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| Anonymous Autocrat |
Anonymous Autocrat
In a world full of noises silence was the only thing that bothered him.
In a world full of things to love, he lost the ones he loved the most.
A quiet day turned quieter, went silent in an instant,
Loved ones were murdered after going through torment.
The sky was cloudy, but it was raining some other place,
As tears were dripping down from an anonymous face.
A new chapter was written in suffering and pain,
All was lost with nothing to gain.
The chapter was written in the book of fate,
This chapter had opened a whole new gate.
Painted with blood and fueled by rage,
The artwork took form on destiny's page.
Loved ones were murdered after going through torment.
The sky was cloudy, but it was raining some other place,
As tears were dripping down from an anonymous face.
A new chapter was written in suffering and pain,
All was lost with nothing to gain.
The chapter was written in the book of fate,
This chapter had opened a whole new gate.
Painted with blood and fueled by rage,
The artwork took form on destiny's page.
From here he began his quest for vengeance,
He carried no identity as he was anonymous.
At the age of only 11, he started to learn about every technological advancement known to man. He started learning to program from the age of just 13 and mastered it at the age of 16. He was a genius unlike any other. He was a failure as a student, but a mastermind in the world of networking.
Despite being ruled by such a corrupt government, he never truly felt threatened for his own life. Because his family was rich and they used to avoid coming into contact with any of these at all costs. But there was always one thing that he was afraid of and, that day his fear became a terrible reality.
He came from school one evening to find his house as an aftermath of what could be best described as a warzone. Corpses of his family members were everywhere, blood splattered on the walls, signs of struggle on their dead bodies. The sight was truly unsettling for anyone to see. He sat there all night crying over the bodies of his parents till the sun rose and he got a wake-up call. The police refused to investigate due to the fact that those killers were also working for the government.
He did not know what to do except for the fact that he was craving for vengeance. He wanted the blood of his family's killers on his own fingers. He wanted to make them suffer the same if not a far greater amount of pain and agony. He wanted justice for his family along with all the other families they had slaughtered. He took it upon himself to convey justice to all who deserve it and destroy all those who oppose him. From there onwards his journey had begun.
He was a master in code encryption and hacking. So, he put together a plan to cleanse this country of its corrupt rulers and rid of them as of the whole.
Year: 2066
1st Victim: Senator of State
1st Victim: Senator of State
[phone rings]
Senator: Hello!
Anonymous: Hello! How are you Mr. Senator of state? Or should I address you like the scum you are?
Senator: What rubbish! Who is this?
Anonymous: Ha ha ha ha.. Rubbish, is it? Okay! I'm game... I'll play along. So Mr. Senator of state, does your wife always like watching soap operas at this hour or is it just something she does while you're out there raping other women?
Senator: Do you have any idea who you're speaking to? I can terminate your entire family with a single order. In fact, I'm sending in the police to your house right now.
Anonymous: Oh no! What will I do now? I have nowhere to run! You even know my location!
Senator: Make all the jokes you want, but your number is being tracked at this very moment.
Anonymous: Oh really? Then tell me where I am, please. I seem to have lost the memory of my own address.
Senator: [asks the location of the number to the tracking agent]
Tracking Agent: Sir, the tracker says that this call is coming from your house.
Senator: Impossible! My house is one of the most secured fortresses in the world. No one can break into my house so easily.
Tracking Agent: Sir, this number does not carry any form of user identification! It seems to be an anonymous number!
Anonymous: ha ha ha... You were saying something about knowing my location?
Senator: Who are you and how did you break into my house?
Anonymous: When did I say anything about breaking into your house? In fact, I'm as far away from your house as you are from seeing tomorrows sunlight.
Senator: Listen here, son! I am the senator of the state of this entire country. You have no idea what I can do to you if I find you out.
Anonymous: Hmm! I'm sorry! Did you say something? I was busy watching your beautiful wife laying there on that brown couch of yours. She looks great in that bright green dress of hers. MAGNIFICENT!
Senator: How do you know all that?
Anonymous: ha ha ha ha haaa... Are you expecting an answer or actual proof?
Senator: How can you see the inside of my house?
Anonymous: How can I what? No! No! You have me all wrong. I can see inside your office as well. I have eyes beyond your imagination.
Senator: [looks around with a look of suspicion on his face]
Anonymous: Oh! Stop looking around like that you suspicious piece of filth. Are you really that dumb, or do you think I'm dumb?
Senator: There's no way you can see me. This is the most secure location in this country.
Anonymous: Oh really? Tell the person sitting next to you that it's his wife's anniversary. He forgot to wish her on the way out.
Senator: [asks his assistant next to himself if it's true or not]
Assistant: Yes! It's true, Sir! How did you know?
Senator: [sweating uncontrollably due to concern]
Anonymous: How come you're sweating that much? Did they turn off the AC?
Senator: Who are you and how you know all this?
Anonymous: Introductions for later, Mr. Senator! I'm currently busy admiring your house. You have a very nice house, mind if I blow it up?
Senator: You're bluffing! You can't do that.
Anonymous: Okay! Suit yourself! [hangs up phone]
Senator: Its probably that brat again! Hey you, pick up the phone!
Assistant: [after talking on the phone] Sir, it has been reported that your house blew up a few minutes ago. They say it was due to an electrical short circuit of the oven. They've retrieved the dead bodies of your wife and children.
Senator: What! Nooooooooo! This cannot be! [screaming to the heavens and breaking into tears] No! My children! No! [crying]
[phone ringing]
Assistant: Hello!
Anonymous: Turn the loudspeaker on! I know he's in no condition to answer my call. [on loudspeaker] Hey Mr. Senator, how did you like my surprise? Liked it? I hope you did, cause I had an absolute BLAST making it! HA HA HA HA HAAAA!
Senator: YOU INSANE BASTARD! I WILL MAKE YOU PAY FOR THAT!
Anonymous: If I were you, I'd be more worried about getting out of there than petty squabbles. Especially when you have a vault full of bombs...
Senator: You wouldn't dare.
Anonymous: I'm not the one to hesitate either. Let me show you a glimpse of my power with a small demonstration. See that man in your right? 3...2...1
[the phone in his pocket explodes]
Senator: How are you doing that?
Anonymous: Is that your curiosity speaking or is it the optimistic coward inside you who still believes he can escape this building alive?
Senator: [throws away the phone and runs towards the exit]
Anonymous: Oh! That's the spirit! [singing] Run rabbit! Run rabbit! Run! Run! Run!
Senator: [running down the hallway]
Anonymous: [from the stereo speakers on the walls of the hallway] Come on man! Faster! Faster! You have approximately 1 minute left before I blow up this joint.
Senator: [while running] YOU BASTARD! I'M GOING TO KILL YOU ONCE I GET MY HANDS ON YOU!
Anonymous: Don't waste your energy by screaming like a monkey! Try running faster. You have less than 30 seconds to escape.
Senator: [sees the exit of the building]
Anonymous: 3...2... [BOOM] [the entire building blows up]
Anonymous: Hello! How are you Mr. Senator of state? Or should I address you like the scum you are?
Senator: What rubbish! Who is this?
Anonymous: Ha ha ha ha.. Rubbish, is it? Okay! I'm game... I'll play along. So Mr. Senator of state, does your wife always like watching soap operas at this hour or is it just something she does while you're out there raping other women?
Senator: Do you have any idea who you're speaking to? I can terminate your entire family with a single order. In fact, I'm sending in the police to your house right now.
Anonymous: Oh no! What will I do now? I have nowhere to run! You even know my location!
Senator: Make all the jokes you want, but your number is being tracked at this very moment.
Anonymous: Oh really? Then tell me where I am, please. I seem to have lost the memory of my own address.
Senator: [asks the location of the number to the tracking agent]
Tracking Agent: Sir, the tracker says that this call is coming from your house.
Senator: Impossible! My house is one of the most secured fortresses in the world. No one can break into my house so easily.
Tracking Agent: Sir, this number does not carry any form of user identification! It seems to be an anonymous number!
Anonymous: ha ha ha... You were saying something about knowing my location?
Senator: Who are you and how did you break into my house?
Anonymous: When did I say anything about breaking into your house? In fact, I'm as far away from your house as you are from seeing tomorrows sunlight.
Senator: Listen here, son! I am the senator of the state of this entire country. You have no idea what I can do to you if I find you out.
Anonymous: Hmm! I'm sorry! Did you say something? I was busy watching your beautiful wife laying there on that brown couch of yours. She looks great in that bright green dress of hers. MAGNIFICENT!
Senator: How do you know all that?
Anonymous: ha ha ha ha haaa... Are you expecting an answer or actual proof?
Senator: How can you see the inside of my house?
Anonymous: How can I what? No! No! You have me all wrong. I can see inside your office as well. I have eyes beyond your imagination.
Senator: [looks around with a look of suspicion on his face]
Anonymous: Oh! Stop looking around like that you suspicious piece of filth. Are you really that dumb, or do you think I'm dumb?
Senator: There's no way you can see me. This is the most secure location in this country.
Anonymous: Oh really? Tell the person sitting next to you that it's his wife's anniversary. He forgot to wish her on the way out.
Senator: [asks his assistant next to himself if it's true or not]
Assistant: Yes! It's true, Sir! How did you know?
Senator: [sweating uncontrollably due to concern]
Anonymous: How come you're sweating that much? Did they turn off the AC?
Senator: Who are you and how you know all this?
Anonymous: Introductions for later, Mr. Senator! I'm currently busy admiring your house. You have a very nice house, mind if I blow it up?
Senator: You're bluffing! You can't do that.
Anonymous: Okay! Suit yourself! [hangs up phone]
A few moments later;
[phone rings]
[phone rings]
Senator: Its probably that brat again! Hey you, pick up the phone!
Assistant: [after talking on the phone] Sir, it has been reported that your house blew up a few minutes ago. They say it was due to an electrical short circuit of the oven. They've retrieved the dead bodies of your wife and children.
Senator: What! Nooooooooo! This cannot be! [screaming to the heavens and breaking into tears] No! My children! No! [crying]
[phone ringing]
Assistant: Hello!
Anonymous: Turn the loudspeaker on! I know he's in no condition to answer my call. [on loudspeaker] Hey Mr. Senator, how did you like my surprise? Liked it? I hope you did, cause I had an absolute BLAST making it! HA HA HA HA HAAAA!
Senator: YOU INSANE BASTARD! I WILL MAKE YOU PAY FOR THAT!
Anonymous: If I were you, I'd be more worried about getting out of there than petty squabbles. Especially when you have a vault full of bombs...
Senator: You wouldn't dare.
Anonymous: I'm not the one to hesitate either. Let me show you a glimpse of my power with a small demonstration. See that man in your right? 3...2...1
[the phone in his pocket explodes]
Senator: How are you doing that?
Anonymous: Is that your curiosity speaking or is it the optimistic coward inside you who still believes he can escape this building alive?
Senator: [throws away the phone and runs towards the exit]
Anonymous: Oh! That's the spirit! [singing] Run rabbit! Run rabbit! Run! Run! Run!
Senator: [running down the hallway]
Anonymous: [from the stereo speakers on the walls of the hallway] Come on man! Faster! Faster! You have approximately 1 minute left before I blow up this joint.
Senator: [while running] YOU BASTARD! I'M GOING TO KILL YOU ONCE I GET MY HANDS ON YOU!
Anonymous: Don't waste your energy by screaming like a monkey! Try running faster. You have less than 30 seconds to escape.
Senator: [sees the exit of the building]
Anonymous: 3...2... [BOOM] [the entire building blows up]
2nd Victim: Governor
[phone ringing]
Governor: Hello!
Officer: Hello! Sir, I'm afraid to report that there was a blast at the office of the senator. He along with his workers died in the explosion.
Governor: What! How did the blast occur?
Officer: Sir, the vault full of bombs had an electric short circuit due to an error in the security system.
