Veridis Quo

Interlude 7

The life of an officer of the law was not easy.

To become a lawman one had to go through numerous difficult tests to be a qualified candidate. There was the physical test as an officer had to be somewhat athletic to chase down criminals, there was the written test as an officer had to know the law like their right hand. There was also the shooting range, pepper spray exposure, drug resistance, a background check which brings us to the most important examination.

The psychological evaluation.

All of the above meant nothing if the officer in question was a psychopath behind a theatrical mask. The last thing the police force needed was a mole without allegiance.

It was extremely dangerous to have a potential liability armed and authorized to the evidence locker and other sensitive facilities of the state.

Therefore, the psychological evaluation paired with a background check was the very first step in becoming an officer – in Yamoto, at least. Every country had their own standards and qualifications, but they weren't relevant to the story.

Additionally, if a cadet was showing unusual behavior and alarming signs, another psychological evaluation was never harmful. In the best case, they'd feel insulted and pass bootcamp regardless.

Having competent officers was very important to the Sublime Beastar of the country. More important than a powerful military or a pioneering space program. What did it matter how beautiful a castle was if the interior was butchered?

Speaking of butchering-

"Calling more additionals! Suspect was spotted entering the black district! I repeat-"

"Secure the area!"

"Go after him! Don't let civilians near the scene!"

Nearby police sirens cried, muting the gathering animals a good walk away. If one paid attention, distant sirens were also present, likely an ambulance on its way.

Unfortunately, they weren't going to be able to revive this one. Straight to the autopsy and the body wall. You know, where they store bodies when on-going investigations are in the picture.

The investigation in question was fresh out of the oven and consequently jammed a monkey wrench in the equine's wheels.

"..."

Crossing her arms, Yahya watched the officers on scene follow the protocol. A perimeter was secured around the crime scene with yellow tape and blockading vehicles. A trio had brandished their firearms and gave chase to the escapee. Another pair was making sure no one accidentally intruded on the scene to preserve the site for cleaner evidence. It wouldn't do to have an innocent's DNA reading involved in another brutal case of predation.

In broad daylight, too!

This generation has no shame!

The mare snorted in humor, no smile.

There was nothing funny about death, especially murder.

It was just that she was so used to it she could munch on a carrot right now.

Her stomach growled lightly, yearning for a juicy cherry tomato salad. Extra creamy sauce, best imported from Johnny's ba-

She shook her head, lightly biting her tongue to drive away the hormones. It was neither the time nor the place for indecent activities.

How unlucky was she to be caught up in a random case when she was on patrol? Expected. But when searching for a good restaurant? Absolutely rotten.

Closing her eyes, she suppressed her hunger by sheer will, the immediate situation taking priority.