Summary: Autopsy Report (Summary): Victim: Marquis "Delgado" Martinez (age 29) Occupation: N/A Living Address: Volcadera Bluff, Skin Row District, 119 Star Fall Road. Sidenote; Status before death: Wanted for Battery and Assault. Results of the Autopsy: The victim was found in second/third stage decomposition, which implies that the body was found several days after the victim's death. The body was heavily damaged by the exposure to the cold temperatures and humid environment. On the body there were found: several bruises around the neck (suggesting choking), several stab wounds (post mortem), damaged fangs and claws, suggesting struggle. The most possible cause of death: a bullet wound to the back, produced by a 357 magnum. The death was instantaneous, as suggested by a ruptured heart and lungs. The shot was produced at a distance somewhere around 3-5 meters (10-16.5 feet). The bullet or its shards were not found in the body or anywhere on the crime scene. No traces of non-victim DNA were found on the body. The closest living relatives: Brother: Duke Martinez (Age 35) (Status: Wanted) The beginning of the week was simple. After Fang and I returned to her apartment we spent a couple of hours planning for our next step, but have reached no agreement. After calling it a day, I left the apartment and returned home. Next day in the morning I was resting my body after being thoroughly beaten down by my new teacher Shuyaku… With which I have a lesson today in the evening. I contacted Fang a few times, but we just talked about some unrelated bullshit. We agreed that I would meet her after my lesson today at her place of work. A lot of walking but I'll manage. Closer to the second half of the day, I received a call informing me that someone had picked up my job application at the labor center. That was quick. Some gal named Tracy, whoever that is. Today I am meeting her for the interview. When I arrived at the specified location I found out that it was a diner. Huh, I guess it should have been expected. The only place that will accept me with my qualifications is where I can either flip burgers or carry boxes. Well, I guess in this one I will be serving hot dogs. I mean, I can't complain, work is work, and I need some cash that isn't handed out for my service in the Navy. The diner was outside Skin Row as well, so that was also a fine excuse to venture outside the ghetto prison. This place looks rather new, at least I don't remember it being here. Alright, time to ace that shit. I even put on some nicer clothes that don't look like I am permanently in mourning. A shirt and a green jacket… Man, I look like a bigger version of myself from high school. Alright, Anon, concentrate on here and now. I open the door of the diner and venture inside like I own this place. Confidence is key during any interview after all. Alright, where is the owner? I approach the cash register and see a strangely familiar face. "H-hello, I am here for a work interview?" Nailed it. The girl-dino behind the cash register looks at me and a wide smirk appears on her face. "Long time no see, eh, boy?" "Huh? Do we know each other?" "Come on, boy, I am not that forgettable." I am digging through my memories of the last time I was anywhere near this place… Hmm, nothing. Unless… Orange scales, red spikes on the tale, that smug look. Oh. "You are that hot dog lady I met around here 3 years ago." "Bah, good to see that I made at least some impression on you." Now I recognize her! She was the one that suggested that me and Fang were dating when I was visiting her… Wow, my memory can be this good? Something is wrong with me. "Weren't you, like, a street vendor back when we met? I don't recall you owning a diner." "Time never stops, boy, once I got enough money I decided to buy this place and expand my business. There ain't no rest for the wicked, as they say." "Hmm, wicked?" Fuck, that detective gave me PTSD harder than the Navy. "Sorry about that, just remembered someone." "No problem, boy. Anyway, you are here for the interview, right?" "Uh, yeah. When do we start?" "Eh, no need." "What?" "Boy, I picked that application immediately while searching for some helping hand because I recognized you! I mean, come on, boy, think." "But we don't know each other! We only talk for, like, a moment." "More than enough for me if you are a good sport. And I believe you are. Maybe you like to slack off and are a bit dense, but I can see that you are also an honest young man." Once again she gives me a big smile. "Soooo, what is the occasion? Why search for work? Have you run off with that girl and now struggle with the finances?" "Eh, no… we split up 3 years ago." "Oh, sorry to hear. Judging by how you were acting back then I assumed that that relationship would be a permanent one." Huh? How can she judge something like that only by looking at the person? Hm? Her expression suddenly changed. "Boy, don't tell me you dropped out because of the broken heart." "I… yeah, I did…" Man, admitting it feels shameful, but I don't want to come out as a liar to my future boss. "Damn, young people these days… Suffer one heartbreak and it is the end of the world for them. Now I must take you under my wing! To teach you some piece of mind before letting you out into the big world, boy." "Huh? What does that mean?" "You may be a legal adult, but still the same stupid boy you were back in high school. Don't you worry, while working under me not only will you earn some cash, you will also learn some things about life." A pride smile appears on her face. Man, she does smile a lot. "Thanks, but cush for now will be fine." "Ha, don't worry, you will learn as you go on, that's what's wonderful about life, you can learn a lot of things by just doing mundane tasks." "Sooo, does that mean I got the job?" "You got it the moment I picked up that application, boy." Sweet, it was easier than expected, but I fear there is a catch. "... You're gonna drive me into the ground, aren't you?" "Oh, definitely." "Alright then, Miss Tracy, I am ready anytime." "Oh, don't need to be so formal. Just call me Tracy." I nod. Before we could exchange any more words we heard the door to the diner open. Someone enters. "Hey, Tracy, hows it going?" "Huh, you are early today? This voice… it can't be. I turn towards the recently arrived guest. "Yeah, man, I was able to leave work early today. The newbie took over, so I was able to enjoy some me time. How about the usual?" In front of me, I see a pink-ish