Governor: We spent millions on that damn office just to make it as safe as possible, and now you're telling me that a short circuit blew up the whole building!
Officer: Sir, some of our officials believe that our security systems were tampered with.
Governor: What do you mean by "tampered with"?
Officer: Sir, it means they might've been hacked.
Governor: That's impossible! Our country has the most top tier cybersecurity in the world. [sound of laughter]
Governor: That's impossible! Our country has the most top tier cybersecurity in the world. [sound of laughter]
Anonymous: Ha ha ha ha haa.. Is that really true Mr. Governor? Well, let me change your mind.
Governor: Who is this? How did you get on this private network?
Anonymous: I am someone who is about to show you what happened to the senator of the state.
Governor: You know about the incident? How?
Anonymous: Well, isn't it obvious? I'm the one behind all this.
Governor: WHAT! How the hell did you get passed our advanced security systems?
Anonymous: That's nothing Mr. Governor, I can even do things beyond your tiny imagination. Would you like to see a small demonstration?
Governor: What kind of demonstration?
Anonymous: Take a look at the fire alarm on the wall to your right.
Governor: [looks at it] I'm looking at it, what now?
Anonymous: 3..2..1. . . ((BOOM)) [fire alarm explodes]
Governor: How did you do that?!!
Anonymous: You should first thank me for not demonstrating my powers on the phone in front of you. The could've damaged your face as well as your sorry excuse of a brain.
Governor: Answer me first, dammit!
Anonymous: Calm down Mr. Governor, or else you might get yourself killed in the process, as I am an extremely short-tempered man and, cannot withstand such an attitude.
Governor: I'm the governor of this country. Do you really I'm going to be intimidated by the likes of you?
Anonymous: Okay Mr. Governor! Suit yourself! But you should probably check on your family to know if they're alive or not..
Governor: What do you mean by that?
Anonymous: Just give them a call. Actually, let me get them on the line with you... Wait! [phone starts ringing in the middle of the call]
Governor: [sweating nervously]
Governor's Wife: [picks up the phone] Hello!
Governor: Hello! Are you alright?
Governor's Wife: Yes. Why? What's wrong?
Governor: Are the kids home?
Governor's Wife: Yes. They just got back from school. What's going on?
Governor: Nothing. I just wanted to check on you, that's all.
Governor's Wife: Okay. Try to come home early tonigh... ((BOOM)) [the house blows up]
Governor: Hello! HELLO! Hellooo! What happened? Hello! Can you hear me?
Anonymous: Did you enjoy your final conversation with your family, Mr. Governor?
Governor: YOU BASTARD! WHAT DID YOU DO TO THEM??
Anonymous: I blew them into smithereens.
Governor: I'LL KILL YOU! SHOW YOURSELF!! [slams his phone on the wall and starts breaking everything around him]
Anonymous: Oh dear! Did I strike a nerve? Are you finally ready to acknowledge my potential? Or should I kill you as well?
Governor: DO YOUR WORST! I'M GONNA KILL YOU, I SWEAR!
Anonymous: To do that you have to be physically alive.
Governor: BAAAS... ((BOOM)) [governor's office explodes]
After his first two victims were so easily eliminated, he had then gained the confidence he needed to bring down the rest of the government.
But as he was preparing for his next attack, the investigation had begun on the two explosions taking place back to back. The investigation department was severely puzzled with their current predicament. Their doubts were not valid since they had no hard evidence on the matter. They decided to look for clues back at the scene of the crime, but all they found there was only dust and rubble. They started interrogating the families of those who were on duty that day. They interrogated each and every one of them, but none of them knew anything about either of the incidents.
When all hope seemed lost, an inspector called the head detective to inform him about the information he knew. He told him about the system malfunction of the security systems and the electrical combustion in the Senator's house. The detective had now obtained a very vital clue, but less did he know, he was being overheard by the Anonymous killer.
The very next morning;
Detective: Hello!
Anonymous: Hello, Mr. Detective! How are you?
Detective: Not so well, I suppose. Who is this?
Anonymous: Who am I? Well, that is something that does not matter. But what actually matters is the information I can provide you on the two bombings.
Detective: You know something?
Anonymous: Oh! Well, of course, I do. I'm the one who did all that.
Detective: WHAT! Are you serious?
Anonymous: As serious as I've ever been.
Detective: If what you're saying is true, then calling me like this was a huge mistake.
Anonymous: Ha ha ha! Oh! Really? What are you going to do about it, Mr. Detective?
Detective: I'm going to find you out and put you behind bars.
Anonymous: Oh! Is that so? How about this? What if I trap you in your own office, blow you into pieces and do the same thing to your precious family?
Detective: This is one of the most highly protected buildings in the country. No one can even try to plant a bomb in here, not even the likes of you.
Anonymous: Well, for someone who's the head detective, you sure are gullible.
Detective: Oh yeah? And what does that supposed to mean?
Anonymous: You're planning to capture me by tracking me with the IP Address incorporated with my phone number, but you haven't even looked up my location yet. My last two victims were smarter than you. You're dumb!
Detective: Okay wise guy, let's see where you're hiding.
[searching for a location on the tracker] Location: 404 error. Not found.
Anonymous: So... You were saying something about bringing me behind bars.
Detective: You managed to erase any and all information on your location in such a short period!
Anonymous: No, Mr. Detective! I didn't erase anything. My information was never shared in the first place.
Detective: So, you're a hacker!
Anonymous: Bravo, Mr. Detective! Bravo! At last, you started using your detective brain of yours.
Detective: Why are you doing all this?
Anonymous: My intentions are none of your concern. They are as mysterious as I am. That is why I am warning you. Don't get involved in any of this, you'll get yourself and your family killed. If you take this investigation any further, I will burn your precious family to ashes, am I understood, Mr. Detective?
Detective: Threaten me all you want, but I will eventually find you and make you pay.
Anonymous: Ha ha ha ha ha... You crack me up. Go ahead! Try all you want. Don't say I didn't warn you.
[hangs up the phone]
Later that night, the detective goes home to his family. As soon as he opens the door, he is greeted by his loving wife and his 8-year-old daughter. He can't stop thinking about everything that happened in the morning. He tells his wife, he's not hungry and quickly goes to the bedroom. The threats are constantly buzzing in his ears. As he's facing all of the stress, his daughter goes near him and asks if there was something that was bothering him. Hearing this, his eyes filled up with tears as was trying to fake a smile to hide his depression. His daughter hugged him and said, “My daddy is the best daddy ever. I love you, daddy." to which he replied, “Daddy loves his little princess too." and told her to go to bed. He promised to protect them as well as carrying out his duties as a detective. So, he told his wife to take his daughter to her grandma's house for a few days. And forbade her not to tell anyone anything about their whereabouts.
He thought he had it all figured out, but he had no idea that he was again being overheard by the Anonymous killer through the phone kept beside his bed.
The next morning
As his wife and child are getting ready to head out, they get a call on the phone by a mysterious figure claiming to be a well-wisher advising them not to pursue in their journey. So, she immediately informed her husband about this. The detective rushed to the house only to find a huge pile of ashes and rubble. Seeing the horrific sight, he was yelling in pain and frustration as he assumed his family was bombed along with the house. But after a few moments, he receives a call from his wife who was called again after informing the detective about the mysterious phone call. The mysterious figure had called her again to instruct her to get far away from the house as possible. After this incident, he took it upon himself to safely deliver them to their planned destination. He returns to his office afterward as the police were investigating the bombed house looking for the cause of the explosion. Back in the office; the detective again got a call from the Anonymous killer.
[phone ringing]
Detective: Hello!
Anonymous: Hello, Mr. Detective! How did you like my surprise? I hope by now you know what kind of person you're dealing with.
Detective: Why did you choose to warn them before blowing up my house?
Anonymous: To make a statement. To show how serious I can get when it comes to getting what I want. To make you realize that you are no longer in control. I am.
Detective: You chose to use my family as an example? What kind of a sick, twisted person does such a thing? My wife and daughter could've been harmed.
Anonymous: WOW! Instead of thanking me for sparing the life of your family, you're lecturing me on what to do and what not to do. Is that like a hobby or something? Nonetheless, next time I will care for neither your wife nor your daughter. Now, you need to decide what you want. Do you want to protect your family by staying out of my way, or do you want to carry out your duties as a detective and endanger their lives in the process?
Detective: They have nothing to do with this. Leave my family out of this.
Anonymous: Are you giving me orders? Have you not seen what I am capable of?
Detective: My duty towards protecting my family is important, but now it's even more imperative for me to catch you. Because you're a threat not only to the country but also to my family. So, in order to protect them, I must capture you.
Anonymous: Okay, Mr. Detective! Have it your way. But by the end of the day, you will either discontinue your investigation or you will die trying to stop me. [hangs up phone]
The detective knew that he was cornered by the Anonymous figure. The only place he was safe was in his own head. It was the first time in his life that he was experiencing something so nerve-racking. Getting his family involved along took away any sort of advantage he had on the situation. He was now forced to decide between the life of his own family and his duties as the head detective. He sought out a plan but was highly hesitant to execute it. He knew that he required assistance from a fellow operative who had an undefeated record of solving the toughest of cases back in his days. This fellow operative was a retired detective. The fact that the Anonymous figure had control over all of the cellular networks made it impossible for him to contact this retired detective without getting noticed. So, he decided to take some drastic measures. He knew that the Anonymous figure must have control over all security surveillance cameras as well since he always knew when he was and was not present in the office. He decided to use this as an opportunity to fool the Anonymous figure by faking an illness. He knew that there were no security cameras inside the bathrooms, so he used it to his advantage. He went into the bathroom and shoved his fingers down his throat to make himself vomit. He made sure to make it look convincing enough to make it look as real as possible. During his entire act, he didn't look at the cameras, not even a single time to avoid any sort of suspicion. To carry out the second stage of his act, he called in his secretary to book an appointment with the doctor for that evening and added that he was going to take the rest of the day off. Saying so he started approaching the exit hoping that the Anonymous figure won't realize that he left his phone on his desk, acting as if he had forgotten it due to the hurry. He made sure to drive his car in the direction of the clinic to avoid suspicion and changed his car midway in case of getting caught by the security cameras on the roads. He got into a taxi and told the driver to take him to the address of his fellow operative. There he could discuss everything with him without falling under suspicion. When he arrived at the address, he found that his fellow operative was not present at his residence. He only found his wife at home who told him that he'll be back within an hour or so. So, he went in to wait for his fellow operative. He took this time to switch off any and all devices that were connected to a network that could transmit any sort of information outside. He did not want to take any sort of risks as he knew it could be his only chance of solving this case. Finally, the retired detective had arrived home. The detective rushed to his fellow operative to get his phone and turned it off. He also asked if he was carrying any other sort of device that could potentially transmit intel. The retired detective replied in the negative and asked what was going on as he had no idea what was going on. The detective went near his ear and whispered, “Even though all the devices are disconnected, he could still figure out some way to overhear our conversations." Hearing this the retired detective asked, “Whom are you referring to?" The detective again whispered, “A mysterious figure who has access to all of the networks. He is a hacker who is responsible for the bombings of the Senator's office and the Governor's office. He is also the one who blew up my house this morning." Hearing this the retired detective suggested discussing this in detail elsewhere. Afterward, they both headed out to a really old coffee shop they used to visit back in the old days. The coffee shop was an ideal place for discussion as it had no security cameras inside or outside. So, there wasn't any possibility of the Anonymous figure finding anything out.
The two sat down and ordered their old favorites; a green tea and an espresso.
Detective: So, I see you're still living out that healthy lifestyle of yours. It's been almost eight years and you're still on that green tea.
Retired Detective: Well, you haven't changed too. Espresso as always! You should really cut down on that. It really messes up the sleeping habits.
Detective: Well, isn't that what we signed up for? Isn't that our job? To go around solving cases, catching dangerous criminals, sacrificing our own sleep so that the people can sleep peacefully?
