police officer].

 

Stepan rubs his snout, you can smell the blood still. That punch left a lot of damage which will remain for days, if not weeks.

 

"Damn, I knew that you were a fighter from the rumors, but being knocked down with one punch…"

 

"Well, I don't fight to win, I fight to survive. Punching a dino in the snout or stomach is always go to for us, humans."

 

"Will take that into account next time, jeez. It is a good thing I am not a singer."

 

You soften him up a bit, brother, he now will be more agreeable.

 

"Alright then, Stepan, I don't believe you are a murderer type. If you ever brought harm to anyone, I bet it was in self-defense."

 

Stepan remains silent. You hit the bullseye.

 

HE IS WEAK, HE WILL NOT KILL WHEN NEEDED, ONLY WHEN HE IS FORCED.

 

"Since we cleared that up, let us go down the list. First of all, I need you to confirm a few things. You are a member of Neighborhood Watch, is that correct."

 

"Yes."

 

"And you've been running with them for 6 months."

 

"Yes."

 

"I have a good suspicion that you were running with them for longer. Some witnesses stated that they saw you with several members almost a year ago."

 

He stays silent for the moment and tries to figure out if the said "witnesses" are real. They are not, of course. It is your own observation. Stepan looks at you trying to call your bluff, but finds nothing. He looks at Warrick.

 

THE KID KNOWS THAT THERE ARE NO MORE WITNESSES, BUT HE FIGURED OUT YOUR PLAN. HE STAYS HIS USUAL ANNOYING SELF IN ORDER TO NOT CAUSE SUSPICION.

 

Finally, Stepan sighs. He gave up fighting.

 

"Yes, I did know a few members before I joined them. They tried to recruit me for quite some time. I refused many times, but… I figured that if I assisted them, I could secure a better future for myself and my mum. Plus…"

 

In his eyes, you can see the emotion hard to describe. Sadness? Empathy? Annoyance? There is something of that sort. Whatever it is, this is an accumulation of all the years of seeing homeless, broken people who lost everything to things outside their control, children addicted to alcohol and drugs, and many more. He is tired of seeing these horrors and now he wants to make it better.

 

YOUNG AND FOOLISH, YET STRONG AND WILLFUL. RARE COMBINATION. USUALLY, PEOPLE LIKE HIM STICK TO THE SOCIAL MEDIA OR POINTLESS ACTIVISM. THIS ONE IS NOT AFRAID TO TAKE ON THE STREETS.

 

"I get it, you joined the Neighbot Union to clean up the streets. Quite common reason, actually."

 

"Maybe it is common, but it is a good reason, unlike you, officer."

 

"I beg to differ, mister Stepan. I may be ruthless, but I never got too over the top. After all, even the most reasonable and peaceful people on Skin Row may pull a weapon on you for even approaching them weirdly, as you demonstrated today."

 

[Lay off him. He was terrified of you. Now, you need to concentrate on questions].

 

"Alright, next question. The basement on the other end of the street, in an alleyway between a laundromat and an abandoned bookstore… Were you there before? And I beg to be honest here, I have a witness report, so any attempt at lying may be seen as an obstruction of truth."

 

Stepan gives a side eye to Warrick, then he looks back at you with angry, but defeated eyes.

 

"... Yes, I was there. The last time I visited that basement was about a month ago or so."

 

"May I ask what you were doing there?"

 

"Finishing some task left unfinished…"

 

"Does it have anything to do with a crate full of weapons?"

 

Stepan expression changes to the one of annoyance and shame. He is about to tell a truth which he did not want anyone to hear, especially Fang and Henry.

 

HIS NAME IS DUDE.

 

"Mister Stepan?"

 

"Sorry, I am trying to think of the proper words…"

 

He stays silent for the moment, covering his face with both of his hands. Then he let go and sighs.

 

"Yeah… it does. You see, about 3 months ago me and my… comrades, found a stash of weapons owned by some supremacist gang. I think they call themselves Jurassic Sunrise."

 

Hmm?

 

"We subdued the member of the gang and took every crate we could find in the warehouse on the docks."

 

You remember there were some citizen reports about criminal activities in the docks of Skin Row, but by the time you arrived there alongside a proper team, the warehouse where the activity took place was empty. However, there were obvious signs of battle.

 

"Is it by any chance the old trade warehouse that was used to transport heavy mechanical parts?"