raptor in some crappy clothes that makes him look like a homeless person. He wears a pair of white shutter shades. His hair is messy and his manner of speaking is all over the place… Only one person I know fits this description. "Alright, Reed, coming right up!" Reed… what is he doing here?! I mean, he lives here, but… WHAT IS HE DOING HERE OF ALL PLACES?!? He notices me. "Oh, a new face! Whatsup, man! Haven't seen you around." Tracy shouts from the kitchen: "This is my new hire, he lives in the Skin Row! Names Anon." WHY DID YOU HAVE TO TELL HIM MY NAME?! Naturally, when Reed heard my name he immediately took off his glasses in disbelief. He stares at me as if he just saw a ghost… Well, at this point I might as well be because I am going to die from this awkward situation. Reed checks me out to make sure that I am real. "Anon? Is that really you?" "Ugh… the one and only." I expected insults to fly, slurs to be said, punches to be thrown… instead, I received a slap on my shoulder. "I can't believe it, my man! Where the hell have you been all this time?" Huh? Isn't he supposed to be mad at me? I mean, he probably knows what I did to Fang and… "Man, it has been so long! Look at you, have you been hitting the gym lately?" "Uh, nah, I was… in the Navy for the last three years." "Ah, a sailor? Honestly never saw you as the type! I always thought you'd become, I dunno, a sound engineer or something." Now that is the specialization I can never imagine myself taking. Tracy comes out from the kitchen. "It will be ready soon, Reed. Hm? Do you two know each other?" "Well, we-" "We were in the same high school, Tracy. We were, like, best buddies, the blood brothers, the future accomplices." Huh? Wait, he still thinks of me this way? After all that happened? Is he high or something? "Ha! For some reason, I knew that you two knew each other! You two fit together perfectly you know!" Really? Me alongside this walking "dude" stereotype? I think we can't be even more different. "Ha, you're right, Tracy. We used to hang out a lot! Me, Anon and…" Suddenly his cheery demeanor changed to a more grim one, like he just opened something that must remain closed. But he switches back to his usual cheery self almost immediately. "Well, all that needs to be said is that we used to be good friends!" "Well, isn't that a fascinating coincidence!" Tracy looks at us with a smug expression. I barely hold back the sarcastic "you don't say". "Hey, you two, how about you sit down and catch up, your food is almost ready, Reed, but won't you mind waiting a bit more so that I can make something for your friend." I turn to Tracy. "I really appreciate this, Tracy, but I am short on cash." "Don't you worry, boy, it is on the house. Nothing brings me more joy than reuniting old friends." Oh god, why… Tracy once more disappears into the kitchen and I turn to Reed. "Man, meeting you AND I get some free chowdown. Maybe I should buy a lottery ticket today!" Nobody ever becomes good at life without losing. I guess there is no harm in trying to reconnect. "Alright, how about we take some tables and wait for your order, Reed." "You know it, brother." After finding a comfortable, free table we sit down and share silence for a few short moments. Fuck, what can I say? Something very casual… Ah, I know. "So, Reed, what have you been up to lately?" "Me? Ah, not much. Going to community college, studying pharmacology… You know, drugs and stuff. Met a few friends since the day I used to deal carfe, they hired me as a cashier at some drugshop, ya know, the usual." Usual my ass. This has to be the most insane "usual" story I've heard in a while. "Speaking of carfe, are you still…" "Nah, man, it is over. I am done with it." "Really? You used to talk about how you'd become the greatest dealer who evades taxes and that sort of crap." 'You remember that? Man, you have way good of the memory." Trust me, Reed, even if I had late-stage dementia, I won't be able to forget you. "Man, you're still doing that shtick with mumbling, aren't ya?" "Fuck… Yeah, it still happens from time to time." "Man, that's cool, you don't need to worry!" I made it awkward once more, and I don't know what to say… alright, time for a hard question. "Do you still talk with our formal classmates? What has Trish been up to?" Again, Reed's entire personality changed. But I am not backing down, I need to know. "Trish, well… After you disappeared, Trish and Fang had a falling out. I don't know the details, but Fang just stopped talking to us both and Trish was devastated. And ya know, I tried to be there for her, but she just shut herself from everyone. I tried to break through to her, I really did, but I couldn't do it. And when we graduated Trish just… disappeared from my life. We haven't seen each other since." Damn, I feel like I need to say something. "Sorry, Reed…" "Hm? Why are you apologizing?" "Um, it might have been my fault." "What do you mean?" He is not angry, his eyes are wide open, but it is more like he is genuinely confused by this revelation. "You see, Fang stopped talking to Trish because of me. I… have hurt Fang and she ended up closing herself from everyone. If I did not do that, Fang and Trish would have remained friends." "Anon…" Reed closed both of his eyes, thinking about what to say next. Will he finally snap and tell me how it is? I am not scared, but… "What do you want me to say to that nonsense? You expect me to start screaming something along the lines of "It's all your fault" or "I hate you"? Come on, you know me better than this, man." I don't know how to react to this. I was expecting Reed to be angry with me but he is his usual nonchalant self. Why is he not angry? "Simple, if I will be angry about the stuff that has already happened, I will not be able to live a normal life." "Huh?" "You see, you do the thing, what is it called? "Self-flagellation"? Anyway, what you are doing is being stuck on things that happened and not making any progress to improve the current situation. I mean, I will not lie, I was angry about everything, about you disappearing, about Fang just ignoring everything, about Trish throwing me out of her life… All of that made me angry." Reed looks out of the window, searching for something outside. "But… Because of that anger, I was not able to make a clear picture… Well, that and carfe, one of the reasons why I dropped it. You see, Anon, I believe that we were all at fault for everything that happened." "What do you mean? I mean, it