Retired Detective: You got that right! But that doesn't mean you have to mess up the sleeping habits you actually require to live. Can you imagine what would happen if you were sleeping on the job?
Detective: Quite frankly, I think we're doing something wrong. Sometimes it seems as we are the problem.
Retired Detective: What makes you think that?
Detective: Think about it. We're out there, working day in and day out, solving cases, but have the criminals stopped committing crimes? Have they changed the error of their ways? What good are we if the crime rates keep on increasing?
Retired Detective: You're forgetting the point of our job. Our job is not to inspire them into changing their ways, our job is to capture them and put an end to their plans.
Detective: But what's the point of capturing them if more of them keep popping up? Why can't we permanently exterminate this whole criminal mentality they possess. Why can't we simply convince them to change? Why does it always have to be a win or lose situation?
Retired Detective: I think this new case is getting to your head. Let's talk about him now. Give me all the details on the case.
Detective: I have told you most of the story. The rest of the information won't help in any way. But there is something really strange about him.
Retired Detective: What's that?
Detective: He seems to have a soft spot.
Retired Detective: What makes you think that?
Detective: Just think about it. He targeted the Senator and the Governor on public holidays to ensure there weren't many staff members in the offices. He also called them during lunch hour, so that most of the workers present would likely be off to lunch. The only people present there were the bodyguards, tracking agents and their personal assistants. Not to mention how he warned my wife before bombing my house so that they could safely evacuate.
Retired Detective: I see. What do you think he's after? What could be his agenda?
Detective: I think he has no intentions of hurting innocent people. Although he didn't count their families to be innocent since he killed them without hesitation.
Retired Detective: I think he did that to prove a point.
Detective: A point! What kind of point could he be trying to prove?
Retired Detective: Just think about it. Blowing them up was simply an example of how helpless they are compared to him. He has the power to bomb places without even using any sort of explosive or flammable materials such as the ones present in their offices.
Detective: So, what your saying is that he's trying to intimidate us.
Retired Detective: Precisely!
Detective: Even if that were the case, he could've done it any other way. The city is full of abandoned buildings. Why take innocent lives in the first place, if his objective was only to set an example?
Retired Detective: Maybe he's doing this out of vengeance.
Detective: That is a great possibility. But we shouldn't jump to any conclusions yet. Besides, we should focus on what his next move could be rather than figuring out his motives.
Retired Detective: Yeah! You're right. Who do you think his next target could be?
Detective: It could be anyone at this point. I think I'm gonna have to ask him myself.
Retired Detective: After all that, you still want to reason with him? What if he decides to blow you and your family up, huh? Then what? Ever thought about that?
Detective: You and I both know that it's the only way.
Retired Detective: No, it's not. Let me take a jab at him.
Detective: No, that's too dangerous. You shouldn't risk the life of you and your family just to get some intel.
Retired Detective: Well, I don't think he's the type of person to do that. As we discussed earlier, it seems as though he has a soft spot. Let's use that to our advantage.
Detective: No, I won't let you do this.
Retired Detective: I'm not asking for your permission. Don't forget that I'm your senior; both in age and experience.
Detective: Okay! Fine. Just promise me you won't do anything to antagonize him.
Retired Detective: I'm afraid it's a promise I cannot make. Well, at least not until I get in touch with our mysterious killer.
Waiter: Sir, here's your bill. [puts the bill on the table] It's been a long time since I've seen you two here. Must've gotten a day off, huh?
Detective: Oh boy! I wish that were the case. [pulling out wallet]
Retired Detective: [stops the detective's hand with his left hand] Hold your horses there! You paid the last time we were here. It's my turn.
Detective: You still remember?
Retired Detective: Well, I wouldn't be the top detective in the country with a weak memory you know! [reaches inside coat pocket for wallet] What in blazes! Dammit! I left my wallet at home thanks to your impatience.
Detective: Well, it looks like I get to pay after all. [takes out the wallet and pays the bill] Keep the change.
Waiter: Thank you, Sir!
Retired Detective: Now, let's go home.
Detective: I should probably go home too. I left my phone at the office to avoid being tracked. My wife must've tried to contact me quite a number of times by now.
Retired Detective: Couldn't you have at least told her that you were going to see a doctor before coming here?
Detective: I now realize that I should've. But then I couldn't ignore my phone on the desk like that without looking suspicious.
Retired Detective: That's true. Make sure to call her and tell her you're alright.
Detective: Sure thing. See you tomorrow. [extends the right hand for a handshake]
Retired Detective: You too. [handshakes] Goodbye and take care.
After this private discussion, the retired detective returned home and the detective went to his office to contact his wife with his phone he left on the desk earlier. On his way to the office, he bought some medication and a page from the pharmacy to make it look like he actually visited the doctor. After reaching his office he quickly started looking for his phone on the desk, but couldn't seem to find it anywhere. He called in the cleaning staff to ask if they had seen it, but none of them did. He asked a member of the cleaning staff to lend him his phone so that he could contact his wife. He dialed up his wife's number and informed her about his sudden sickness and trip to the doctor. The cleaning staff then returned back to their previous work and the detective again started looking for his phone. Suddenly his phone starts ringing with a louder than average volume. The volume of the ringtone starts increasing with every ring and he soon realized where the sound was coming from. He quickly went into the bathroom and found his phone on the soap dispenser. He picked up the phone to find out it was from the Anonymous figure.
Anonymous: Hello, Mr. Detective! How was your visit to the doctor? Are you alright now?
Detective: Yes, I am. By any chance, would you happen to be wandering around inside my office earlier?
Anonymous: Well, yes and no.
Detective: What does that mean?
Anonymous: Why would I need to get my own hands dirty when I can easily send someone else to do that for me?
Detective: This is an investigation bureau. Finest in the country. How did you send someone without getting noticed?
Anonymous: You are underestimating me again, Mr. Detective. That might not turn out to be so salubrious for you in the future.
Detective: I'm not underestimating anyone. I'm just curious, that's all.
Anonymous: Curiosity, is it? Okay! I'll tell you everything. I held a staff member's family hostage and ordered him to infiltrate your office and do exactly as I say. Ironically, it was the same exact staff member that lent you his phone.
Detective: What! Why did you do all this?
Anonymous: Because I wanted to keep a close eye on some of the other officers in touch with you. So that I can rest assured, who's coming for me next.
Detective: What are you going to do to his family?
Anonymous: Well, it all depends on how long he keeps his mouth shut. One slip and it's all over for him.
Detective: You insane maniac!
Anonymous: No, Mr. Detective! I'm not a maniac. I'm just a man who likes to get his job done no matter what.
Detective: What are you planning on doing next? Who's your next target?
Anonymous: That's none of your concern, Mr. Detective. One word out of any of you, and I'll eliminate your family without any hesitation. I will let my presence known, not only to this country, but to the entire world, and I will do it when I feel like it. You have no right to spoil my fun, just like I have no right to take away all your lives. If you do something you have no right to do, then why should I hesitate in doing so as well?
Detective: I have nothing to say. Not to you, or anyone else.
Anonymous: Ha Ha Ha... That's what I expect from a top classed detective such as yourself. Now, go home, back to your family. I won't bother you anymore, for now, that it. [hangs up the phone]
Anonymous: Hello! Howdy Mr. Deputy? Having a great day?
Deputy: Pardon me, but who is this?
Anonymous: My identity is not important at the moment. But don't worry. I'll make sure to make it a priority in a bit.
Deputy: What are you trying to say?
Anonymous: Let me answer your question with a riddle. That way you get a chance to figure it out, okay? Now, riddle me this; there's an open cage, a predator lurking outside with the prey waiting inside to be hunted. What could be possibly stopping the prey from running from its life?
Deputy: Look, Mr. whoever you are, I don't have time for any of your riddles. Acquaint yourself formally or don't bother to call again. Or else I'll make sure to have you behind bars like that prey in that cage you speak of.
Anonymous: You're no fun! No fun at all.
Deputy: I'm glad we have that cleared. Now, acquaint yourself.
Anonymous: Mr. Deputy, I refuse to acquaint myself until my riddle has been answered.
Deputy: Is this some kind of joke? Who is this and why have you called me?
Anonymous: Those questions seem to be very straight forward, Mr. Deputy. I don't like such direct questions. I usually try to avoid them altogether. Let me give you the answer to the riddle. The cage was situated on the ground opened, but the cage door was facing the floor. That's why neither the predator could attack, nor the prey could escape.
Deputy: Is that it? I thought there would be more to it.
Anonymous: What conclusion had you come up with, Mr. Deputy?
Deputy: I so far have come to the conclusion that your sole purpose is to waste my valuable time. I'm hanging up now. [hangs up the call]
Anonymous: Well, I'm afraid that wouldn't be so easy.
Deputy: What in the world! I thought I just hung up. Why is this call not aborted?
Anonymous: You seem to have underestimated my capabilities. The same mistakes previously made by the Senator and the Governor.
Deputy: What! [face starts turning pale] What mistakes are you talking about? And what do those two have to do with this?
Anonymous: Everything, Mr. Deputy! Everything!
Deputy: [slams fist on his desk] Stop it with those games of yours dammit! Answer my questions clearly.
Anonymous: Hey man, chill out! Relax! No need to get tensed about it. I don't believe I'm in any way obligated in doing so.
Deputy: Oh yes, you are! I as the Deputy Chief of the Police, I demand a straight answer.
Anonymous: You speak as though you control the outcome of this situation, yet you couldn't even manage to find out my identity. What if I told you that I am the one who's in charge of this situation?
Deputy: Ha ha ha! What outcome are you talking about? The outcome of this conversation? Tracking down numbers is one of my favorite jobs. After tracking you down, I'll lock you up in prison. What makes you think you have the upper hand in any of this?
Anonymous: The fact that you cannot even hang up this call should be at least a minor indicator of who's controlling everything as of this moment. But I suppose, you need a grander and flashier demo of my power.
Deputy: What kind of power? What demo?
Anonymous: Just take a look at the lock your door.
Deputy: What about it? Don't tell me you're going to make it disappear. Haha!
Anonymous: Just focus on it. 3...2...1 [lock locked automatically]
Deputy: [with a look of surprise and concern on his face] How did you do that?
Anonymous: Ha ha ha ha! What's wrong, Mr. Deputy? Cat got your tongue?
Deputy: Shut up! I already told you to answer my questions clearly.
Anonymous: Although I can't answer your questions at the moment, I can show you a few more demos if you want.
Deputy: I'm not interested in seeing any more of this. Just give me answers.
Anonymous: Too late now! Look at the AC on top of the “Exit" sign.
Deputy: What are you planning on doing with that?
Anonymous: Patience, Mr. Deputy! Patience! 3...2...1 [AC starts sparking up]
Deputy: How are you making it do that?
Anonymous: I've had enough with all these pointless questions of your, old man. Now, shut up and listen carefully; grab your microphone and tell all the staff members to take the rest of the day off. Or else I'll blow up this entire office into smithereens.
Deputy: Why should I listen to scum like you?
Anonymous: You have been very stubborn about this. Maybe it's time to discipline you.
Deputy: Discipline me? What does that mean?
Anonymous: Just wait.
Deputy: [nervously thinking] {What could it possibly be?} [starts shaking legs]
Anonymous: Stop it! Stop it this instance! Stop shaking your legs, that irritates me.
Deputy: [stops shaking legs] Don't try to order me around.
Anonymous: Whoever said anything about trying?
Deputy: You little... What do you mean by that?
Anonymous: Ahh! I finally found an appropriate spot for a flashy demonstration.
Deputy: [TV turns on automatically and showing surveillance footage of the deputy's house] What's going on?
Anonymous: Just wait!
Deputy: [sweating nervously] What are you planning on doing next?
Anonymous: Oh! That's a surprise. Just keep on enjoying the show.
Deputy: I don't know what you're up to, but if you even put a scratch on my family, I will find you and kill you myself.
