Elyon walked into the Chief's office for the third time in less than a month, finding himself already familiar with its contents. Chief Orion sat puffing on his pipe, a half-empty bottle of whiskey open on his desk. On seeing the duo, he spoke up.
"Kappa, both of you here today—does that mean there's been progress with the bank robbery case?"
"Yes, Chief. We've visited the suspect's fiancée today. After our conversation, we believe it's highly probable that she's aware of the case and that the suspect might contact her after the heat dies down."
"Good. That all?"
"No, we've already arranged surveillance. As you know, the port branch is short-staffed, so we've hired a reliable informant. I trust the expenses will be reimbursed?"
Chief Orion set down his pipe, tapping out the ashes.
"You lad, on top of all the trouble you cause our district police, you want extra funds? Fine, the case is significant. Write up an expense sheet. Surveillance costs a shilling a day, cap at three pounds. Anything more comes out of your pocket. A shilling a day for the lad is generous enough."
"Heh, generous as ever, Chief. There's more. Elyon and I reviewed the suspect's files and discovered that this robbery likely involves more than just the four bank robbers. It could be tied to a Dunlander gang?"
Chief Orion's expression turned solemn at the mention.
"Those Dunlander gangs are far less agreeable than our local ones. They don't care for consequences when they shouldn't cross certain lines."
"The suspect is of Dunlander descent, and he resides near North Suburb Street. Plus, Elyon discovered irregularities in his dealings with an import-export company. Shortly after he stopped managing their loans, the bank got hit."
"You found that? Impressive. Having someone of high caliber paired with Kappa is certainly an asset. I thought you'd be a pure legal scholar like Mr. Russell, but you're proving quite the capable cop."
Elyon mocked himself inwardly: A legal scholar? He was practically law-illiterate now. His most notable asset was probably the magic potion from the orb.
"So, Chief, could you direct the North Suburb precinct to investigate any suspicious characters or activities? Don't use the bank robbery as a reason—just say it's a safety inspection to look into the revolver black market."
"Alright, I'll see to it. Now, go on with your investigation."
"Ah, Chief, what time is it?" Kappa interjected with a grin.
"Nearly noon. Why do you ask?" The Chief feigned ignorance.
"We rushed back and missed lunch. Aren't you going to show Elyon the district's mess hall?"
"Heh, you always think with your stomach. That's why you're so robust yet simple-minded. Fine, I'll indulge you just this once for my junior's sake."
Chief Orion led the hungry duo through the station to the mess hall, a modest two-story building.
Downstairs, officers with V-insignias on their epaulettes were already lined up for their meal, saluting the Chief as he gestured for them to carry on.
They ascended the wooden staircase to the second floor, a contrast to the bench-seated communal tables below. Upstairs consisted of individual square tables with backed chairs and a more private dining atmosphere.
Unlike the crowded first floor, a few upper-echelon officers and staff dined in pairs or groups. A waitress approached with menus as they settled at a table.
"Good afternoon, Chief Orion, Captain Kappa, and the gentleman beside you. What can I get for you today?"
"Afternoon, ma'am. Just the regular set meals for three."
"Today's lunch is beef stew with potatoes, sautéed mushrooms and peas, boiled cauliflower, with a choice of white bread or rice. Would you like any sides?"
"Chief, it's rare that we come here. Can't you treat us to a little extra?"
"Weren't you here last week on the pretext of office supplies? Even the waitress remembers you. Fine, add two juices for them."
"Thank you, ma'am. I'll have rice, please."
It had been two months since Elyon had last had rice since his arrival in this world. He eagerly opted for rice upon hearing it was available.
"And for you two gentlemen, bread?"
"That'll do."
"Just a moment, I'll notify the kitchen." The waitress took note of their orders and headed toward the kitchen.
While waiting for lunch, Chief Orion pulled out an ornate cigarette case, extracting a cigar. Kappa eagerly struck a match to light it for him.
"Why so eager today?"
"I always show the utmost respect for our beloved Chief. It's just that the craving hit me, and I left my cigarettes at the station. Might I...?"
"Who carries matches but no cigarettes? You never miss a chance to take advantage of an old man about to retire. Take one for yourself."
Muttering under his breath, Orion handed the case to Kappa.
"I won't be shy, heh." Kappa took two cigars, pocketing one and lighting the other. "I'll save one for the road."
Orion didn't comment further, carefully tucking his cigarette case back into his pocket. He glanced around to ensure no wait staff was nearby before speaking in a hushed tone.
"The bank robbery you're on isn't just about gang involvement. I suspect there might be someone of significant power or unordinary forces at play. Do you know how to handle that kind of heat?"
"Ah, that's easy. If it involves bigwigs, I'll pass the case and evidence up the chain. As for anything dark and mysterious, I'll leave that to the Special Situations Division. That way, we get off easy." Kappa's response had a nonchalant, rough-and-ready air.
"Good to know. I don't fancy dealing with a bunch of grieving families."
After about twenty minutes, the waitress returned with their meal on a wooden tray. Elyon promptly ladled a hearty serving of beef and potatoes over his rice.
The rice here was different—smaller grains, lacking the bite he was accustomed to back home. But mixed with beef broth and tender potatoes, it was reminiscent of the rice bowls from his local eatery.
Tears welled up in his eyes. How were his family faring back on Earth?