HORIZON 1.1

Part-22

Shiva was enjoying his day off, lounging on the couch while watching the news and eating breakfast, which he rarely did.

Two rooms in his apartment were always locked and hardly ever used by him. He had locked away some old memories in those rooms and didn't want to remember them.

Ron was playing on the floor and occasionally bothering Shiva.

Shiva set his breakfast bowl aside when breaking news flashed on the screen. Captain Maya appeared with other police officials and the newly elected mayor, preparing for a public conference.

Jack and 15 other officers had been arrested for falsifying official documents, extorting money from citizens, and misusing government resources for personal gain. Jack's arrest was flashing on the screen.

"Jack has been sentenced to life imprisonment by a fast-track court for his crimes, and the investigation is ongoing," Maya informed the news agencies. "Mr. Nikhil, former police officer falsely accused of Jack's crimes, has been exonerated of all charges."

Jack, you got what you deserved, Shiva thought, remembering his friend Nikhil. Nikhil, my friend, you fought for justice for so long, and now you are not alive, but you are free now.

"Cases have been filed against the guilty officers under Section 12/C. I want to thank Mr. Macc for exposing this gang known as Hidden- Gem," Maya announced. "Mr. Macc will lead the investigation. I also want to thank the mayor for promptly approving the white-paper law. This bill will help us track down corrupt policemen by monitoring their financial activities. I am grateful to Paranormal, especially Mr. President, for getting this bill passed. It would not be possible without Paranormal's help."

Maya was wrapping up when the mayor abruptly took the microphone from her.

"Citizens, it wasn't easy," Mayor began. "People keep asking me if I belong to the same political party as the former mayor, who turned out to be a criminal. But let me tell you, citizens, I promise you that I don't."

"Politicians." Shiva turned off the display and sighed. He retrieved the briefcase from behind the couch. "Time for lunch, guys!"

Shiva was surprised to find the briefcase already open. "Where is the bird? And why are you giving her narcotics?"

Shiva frantically searched for the bird in his apartment, even in locked rooms. "Is she missing or dead?" Shiva noticed the open window.

"Did you let her out? Why?" Shiva questioned Ron.

Ron stared blankly and then started barking. The bird returned through the window and perched on Shiva's lap.

"Hey there, girl. Where have you been? Your color has changed completely, how?"

The bird was now a dazzling white. Both Ron and the bird began eating from Shiva's bowl.

"You're not well. We need to consult a soul expert," Shiva muttered as he put on his jacket. "Come."

Shiva opened the briefcase, called the bird, and she immediately complied.

"Ron, you're coming too. Maybe she affected you too." Shiva dematerialized the bird into the briefcase, calling Ron.

***

"Who decided to flaunt themselves? A man who has the courage to apprehend a mayor, a genius PI, and a hero of Hope City." Bob, the bar owner, greeted Shiva warmly as he materialized on the transportation pod alongside Ron.

Shiva's bracelet flashed a notification informing him of the deduction of 300 Jules from his account.

"Seriously, you keep raising the transportation fees," Shiva remarked as they made their way to the counter.