Anonymous: Ha ha ha ha ha! Was that supposed to be a threat?
Deputy: No! Warming.
Anonymous: I don't think you're in any position to be giving out warnings. Now, pay close attention to that TV your kids are watching.
Deputy: [staring at the screen] [TV starts sparking up] What's going on there?
Anonymous: Wait for it...
Deputy: [still staring at the screen] [BOOM] [TV blows up in front of his kids] YOU BLOODY BASTARD! I'LL HAVE YOUR HEAD ON MY DESK!
Anonymous: Ha ha ha ha! What's wrong, Mr. Deputy? Do you now realize what sort of predicament you're in?
Deputy: You dare hurt my children! I'll chop you up into little pieces and feed you to my police dogs.
Anonymous: That's quite the wild imagination you've got there. Are you sure you're a deputy? Aren't deputies supposed to ensure public safety?
Deputy: My duty is towards the public, not lowlives such as you.
Anonymous: Wow! I'm a lowlife, am I?
Deputy: Yes! You're nothing but a sick, sadistic psychopath.
Anonymous: Well, I would like to let you know that your opinions towards me do not affect me in any way, shape or form.
Deputy: What do you plan to achieve with doing all this?
Anonymous: I believe, I was very clear about my objectives. I want you to tell all the staff members to take the rest of the day off. That's it.
Deputy: I don't see how that's beneficial to you in any way.
Anonymous: You don't have to. I know exactly what is and what's not good for me, understood?
Deputy: If I do that, will you leave my family out of this?
Anonymous: Oh yes! Of course. Why else would I go through all that trouble of showing you that?
Deputy: Okay. [turns on microphone] Attention: I order all of the staff members to take the rest of the day off. [turns off microphone]
Staff: [stops their work and starts moving towards the exit]
Anonymous: Very good, Mr. Deputy! Very good! I wasn't expecting such a fine delivery on that line. Have you ever thought about joining the acting industry?
Deputy: There, I did exactly as you said. Now, let me go.
Anonymous: That wasn't part of our deal, Mr. Deputy. But I think I can offer freedom in exchange for some intel.
Deputy: What kind of intel?
Anonymous: You conducted a bunch of investigations regarding the information attained by some civilians who potentially found out about the government's dirty secrets. You personally led the operation of searching and interrogating each house, but failed to find anything. Later on, you sent a gang of murderers and rapists to get rid of the suspects to avoid getting your own name dirty. That's exactly how you got promoted to the position of deputy chief of police, didn't you?
Deputy: [sweating nervously] How do you know all this? And what does it have to do with you?
Anonymous: I believe my question was a yes or no question. Is it yes or no?
Deputy: Yes.
Anonymous: Along with all of the other suspects, another family knew about this top-secret information and upon finding it out, later on, you sent your gang of murderers and rapists there as well, didn't you?
Deputy: Yes.
Anonymous: Now, what I want you to do is enlist all of the names, numbers, and addresses of each of the thugs and send them to me via email.
Deputy: I don't remember their identities.
Anonymous: Then I'm afraid I can no longer allow you to live.
Deputy: Wait! Wait! Wait! I don't remember all of them, but I might have their criminal records in some of my old files. Let me check.
Anonymous: Okay, search away.
Deputy: [searching for the files] I think those are in the other room. Wait! Let me see.
Anonymous: Mr. Deputy!
Deputy: What is it?
Anonymous: Tell me something, do you take me for a fool?
Deputy: What do you mean?
Anonymous: All the files with the criminal records are kept in your office. Not a single file of records is kept in any of the other rooms.
Deputy: There is, I swear.
Anonymous: I've heard enough. You chose the life of a few criminals over your own. Say goodbye to your family first.
Deputy: WHAT! I thought you promised to leave them alone if I did as you said.
Anonymous: Our current government also promised us safety and protection, yet here we are. That's something you refuse to acknowledge. This false sense of justice you carry is utter nonsense.
Deputy: Please! I beg you, don't hurt my family! [eyes filling up with tears]
Anonymous: Oh! What's that I see in your disgusting eyes? Are those tears? Are you actually crying and begging for the life of a family? Where were your tears when your goons invaded those homes and slaughtered those families?
Deputy: [crying] Please forgive me! I'm begging you to spare their lives.
Anonymous: Okay! But on one condition.
Deputy: What condition?
Anonymous: I want you to tell me who ordered the investigation in the first place and who gathered those thugs. Tell me this and I'll spare your family's life.
Deputy: The investigation was ordered by the Mayor. Those thugs were all his idea. He probably knows their identities as well.
Anonymous: The Mayor, huh? Very interesting.
Deputy: There I've told you everything I know. Now, let me go.
Anonymous: The deal was only to spare your family's life. I never said anything about sparing your life as well. It was never a part of our deal, Mr. Deputy. Goodbye and Rest in Peace.
Deputy: No! No! No! Please!
Anonymous: 3...2...1
Deputy: NOOOOOOOOOO! [BOOM] [the entire building explodes]
Anonymous: I kept my word of not killing your family, but make no mistake, I have plenty of plans for them in the near future. Ha ha ha ha ha!
After finishing off the Deputy, he now had his sights set on the Mayor. But first, he had to take care of some business regarding the investigation. While he was busy dealing with the Deputy, the detectives were putting together clues in order to find out the mysterious figure. They succeeded in figuring out most of the pieces of the puzzle, but they were having trouble putting together all of the pieces. The Detective had collaborated with the cybersecurity expert on the case to track down the IP Address of the signal that was being transmitted. But that signal was secured with the most top-notched security protocols in the world. The cybersecurity expert described the defensive mode as an INS which is an abbreviation for “Indestructible Networking Shield" because it was able to successfully block all sorts of unwanted access without any lag. He described the hacking tool as an APS which is an abbreviation for “Armor Piercing Sword" because its backdoor approach got around all the blocks and bypassed all the firewalls. An average network is protected by firewalls to ensure protection from unauthorized access, but our Anonymous figure managed to not only bypass one of the most advanced security systems on the planet but also set up a network that uses firewalls that are immune to any temperament even by an infinite number of viruses. On top of which each of the security protocols keeps getting updated to a stronger and firmer security protocol each nanosecond, rendering it as infallible. Setting up this sort of network requires the kind of technology which is only used in large organizations such as space stations like the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. But not even they have security protocols this advanced. This gave the Detective a crucial clue on how to find out the mysterious figure. He had set up multiple sources to gather information on whether or not anyone sells or sold this sort of advanced equipment on the black market. Shortly, one individual was found to have that sort of advanced equipment. The Detective calls the dealer to his office.
Dealer: [knocks on the door]
Detective: Who is it?
Dealer: Sir, May I come in?
Detective: Yes, please!
Dealer: Hello Sir, nice to meet you. I'm the dealer. [shakes hands]
Detective: [pointing towards the chair in front] Please have a seat.
Dealer: [sits down on the chair] Sir, they said you wanted to discuss something! Are you interested in some of my products?
Detective: No! I mean, yes. Yes, I do. I'm interested to know about those highly advanced computers you've been selling to people.
Dealer: Which one, Sir?
Detective: The ones used in space stations.
Dealer: Ohhh! That one! I sold that to one of my best customers a few years ago. He said something about creating a new world with that thing.
Detective: Can you tell me about him? His name, phone number, address?
Dealer: Sir, in our business we make sure to keep the identities of our customers a secret. We don't ask for any kind of information from them. We don't even accept any payments except for cash in order to ensure their identities are kept hidden.
Detective: Well, this policy of yours has made this investigation a lot more complicated than it needed to be.
Dealer: I'm sorry, but that's just how we do business.
Detective: I see. Okay, you may go now. Thank you for your time. [extends right arm to shake hands]
Dealer: Sorry I wasn't any help. [shakes hands and advances towards the exit]
With the only hope he had lost, the Detective was left with a mystery that seemed impossible to solve. But as the Detective was getting worked up about the mystery at hand, our Anonymous figure had some interesting plans in mind for the Mayor and his beloved family.
Governor: Who is this? How did you get on this private network?
Anonymous: I am someone who is about to show you what happened to the senator of the state.
Governor: You know about the incident? How?
Anonymous: Well, isn't it obvious? I'm the one behind all this.
Governor: WHAT! How the hell did you get passed our advanced security systems?
Anonymous: That's nothing Mr. Governor, I can even do things beyond your tiny imagination. Would you like to see a small demonstration?
Governor: What kind of demonstration?
Anonymous: Take a look at the fire alarm on the wall to your right.
Governor: [looks at it] I'm looking at it, what now?
Anonymous: 3..2..1. . . ((BOOM)) [fire alarm explodes]
Governor: How did you do that?!!
Anonymous: You should first thank me for not demonstrating my powers on the phone in front of you. The could've damaged your face as well as your sorry excuse of a brain.
Governor: Answer me first, dammit!
Anonymous: Calm down Mr. Governor, or else you might get yourself killed in the process, as I am an extremely short-tempered man and, cannot withstand such an attitude.
Governor: I'm the governor of this country. Do you really I'm going to be intimidated by the likes of you?
Anonymous: Okay Mr. Governor! Suit yourself! But you should probably check on your family to know if they're alive or not..
Governor: What do you mean by that?
Anonymous: Just give them a call. Actually, let me get them on the line with you... Wait! [phone starts ringing in the middle of the call]
Governor: [sweating nervously]
Governor's Wife: [picks up the phone] Hello!
Governor: Hello! Are you alright?
Governor's Wife: Yes. Why? What's wrong?
Governor: Are the kids home?
Governor's Wife: Yes. They just got back from school. What's going on?
Governor: Nothing. I just wanted to check on you, that's all.
Governor's Wife: Okay. Try to come home early tonigh... ((BOOM)) [the house blows up]
Governor: Hello! HELLO! Hellooo! What happened? Hello! Can you hear me?
Anonymous: Did you enjoy your final conversation with your family, Mr. Governor?
Governor: YOU BASTARD! WHAT DID YOU DO TO THEM??
Anonymous: I blew them into smithereens.
Governor: I'LL KILL YOU! SHOW YOURSELF!! [slams his phone on the wall and starts breaking everything around him]
Anonymous: Oh dear! Did I strike a nerve? Are you finally ready to acknowledge my potential? Or should I kill you as well?
Governor: DO YOUR WORST! I'M GONNA KILL YOU, I SWEAR!
Anonymous: To do that you have to be physically alive.
Governor: BAAAS... ((BOOM)) [governor's office explodes]
After his first two victims were so easily eliminated, he had then gained the confidence he needed to bring down the rest of the government.
But as he was preparing for his next attack, the investigation had begun on the two explosions taking place back to back. The investigation department was severely puzzled with their current predicament. Their doubts were not valid since they had no hard evidence on the matter. They decided to look for clues back at the scene of the crime, but all they found there was only dust and rubble. They started interrogating the families of those who were on duty that day. They interrogated each and every one of them, but none of them knew anything about either of the incidents.
Introduction to The Detective
When all hope seemed lost, an inspector called the head detective to inform him about the information he knew. He told him about the system malfunction of the security systems and the electrical combustion in the Senator's house. The detective had now obtained a very vital clue, but less did he know, he was being overheard by the Anonymous killer.
The very next morning;
[phone ringing]
Detective: Hello!
Anonymous: Hello, Mr. Detective! How are you?
Detective: Not so well, I suppose. Who is this?
Anonymous: Who am I? Well, that is something that does not matter. But what actually matters is the information I can provide you on the two bombings.
Detective: You know something?
Anonymous: Oh! Well, of course, I do. I'm the one who did all that.
Detective: WHAT! Are you serious?
Anonymous: As serious as I've ever been.
Detective: If what you're saying is true, then calling me like this was a huge mistake.
Anonymous: Ha ha ha! Oh! Really? What are you going to do about it, Mr. Detective?
