Star in the Streets

Chapter 4

Kylon and Dolus approach the Northern Checkpoint. Seeing gunmen in distance, the atmosphere begins to change. A checkpoint is a place few misbehave. The threat of gunfire subdues many but elates the gunmen who wield the weapons. Kylon, who works in a gun shop, has grown accustomed to the possibility of gunfire been used around him. This state of confidence has always served him well when crossing the checkpoints.

The Northern Checkpoint was busier than usual, as Kylon and Dolus join the long line. Dolus's eagerness to place a bet has made him anxious, While Kylon's determination to witness the fight has him excited. The line moves forward, slowly, with each person providing their passport before gaining entry.

'Tonight's gonna be the night Dol' says Kylon.

'You've got that right; I swear this is the biggest fight to ever happen in the Arena' says Dolus.

'How much you are spending at the Bookies' asks Kylon.

'Twenty coppers, you?' asks Dolus.

'A Bronze' says Kylon. He pulls out the coin from his pocket, showing it to Dolus.

'Why are you spending so much?' ask Dolus. confused with Kylon's decision.

'I Got it for free, some stuck-up Nobleman, gave it to me today in the shop' says Kylon. Kylon puts the coin back into his pocket.

'NEXT' says The Gunman. Kylon and Dolus step forward to present their documents.

Both of ya back again' says The Gunman. As he views Dolus and Kylons documents.

'of course, we're just following orders from our bosses' says Kylon. A lie he often tells.

'Does it involves watching Billy Sanders fight tonight?' asks The Gunman

'Never Sir, we've been sent to gather materials from the Low Street vendors' says Dolus. Another obvious lie.

'You boys are gonna regret going down there one day, that place is not a playground, it's dangerous. You two just don't seem to understand that' The Gunmen gives them back their passports. 'You're clear to go through, hope you learn a lesson or two whilst ya down there'

'See you next time, Mr?' asks Kylon. Try to attain the Gunman's name

'Move along!' says the Gunman.

'Yes Sir' says Dolus. He pushes Kylon forward, fearing the repercussions of Kylon's inquisitiveness.

Kylon and Dolus move past the gunmen and approach the checkpoint Barrier. A steel bar stretches across, five meters long and five inches wide, enough to obstruct any rouge vehicles looking to cross the checkpoints. On each side stand two walkways, each occupied by armed personnel, ready to apprehend any antagonists. One person per passageway, making it a solitary endeavour when crossing the checkpoint. Dolus goes Left, while Kylon goes Right, and as Kylon approaches the crossing, he receives glares of hatred from the armed personnel.

These guys must get a kick out of holding those guns. They sit on their asses all day, talking, smoking, and drinking whilst on the job. Hypocrites, I bet half of them head down to Low Street after work. They stand here pretending to be a buffer against lawlessness. Yet they themselves feed their sinful desires and drown in pleasure. it's no secret that the night guards always demand a bride for re-entry into Middle Street. I usually have nothing for them, even if I did, I wouldn't give it to them anyway. Those pricks are just as bad as the Area Boys.

Well, maybe not. The Northern Boys are ruthless. I heard they like to take people's fingers off if they aren't able to pay what's demanded, sometimes taking off limbs. The whole of Low Street is just one big bowl of Anarchy. The only thing holding it together is money; The gangs, the clubs, the Arena are all fuel by it. Most people know The Street is just a dirty playground for any who have some cash in their pockets. Its residents have no choice but to survive using any means. Most chose the factories, others the illicit establishments, the rest become Area Boys.

Gran and Gramps think I don't understand the dangers out there. Whose irresponsible enough like this gutter. The real reason I go there is just the opposite. To make myself strong, to ensure I'm not beaten the day life takes a swing at me. the real reason I go to Low Street is to learn Boxing.  

It's been two years started that training down in the street, the energy and tension which fills the ring just before a fight is more intoxicating than any drug. Triumph or defeat­– the outcome is in my hands. I as you rush into battle you become a dragon seeking to destroy all within the boxing ring.

I've been coming to Low Street consistently to improve my skills, Dol is the only one who knows about my secret obsession. I usually train with some of the Area Boys, although I don't have a shot at making it on the big stage, it doesn't stop me from getting in the ring. I hate leaving all covered in bruises and cuts, but what doesn't break you makes you stronger. I wish I don't have to lie to Gran. I usually tell her I got it a fight at the bookies. Well, I guess it's not a complete lie, just a half-truth if there is such a thing.