HORIZON 1.1

Part-26

"That was quite shocking," Maya exclaimed, sipping her coffee. Her mind raced as she tried to piece together the puzzle.

Shiva was present in her office, and they both desperately needed the caffeine after the intense interrogation they had just experienced.

"All I can say is that Resistance is real, and unfortunately, we are powerless to stop them," Maya stated, taking in the aroma of her coffee, which helped to calm her nerves.

"Captain, I believe I can locate the missing child," Shiva said, almost finishing his cup. "Please grant me access to the surveillance cameras."

"No."

"Please, I can help."

"Why do you always forget? You no longer work with us. And you lost your only chance when you apprehended Mayor," Maya struggled to speak, clearly distressed. "A private investigator cannot get involved without the victim's consent."

Maya was deeply troubled. The recent incidents in the city had left her sleepless, as her reputation and job were at stake. She knew she had to take action to protect both. She knew that finding the missing child was crucial. Not only for the sake of justice but also to uncover the truth behind Resistance and their motives.

There was a moment of silence in the room, and just as Shiva thought it was time to leave her office, Maya stopped him.

"Tell me, what did Rudra, the boy, tell you about his weapon?" Maya demanded aggressively, pulling at her hair. "You were the only person who spoke to him before Paranormal took custody of him. Did he sell it to someone? Did he explain where he obtained the technology?"

"He didn't say anything, Captain. But something terrible is happening in Zone. Vaibhav and Anjellina, the two deceased couples, were not killed by him." Shiva stood up from his seat. "Do you remember Anjellina, the woman with her finger severed? Today, a woman willingly sacrificed her finger in front of all of us. She didn't even consider her missing child before cutting it off. This group, Resistance, has complete control over its members. Perhaps they are responsible for all of these incidents."

"Perhaps, but without sufficient evidence, we can't prove anything. Right now, Rudra is the prime suspect," Maya replied. "However, we know he wasn't acting alone."

Shiva believed Rudra was being wrongly charged for murders he did not commit, including the killing of two police officers. Despite this, Shiva was unable to prevent his friend's son from facing the consequences.

"What is on your mind?" Maya inquired.

"I am thinking about the boy and what Paranormal may have done with him," Shiva replied.

"Paranormal does not conduct investigations. They may have fused him into the wall. You cannot assist him now; he has chosen his own path. No evidence will be of any help to you," Maya explained.

Shiva felt a sense of sadness for his friend's son. "But if I can prove to you that he did not commit the murders, would you allow me to search for the missing child?" Shiva asked.

Maya did not respond immediately. She appeared lost in thought.

"Why are you interested in this case?" she finally asked.

"The city is no longer the same. Unprecedented chaos is unfolding before our eyes, unlike anything in our history. Something significant and terrible is happening beneath our feet. And if I can be of assistance, I will try," Shiva explained.

Maya continued to struggle with her decision but eventually nodded in agreement.

"Captain, I have evidence. I will show it to you. Be prepared for my call," Shiva stated before leaving Maya's office.