Detective: I'm going to find you out and put you behind bars.
Anonymous: Oh! Is that so? How about this? What if I trap you in your own office, blow you into pieces and do the same thing to your precious family?
Detective: This is one of the most highly protected buildings in the country. No one can even try to plant a bomb in here, not even the likes of you.
Anonymous: Well, for someone who's the head detective, you sure are gullible.
Detective: Oh yeah? And what does that supposed to mean?
Anonymous: You're planning to capture me by tracking me with the IP Address incorporated with my phone number, but you haven't even looked up my location yet. My last two victims were smarter than you. You're dumb!
Detective: Okay wise guy, let's see where you're hiding.
[searching for a location on the tracker] Location: 404 error. Not found.
Anonymous: So... You were saying something about bringing me behind bars.
Detective: You managed to erase any and all information on your location in such a short period!
Anonymous: No, Mr. Detective! I didn't erase anything. My information was never shared in the first place.
Detective: So, you're a hacker!
Anonymous: Bravo, Mr. Detective! Bravo! At last, you started using your detective brain of yours.
Detective: Why are you doing all this?
Anonymous: My intentions are none of your concern. They are as mysterious as I am. That is why I am warning you. Don't get involved in any of this, you'll get yourself and your family killed. If you take this investigation any further, I will burn your precious family to ashes, am I understood, Mr. Detective?
Detective: Threaten me all you want, but I will eventually find you and make you pay.
Anonymous: Ha ha ha ha ha... You crack me up. Go ahead! Try all you want. Don't say I didn't warn you.
[hangs up the phone]
Later that night, the detective goes home to his family. As soon as he opens the door, he is greeted by his loving wife and his 8-year-old daughter. He can't stop thinking about everything that happened in the morning. He tells his wife, he's not hungry and quickly goes to the bedroom. The threats are constantly buzzing in his ears. As he's facing all of the stress, his daughter goes near him and asks if there was something that was bothering him. Hearing this, his eyes filled up with tears as was trying to fake a smile to hide his depression. His daughter hugged him and said, “My daddy is the best daddy ever. I love you, daddy." to which he replied, “Daddy loves his little princess too." and told her to go to bed. He promised to protect them as well as carrying out his duties as a detective. So, he told his wife to take his daughter to her grandma's house for a few days. And forbade her not to tell anyone anything about their whereabouts.
He thought he had it all figured out, but he had no idea that he was again being overheard by the Anonymous killer through the phone kept beside his bed.
The next morning
As his wife and child are getting ready to head out, they get a call on the phone by a mysterious figure claiming to be a well-wisher advising them not to pursue in their journey. So, she immediately informed her husband about this. The detective rushed to the house only to find a huge pile of ashes and rubble. Seeing the horrific sight, he was yelling in pain and frustration as he assumed his family was bombed along with the house. But after a few moments, he receives a call from his wife who was called again after informing the detective about the mysterious phone call. The mysterious figure had called her again to instruct her to get far away from the house as possible. After this incident, he took it upon himself to safely deliver them to their planned destination. He returns to his office afterward as the police were investigating the bombed house looking for the cause of the explosion. Back in the office; the detective again got a call from the Anonymous killer.
[phone ringing]
Detective: Hello!
Anonymous: Hello, Mr. Detective! How did you like my surprise? I hope by now you know what kind of person you're dealing with.
Detective: Why did you choose to warn them before blowing up my house?
Anonymous: To make a statement. To show how serious I can get when it comes to getting what I want. To make you realize that you are no longer in control. I am.
Detective: You chose to use my family as an example? What kind of a sick, twisted person does such a thing? My wife and daughter could've been harmed.
Anonymous: WOW! Instead of thanking me for sparing the life of your family, you're lecturing me on what to do and what not to do. Is that like a hobby or something? Nonetheless, next time I will care for neither your wife nor your daughter. Now, you need to decide what you want. Do you want to protect your family by staying out of my way, or do you want to carry out your duties as a detective and endanger their lives in the process?
Detective: They have nothing to do with this. Leave my family out of this.
Anonymous: Are you giving me orders? Have you not seen what I am capable of?
Detective: My duty towards protecting my family is important, but now it's even more imperative for me to catch you. Because you're a threat not only to the country but also to my family. So, in order to protect them, I must capture you.
Anonymous: Okay, Mr. Detective! Have it your way. But by the end of the day, you will either discontinue your investigation or you will die trying to stop me. [hangs up phone]
The detective knew that he was cornered by the Anonymous figure. The only place he was safe was in his own head. It was the first time in his life that he was experiencing something so nerve-racking. Getting his family involved along took away any sort of advantage he had on the situation. He was now forced to decide between the life of his own family and his duties as the head detective. He sought out a plan but was highly hesitant to execute it. He knew that he required assistance from a fellow operative who had an undefeated record of solving the toughest of cases back in his days. This fellow operative was a retired detective. The fact that the Anonymous figure had control over all of the cellular networks made it impossible for him to contact this retired detective without getting noticed. So, he decided to take some drastic measures. He knew that the Anonymous figure must have control over all security surveillance cameras as well since he always knew when he was and was not present in the office. He decided to use this as an opportunity to fool the Anonymous figure by faking an illness. He knew that there were no security cameras inside the bathrooms, so he used it to his advantage. He went into the bathroom and shoved his fingers down his throat to make himself vomit. He made sure to make it look convincing enough to make it look as real as possible. During his entire act, he didn't look at the cameras, not even a single time to avoid any sort of suspicion. To carry out the second stage of his act, he called in his secretary to book an appointment with the doctor for that evening and added that he was going to take the rest of the day off. Saying so he started approaching the exit hoping that the Anonymous figure won't realize that he left his phone on his desk, acting as if he had forgotten it due to the hurry. He made sure to drive his car in the direction of the clinic to avoid suspicion and changed his car midway in case of getting caught by the security cameras on the roads. He got into a taxi and told the driver to take him to the address of his fellow operative. There he could discuss everything with him without falling under suspicion. When he arrived at the address, he found that his fellow operative was not present at his residence. He only found his wife at home who told him that he'll be back within an hour or so. So, he went in to wait for his fellow operative. He took this time to switch off any and all devices that were connected to a network that could transmit any sort of information outside. He did not want to take any sort of risks as he knew it could be his only chance of solving this case. Finally, the retired detective had arrived home. The detective rushed to his fellow operative to get his phone and turned it off. He also asked if he was carrying any other sort of device that could potentially transmit intel. The retired detective replied in the negative and asked what was going on as he had no idea what was going on. The detective went near his ear and whispered, “Even though all the devices are disconnected, he could still figure out some way to overhear our conversations." Hearing this the retired detective asked, “Whom are you referring to?" The detective again whispered, “A mysterious figure who has access to all of the networks. He is a hacker who is responsible for the bombings of the Senator's office and the Governor's office. He is also the one who blew up my house this morning." Hearing this the retired detective suggested discussing this in detail elsewhere. Afterward, they both headed out to a really old coffee shop they used to visit back in the old days. The coffee shop was an ideal place for discussion as it had no security cameras inside or outside. So, there wasn't any possibility of the Anonymous figure finding anything out.
The two sat down and ordered their old favorites; a green tea and an espresso.
Detective: So, I see you're still living out that healthy lifestyle of yours. It's been almost eight years and you're still on that green tea.
Retired Detective: Well, you haven't changed too. Espresso as always! You should really cut down on that. It really messes up the sleeping habits.
Detective: Well, isn't that what we signed up for? Isn't that our job? To go around solving cases, catching dangerous criminals, sacrificing our own sleep so that the people can sleep peacefully?
Retired Detective: You got that right! But that doesn't mean you have to mess up the sleeping habits you actually require to live. Can you imagine what would happen if you were sleeping on the job?
Detective: Quite frankly, I think we're doing something wrong. Sometimes it seems as we are the problem.
Retired Detective: What makes you think that?
Detective: Think about it. We're out there, working day in and day out, solving cases, but have the criminals stopped committing crimes? Have they changed the error of their ways? What good are we if the crime rates keep on increasing?
Retired Detective: You're forgetting the point of our job. Our job is not to inspire them into changing their ways, our job is to capture them and put an end to their plans.
Detective: But what's the point of capturing them if more of them keep popping up? Why can't we permanently exterminate this whole criminal mentality they possess. Why can't we simply convince them to change? Why does it always have to be a win or lose situation?
Retired Detective: I think this new case is getting to your head. Let's talk about him now. Give me all the details on the case.
Detective: I have told you most of the story. The rest of the information won't help in any way. But there is something really strange about him.
Retired Detective: What's that?
Detective: He seems to have a soft spot.
Retired Detective: What makes you think that?
Detective: Just think about it. He targeted the Senator and the Governor on public holidays to ensure there weren't many staff members in the offices. He also called them during lunch hour, so that most of the workers present would likely be off to lunch. The only people present there were the bodyguards, tracking agents and their personal assistants. Not to mention how he warned my wife before bombing my house so that they could safely evacuate.
Retired Detective: I see. What do you think he's after? What could be his agenda?
Detective: I think he has no intentions of hurting innocent people. Although he didn't count their families to be innocent since he killed them without hesitation.
Retired Detective: I think he did that to prove a point.
Detective: A point! What kind of point could he be trying to prove?
Retired Detective: Just think about it. Blowing them up was simply an example of how helpless they are compared to him. He has the power to bomb places without even using any sort of explosive or flammable materials such as the ones present in their offices.
Detective: So, what your saying is that he's trying to intimidate us.
Retired Detective: Precisely!
Detective: Even if that were the case, he could've done it any other way. The city is full of abandoned buildings. Why take innocent lives in the first place, if his objective was only to set an example?
Retired Detective: Maybe he's doing this out of vengeance.
Detective: That is a great possibility. But we shouldn't jump to any conclusions yet. Besides, we should focus on what his next move could be rather than figuring out his motives.
Retired Detective: Yeah! You're right. Who do you think his next target could be?
Detective: It could be anyone at this point. I think I'm gonna have to ask him myself.
Retired Detective: After all that, you still want to reason with him? What if he decides to blow you and your family up, huh? Then what? Ever thought about that?
Detective: You and I both know that it's the only way.
Retired Detective: No, it's not. Let me take a jab at him.
Detective: No, that's too dangerous. You shouldn't risk the life of you and your family just to get some intel.
Retired Detective: Well, I don't think he's the type of person to do that. As we discussed earlier, it seems as though he has a soft spot. Let's use that to our advantage.
Detective: No, I won't let you do this.
Retired Detective: I'm not asking for your permission. Don't forget that I'm your senior; both in age and experience.
Detective: Okay! Fine. Just promise me you won't do anything to antagonize him.
Retired Detective: I'm afraid it's a promise I cannot make. Well, at least not until I get in touch with our mysterious killer.
Waiter: Sir, here's your bill. [puts the bill on the table] It's been a long time since I've seen you two here. Must've gotten a day off, huh?
Detective: Oh boy! I wish that were the case. [pulling out wallet]
Retired Detective: [stops the detective's hand with his left hand] Hold your horses there! You paid the last time we were here. It's my turn.
Detective: You still remember?
Retired Detective: Well, I wouldn't be the top detective in the country with a weak memory you know! [reaches inside coat pocket for wallet] What in blazes! Dammit! I left my wallet at home thanks to your impatience.
Detective: Well, it looks like I get to pay after all. [takes out the wallet and pays the bill] Keep the change.
Waiter: Thank you, Sir!
Retired Detective: Now, let's go home.
Detective: I should probably go home too. I left my phone at the office to avoid being tracked. My wife must've tried to contact me quite a number of times by now.
Retired Detective: Couldn't you have at least told her that you were going to see a doctor before coming here?
Detective: I now realize that I should've. But then I couldn't ignore my phone on the desk like that without looking suspicious.
Retired Detective: That's true. Make sure to call her and tell her you're alright.