was I who pushed Fang away…" "Yes, and it did make me angry, but I also realized why Fang wanted to be pushed away from me and Trish… we did something that cannot be easily forgiven. Trish? Well, you remember how she was. Control freak who constantly wants to do things her way, constantly ignores others and has her over-dependence on Fang. She also has hurt you, a person who Fang held dear to her heart. And then there was me, the high-off-the-balls fool who was too blind to see that everything was falling apart. Like that day during the presentation." I remember it was one of the worst days of my life. "If I checked the damn presentation before mindlessly playing it, a lot of pain could have been avoided. I've seen Trish's resentment towards you but chose to ignore it because I thought some stupid idea that everyone would join hands together and forget our previous gripes… You remember how it turned out." Oh yeah, definitely. "But, like, it already happened, no use to mop about it nonstop, right? I cannot change it anyway, so instead I decided to concentrate on myself and to pick up the act. And I'm glad I did." "Man, Reed, you are way stronger than me." "Pfff, nah, you survived falling down the stairs, dude, I'm pretty sure if I threw myself off the Volcano High front stairs I would have broken every bone in my body." Reed laughed at his own joke, I could not help but smile myself a bit. "Man, I missed this. Feels like it has been an eternity… Ya kno, since you, me, Trish and Fang were hanging out together." "Yeah." "I wonder where both of them are today." "Actually.." Wait! Should I tell him? I mean, how would he react if I told him about Fang? You are quick to judge, but not quick to accept. Right, Shuyaku said something like that… I am prepared. "About Fang…" "Yeah?" "I met her the other day." "Wait? You have?" Well, let's see how Reed will react to this revelation. "Are you two, you know, dating again?" "What? No… We just met and, well, we decided to start off as friends again." "... Anon, you should tell me things like that as soon as possible, man, where is ya trust?" He looks a bit bummed out but that's it. "Because that is great news, Anon! Man, not only have I met you but I also have a chance to meet Fang as well! How are they doin'?" Alright, Anon, don't shit talk Fang but also do not lie to Reed. "Honestly, not so good. It has been difficult for her these past couple of years. But she is making it there, slowly but surely." "Good to hear she is still fighting but how about you? Honestly, Anon, you look like shit. No offense." "None taken. Yeah, I also have not been doing well. Three years wasted in the Navy, and I don't have a job yet…" Just don't say too much. "When I returned everything seemed pointless and I have been doing nothing but wasting time trying to do nothing, thinking this is all I wanted." Anon, stop, he does not need to know that! Why are you telling him this? "And then there was a fact that I felt like I needed to escape, you know, all of this." I spread my arm as if I was trying to grasp the world… No, the whole reality. Why the fuck am I doing it? Like, I realize that I don't want to do it, but my body acts on its own accord. "I tried, but all the ways were blocked off and… there was only one left, you know. The final one. The trap door of reality. The fire escaped to somewhere else. To end it all." Finally, I gain control over my body, I look around to check if anyone is paying attention to me, only to find that besides Reed (and probably Tracy in the kitchen) nobody pays attention to me. But still, saying all of that out loud made me feel an incredible amount of shame. The moment I realize that I cross my fingers and place both of my hands on the table. I look at Reed, only to see an expression I never saw him make. This expression was filled with surprise, fear and most of all… disappointment. I looked down at the table… Alright, cards are on the table, might as well spill the rest. "This is when I met Fang and… if she was not there, I might not have been here, talking to you. I…" "Anon." I am suddenly interrupted by Reed. "Are you alright?" I am searching for a way to reply to this question. Should I make a joke, a funny remark that all of that was a goof on my part? Or should I say something silly, to divert his attention from… all of that? Oh maybe… "Honestly, I don't know. I don't know why I said all of that." Damn it, Anon, stop acting before thinking. "I hate this world, I hate myself and more importantly I hate this "everything". The only thing I cannot hate, I could never hate… is Fang." "Anon… Do you still love her? Even after all this time?" Of course, I am. How can I not? She is… she is everything I can never be. Smart, brave, stunning, beautiful. She had the guts to walk out of my life, to throw me away when I had hurt her, and yet I cannot do the same. Fucking shit, I hate myself, maybe it would have been better if I… "Anon!" I am once again interrupted by Reed… he shouted in a way I never heard him shout. He also looks somewhat mad. "S-sorry, Reed, I don't know what came over me." "Anon… I won't pretend that I understand what you are going through, I am not a psychic. But, whatever train of thought you had back there, you should stop thinking this way, man." "It's… you don't have to worry about it. I-I will be fine." "Anon, if you aren't fine now, how can I trust these words?" Indeed, how could he? Nice going Anon, now not only Fang worries about you, but also Reed. Are you trying to tether them to yourself through pity? How low have you fallen, Anon!!! "Listen, I don't know what happened to you or why you are this way, but… you are my friend, even if you don't want to admit it, and seeing you tearing yourself apart like that is not pleasant." "How can you still be calling me friend after everything that happened?" "Simple, really. Because that does not matter anymore. What matters is here and now… Even if you did something wrong, or you believe you did something wrong, it is in the past. All one can really do is move forward and try to be better." "Couldn't have said it better myself!" I jumped on my seat, startled by the voice nearby. I look towards the offender only to see Tracy with two plates. Damn, for how long has she been here? "I only just got here. Sorry for making you wait, Reed. Here is the usual." Tracy serves Reed a plate of… whatever it is. I think it is supposed to be a hot dog, but it looks more like a pile of condiments and spices