Hybrid Theory: A [Linkin Park] Spinoff.

State Of The Art.

[Phoenix's point of view. Two months later. Mental health facility in California.]

I look at the six familiar faces surrounding me,"Where's Alex? Wait. Don't answer. It's best for my health that I don't ask."
Mike sighs,"He's been deported. They are positive this time. The deportation officers stormed the house this morning. He texted me about five minutes ago saying he's in Belarus."
I sigh, feeling the type of relief that comes after a thunderstorm during a drought,"How's Eren taking it?"
Eren smiles,"Phi. We both get to turn over a new leaf. And, best of all, today is your release date!"
I smile,"Guess who now weighs two-fifty again!?"
Chester laughs and throws his arms around me,"DUDE! THAT'S GREAT!"
I smile and easily lift Chester,"And, best of all, I can finally lift Chaz!"
Eren sighs uneasily as she pulls her phone from her pocket,"Oh no."
I look at her,"What's wrong?"
"Nothing." She hands her phone to Mike.
Mike clears his throat,"Guys. I'm going to take Eren out to the car. Phoenix, go ahead and sign out. You guys meet us at the highway access ramp."
They turn and walk out.
I look at Chester,"What was that about?"
He shakes his head, drawing air in through his teeth,"Ishko and Benton are still looking for Eren."
"What happened to Marino?"
"Suicide by cop."
"What!?"
"Yep. Said he wanted to go out in a blaze of glory, robbed a firearm store, went to the local bank, shot it up, and well...the cops wasted him inside the bank."