Detective: Sure thing. See you tomorrow. [extends the right hand for a handshake]
Retired Detective: You too. [handshakes] Goodbye and take care.
After this private discussion, the retired detective returned home and the detective went to his office to contact his wife with his phone he left on the desk earlier. On his way to the office, he bought some medication and a page from the pharmacy to make it look like he actually visited the doctor. After reaching his office he quickly started looking for his phone on the desk, but couldn't seem to find it anywhere. He called in the cleaning staff to ask if they had seen it, but none of them did. He asked a member of the cleaning staff to lend him his phone so that he could contact his wife. He dialed up his wife's number and informed her about his sudden sickness and trip to the doctor. The cleaning staff then returned back to their previous work and the detective again started looking for his phone. Suddenly his phone starts ringing with a louder than average volume. The volume of the ringtone starts increasing with every ring and he soon realized where the sound was coming from. He quickly went into the bathroom and found his phone on the soap dispenser. He picked up the phone to find out it was from the Anonymous figure.
Anonymous: Hello, Mr. Detective! How was your visit to the doctor? Are you alright now?
Detective: Yes, I am. By any chance, would you happen to be wandering around inside my office earlier?
Anonymous: Well, yes and no.
Detective: What does that mean?
Anonymous: Why would I need to get my own hands dirty when I can easily send someone else to do that for me?
Detective: This is an investigation bureau. Finest in the country. How did you send someone without getting noticed?
Anonymous: You are underestimating me again, Mr. Detective. That might not turn out to be so salubrious for you in the future.
Detective: I'm not underestimating anyone. I'm just curious, that's all.
Anonymous: Curiosity, is it? Okay! I'll tell you everything. I held a staff member's family hostage and ordered him to infiltrate your office and do exactly as I say. Ironically, it was the same exact staff member that lent you his phone.
Detective: What! Why did you do all this?
Anonymous: Because I wanted to keep a close eye on some of the other officers in touch with you. So that I can rest assured, who's coming for me next.
Detective: What are you going to do to his family?
Anonymous: Well, it all depends on how long he keeps his mouth shut. One slip and it's all over for him.
Detective: You insane maniac!
Anonymous: No, Mr. Detective! I'm not a maniac. I'm just a man who likes to get his job done no matter what.
Detective: What are you planning on doing next? Who's your next target?
Anonymous: That's none of your concern, Mr. Detective. One word out of any of you, and I'll eliminate your family without any hesitation. I will let my presence known, not only to this country, but to the entire world, and I will do it when I feel like it. You have no right to spoil my fun, just like I have no right to take away all your lives. If you do something you have no right to do, then why should I hesitate in doing so as well?
Detective: I have nothing to say. Not to you, or anyone else.
Anonymous: Ha Ha Ha... That's what I expect from a top classed detective such as yourself. Now, go home, back to your family. I won't bother you anymore, for now, that it. [hangs up the phone]
3rd Victim: Deputy Police Chief
[phone ringing]
Deputy: Hello!Anonymous: Hello! Howdy Mr. Deputy? Having a great day?
Deputy: Pardon me, but who is this?
Anonymous: My identity is not important at the moment. But don't worry. I'll make sure to make it a priority in a bit.
Deputy: What are you trying to say?
Anonymous: Let me answer your question with a riddle. That way you get a chance to figure it out, okay? Now, riddle me this; there's an open cage, a predator lurking outside with the prey waiting inside to be hunted. What could be possibly stopping the prey from running from its life?
Deputy: Look, Mr. whoever you are, I don't have time for any of your riddles. Acquaint yourself formally or don't bother to call again. Or else I'll make sure to have you behind bars like that prey in that cage you speak of.
Anonymous: You're no fun! No fun at all.
Deputy: I'm glad we have that cleared. Now, acquaint yourself.
Anonymous: Mr. Deputy, I refuse to acquaint myself until my riddle has been answered.
Deputy: Is this some kind of joke? Who is this and why have you called me?
Anonymous: Those questions seem to be very straight forward, Mr. Deputy. I don't like such direct questions. I usually try to avoid them altogether. Let me give you the answer to the riddle. The cage was situated on the ground opened, but the cage door was facing the floor. That's why neither the predator could attack, nor the prey could escape.
Deputy: Is that it? I thought there would be more to it.
Anonymous: What conclusion had you come up with, Mr. Deputy?
Deputy: I so far have come to the conclusion that your sole purpose is to waste my valuable time. I'm hanging up now. [hangs up the call]
Anonymous: Well, I'm afraid that wouldn't be so easy.
Deputy: What in the world! I thought I just hung up. Why is this call not aborted?
Anonymous: You seem to have underestimated my capabilities. The same mistakes previously made by the Senator and the Governor.
Deputy: What! [face starts turning pale] What mistakes are you talking about? And what do those two have to do with this?
Anonymous: Everything, Mr. Deputy! Everything!
Deputy: [slams fist on his desk] Stop it with those games of yours dammit! Answer my questions clearly.
Anonymous: Hey man, chill out! Relax! No need to get tensed about it. I don't believe I'm in any way obligated in doing so.
Deputy: Oh yes, you are! I as the Deputy Chief of the Police, I demand a straight answer.
Anonymous: You speak as though you control the outcome of this situation, yet you couldn't even manage to find out my identity. What if I told you that I am the one who's in charge of this situation?
Deputy: Ha ha ha! What outcome are you talking about? The outcome of this conversation? Tracking down numbers is one of my favorite jobs. After tracking you down, I'll lock you up in prison. What makes you think you have the upper hand in any of this?
Anonymous: The fact that you cannot even hang up this call should be at least a minor indicator of who's controlling everything as of this moment. But I suppose, you need a grander and flashier demo of my power.
Deputy: What kind of power? What demo?
Anonymous: Just take a look at the lock your door.
Deputy: What about it? Don't tell me you're going to make it disappear. Haha!
Anonymous: Just focus on it. 3...2...1 [lock locked automatically]
Deputy: [with a look of surprise and concern on his face] How did you do that?
Anonymous: Ha ha ha ha! What's wrong, Mr. Deputy? Cat got your tongue?
Deputy: Shut up! I already told you to answer my questions clearly.
Anonymous: Although I can't answer your questions at the moment, I can show you a few more demos if you want.
Deputy: I'm not interested in seeing any more of this. Just give me answers.
Anonymous: Too late now! Look at the AC on top of the “Exit" sign.
Deputy: What are you planning on doing with that?
Anonymous: Patience, Mr. Deputy! Patience! 3...2...1 [AC starts sparking up]
Deputy: How are you making it do that?
Anonymous: I've had enough with all these pointless questions of your, old man. Now, shut up and listen carefully; grab your microphone and tell all the staff members to take the rest of the day off. Or else I'll blow up this entire office into smithereens.
Deputy: Why should I listen to scum like you?
Anonymous: You have been very stubborn about this. Maybe it's time to discipline you.
Deputy: Discipline me? What does that mean?
Anonymous: Just wait.
Deputy: [nervously thinking] {What could it possibly be?} [starts shaking legs]
Anonymous: Stop it! Stop it this instance! Stop shaking your legs, that irritates me.
Deputy: [stops shaking legs] Don't try to order me around.
Anonymous: Whoever said anything about trying?
Deputy: You little... What do you mean by that?
Anonymous: Ahh! I finally found an appropriate spot for a flashy demonstration.
Deputy: [TV turns on automatically and showing surveillance footage of the deputy's house] What's going on?
Anonymous: Just wait!
Deputy: [sweating nervously] What are you planning on doing next?
Anonymous: Oh! That's a surprise. Just keep on enjoying the show.
Deputy: I don't know what you're up to, but if you even put a scratch on my family, I will find you and kill you myself.
Anonymous: Ha ha ha ha ha! Was that supposed to be a threat?
Deputy: No! Warming.
Anonymous: I don't think you're in any position to be giving out warnings. Now, pay close attention to that TV your kids are watching.
Deputy: [staring at the screen] [TV starts sparking up] What's going on there?
Anonymous: Wait for it...
Deputy: [still staring at the screen] [BOOM] [TV blows up in front of his kids] YOU BLOODY BASTARD! I'LL HAVE YOUR HEAD ON MY DESK!
Anonymous: Ha ha ha ha! What's wrong, Mr. Deputy? Do you now realize what sort of predicament you're in?
Deputy: You dare hurt my children! I'll chop you up into little pieces and feed you to my police dogs.
Anonymous: That's quite the wild imagination you've got there. Are you sure you're a deputy? Aren't deputies supposed to ensure public safety?
Deputy: My duty is towards the public, not lowlives such as you.
Anonymous: Wow! I'm a lowlife, am I?
Deputy: Yes! You're nothing but a sick, sadistic psychopath.
Anonymous: Well, I would like to let you know that your opinions towards me do not affect me in any way, shape or form.
Deputy: What do you plan to achieve with doing all this?
Anonymous: I believe, I was very clear about my objectives. I want you to tell all the staff members to take the rest of the day off. That's it.
Deputy: I don't see how that's beneficial to you in any way.
Anonymous: You don't have to. I know exactly what is and what's not good for me, understood?
Deputy: If I do that, will you leave my family out of this?
Anonymous: Oh yes! Of course. Why else would I go through all that trouble of showing you that?
Deputy: Okay. [turns on microphone] Attention: I order all of the staff members to take the rest of the day off. [turns off microphone]
Staff: [stops their work and starts moving towards the exit]
Anonymous: Very good, Mr. Deputy! Very good! I wasn't expecting such a fine delivery on that line. Have you ever thought about joining the acting industry?
Deputy: There, I did exactly as you said. Now, let me go.
Anonymous: That wasn't part of our deal, Mr. Deputy. But I think I can offer freedom in exchange for some intel.
Deputy: What kind of intel?
Anonymous: You conducted a bunch of investigations regarding the information attained by some civilians who potentially found out about the government's dirty secrets. You personally led the operation of searching and interrogating each house, but failed to find anything. Later on, you sent a gang of murderers and rapists to get rid of the suspects to avoid getting your own name dirty. That's exactly how you got promoted to the position of deputy chief of police, didn't you?
Deputy: [sweating nervously] How do you know all this? And what does it have to do with you?
Anonymous: I believe my question was a yes or no question. Is it yes or no?
Deputy: Yes.
Anonymous: Along with all of the other suspects, another family knew about this top-secret information and upon finding it out, later on, you sent your gang of murderers and rapists there as well, didn't you?
Deputy: Yes.
Anonymous: Now, what I want you to do is enlist all of the names, numbers, and addresses of each of the thugs and send them to me via email.
Deputy: I don't remember their identities.
Anonymous: Then I'm afraid I can no longer allow you to live.
Deputy: Wait! Wait! Wait! I don't remember all of them, but I might have their criminal records in some of my old files. Let me check.
Anonymous: Okay, search away.
Deputy: [searching for the files] I think those are in the other room. Wait! Let me see.
Anonymous: Mr. Deputy!
Deputy: What is it?
Anonymous: Tell me something, do you take me for a fool?
Deputy: What do you mean?
Anonymous: All the files with the criminal records are kept in your office. Not a single file of records is kept in any of the other rooms.
Deputy: There is, I swear.
Anonymous: I've heard enough. You chose the life of a few criminals over your own. Say goodbye to your family first.
Deputy: WHAT! I thought you promised to leave them alone if I did as you said.
Anonymous: Our current government also promised us safety and protection, yet here we are. That's something you refuse to acknowledge. This false sense of justice you carry is utter nonsense.
Deputy: Please! I beg you, don't hurt my family! [eyes filling up with tears]
Anonymous: Oh! What's that I see in your disgusting eyes? Are those tears? Are you actually crying and begging for the life of a family? Where were your tears when your goons invaded those homes and slaughtered those families?
Deputy: [crying] Please forgive me! I'm begging you to spare their lives.
Anonymous: Okay! But on one condition.
Deputy: What condition?