rising from a bun. I can't even see the hot dog itself. "What in the world is this?" "Reed's special." Tracy said it as if it was a fact. I look at Reed who just shrugs it off. "Let me guess, nobody but Reed ever orders something like his." "Yup! See, you will do great here." Of course nobody but Reed will eat something like this… "Also, here is one for you." "I am good." "Don't worry, it isn't Reed's Special. Just a regular old chilly dog." Oh, thank Raptor Jesus. A plate is placed in front of me, on it I see a medium-sized hot dog dish. Well, it is bad manners not to accept free food. I guess I can waste some time eating and catching up with Reed. *** For the next two hours, I did nothing but talk to Reed, who was ever more so excited to talk about his college life. Apparently, he has a few friends, although not really close ones. He has been off the carfe for the last 2 years. It was a painful and long process for him to get over it finally, but he managed to do it. Surprisingly he is on full scholarship and, somehow, pretty much acing every subject there. In fact, from what he said he could pretty much already try to pass the final exam on all subjects and get the best marks, but he likes hanging around in there. I, on the other hand, shared some of my harrowing moments during my Navy days. Like one time I got my jaw displaced during the sparring secession. Or that one time I was knee-deep in the salt water, pumping it out from the lower decks after our ship was hit by a surprise storm. Or how I once went to a real submarine, where we were taught how to properly work within one… I don't want to remember that one, cramped spaces still give me the creeps. Tracy interrupted our talk a few times, to input her own opinion on any subject. She was a bit rude, but like in a friendly way, making sure that our talk wouldn't become too harsh or dark. However, one moment made me almost want to exit the building. It is when I told Reed how I was discharged and about my battle to the death with my greatest opponent yet - a flight of stairs. While Reed remained calm, Tracy was barely containing her laughter, excusing herself and going back to the kitchen, where I could hear her bursting into a manic cackle, mocking my poor spine. If I wasn't trying to get a job, I would have left at that moment. But I steeled my resolve and continued on with the conversation. I haven't even noticed how the time has approached the second half of the day. Soon I needed to go back to Skin Row to attend the evening classes. And I should not take any more time from Reed's schedule. "You are looking quite attentively at your phone. Places to be, huh?" "Yeah, have evening classes, art school…" "Shit, really? Never thought of you as "Creative" type." "Same here, but… I thought it would be good to explore options." "Man, I am glad that you are trying something new. Never really like how quick you were to dismiss everything back in high school." "As you said before, you can't always remain the same, you need to pick up the act, so I decided to do as much." "Well, good to hear that I can give good advice once in a while." Oh, you don't half of it, you way smarter than you think, Reed… Actually, now that I think about it… Wasn't he really good at setting up the stage for a concert? Maybe… "Hey, Reed, can I ask you for a favor?" "Hmm? I hope you are not asking me for cash, I have been a bit short ever since I stopped dealing with carfe." "No, not that. Remember how I told you that me and Fang are friends now?" "Yeah?" "Well you see, Fang has a new band on Skin Row and she wants to, you know, a bigger audience. We may be able to find a venue but we need a team. We already have one technician, but they are not the stage expert, so I thought, maybe, you could help us? I mean, not for free of course." I look at Reed after asking for such an insane favor. He does not owe me anything, but maybe he would- "Dude, of course, I'd be glad to help! As long as it's you and Fang, I won't even ask for payment!" … "Reed, you are getting paid. If I won't pay you, I'll never be able to forgive myself." "Alright, alright… One dollar an hour?" "Weeeee… will discuss the proper payment later." "Cool, man. What is your phone number!" "A moment, here it is!" After exchanging contacts with Reed I barely can contain my excitement. Not only did I manage to gain a good technician for our stage, but I was also able to reconnect with Reed. Maybe I can make everything right. Maybe I can get it all back! Maybe I can… SHIT, THE INTERVIEW!!! "Eh, don't worry here, boy." SHIT! Why is she so good at sneaking up? "I said it before, I decided to take you as soon as I saw that application. And you can consider that conversation with your friend to be your interview." "Th-thank you, Tracy! I won't disappoint you!" "Good, just don't mess up a lot and you will be able to do just fine." She does not even realize how much she asks of me. "Nice! You know what that means? I can come here to get some Reed's Specials AND also be able to meet my best buddy!" Raptor Jesus, I know I have been fortunate so far, but please, please, PLEASE, don't make me cook Reed's Specials, otherwise I WILL vomit all over the cooking table… I look at the clock again. Shit! I am being late, I won't be able to reach the school on time! "Relax, boy, I already ordered you a taxi. And I also prepared money for your trip." "Tracy, thank you, but isn't it too much?" "Relax, consider this payment as cover for your travel fees for this interview." She gives me a wink. Oh boy, working here will be something new for sure. As I had this thought I heard honking outside. I guess my cab is here. "Seems like it is your ride, man! Been nice meetin you again. See you around, Anon!" Reed does his signature finger guns move and I… am compelled to return the same gesture to him. And it does not feel embarrassing. I turn to Tracy and nod to her. "See you tomorrow at 7:30. Don't be late." With that, I leave the diner and notice a strange blue car, which looks retro, waiting for me. I open the door and get inside. There, I am met by a very familiar grin. "Well, if it isn't my most favorite customer from three years ago." It was him, the driver, whom I met three years ago when I was still in high school. Huh, he is still working here? Actually, now that I think about it, I have never asked his name. "Um, nice to see you again, mister…" "Everyone calls me Monarch in my line of work. Man, you look different. Has been hitting up