 

"Yeah, "Little Clockwork" the company was named. Some old factories originated in the Rust Belt. They were closed down in the 80s. Used that dock here for the transportation of parts from overseas. Their abandoned warehouse was used as a headquarters for the weapon trade."

 

So that was the illegal activity you missed out on.

 

"We got several of our members shot, but thankfully no one died. After everything was done we were thinking of what to do with the weapons… I voted to give it to the police."

 

He says the truth, Sire.

 

"But most members voted against that since they believed that you would just re-sell them on the streets for easy profit."

 

"With someone like Commissioner Aaron behind the wheel?"

 

"I don't know that commissioner personally, but he has some nasty reputation. Something to do with Lil' Tru activity."

 

[Damn, you would rather have no one knowing about Ripley's common bowling evenings with the infamous Uncle Moe…]

 

"So, what did you do with those weapons then?"

 

"The meeting decided that we would utilize and repurpose them."

 

"Utilize and repurpose?"

 

"By the agreement of the Lieutenant Meeting 201m2021, it was decided that no member of the Neighbor Union should carry any weapon that is considered critical. Any type of explosives, high caliber rifles, full auto weapons, etc, all of that is considered weapons of the critical type and therefore the majority of members could not carry them. So, the majority of weapons in that stash were of no use to us. We took those we could use and sabotaged the rest, preparing them for utilization."

 

THIS IS ASININE. WHY WASTE PERFECTLY FINE WEAPONS ON SCRAP SIMPLY BECAUSE OF SOME STUPID RULES?

 

Sire, this one tells no lies, or at least he believes them to be true. Some crates might have been hidden by the higher authority of the Neighbor Union for future use.

 

"And the crate that we found in that basement?"

 

"Was left behind when we had to abandon that outpost 3 months ago."

 

"Why was it abandoned?"

 

"Because the Jurassic Sunrise crew was snooping around. There were quite many of them. So we were ordered to relocate the base of local operations. That crate was left behind by accident…"

 

Then this raises another question.

 

"Then why come back? What reason would there be? You said it yourself, you sabotaged those weapons, so I assume they are unusable… why risk getting exposed and coming back to it?"

 

"... To finish the unfinished business of clearing the place."

 

Sire, this is a lie.

 

"Don't lie to me, Stepan! You are in deep shit, you know that, right? You are the only member of your gang that was present in that basement in recent history and now it is a scene of the crime, so I recommend you to be honest. Otherwise, I would have no other option but to drag you back with me to the station for further interrogation!"

 

STEPAN ASSESSES WHAT YOU HAVE JUST SAID. IF DINOS COULD SWEAT, THIS ONE WOULD BE POURING BUCKETS. YOU GOT HIM.

 

"Officer Erson… I…"

 

"Well, speak up!"

 

"You see, I used that basement for… personal reasons. I, uh…"

 

Sire, this has nothing to do with the case, but this might have something to do with the other type of crime.

 

"Stepan, I am investigating murder, not whatever crap you've been up to! Tell me the truth."

 

"... Fuck, I am sorry everyone…"

 

He does not say it to only people inside this room, but also to someone else, somewhere far away. His family most likely.

 

"I tried to resell the weapon parts from that crate."

 

"... What?"

 

[Did he not tell us that the parts were damaged on purpose? Was he lying and we just didn't pick it up?]

 

No, Sire, he told the truth. He just did not tell you the entire truth.

 

"Let me guess, that crate contains non-damaged weapons, correct?"

 

"... Yes."

 

"And it is there because…?"

 

"Me and my friend hid it away from the other members."

 

Chief, the picture is somewhat clear. It would explain why Stepan arrived so much later after the place was abandoned because he wanted to make sure that other members would not interfere with his plans.

 

"I looked up how much a crate like that could be sold off for, and the money was good. I needed it because…"

 

Here it comes, the line that will hurt his friends the most.

 

"Because that stupid band gig was not enough for me and my family. I needed more to pay for my tuition… And I wanted to make sure that my mother would stop killing herself trying to provide for me."

 

You can sense it, the moment when he had to make that decision. He was standing in front of a cursed treasure cove, choosing what road to take. He felt guilt from betraying his friends at Neighbor Union, and for doubting the success of "Silver Line", but the guilt from seeing his own mother coming back home as a lifeless husk was stronger. He swallowed his pride and loyalty and chose the path of betrayal.