Anonymous: I want you to tell me who ordered the investigation in the first place and who gathered those thugs. Tell me this and I'll spare your family's life.
Deputy: The investigation was ordered by the Mayor. Those thugs were all his idea. He probably knows their identities as well.
Anonymous: The Mayor, huh? Very interesting.
Deputy: There I've told you everything I know. Now, let me go.
Anonymous: The deal was only to spare your family's life. I never said anything about sparing your life as well. It was never a part of our deal, Mr. Deputy. Goodbye and Rest in Peace.
Deputy: No! No! No! Please!
Anonymous: 3...2...1
Deputy: NOOOOOOOOOO! [BOOM] [the entire building explodes]
Anonymous: I kept my word of not killing your family, but make no mistake, I have plenty of plans for them in the near future. Ha ha ha ha ha!
After finishing off the Deputy, he now had his sights set on the Mayor. But first, he had to take care of some business regarding the investigation. While he was busy dealing with the Deputy, the detectives were putting together clues in order to find out the mysterious figure. They succeeded in figuring out most of the pieces of the puzzle, but they were having trouble putting together all of the pieces. The Detective had collaborated with the cybersecurity expert on the case to track down the IP Address of the signal that was being transmitted. But that signal was secured with the most top-notched security protocols in the world. The cybersecurity expert described the defensive mode as an INS which is an abbreviation for “Indestructible Networking Shield" because it was able to successfully block all sorts of unwanted access without any lag. He described the hacking tool as an APS which is an abbreviation for “Armor Piercing Sword" because its backdoor approach got around all the blocks and bypassed all the firewalls. An average network is protected by firewalls to ensure protection from unauthorized access, but our Anonymous figure managed to not only bypass one of the most advanced security systems on the planet but also set up a network that uses firewalls that are immune to any temperament even by an infinite number of viruses. On top of which each of the security protocols keeps getting updated to a stronger and firmer security protocol each nanosecond, rendering it as infallible. Setting up this sort of network requires the kind of technology which is only used in large organizations such as space stations like the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. But not even they have security protocols this advanced. This gave the Detective a crucial clue on how to find out the mysterious figure. He had set up multiple sources to gather information on whether or not anyone sells or sold this sort of advanced equipment on the black market. Shortly, one individual was found to have that sort of advanced equipment. The Detective calls the dealer to his office.
Dealer: [knocks on the door]
Detective: Who is it?
Dealer: Sir, May I come in?
Detective: Yes, please!
Dealer: Hello Sir, nice to meet you. I'm the dealer. [shakes hands]
Detective: [pointing towards the chair in front] Please have a seat.
Dealer: [sits down on the chair] Sir, they said you wanted to discuss something! Are you interested in some of my products?
Detective: No! I mean, yes. Yes, I do. I'm interested to know about those highly advanced computers you've been selling to people.
Dealer: Which one, Sir?
Detective: The ones used in space stations.
Dealer: Ohhh! That one! I sold that to one of my best customers a few years ago. He said something about creating a new world with that thing.
Detective: Can you tell me about him? His name, phone number, address?
Dealer: Sir, in our business we make sure to keep the identities of our customers a secret. We don't ask for any kind of information from them. We don't even accept any payments except for cash in order to ensure their identities are kept hidden.
Detective: Well, this policy of yours has made this investigation a lot more complicated than it needed to be.
Dealer: I'm sorry, but that's just how we do business.
Detective: I see. Okay, you may go now. Thank you for your time. [extends right arm to shake hands]
Dealer: Sorry I wasn't any help. [shakes hands and advances towards the exit]
With the only hope he had lost, the Detective was left with a mystery that seemed impossible to solve. But as the Detective was getting worked up about the mystery at hand, our Anonymous figure had some interesting plans in mind for the Mayor and his beloved family.
Manipulated Truth: A Brain Washed Child
[knock on the door]
Mayor: Who is it?
Mayor's Son: It's me, father.
Mayor: What is it, son? Have something to tell me?
Mayor's Son: Yes. Everyone is going to the school picnic, can I go along with them?
Mayor: Sure. When is the picnic?
Mayor's Son: It's tomorrow morning.
Mayor: Okay. Make sure to take your bodyguard with you and don't play with any of those filthy brats. Always remember that your stature is higher than all of them.
Mayor's Son: Father, you shouldn't say such things about my friends. I really like them. I think them as my equals, not inferiors. [staring at the floor and smiling]
Mayor: [with an angry look and a forced smile on his face] Son!
Mayor's Son: Yes, father. [facial expression drastically changes into fear]
Mayor: Can you come here for a moment?
Mayor's Son: [with a look of fear starts walking towards the Mayor] What is it, father? [staring at the ground, stammering and shaking slightly in nervousness]
Mayor: Look at me, son.
Mayor's Son: [slowing tilting his face towards the Mayor's face]
Mayor: [slaps him across the face and roughly grabs his face] If I ever find you saying ridiculous stuff like that ever again, I'm going to make sure you never see those so-called friends of yours again. Do I make myself clear? [pushes him to the wall]
Mayor's Son: [starts crying quietly and whispers] Yes, father.
Mayor: [yelling at the top of his lungs] I CAN'T HEAR YOU!
Mayor's Son: [crying and yelling] YES, FATHER! YES! [crying and sitting on his knees] YES!
Mayor: Good. Now get out of my sight.
Mayor's Son: [trying to stand up as he's whipping his tears and starts walking towards the door]
Mayor: And, one more thing; tell your lousy mother to go and make me something to eat.
Mayor's Son: [with his back against the Mayor] Yes, father. [walks out the door]
Mayor: [inside his mind] This brat really gets on my nerves sometimes. If I wasn't so drunk that night, this brat would've never happened in the first place. But I guess, it had to eventually happen someday. Nonetheless, that brat helps me look like a real family man in front of the press, so at least he's good for that. Haha! [grins]
As the child was falling victim to a man blinded by his power, a family was being stripped of their home due to the temperament of some legal documents. After the death of the Deputy, his wife and children were dragged out of their apartment. The house was apparently leased and the amount could not be paid even with the money left behind by the Deputy. His wife contacted the Insurance Company, but they explained how the conditions for his death were not met, hence his family will not be getting any support from the Insurance Companies. They begged and pleaded to let them live there until she gets a job, but the leasing agents just won't listen to her one bit. But this was more than just their fate, as the Anonymous figure had altered some of the information on the Insurance Companies online documentation. He also enlisted the Deputy's house in the Leasing Company's database in order to render them helpless. Seeing this as an opportunity, the Anonymous figure decided to pay them a visit in person. But that wasn't until he was done executing his current plan. His plan to turn the Mayor's life into a living, breathing nightmare.
Mayor's Son: Father, I'm heading off to the school picnic now.
Mayor: Sure, son. But make sure to remember what I told you about yesterday. Make sure not to dishonor my name by befriending a bunch of inferiors.
Mayor's Son: [with a lowered gaze] Yes, father.
Mayor: Good. [turns to the bodyguard]
Mayor's Son: Make sure to keep him away from any filthy brats.
Bodyguard: Yes, sir.
Mayor: Now, go.
Mayor's Son: [advancing towards the exit]
The child thought he would finally get a chance to play with the other kids and spend time with them without having to worry about his abusive father, but little did he know that it was not his day. When the Mayor's Son had reached the school premises, he was unable to locate any of his other friends. He asked the school bus driver assigned for the picnic. He said that the other children went ahead on a separate bus and that he was specifically waiting for him so that he wouldn't stay left behind. Although the bodyguard with the Mayor's Son found it suspicious at first, he called the school principal to confirm if that were true. The principal confirmed it and they started getting inside the bus. Whilst they were getting inside the bus, the driver asked the bodyguard to check if the fuel filler was properly locked or not as he had forgotten to check that before getting into the driver's seat. The moment the bodyguard had climbed out of the bus to check, the bus driver quickly closed the doors and drove off as fast as he could, leaving the bodyguard behind. The bodyguard ran for a while trying to catch up, but the speed of his legs was no match for the speed of the bus. His attempts to chase the bus were fruitless. He quickly tried to call for help, but he couldn't find the network reception to contact anyone. In the meantime, the bus driver stopped by a garage and changed vehicles with the Mayor's Son inside. The boy cried for help, but there was no one to come in his aid. After a few minutes, a car came to where the boy was deserted inside the bus. A mysterious man wearing a surgical mask and surgical gloves stepped out of the car. The man had a small briefcase in his hand. Seeing this the boy knew he was about to be abducted and quickly started panicking inside the bus. But the boy was trapped inside the bus, completely helpless. The mysterious man unlocked the door of the bus and started walking towards the boy. The boy was shivering and crying in fear of what he might do to him. He started pounding the glass windows of the bus in desperation, but little did he know that they were completely impenetrable to him. The masked man came close to the boy, grabbed him by his neck and sprayed a strange substance on his face which made the boy immediately lose consciousness. Afterward, the masked man picked the boy up, put him in the backseat of his car and drove back to his hideout. The liquid he had sprayed on his face knocked him out for 3 hours. In the meantime, he went out to buy some food for his new guest at home.
As the child was falling victim to a man blinded by his power, a family was being stripped of their home due to the temperament of some legal documents. After the death of the Deputy, his wife and children were dragged out of their apartment. The house was apparently leased and the amount could not be paid even with the money left behind by the Deputy. His wife contacted the Insurance Company, but they explained how the conditions for his death were not met, hence his family will not be getting any support from the Insurance Companies. They begged and pleaded to let them live there until she gets a job, but the leasing agents just won't listen to her one bit. But this was more than just their fate, as the Anonymous figure had altered some of the information on the Insurance Companies online documentation. He also enlisted the Deputy's house in the Leasing Company's database in order to render them helpless. Seeing this as an opportunity, the Anonymous figure decided to pay them a visit in person. But that wasn't until he was done executing his current plan. His plan to turn the Mayor's life into a living, breathing nightmare.
The Day After:
Mayor's Son: Father, I'm heading off to the school picnic now.
Mayor: Sure, son. But make sure to remember what I told you about yesterday. Make sure not to dishonor my name by befriending a bunch of inferiors.
Mayor's Son: [with a lowered gaze] Yes, father.
Mayor: Good. [turns to the bodyguard]
Mayor's Son: Make sure to keep him away from any filthy brats.
Bodyguard: Yes, sir.
Mayor: Now, go.
Mayor's Son: [advancing towards the exit]
The child thought he would finally get a chance to play with the other kids and spend time with them without having to worry about his abusive father, but little did he know that it was not his day. When the Mayor's Son had reached the school premises, he was unable to locate any of his other friends. He asked the school bus driver assigned for the picnic. He said that the other children went ahead on a separate bus and that he was specifically waiting for him so that he wouldn't stay left behind. Although the bodyguard with the Mayor's Son found it suspicious at first, he called the school principal to confirm if that were true. The principal confirmed it and they started getting inside the bus. Whilst they were getting inside the bus, the driver asked the bodyguard to check if the fuel filler was properly locked or not as he had forgotten to check that before getting into the driver's seat. The moment the bodyguard had climbed out of the bus to check, the bus driver quickly closed the doors and drove off as fast as he could, leaving the bodyguard behind. The bodyguard ran for a while trying to catch up, but the speed of his legs was no match for the speed of the bus. His attempts to chase the bus were fruitless. He quickly tried to call for help, but he couldn't find the network reception to contact anyone. In the meantime, the bus driver stopped by a garage and changed vehicles with the Mayor's Son inside. The boy cried for help, but there was no one to come in his aid. After a few minutes, a car came to where the boy was deserted inside the bus. A mysterious man wearing a surgical mask and surgical gloves stepped out of the car. The man had a small briefcase in his hand. Seeing this the boy knew he was about to be abducted and quickly started panicking inside the bus. But the boy was trapped inside the bus, completely helpless. The mysterious man unlocked the door of the bus and started walking towards the boy. The boy was shivering and crying in fear of what he might do to him. He started pounding the glass windows of the bus in desperation, but little did he know that they were completely impenetrable to him. The masked man came close to the boy, grabbed him by his neck and sprayed a strange substance on his face which made the boy immediately lose consciousness. Afterward, the masked man picked the boy up, put him in the backseat of his car and drove back to his hideout. The liquid he had sprayed on his face knocked him out for 3 hours. In the meantime, he went out to buy some food for his new guest at home.