the gym as of late?" "Nah, military service. Was in the Navy for the last three years." "Oooooh, a Sailor boy. How surprising, never took you for a soldier type. After all, you've been beaten up by a girl all these years back." "Not by the girl… It was an accident." "Yeah, like what? Falling down the stairs…" "..." "Oh shit, really?" "I don't want to talk about it." "Nooooo, really?" His smug grin became even wider. "I don't want to talk about it! Can you please ride?" "Sure thing, kid. Where?" "... "Realm of Beauty" in Skin Row." "Ah, an evening school. Have you decided to become an artist or something?" "Maybe…" "Good, soldering does not suit you. Not when you get defeated by the stairs." … I hate everything at this moment. *** Ah, this is tripe, TRIPE I TELL YOU, sire! Indeed chief, "Traffic Duty"? Really? What is next, we will be forced to help old ladies cross the street!? IT IS A PUNISHMENT FOR YOUR FAILURE AT BEING A PROPER MAN OF HONOR AND POWER. [Have you noticed that these "episodes", as you were calling them, are getting worse day by day?] Really now, brother? I do not feel it! In fact, I feel fantastic, and Mister Rando would agree with me. You shake your head as if you are trying to shake off your thoughts like annoying fleas, to no avail. They are still plaguing this little box on your shoulders. A pandora box of never-ending stupidity, pain and insanity. You are glad that people who can read thoughts are not real because it would have been almost impossible to live with the fact that someone may know what is going on up there. Who are you to tell that mediums and psychics are real… They might be amongst us… Waiting for the moment to strike! [That's it, Rando, no more alcohol for the rest of the week! It seems you already did some irreparable damage to your mind as it is]. Brother, the shivers are back, you haven't smoked in an entire day! That's right. Yesterday, when your body was recovering from the alcohol binge you almost died from, you decided to not touch a single cigarette that day. Well, that and you couldn't. While you were passed out Ripley raided your cigarette box and threw all of them into the trash. When you approached him this morning with complaints he told you that: one, that brand smelled like shit. And two: you had enough of bad stuff flowing through your bones as it is, so he decided to ensure that you don't smoke that day. Fucking asshole, that was at least 10 bucks worth of cigarettes that he dumped into the trash. Well, at least you can buy some more. After filing around a dozen reports regarding car theft, five reports regarding traffic accidents and two involving insurance fraud you were exhausted and needed a pick-me-up. Anything will do, as long as it is not coffee or alcohol. After walking around the edge of Skin Row you encounter a small convenience store. Some small local chain that only have, like, 5 stores around town. Something whispers to you that this place is worth visiting. [No, it isn't. You should walk away now. Something about this place smells trouble]. Well, that's one new thing. I thought this guy was supposed to represent our collective willpower and ability to cast aside pointless feelings, but now it acts like a paranoid freak. [Trust me, you DON'T WANT TO GO INSIDE. Whatever there is, you will not like it.] Now we simply must go in there. Besides, you are low on cigarettes, brother. You approach the automatic doors of the convenience store and wait for them to open. It takes them a solid two seconds to work properly, opening like the gates of hell from which hot air escapes the building and right into the cold outside. The store does not look inviting. Yet you step inside, like a rabbit inside a wolf's mouth. Inside this store looks normal, a few aisles, a set of fridges containing many types of beverages… one of them is broken. The glass door, which was protecting the goods inside the fridge, was absolutely demolished by an unknown force. Looking at it fills you with anger, but also dread… Why? IT DOES NOT MATTER! JUST REMEMBER, DO NOT APOLOGIZE. You cast aside the thoughts and look around the store some more. You notice that something strange plays out of the speakers. Not the usual supermarket music, or some famous pop song, no you hear absolutely different language… Is it Japanese? No doubt. This song reminds you of the time you used to watch the pirated version of The Claw of the Polar Star with your friends from the gang days. Actually, you are certain that it is what plays on the speakers. Who in their right mind would put an anime song on the speakers inside a convenience store? Probably someone who wants to make it feel more like home… Or the biggest, what word people use nowadays, Weeb(?), is running the store today. It does not matter, for now, the only thing that matters is your nicotine withdrawal. You approach the cashier. Behind the counter stands a young green-ish stegosaurus. Her hair is straight and on her head, and she wears a funny-looking hat with the logo of the store on it. She wears a store's uniform. When she notices you, her pupils shrink as if she saw someone who has come to threaten her. [Do not react, just ask for what you came for and get out!] "Hello, can I have the Killsburg Red, please? Two packs. Oh, and this!" You place two candy bars on the counter. Not a good snack but enough to avoid the worst of it. However, the cashier-girl does not provide you with the cigarettes which you asked for. Instead, she looks at you, fear in her eyes, and with a weak, defeated voice only says one thing. "... please leave." HER VOICE IS TREMBLING LIKE A SINGLE LEAF ON AN AUTUMN TREE. THIS ONE IS TERRIFIED. Sire, it would be wise not to ponder over this, just do what you came here for. No need to harass this girl over this reaction. "Excuse me, miss, but I am here just for cigarettes and a snack. Just scan it please." "W-we have the right to refuse service to problematic customers." Problematic customers?! Who this girl thinks she is, chief! Disrespecting the officer of the law like that? She must be a criminal herself! You should cuff her, bring her to the interrogation cell and lecture her on how to properly act in the presence of the police office- Sire, do not listen to this inconsiderate jerk. Can't you see this girl is scared of you as if she has a good reason to be scared? Not your badge, or your gun… but you. "I have a feeling that you are scared of me, miss. What is the problem?" Suddenly, a wave of jumbled