 

"I… I am sorry Fang, but I did not trust the possibility of our success."

 

You turn to Fang and… there is no sign of betrayal in her eyes. There is only sadness. She is processing what to think about that revelation. Anon stood by her side, putting his hand on her shoulder. On the other side of the room, Dude appears to be unaffected by the truth, but you can sense the whirlwind of emotions brewing within him. Unlike Fang, he does feel betrayal, but not for the lack of trust, no, his moral grounding is in question. And finally, there is Warrick, you were half-expecting him to be relishing in the idea of witnessing Stepan's suffering, but there is nothing of that sort on his face. No, he is as serious as a kid his age can be.

 

He empathizes with Stepan. Or rather, with his situation. He knows how unfair this world can be, and how difficult some choices can be, especially when survival is involved.

 

"So you were trying to resell those weapon parts. You know what would have happened if you were caught by the police, or worse, by the members of your militia?"

 

"... I was ready for the risk. I am tired of all of this. I just wanted to…"

 

To save those who I can save.

 

"Stepan, I will not judge you, because I understand how life on Skin Row is, but think of your mother! If you were caught, she would've never heard from you again. Then what? Would she be happy if you disappeared? Or worse, if you were found in the bay the next day?"

 

Stepan looks at the ground. He is fully aware of the foolishness of his actions. And he knew the possible outcome that could have occurred if his plan was uncovered. He tried to improve his and his mother's life, but the risk was too high. And now he finally realizes that.

 

"I… I just wanted to…"

 

"Stepan, I know what you desired to do, and I can admire your loyalty to your family, but you sold out your loyalty to those you swore allegiance to and lied to your friends. This could have turned out nasty no matter what you could have done. You are lucky this is how the truth comes out. Here, amongst your friends."

 

"... I am sorry, everyone…"

 

This time, it is more sad. He says it like he does not deserve forgiveness. This apology was not made with the goal of gaining absolution. It is a punishment for his deed.

 

"Say sorry all you want, but actions speak louder than words… I will ask you the last question and then I will let you go. Was there another person who knew about this plan?"

 

Stepan ponders for a moment, eyes wide staring at something far away. Then you can see him slump.

 

"I… The man that proposed this plan to me… His name is Cold, or at least this is how everyone calls him."

 

Probably an alias, chief, but considering your name, this one could pretty much be real.

 

"Do you have contact details of this Cold fella?"

 

"No, he said it was too dangerous. I also did not give him mine. We agreed to meet each other after I confirmed the inventory but… he never came."

 

"Stepan…"

 

THIS YOUNG, STUPID, NAIVE FOOL.

 

"... This man tried to frame you for murder, you fucking idiot."

 

Stepan tenses.

 

"What? This… why would he do it?"

 

"This is for me to find out and for you to think over, but I am sure you are not a murderer. Way too soft for that. Anyway, I am concluding the on-field interrogation. There is nothing more to ask."

 

You take out a small notepad from your coat, which contains blank slips and forms. You take out a summon order form and fill it out. You pass the form to Stepan.

 

"Here."

 

"W-what is this?"

 

"The summon order. You will have to appear at the police station on the exact date shown on the paper. If you will not appear on that date we will have to file an arrest warrant on your name. I am sorry, but even if I believe you are not a murderer, you are still a suspect. And even if your name is cleared, you are still a viable witness. That is all."

 

WALK AWAY, DO NOT APOLOGIZE FOR POTENTIALLY RUINING HIS LIFE.

 

No, not ruining, brother, you gave him a second chance. If he plays his cards right, he may still find an absolution for himself.

 

"... Everything they say about you is true then… You are a fucking monster."

 

You have a severe urge to light a cig.

 

"Perhaps, but this is how it is. Think of your future actions carefully, otherwise…"

 

"Just leave… It is over, everything…"

 

You can't do much more. You turn to Anon and Fang.

 

"I leave the rest to you two. Take care of him. Even if I think what he has done is terrible, he needs your support. Besides…"

 

It will be a challenge for them to overcome by themselves.

 

"Just make sure that he finds the right path. You all walk the ruins."

 

Fang looks at you with the same expression that was fixed on her face when she was playing on stage at the pizzeria. Anon had a puzzled, confused look, signalling that he was in turmoil about what to do. You can't do much for them here, just go.