[enters the store]
Shopkeeper: Sir, how may I help you?
Masked Man: I was looking to buy some milk and chocolate chip cookies.
Shopkeeper: Sure thing, sir. Please follow me.
Masked Man: No! No! It's completely fine. Although I would love assistance from a beautiful lady, I can find my own way.
Shopkeeper: [blushes] Okay, sir! Let me know if you need any help.
Masked Man: Sure thing, beautiful. [winks with a smirk]
Shopkeeper: [smiles and goes back to the cash register]
Masked Man: [gathers everything in the shopping cart]
Robber: [suddenly enters the shop with a gun in hand] Everyone freeze! This is a robbery. [turns his attention towards the shopkeeper] Hey you! Give me all the cash right now. [points gun towards her]
Shopkeeper: Okay! Okay! Just don't shoot me. [starts taking out money from the cash register]
Robber: Hurry up, woman! I haven't got all day.
Masked Man: Than perhaps you should attend whatever else you need to attend right now.
Robber: [turns around to the masked man] What was that, wise guy? Are you some of a comedian?
Masked Man: No! No! Of course not. That's absurd. It was just a bit of free advice. I can tell how much you love free stuff. You like it so much that you would rather rob to get wealthy than actually working hard to earn it.
Robber: You better watch your mouth, or I'll have to put a bullet in it.
Masked Man: [smirks] Today I kidnapped a boy and killed a murderer. The boy is the son of a very high and mighty person. I am as much of a criminal as you are, if not more. But my crimes can be justified by a simple word called 'vengeance' whereas yours is just a reflection of your meager existence. Unable to provide for yourself and your family, you are nothing more than a lazy coward.
Robber: [nervously] Are you insane? I can shoot you right here, right now. Instead of telling me stories of your vengeance, you should try making it out alive by keeping your trap shut.
Masked Man: [laughs] ha ha ha ha ha! [slowing starts clapping] Bravo, Mr. Robber! Bravo! You still believe you have the upper hand here, do you? Let me show you who is really in a pickle right now.
Robber: [nervously pointing gun towards the masked man] What do you mean, huh? What do you mean?
Masked Man: [to the pen in his pocket] AI, take away his gun.
AI: Yes, sir.
Robber: [gun gets pulled out of his hand and sticks to the ceiling fan] [shocked] What's going on?
Masked Man: AI, initiate code: BOOM.
AI: Yes, sir. Initiating code: BOOM.
Robber: [his phone blows up inside his pocket] [yelling in pain] AAAA! [falls on the floor, screaming in pain]
Masked Man: [slowly advancing towards the robber] How did you like that, Mr. Robber? I hope you had fun, cause it's the last thing you'll ever be able to enjoy. [starts putting on gloves]
Robber: I'm sorry. Please forgive me.
Masked Man: Forgive you? Why would I do that? After all, you were threatening to kill me and this lovely lady right here a few minutes ago, weren't you?
Robber: I didn't know, you were capable of doing all this. Please spare me. I have children to feed.
Masked Man: AI, I need the gun. [puts his right hand right below the ceiling fan]
AI: Yes, sir.
Masked Man: [gun drops on the palm of his hand] It's a good thing you're the only who's touched it thus far. Now I can kill you without having to worry about getting rid of any evidence. [sits down on the floor]
Robber: Sir, please. I beg of you.
Masked Man: [bursts out of laughter] hahaha haha! Did you just call me “Sir"? Wow! You are just full of surprises. It's too bad I can no longer keep you alive. [places the gun on the robber's head] I want you to remember God in these final moments of yours. Remember the times He helped you to successfully rob people out of their living so that you can feed your pathetic family. Remember the times He helped you escape from the cops and kept you away from harm's way. Remember the times He helped a miserable lowlife like you instead of those who were in actual need.
Robber: Sir, I'm begging you. [starts crying] Sir, my kids are waiting for me at home. If you kill me here, they'll surely die of hunger.
Masked Man: Ahh! Good point. Not to worry. I'll make sure to kill them as well, as soon as I'm done with you. [pulls down the trigger and shoots him in the head]
Robber: Aaa! [gets shot in the skull and dies]
Masked Man: AI, erase all the footage captured by the surveillance cameras.
AI: On it, sir.
Masked Man: [puts the gun in the robber's hand, stands up and turns his attention towards the shopkeeper] How much for all the items?
Shopkeeper: How did you do that?
Masked Man: Did what? Buy the food? I just took those off the shelves and put them in the cart.
Shopkeeper: I'm asking about what just happened now.
Masked Man: What happened? What on earth are you referring to?
Shopkeeper: You just killed a man. What do you mean by “what happened"?
Masked Man: [puts his finger on her lips] Shh! [whispers in her ears] Nothing happened. You saw absolutely nothing, understand that? [comes closer] One word about this and I'll make it's the last thing you'll ever do.
Shopkeeper: Is that supposed to be a threat? [smiling]
Masked Man: Maybe it is. [winks] I prefer that you take it as an absolute certainty.
Shopkeeper: Is that supposed to be a threat? [smiling]
Masked Man: Maybe it is. [winks] I prefer that you take it as an absolute certainty.
Shopkeeper: [smiling] Oh yeah? Then why go through the trouble of saving me?
Masked Man: Maybe it had something to do with those two beautiful objects on your face. What are they called again? Oh yes! Eyes. See? I was so busy staring at those that I completely forgot what they were called. [smiling]
Shopkeeper: Oh! A killer with a charming personality. How nice! Well, I know for a fact, that's not the only reason one would take such a risk. There's more to it than that, is my assumption correct?
Masked Man: Maybe it had something to do with those two beautiful objects on your face. What are they called again? Oh yes! Eyes. See? I was so busy staring at those that I completely forgot what they were called. [smiling]
Shopkeeper: Oh! A killer with a charming personality. How nice! Well, I know for a fact, that's not the only reason one would take such a risk. There's more to it than that, is my assumption correct?
Masked Man: [smiles back] Can't say. It's a secret. [winks]
Shopkeeper: Oh! A man of mystery, I like mysteries. Say, would you like to make me a part of your mysterious life? I want to embark on some mysterious journies alongside you.
Masked Man: I would highly recommend not getting mixed up with me. It is highly dangerous.
Shopkeeper: What if I said, I like danger?
Masked Man: I would highly recommend not getting mixed up with me. It is highly dangerous.
Shopkeeper: What if I said, I like danger?
Masked Man: Are you serious?
Shopkeeper: As serious as ever.
Masked Man: AI, give me her details ASAP!
AI: Sir, she lives in a nearby house forty meters right from here. She lives there all alone. Her family members were killed on the same day as yours. That's why she used the insurance money to run her father's shop which is the one you're currently in.
Masked Man: [with a look of surprise] You were also a victim of that dirty political scheme?
Shopkeeper: Yes, I was. And as it seems, I wasn't the only one.
Masked Man: Then it's purely destiny that we end up meeting this way.
Shopkeeper: I guess, it is. [smiling and looking into his eyes]
Masked Man: Say, would you like to join me? Join me in avenging our lost loved ones?
Shopkeeper: [looks towards the floor and thinks for a while] I'm in. [smiles and wraps her arms around his neck]
Masked Man: [takes her hands off his neck] Listen up, sweetheart; don't get too comfy with me. I'm the fire that can only turn everything into ash, getting too close might end up giving you a few burns.
Shopkeeper: Okay, Mr. Fire! By the way, is that your actual name or should I call you something else?
Masked Man: At the moment, I don't have one. No name. No identity. I'm just a hollow man living a meaningful existence. But if you really want to call me something, call me Mr. Autocrat.
Shopkeeper: Okay then, Mr. Autocrat. And you shall call me Mrs. Autocrat.
Masked Man: Mrs., huh? Aren't we getting a little carried away?
Shopkeeper: I don't know! Are we? [stares into his eyes]
Masked Man: [smiles and stares back] Time will tell everything. For now, I'll just call you Ms. Shopkeeper. [winks]
Shopkeeper: I kinda like that. [winks back]
Masked Man: Yeah! I'm sure you do. [smirks] But I think we should do something about this situation first, don't you think so?
Shopkeeper: Yes, of course. What do you have in mind?
Masked Man: I was thinking, you would come up with something. [chuckles]
Shopkeeper: WHAT?! How should I know? I've never done this kind of thing in my life.
Masked Man: And you just assumed, I have?
Shopkeeper: No. Not like that. But it was your idea to kill him off in the first place. So, you must surely have a plan, right?
Masked Man: Well, I never said I don't have a plan.
Shopkeeper: So, what was that all about?
Masked Man: I was just testing you. Don't worry, just follow my lead. [takes out phone] I'm about to call the police and tell them everything that just happened.
Shopkeeper: WHAT! Are you crazy? We'll both get arrested.
Masked Man: I don't think you understood what I was saying. Let me rephrase that. I'm going to tell the police everything that happened to us just a few moments from now and how the robber took his own life with his own gun.
Shopkeeper: Oh! I see. Okay, I'm ready.
Masked Man: Good. Now, just try to act like someone who's been traumatized by everything that she just witnessed.
Shopkeeper: Okay.
Masked Man: [dialing the police's number] Sshh! Quiet now. [call received] Hello! Sir, we're here at the local departmental store in this area. Sir, a robber entered the shop, tried to rob money from the cash register and then suddenly shot himself.
Police Inspector: What?! He shot himself? Is he still alive?
Masked Man: No, sir. He shot himself in the head. I and the shopkeeper are the only ones here. Sir, please try coming quickly.
Police Inspector: Alright! We're coming. Don't go anywhere. We'll be there in 15 minutes.
Masked Man: Thank you, sir. [aborts call] That sucker fell for it. [smirks]
Shopkeeper: That's great.
Masked Man: Yeah! I'm sure you do. [smirks] But I think we should do something about this situation first, don't you think so?
Shopkeeper: Yes, of course. What do you have in mind?
Masked Man: I was thinking, you would come up with something. [chuckles]
Shopkeeper: WHAT?! How should I know? I've never done this kind of thing in my life.
Masked Man: And you just assumed, I have?
Shopkeeper: No. Not like that. But it was your idea to kill him off in the first place. So, you must surely have a plan, right?
Masked Man: Well, I never said I don't have a plan.
Shopkeeper: So, what was that all about?
Masked Man: I was just testing you. Don't worry, just follow my lead. [takes out phone] I'm about to call the police and tell them everything that just happened.
Shopkeeper: WHAT! Are you crazy? We'll both get arrested.
Masked Man: I don't think you understood what I was saying. Let me rephrase that. I'm going to tell the police everything that happened to us just a few moments from now and how the robber took his own life with his own gun.
Shopkeeper: Oh! I see. Okay, I'm ready.
Masked Man: Good. Now, just try to act like someone who's been traumatized by everything that she just witnessed.
Shopkeeper: Okay.
Masked Man: [dialing the police's number] Sshh! Quiet now. [call received] Hello! Sir, we're here at the local departmental store in this area. Sir, a robber entered the shop, tried to rob money from the cash register and then suddenly shot himself.
Police Inspector: What?! He shot himself? Is he still alive?
Masked Man: No, sir. He shot himself in the head. I and the shopkeeper are the only ones here. Sir, please try coming quickly.
Police Inspector: Alright! We're coming. Don't go anywhere. We'll be there in 15 minutes.
Masked Man: Thank you, sir. [aborts call] That sucker fell for it. [smirks]
Shopkeeper: That's great.