memories begins to replay in your head. Like a broken mirror, its vision is fractured into many different pictures of the same reflection. You go into the store, very similar to this one. You are filled with excitement, anger and also alcohol. Lots and lots of alcohol. You wanted to vomit, but you also wanted more. In the store, there were two people. A young dino lady, the scales of which reminded you of a spring morning amongst blooming trees, and the dino man, whose look reminded you of the worst these streets have to offer. Both of them wear the store's uniform. You immediately dart towards the fridge section, where they hold many beverages of different types. On the way there you knock down several goods off their shelves. Finally, you are in front of winter wonderland, the land of promise, the kingdom of oblivion. You are trying to open the door, but it won't budge. Suddenly, one of them approaches you. "Sir, we are closing down, please leave the store immediately". That's what they say to you. You look at his face. Something about it just makes you angry. Despise, judgment, as if you are an anomaly around here. You know that looks way too well. You knew what he was about to say, yet you did not stop him. You tried to reason with him, but the alcohol had its hold on your ability to speak and properly express yourself. Finally, this dino had enough. At one point in your conversation, he finally has enough and… says a word which brings you to the boiling point. "Skinnie". Suddenly your vision went red. You remember the pain in your fist and then the shattering of the glass. The man was on the floor, holding his face. On your shoulder you had pieces of glass, decorating your silver jacket. After that, you remember very little. Wait… The store, the uniform, even the people… Don't they remind you of someone? … "Shit… Did I do that?" You point at the store's fridge. The girl behind the counter nervously nods. Yup, it was you, congratulations, Detective, you have solved the murder of the fridge and the mystery of this girl's fear. "Ah fuck, I am…" DO NOT APOLOGIZE. APOLOGIZING WILL MAKE IT ONLY WORSE. IT WILL MAKE YOU SEEM WEAK. APOLOGIZING AT THIS POINT IS MEANINGLESS. "... How much, miss?" "Huh?" "I said how much? The damages?" She looks at you with a surprised expression. She obviously did not expect you to try to pay for everything you broke. She thinks for a moment. "T-the insurance will cover it… you don't need to…" "Alright." You plant around half a grand on the counter… this feels like a bribe. [Rando, do you think properly? What kind of police officer just PLANTS 500 bucks on the table in the middle of the day? Is this hush money? Are you trying to bribe your way out of the consequences of your actions? This is idiotic, just apologize]. NO, DON'T. PAYING FOR DAMAGES IS ONLY NATURAL IF OU CAUSE THEM. "S-sir we can't accept this money." "Damn… So-... I mean, I usually don't like that. Can you tell me exactly what has happened? I cannot recall that evening." She is hesitant at first. But after looking at you for a moment, she sighs and… her expression changes from that of terror to that of worry. This one is going to be painful. "You came here on Friday, during the closing hours. You immediately dashed towards the beverage area, knocking everything on the way there. Since we were closing down, we already locked the refrigerators there. After you tried to open one, and you were doing it for a solid minute, Jack, my coworker, well, now a formal coworker, tried to make you leave…" THESE REVELATIONS MAKE YOU SICK. YOU HEAD IS THROBBING. TAKE A GUN AND MAKE A HOLE IN IT. "You refused. You said something about celebrating. That, as I recall, "These two idiots are finally making progress" and "I will win this, I will make this one right". After having enough, Jack said some hurtful things to you and you…" Your fist hurts so much. As if you just… "You punched him right in the face. I think you broke his tooth out. Then you proceeded to bush the fridge door open with your shoulder. When Jack said he would call the police, you took something out of your pocket, some plastic card, shoved it into his face and screamed that the police was already here. Then you took two bottles of, I think whiskey, brought them to the counter and just… left the money for them there. Then you left. You made quite a mess and it took us the entire night to clean up." Ah shit, brother, this party was too hardcore for your own good. "Needless to say, Jack quit the next morning and I was lectured by my employer. So now that you heard everything, can you please leave?" [See? I told you coming here was a bad idea. Now you made a poor girl nervous and made yourself embarrassed. Just go, you can buy these things somewhere else]. Wait! Sire, talk to this one, she is important. "Look, I assure you, I am not usually like that. It was just a very stressful day and… What is your name miss?" She looks at you for a moment, deciding if telling you would be a good idea. "S-Stella." "Stella? Good, listen, what happened the other day was a mistake. I assure you I will not do it again and…" Wait… did she say "Stella"? Why does this name sound familiar? The book… she was in the book… The one that made you itch all over… That is correct. Chief, this girl is one of our target's acquaintances. "... Miss, does the name Anon Mous tells you anything?" When you said that name to her, her eyes sparked with newfound interest. That name was almost like a spell, designed to awaken something distant, something sleeping inside her head. "W-where did you hear that name?" Her voice is filled with confusion, hope with hints of fear. You can almost sense her doing a little prayer inside her head, begging that Anon was alright. "He is an acquaintance of mine. Met him the other day. He is mostly fine, do not worry." Stella breathed out, letting out her worry that was tensing her body. "Thank goodness" she says. "Do you know him?" "Y-yeah. We used to be… well, I hope, we used to be friends and classmates." "Classmates? Like in high school?" "Yeah… Is he really alright? Did anything happen to him?" You think for a moment what to say. No need to lay your cards on the table. "As I said, he is alright. He is doing fine." Stella looks at you, her eyes once again glimmer but this time that shining is… weird. Mystical almost. What is she doing? "Sir, I don't know why you are lying to me, but… Anon is not okay, right?" How did she..? A psychic! I told you! They are