 

"Anon, Fang, we will talk later. Just remember. No matter how hard you try to not to hurt those whom you hold dear, there are times when that is unavoidable. See ya around."

 

With these words, you leave the garage.

 

***

 

It is colder than usual outside, or maybe you just have a terrible feeling about all of this.

 

[What happened, happened. Right now you must concentrate on your work. You have to go back to the station and prepare the investigation report paper.]

 

You take out your phone. Ripley is already back at the station, and there are no buses. You don't feel like walking, so Taxi would do. You call the best taxi service of which you are aware. As you listen to the ringing of the phone, many thoughts invade your mind, and none of them are clear enough to make sense. Finally, someone picks up the phone.

 

"Uh, yes? How can I help you?"

 

Huh, this voice is different from usual. A new guy? 

 

"Hi, is this a taxi service? I need a car at Steed Penny Street, near the arcade hall."

 

"Huh? I was just there… Sorry, I will come as soon as possible, can you wait for about 10 minutes? I'll come by as soon as possible."

 

"Yeah, no problem. Take your time."

 

"Thanks! Be there soon."

 

* Before the taxi driver could put down his phone, on the other end you can hear someone yelling something about a car battery and some mechanic named Rusty. Then, you hear a click.

 

You look at the phone's screen to confirm the time. 10 minutes, huh? Enough time to think… Was it the right thing, brother? What you did there?

 

[It is, it was a part of your job. Being an adult is hard. Many times before and many times in the future you will ask the same question "Was I right?" and the answer is never clear. So don't think about it].

 

Suddenly you feel someone standing near you. It is Warrick. He followed you to the outside.

 

"Man, that was messed up. The how you handled that shitshow."

 

"Yeah…"

 

"... Hey, is it what it feels like being a detective? Shitty?"

 

"Well, sometimes."

 

"Shit, no wonder you are insane."

 

Hmm, this kid does not pull any punches.

 

"Listen, listen, here is the ting. What you did today is not good or bad. Tis just what you do. And it feels like shit, sure, but if you let it get to you, you'll go even further insane. And I need my pigfuck to be as sane as possible."

 

It is his way of showing his worry. Behind insults and snark, he feels like he is responsible for your well-being.

 

You smile and put your hand on the kid's head.

 

"Hm, not bad kid, you did quite well back there."

 

"Knock it off, pigfuck."

 

"Still need to work on your attitude though."

 

You laugh, the kid is embarrassed. Hmm, he deserves some kind of reward.

 

"Hey, kid, if you ever need help, call this number."

 

You pass down to him a piece of paper with your contact details.

 

"Pf, I am no snitch."

 

"No, you ain't, you are as hardcore as they come, but… If you feel like the situation is more than what you can deal with, do not hesitate to contact me. I'll be there in a flash."

 

"Ha, do not expect me to call you…"

 

You can almost hear him saying "Any time soon"

 

"Ha, that's the spirit."

 

"Shut the fuck up."

 

"Anyway, I need to go. See you around kid."

 

You walk away, towards the Arcade Hall. Warrick watches your back. You can't even guess what is going on in his head, but you hope that this whole event tempered his spirit. You sense he is a good learner, and you think you will meet him soon.

 

For now, go to the arcade hall… And think. Think until the Taxi arrives.

 

***

 

After the detective and the kid left the garage, we did not say a word to each other for what felt like an eternity. None of us knew what to say. I stand near Fang, who looks like she is having a battle within her soul. Damn it, Anon, this situation became dire. What to do? What can I do?

 

And then the memory comes, the one when I met Uncle Moe when Fang and I were searching for the venue. He told me something interesting. Essentially, I cannot solve every problem that Fang faces. She must win many battles on her own, all I can do is to support her. I look at Stepan, who still sits on the chair on which he was interrogated by the Detective, still clenching that summon order. Dude is just… there. In the corner of the garage, smoking. He is probably also trying to figure out what to do. Damn, thinking about others' feelings is hard. But I have to do this. I turn to Fang.

 

"Fang… Everything will be fine."

 

"Huh?"

 

"You'll figure it out, I believe in you."

 

"I-I just don't know what to do."

 

"Just wing it, if something goes wrong I'll be there to help you."

 

Fang looks at me with an expression so hollow, so painful. God damn it, I really want to hug her right now, but I must restrain myself. I want Fang to rely on me, not depend on me. I put my hand on her shoulder… and she placed her hand on my. She nods and starts walking towards Stepan. I can sense that she does not want to do it, but she has to. Otherwise, not only her dream, another one of her friendships will be ruined… She already lost many friends because of me, I cannot let her lose more.

