Hotel Blue Moon (Inspired by Hotel Del Luna)

Chapter 12: Grumpy beginning to something

Yi Sook arresting the Mayor became a hot topic for the public and his own department. The people considered him a hero, who did the right thing by going behind his superiors to collect evidence and arrest him. However, his bosses didn't think the same. He expected mixed reactions, but not outright resentment. Their responses ranged from, "Detective Kim! How could you go behind our backs?" to "You have put our necks in the line with your little stunt. There will be political pressure enough to get you packed up and gone." 
His team members were completely supportive. With the growing tension, they  took equal responsibility even when Yi Sook disagreed. He wanted to take the burden so he could protect his team from any foul play. Detective Han, bless his heart, didn't want Yi Sook to take the fall. "After all sir, we are a team. We should watch each other's six." He had said. Yi Sook felt grateful, but the consequences of this are heavy.

"Detective Kim?" A uniformed officer entered Yi Sook's office. Yi Sook looked up and nodded.
"The Commissioner wants you to meet him now." The officer said, apologetically. Yi Sook sighed.
"Thank you. I'll meet him now." He said and got up. The uniformed officer stood there, eyes darting.
"Well?"
"I just wanted to say what you did was amazing, sir. Standing up to a man like that is very inspiring." The officer looked amazed. Yi Sook chuckled.
"If only everyone thought that way.." He walked away smiling, leaving the officer puzzled. 

Yi Sook walked to the Commissioner's office, earning stares and murmurs from the other detectives and police officers in the department. He shook his head and continued to walk. 
Knock knock. Yi Sook gave two knocks on the door and opened it to see the Commissioner sitting with the Senior Superintendent of his division. 
"Come in, Detective Kim." The commissioner said, taking off his glasses. Yi Sook shuffled inside and saluted the two. He was motioned to sit beside the Superintendent.
"Detective Kim, what is the development in the Mayor's case?" Asked the Commissioner, opening the case file Yi Sook had submitted.
"He has admitted to the accusations and is in holding now, sir. We are still awaiting trial."
The Commissioner looked Yi Sook intently. "There is a pressure from his party to release him, even though he is pleading guilty but the evidence you have is substantial enough to incriminate him. However.." He trailed off.
"Sir?"
"Their argument is leaning towards firing you."
Yi Sook fell silent and simply nodded. The Senior Superintendent continued. "We reduced it to suspension for 3 months. There is nothing we could do." 
Yi Sook couldn't hide his disappointment. Even though he did something right, there is always a price to give. The Commissioner noticed it.
"Detective, I know it is hard to accept, it is hard for us to see one of our members be subjected to this treatment. I know you are angry, and this anger is justified. This is just a paper telling you to leave the department for 3 months. Use this time to chase something else."
Yi Sook nodded. Commissioner is right. Even if he fought now, they will try to pin something else on him. It is best to stay low for a while, and maybe dig up dirt on people who support a criminal like the Mayor.
"Yes sir. I understand."

Yi Sook left the office and called for his team. Everyone assembled inside Yi Sook's office, confused as ever.
"I have been suspended for 3 months." Yi Sook declared. Everyone gasped loudly.
"Sir? Why?" Detective Han was piqued.
"This is what happens when you stand against someone powerful. It's alright. I want you guys to continue with the trial. If they make any defense, let me know." Everyone were upset.
"Hey! This is alright!" Yi Sook tried to cheer them up. "Besides, I needed a break for a while. I'll continue to work unofficially, but I won't be able to use my badge or gun now, that's all!" The team nodded.
Yi Sook felt bad about leaving them alone, but he know that they will be alright. He took off his badge and gun, nodded at everyone and left his office. He slowly made his way to the Management office, and submitted his utilities. He walked out of the office, sighing. Yi Sook anticipated this, but it still felt weird being suspended.