real! They hide amongst us! Ignore the paranoia freak over there, just act cool. I guess she deserves some truth. "Listen, Anon is MOSTLY fine. He was in a very dark couple of days ago, almost doing something irreversible, but he was dragged out of that darkness by someone else. Now, I believe he still struggles, but he is not alone." Stella once again relaxes but she is not smiling, no, her expression is filled with sadness. What is this? Guilt? Why does she feel guilty? "It is my fault he is this way." "Huh?" "I knew he was going down the wrong path and I just… chose to be cryptic for the sake of being cryptic. If I said something concrete back then…" She does not need to say this to you. You are not the one she needs to apologize to. "If you feel something that you need to say regarding that, you should say it to Anon, not me." "Right, sorry." Wait, that is a good idea, brother. "Actually, why don't you go meet him? I mean, he is around." "What? But…" "Miss Stella, consider this. You can make amends and finally get some resolution to your past misdeeds. I am not the one you should apologize to, hell, you must really hate me for causing you to lose sleep. If you want to apologize, well…" I take a small notebook, courtesy of being a detective, and write down two addresses. The Pizza Time's and the Garage's. "He will be in either one of those places. First in the evening, and second on Saturdays. Think about it." With those words, I started to walk away. Man, I guess I will buy the cigs somewhere else… [It was the right thing to do, Rando. You will see.] Yeah, I hope. However, before walking away you hear Stella calling for you. "Sir… I… I was wrong about you, being scared of you. Now I can see that you are yourself lost… Before you go, can I do something for you?" You turn around. What does she want? You approach the cashier counter. "Yes?" "First of all, let me scan those items for you." Huh, good deeds are already paying off, brother? Good. With a couple of beeps, you finally get your hand on damn cancer sticks and some protein bars. You nod and thank Stella, but before you can walk away she pulls out a deck of cards. "I uh… I have a hobby, little things I do to pass the time and… I thought maybe you want, you know, to get a reading?" "What?" Sire, you recognize those cards. Colorful backs, and images on every single one of them. These are not any simple playing cards, these are the cards that can predict the future. The tarot cards! I told you she was a psychic! "Uh, sure, why not? Could be fun." Why did you accept this.? Stella swaps around the cards, shuffling them between her hands, masterfully making it impossible to guess which card which. It takes about 30 seconds before she finally places a few cards on the table. "Pick any card you want." You reach out to the closest to you, the one that screams your name. As Stella flips it over. On it, you see a man standing on one leg… No, no he is hanging by one leg. You can see rope being tied around his ankle and the cross behind him. Is this card upside down? You look at Stella, who has a concerned look. "Inverted Hanged Man… This is… This is not good." "Figured. My life is not an easy one, miss… What does that card mean?" "The Hanged Man is a person who accepts punishment for the sake of others. A martyr you can say. A person who puts himself in harm's way for the sake of those around them. When it is inverted, it means something utterly terrifying. The needless sacrifice." "Needles Sacrifice?" "I don't know why, but looking at you makes me feel empty. Like a person inside you has already given up. It does not fight, only stalls for something. It waits for… the moment when it can throw it all away. Sir, I don't want to sound cryptic, but… Please, don't throw your life away at the first opportunity." WHAT IS THIS SENSE? DREAD? FEAR? No, it is void. Something is growing in your stomach. A black hole, a pit. It is back. You must hold on to anything. The counter, the walls, the floor, the… [GET. YOURSELF. TOGETHER!] BRAIN. SPINE. RIBCAGE. LUNGS. HEART. "Sir, are you alright?" You breathe in and out. "Yeah, sorry. Your prediction is… well, do not worry, I do not plan on dying anytime soon. Well, I will go now. Thank you for your time and sorry for the fridge." FUCKING DAMN IT, RANDO. "It's alright. I understand that you were going through something. I will think about if I want to meet Anon. I hope they will be able to forgive me." "You will never know unless you try. We will meet again. Have a good day." You walk out of the store, hearing Stella wishing you luck. You ignore it. Something had happened back there, something awful. You need to walk the streets, to feel that you are still here. Think of the case, think of Fang and Anon. Of anything, because… You need to hold on. *** After catching up with the taxi driver I finally managed to arrive at the Realm of Beauty. Thanking the driver, I ran inside, minutes away from being late. Thankfully I don't need to bring anything with me, because I think everything I need will be provided by the school. When I arrived, several students were already inside, waiting for the class to start. They were all of different ages, dinos and humans, some were flashy, and some tried to appear as little as possible. Two minutes before the lesson was supposed to start, Shuyaku entered the room, who was followed by his assistant Mister Tonny Bars. He looked around the room to check the attendance. When his eyes finally laid on me, he smiled. Is he proud of me for coming today on time? Or that I got the job just a day after I met him? Wait, it does not matter now, the lesson is about to start. "Alright, I believe it is time. Welcome everyone to today's lecture in general arts. Today we will talk about complex shapes and shadows." Man, I really need to catch up with the rest. A few minutes after the lecture started some new folks entered the room, late for class. And what followed next made me glad I was not late. Let's just say that Principal Spear's method of disciplining involving suplexes felt like nothing when I saw Shuyaku lifting one of the younger students only holding their shoulder… with his left hand. After taking time from his lesson to read a lecture on punctuality, he continued the class. Shuyaku is a surprisingly good art teacher. He knows a lot of things and makes his lecture actually sound interesting. His English is also on the professional level. He makes no mistake and every word he says is loud and