 

"Stepan?"

 

The red parasaurolophus looks up at her.

 

"Fang?"

 

While he does not shed a single tear, I can sense the great sadness within him. I sensed it once before. When I went to Principal Spear's office after Trish screwed me over. Back then I made a mistake, which I still regret… and I know Fang regrets too. This situation is way too similar to that.

 

"Stepan, for how long… How long were you doubting me? Doubting us?"

 

"... For long enough to do something stupid."

 

He looks at the summon order.

 

"Look at this Fang. This is the sign of my betrayal. When you and Dude invited me to play with your band after finding me on the streets of Skin Row, playing in the park for cents and pennies you gave me a chance to do something more… But it was not enough."

 

He is on the verge of tears. But he forces himself not to cry. Why? Is he that ashamed of showing his emotions?

 

"I am a greedy bastard, aren't I?"

 

"... Tell me why? And please, be honest."

 

He once again looks at her. Ah, I get it. He does not cry, because he believes he does not deserve the opportunity to cry. It was like that with me when I betrayed Fang.

 

"Because, as I said, I needed more money for tuition. To make it so my mum would not return home close to midnight, only to collapse on the bed after pushing for god knows how many hours. I… I needed to do that, Fang, I needed that breakthrough."

 

"Stepan…"

 

Fang sighs… She tries to find proper words. I want to step in, but this is Fang's fight. I must believe in her and that she is able to overcome it.

 

"It hurts, you know. That you don't believe in me. It hurts that you lied about your life when you constantly tell us what to do… but more importantly… It hurts me to know that if not for that detective, you could have disappeared."

 

Stepan looks at her, eyes wide open, he searches for the reason why she said that.

 

"Stepan, you fucking idiot! What would I do if you were caught? If something had happened to you? Have you thought for a second how I would feel? How Dude would feel, how would your mother feel?"

 

I observed this scene. I can feel the pain in my chest but I try to remain stoic. I am here to catch her, not to push her, stay strong Anon.

 

"You know how fucking awful it feels? Looking at you like that, acting this way, saying those words? You… you… I cannot allow you to do this."

 

"Fang, this is not…"

 

"Shut up, just… shut up."

 

Fang rubs her eyes. She tries her best to contain her anger and sadness. Finally, she breathes in and calms down.

 

"Stepan, you know, I also had… have a family…"

 

I hold my breath. Is she about to…

 

"They… They loved me. They loved me unconditionally. Despite what I did to them. I screamed at them, insulted them, pushed them away and never once did they try to throw me away. They always welcomed me back home no matter how much I messed up… And I repaid them with nothing but scorn."

 

Fang rubs her elbow and looks to the side.

 

"I always wondered why I did it, why I treated them like that. I made myself believe it is because I am special, someone who I am not. I even tried to forge my own identity based on what others wanted me to be, believing that it would make everything clear, that it would make me happy…"

 

She grasps her head with her hand as if she is trying to contain what's within.

 

"But now I think I did all of this because I wanted them to hate me. Because I believed they would much better off hating me. Better off without me…"

 

Here comes the big revelation…

 

"I-I ran away from home, wanting to follow my dreams… but also I wanted to get myself out of their lives, because… because I thought that it would make them happy…"

 

Fang started to cry, she crossed her arms and grabbed both her elbows. Is she… is she going to do what I think she wants to do?

 

"Only recently I realized how much I messed up! I abandoned everyone who held me dear because I hated myself because I thought I did nothing but bring pain to others. My parents, my friends… I thought that their lives would improve without me, but… but…"

 

I ran up to her, grabbing both of her hands. Thank god, I managed to do that before she started tearing feathers from her already damaged wings.

 

"That is enough, Fang, take a rest and calm down!"

 

I looked at Stepan, who was looking like he just committed murder. His eyes bulged, his mouth open, and he was breathing heavily. For the first time, I can see him showing emotion, and that emotion is… guilt.

 

"Fang, I…"

 

Then he finally gives up and lets his emotions burst. Tears began flowing down his face.

 

"Fang… I am sorry. I-I did not realize how much pain I am causing you, how much more pain I would've caused you… I am an awful friend. I-I just wanted to help my mother, I wanted for her to rest… I…"

 

"Stepan, if I may interfere."

