4 Caught at the Door

"Are you an idiot, or am I just crazy?"

The man was in black fatigues and a balvica that covered all, but his eyes. I am strapped to a chair with steel handcuffs. They bite into my skin and I am sure my wrist a bleeding. He mustn't be having it today. Even though his face in concealed behind the mask, I can see the contempt in his eyes and the anger in his posture.

"You need to tell me why you're here and you need to tell me now," he said, "I don't want to ask again so spit it up!"

I stare at him for a moment without speaking.

"Look kid, I'm not going to beat you up, but you need to tell me right now. Tell me why you are here and why."

Fortyish minutes ago I am walking down the main boulevard when I realize I am getting strange looks. I curse myself, I knew this would happen. I pull the hood of my sweater tighter and look to the floor. I should've accounted for the different ethnic characteristics of the indigenous people, but I overlooked it in my haste to leave.

I contemplate going back, but the area is to active right now and I might be spotted. Better to wait until nightfall and make my final decision then. I explore the unit for a while. The streets are lined with vendors and attractions such as musicians, stuntmen, orators artist and various other types of entertainers.

As I am walking around and observing the sights, I realized I am being watched. In my peripheral vision I can see several figures, following my path. I stopped for a second and pretended to check my pockets. I glanced behind me and to a man who was several meters away. We made eye contact and he smiled. I looked away and proceeded to wander around. I took out my phone and pretended to check the time. Once I did, I checked the reflection on the screen and sure enough the man and several other in similar black attire where still behind me.

"Hey buddy, how long are you going to walk around with us behind you? You know we're following you, right?"

The blood in my body froze. I slowly turned around to face the man. He was caucasian, with short cropped grey hair and sported dark impenetrable shades.

"No," I said.

"Bullsh*t", he responded.

"Officer Colleren of the USS Phalanx's security task force. You have violated Penal code No. 32 of, Leaving or entering a Unit without formal consent from the UIEA or authorized services."

I stand frozen unable to comprehend what is happening.

"Stay where you are. Put you hands behind your head and slowly lower to your knees."

I did as he told.

"You have the right to remain silent. You have the right to an attorney and if you cannot afford an attorney one will be appointed for you. If you waive these rights and talk to us, anything you say may be used against you in court."

"Sorry kid, but I'm going to stop you before you get out the door."

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