clear. For once in my entire life I actually pay attention in class. Sure, I don't understand some words and stuff, but I feel like I am actually learning something. The first two hours flew fast, classes used to drag out a lot back in high school, but here they feel almost too quick. After 10 minutes of rest another class was scheduled, this time an elective. It was a lesson on illustration and abstract arts, the one that promises to teach people how to make stuff like ads, book illustrations and yes, posters, that's what was written on that paper I signed yesterday. That lesson was not taught by Shuyaku but by his assistant Mister Bars. He is completely the opposite of Shuyaku. Relaxed, playful to a fault, and he uses a lot of modern slang and words. And yet he is not annoying, actually, he almost feels like an actor. His performance is captivating and interesting. Actually, I think he is an actor, I don't know, he just has this air of arrogance to him. The lesson itself was also pretty good. Bars talked about logo designs and proper presentation. Actually, this lesson was exactly what I needed, so I listened attentively. Yet again, two hours flew by and it still feels like nothing. And yet I feel like I know more than I did before I entered this school. When the lesson was over, mister Bars was giving out our homework. "Now, remember peeps, pages 32 to 38. On the last page, you will find an exercise for an assignment. I ask you to complete it before next week. Mister Mous, please come by my desk so that you can receive your reading material." Oh, right, I almost forgot that I also need to pick up some books. "Oh, and for those people who applied for karate class later, I am sorry to inform you but I won't be able to teach you today, master Zui will take over for me… and please, stop making fun of him. Or he will teach you with a stick." Oh? Never expected someone like Bars to be a martial arts instructor, but I guess he does look impressively built… I just thought he was a total, what's the word, himbo? Never mind, I need to pick up a few books from him. "Mister Mous, it is good to see that you picked up my class. I know Shuyaku will disagree with me, but art can be commercial as well. You know, to actually earn cash?" "I understand, Mister Bars, and thank you for the lesson. You said you have reading material for me." "Yup, here it is!" He took out several books from his desk. Well, that's a lot and it looks heavy. "As Shuyaku would say… They are very good exercise." He laughs at his own joke. I am not amused on the other hand. "Haaa, anyway. You need to catch up with the rest of the class. While I cannot ask you to prepare the assignments for the lessons you've skipped, I sincerely ask you to do them anyway for your sake. They are designed to improve your skill." "Got it… I did not know you were a martial arts teacher." "Surprised? Used to be an actor in some martial arts movie flicks and yes, I did my own stunts. Have you ever heard of Green Claw? Or Shadow Tallon?" "Never heard of them." "Well, maybe they were a bit before your time. Good movies, really recommend, just don't watch the sequels." Before my time? "You are talking like you are an old man… You look no older than 30." "Thanks, I've been trying to look proper. I may no longer be a movie actor, I still work in the movie business. We are currently making a documentary on some town's history." "Oh, is that why you are not teaching your class?" "Part of the reason. I have an appointment at the spa. You know, I need to clean myself up a bit before tomorrow's shooting." Hmm, a spa? Seems like a terrible excuse to not do your work, but if what he says is true, I guess he has to look good on camera. "Listen, kid, maybe you also need some "cleaning up"? I know a good place, the staff there is great. Especially the young one, she is a doll! A bit opportunistic, but she knows her stuff! Both fashion and how to take care of your body." "I dunno, I am short on cash." "Don't worry! I will get you a discount! Just go there, talk to the one named Trish, mention my name and you are golden." … wait… did he just say? "T-Trish?" "Yeah, oh, right, forgot to describe her. She is a dino, triceratops, a tad bit short. Don't be fooled though, she can kick your ass in a fight. She has purple scales, so you won't have any issues finding her there." Could it be? No, it is her! What is it with today and sudden reunions? "Wait a sec, here is their card. It has an address on the back. It is out of Skin Row though, so you better catch the cab." I take the card… What should I do with that information? "Thank you, mister Bars, I'll think about it." "Please do, you look tense. You need to relax a bit. See you tomorrow." With these words Mister Bars collected all of his stuff from his table and left the room, leaving me alone in the classroom. I look at the card, burning a hole through it, thinking what should I do. "Having an issue with your past, young one?" I turn around and notice Master Shiyaku standing in the doorway. "Ah, sorry, haven't noticed you there." "No issues, Anon… What is it with this card? The look you have suggests that you are in turmoil." "Maybe… I don't know what to do… You see, remember Fang? She used to have a friend in school. They were very close before I came and fucked everything up. Fang never tried to rebuild that bridge and… I dunno, I just think that…" Shuyaku places his hand on my shoulder. "Sounds like it is not your battle to have, right?" "Yeah, it's just… I want Fang to try to meet her, maybe reconnect or something…" "It is a good thought to have, but you can't force our friend to confront her past without her consent. You two are still training and if you feel that you are not ready, you are not ready for it. If you worry about your friends, the best thing you can do is to support them. Tell them about what you found out and let them choose their own path." Shuyaku is right. It is up to Fang to decide whether she wants to meet Trish or not. All I can do is just give directions. I nod to Shuyaku. "Thank you, teacher. I will think of what to do next." "Good, and in time too… I need to close this classroom." Oh! I quickly grab the books and stuff them into my bag. I put the bag on my back and almost fell backwards. Damn, these things are heavy! Shuyaku gives out a subtle cackle seeing me struggle, but says nothing. Once again I nod to him and leave the classroom. Alright, time to go meet Fang and… tell her about my recent encounters.