 

Alright, Anon, Fang fought enough, time for you to add your personal touch.

 

"Stepan, listen. I know how you felt about wanting to help your mother, but you approached this situation all wrong. You decided to do what you thought was right, even though you were wrong. You betrayed your friend's trust and… I know way too much about that."

 

Fang looks at me, I think she figured out what I am trying to do. After seeing my eyes, she looks at the ground. I let go of her friends. Now it is my battle.

 

"Listen, even if your plan succeeded, even if you got the money, you would have hated yourself. For putting yourself at unnecessary risk, for betraying your band. And that road is the one that would have pushed you away further and further from the people you love. Self-loathing and shame would have turned you into a broken person, setting up a path for you which has only one end…"

 

Stepan looks at me, his eyes are still watery. Alright Anon, let's do this, you can do it.

 

"I lived that life for the last three years. I betrayed the person who I loved and then tried to make it right by disappearing from their lives. I know that you would have done the same, Stepan. Sooner or later you would've not been able to carry that guilt and would have shut yourself from the world. From your friends. And trust me, you'd regret that. The reason why I am saying this to you is… I don't want Fang to lose her friend because her friend made a mistake. But the next decision is up to you. What do you want to do?"

 

Stepan looks at the ground. He looks shaken, like for once in his life he has to face the reality which he tried to ignore. He always thought he knew what was best for everyone, but that "best" always came at his expense. He was hurting himself just to make people around him happy. Damn, he reminds me of Naser.

 

"I… I want to stay with the band. I want to apologize to Fang and Dude… and I also want to apologize to you."

 

To me? 

 

"I assumed the worst about you, yet here you are trying to build bridges and trying to help me. Damn, I am the worst."

 

"No, you are not."

 

Fang steps in. She no longer is crying.

 

"Stepan, you were trying to help your mother. But you made a mistake thinking that you owe her something for all that love. You don't. She loves you and will love you because you are her son. You don't need to risk your life for her sake. And-and you are constantly trying to protect me and help Dude. I know you never meant to harm me and for that reason I… I forgive you. I don't want to hold a grudge against you. I did that a long time ago to my other friends and regretted it. I just want us to be honest with each other and try to be better."

 

Stepan finally stands up from his chair, cleans his tears with his shirt and nods to Fang.

 

"I… I don't… Thank you. And I am sorry too. I don't want to lie anymore. Not to you, not to Dude."

 

"I guess I have to say my piece."

 

Dude finally joined in to the confession circle.

 

"Dude?"

 

"You know, the moment ago I would not have considered forgiving you. I am a simple man and I do hold grudges. I knew about you running with the Neighbor Union, but never have I suspected you to fall so low to commit such a terrible crime."

 

Dude is VISUALLY angry. He is almost scary.

 

"Even if Fang would have forgiven you, I would not. If that was the case, I would have walked out of here forever but… you apologized. And you apologized sincerely. You truly regret what you have done. And… this is important to me."

 

He reaches his hand out to Stepan.

 

"No more lying and no more conspiring to do bullshit, capiche?"

 

Stepan considered it for the moment, probably unable to believe that someone as harsh as Dude would forgive him, but he nodded and shook Dude's hand.

 

"I-I understand. I am sorry everyone."

 

"Good. And when the damn order date is on us, I will pull every string from my military days to make sure that you are left alone, even if I have to beg on my knees. Wouldn't want my favorite dumbass to end up behind bars."

 

I can hear a snicker from Fang's side and I can see Stepan smiling. Even though all of them just experienced so much turmoil, they managed to pull through. What a wonderful trio… somehow I feel out of place… Yes, about my place here!

 

"Actually, Stepan's money situation reminded me of something. I wanted to talk to you three."

 

All three members of "Silver Line" turn to me.

 

"You will go nowhere playing at Pizza Time, so I did some thinking and I came up with a plan. Well, I saw the opportunity more likely."

 

The Detective's advice.

 

"There is a good possibility that we may land a good venue if we play our cards right."

 

"What?"

 

Stepan back to his blunt self, I see.

 

"Yes, that is right. We may have a venue in the future… However, we must supply everything else ourselves. And because of that, I suggest we make a team to help us."

 

"A team? Where would we get the money?"

 

"We will have to make a few promises, a few contracts if needed, but I will find a way. After all, I assume none of you can prepare a big stage with lights and everything."

 

"... I am ashamed to admit that, yes."

 

Yup, Stepan is being honest. And Dude just raises his eyebrow.

 

"So, leave the team to me. In turn, you will need to practice to perfection. Continue to play in Pizza Time for now, but you also need to practice more. I have faith in you, but faith alone is not enough to succeed."

 

Stepan nods to me. Dude smiles and Fang listens attentively.

 

"If we succeed, we will make a name for your band and some cash as well. So we have to work hard. I expect good things from all of you."

 

Damn, Anon, when you became so demanding?

 

"Any questions?"

 

Stepan slowly raises his hand before stopping himself and lowering it down. I guess he finally trusts me.

 

"No questions? Good. We are done here with the practice meeting. I believe everyone is exhausted with everything that occurred today, so I think it would be better to wrap it up here."

 

Yet again, all three agree with me. Stepan and Dude walk away to the backroom, probably to pick up their stuff, leaving me and Fang alone.

 

"... I am proud of you Fang."

 

"You also did quite well."

 

We smiled at each other. Damn, today was tiring, but I am glad with how everything turned out.

 

"Anyway, I need to go. Want to go home and sleep off the stress I accumulated today, so see you later."

 

I think I have done enough here, time to go home. Before I could walk away, someone pulls me by my sleeve.

 

"Actually… Anon, could you wait for me for a bit? I want to walk with you."

 

"... I do not mind."

 

ALERT! ALERT! FANG, YOUR EX, WHO YOU STILL PRETTY MUCH IN LOVE WITH IS GOING FOR THE WALK WITH YOU! STAND THE LINE! STAND THE LINE!

 

… Damn, I haven't experienced this one in a while.

 

"Wait here, I will be here shortly."

 

I nod. Oh god, heart, calm down. Fang smiles at me and then walks away to the backroom. Well, fucking hell. I guess it is a date.

 

… Don't let your hopes up, Anon.

 

***

 

You finally see the Taxi arrive. It looks like the one that you usually order but… the driver is different. You wave at him to make sure that it is what you ordered and he nods. Damn, you never knew that Monarch has someone else driving in his company. You approach the car, open the door and get inside. You look at the driver.

 

"Sorry for the delay, my boss's car broke down, and I had to tow it all the way to the mechanic."

 

"No problem."

 

This kentrosaurus is positively massive. He has a visible belly and his hands are flabby.

 

YET, UNDERNEATH THIS LAYER OF FAT YOU CAN SEE MASSIVE MUSCLES. THIS GUY COULD PROBABLY RIP A PERSON IN HALF IF HE HAD TO. THIS MAN IS A BORN HENCHMAN.

 

"So where are we going, sir?

 

"Volcadera Bluff's Police Department."

 

"Hmmm, It is quite far. The road there will take at least 30 minutes."

 

"It is fine."

 

His boss would probably be able to deliver you there in 10.

 

"Name's Gray, by the way, some call me Driver 21."

 

"Nice to meet you, Gray. Name's Rando, some call me Wicked 13."

 

"Cool! Are you, like, a secret agent or something?"

 

"Nah, just a common detective."

 

"No detective who works in Skin Row is common."

 

He is not wrong.

 

"Well, not common but… simple?"

 

"I guess that would fit. Well, let's go!'

 

A short time after the car started to move, Gray started to bombard you with geek knowledge that you thought was impossible to get through in just 30 minutes, but somehow this man does in 30 seconds. At first, you are annoyed by it, but, honestly, you started to enjoy it after like 5 minutes. It reminds you of the days when you were hanging out with your friends in high school. At one point, Gray remains silent, probably giving you some time to relax. You think about Anon and Fang. You hope that they are stronger than you are. You wonder what fate has in store for you all.

 

Somewhere, a green stegosaurus is playing with a colorful set of cards in her free time between work hours. Her little hobby that she kept since high school. These cards represent the journey of an innocent, foolish man to enlightenment and completion. These cards can tell what awaits one in the future. The stegosaurus pulls out a card randomly, with her head completely somewhere else. The card depicts a human angel holding a trumpet with people, both humans and dinos, looking up to him, awaiting something. The stegosaurus wonders what it means. "Judgment? But to whom does this destiny belong?". However, she had to discard this thought when she heard her name. Her rest is over. She must return to her work.
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