Chapter 45: The Post-Match Press Conference

The street shootout quickly set Los Angeles ablaze. Reporters flocked to the scene, camera flashes crackling in the chaos, microphones nearly thrust into the faces of the officers trying to maintain order. Some journalists invoked their right to interview, but it was futile; all they received was the standard response: the facts were still under investigation, and there would be a press conference later—please attend on time.

Frustrated but powerless, the reporters could only take endless photos of the forensic officers collecting shell casings inside the cordon.

By afternoon, Deputy Chief Robin, acting as spokesperson, held a briefing on the case. The small meeting room at the Temple City precinct was packed to the brim with journalists.

Robin appeared in a spotless, neatly pressed police uniform, his hair slicked to a glossy sheen, every piece of equipment in perfect order. With a poised smile, he stepped to the microphone. “Esteemed members of the press, I am Robin Skinner, Deputy Chief of the Temple City Division of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. As the spokesperson, I will now update the public on the shooting incident that occurred this morning in the Austin community.

“At approximately 10:30 a.m., we received reports of a serious shooting in the Austin area, with gunfire exchanged in broad daylight. Our officers responded immediately, and through coordinated effort and determined action, we successfully resolved the incident. I extend my gratitude to our brave and fearless officers, whose outstanding contribution ensures the safety and stability of Los Angeles and Temple City.

“Following our investigation, including forensic analysis, we have confirmed that six men participated in the street gunfight. Four were members of a gang known as Barrett Street, while the other two were mid-level managers in a gang called Lomas 13. Due to ongoing gang conflicts, Barrett Street dispatched four members to ambush the two Lomas 13 managers, opening fire on them. One Lomas 13 member was killed instantly, the other wounded and now receiving treatment at the hospital.

“Of the remaining four gang members, two were shot dead at the scene by responding officers. The other two were arrested, one with injuries, and have been taken to the detention center. They will face charges of murder and aggravated assault. The injured man will also be charged upon recovery. They will face the full force of the law.

“Statistics show that over seventy rounds were fired by the six gang members, damaging multiple cars and homes. We regret the losses suffered by affected citizens and hope they will soon recover from this ordeal.

“The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department will continue to crack down on gang-related crime. We encourage citizens to report any suspicious or criminal activity by calling our hotline or leaving a message on our website. For those concerned about anonymity, we provide a secure anonymous reporting platform. All information about informants will be strictly protected. Thank you.

“We will now take questions from the press. Please raise your hand if you wish to ask something.”

A forest of arms shot up from the crowd.

Robin noticed an attractive female reporter and pointed to her. “Yes, you, please.”

She stood up. “I’m with the Los Angeles Times. Deputy Chief, given two recent large-scale gang shootouts in the Temple City area, does this suggest that the police have lost control over gang activity?”

Robin instantly regretted choosing her. After a moment’s thought, he replied, “No. Every time gang violence occurs, we respond immediately and decisively. We have neutralized several suspects and delivered a powerful deterrent. Gang members will understand that our resolve to fight crime has never wavered.”

Another reporter stood. “Does the police department know why these two gangs are repeatedly clashing?”

“The case is still under investigation and I cannot share specifics at this time. I can only state that, regardless of motive, large-scale violence and criminal activities will be met with the police’s full force. For the safety of our citizens, we will not tolerate such rampant lawlessness.”

“In the crossfire, several citizens’ homes and cars were damaged. Are there any compensation measures from the police?”

“No. Those affected should contact the municipal authorities. The police are responsible for law enforcement, not for compensation or relief.” Robin’s refusal was blunt—there was no money, and if anyone wanted to pursue compensation, they’d have to look elsewhere.

“It’s been reported that in both recent shootouts, an officer nicknamed ‘the Barbarian’ was involved and has achieved notable results. Can you release his details?”

“No. For the protection of our officers, no detailed information on any individual will be made public. I can only say that every one of our officers is courageous, joining the force with a steadfast commitment to serve the community. Each one is a credit to our department.”

Click.

Zhuo Ning turned off the TV, a sly smile on her lips. “So this is why you suddenly came running to see me this afternoon? Mr. Barbarian?”

“You just have to admit I came to see you. Whenever I have free time, I come right over. What does that say? It says I miss you, Shufen.” Ao Xi pursed his lips and nodded solemnly.

“Smooth talker. Don’t call me Shufen—call me baby.”

Ao Xi was momentarily taken aback, blinking. “I can’t say it. It just feels weird.”

Zhuo Ning pounced on him, grabbing his face. “Weird? Who’s weird? Are you saying I’m weird?”

Her grip was surprisingly strong, making Ao Xi’s face ache. He shook his head from side to side but couldn’t break free, so he simply leaned forward and captured Zhuo Ning’s red lips in his.

Their mouths met, tongues entwined. Zhuo Ning instinctively let go and wrapped her arms around Ao Xi’s neck.

After a long moment, they reluctantly separated. Zhuo Ning’s cheeks flushed pink, her eyes sultry as she murmured, “Still feel weird?”

“Not at all. Baby, you’re sweet.”

“Ugh! Can you two not be so disgusting? There are other people here, you know.” Kong Ling enunciated each word, her face reading: I can’t take this, just let me die.

That morning, after Ao Xi and the others wrapped up the Austin case, they were promptly subjected to an internal review. Whether they fired their weapons or not, every officer was placed on administrative leave.

Even with bodycam footage, everyone had to give a statement, explaining their position, where they fired from, how many shots, and roughly where they hit.

Lying was pointless; the statements would be cross-examined against the footage, and the department’s ballistics experts would analyze every round. This wasn’t aimed at the officers, but rather to protect them.

Any discrepancy would be seized upon by the DA, predatory lawyers, and certain organizations, hounding the officers and the department for jail time and hefty compensation.

While the rest of the officers still struggled through their statements, Ao Xi—no stranger to administrative leave—had finished his interview and was off to UCLA to take his girlfriend to karaoke.

“Alright! Watch as the singing god Ao Xi pours his heart into a classic—‘The Little Butterfly of Ah Fei’!”

Ao Xi grabbed the mic, closed his eyes, and sang with abandon: “You are my little butterfly, I am your little Ah Fei~~ You rest upon my shoulder, nestled by my ear, and from then on I will no longer run wild~~~”

Zhuo Ning’s eyes sparkled with adoration as she swayed along, harmonizing.

“What is that supposed to be? Let me show you how it’s done!” Zong Yiqiang jumped up, took another mic, and belted out a duet with Ao Xi.

Kong Ling, hands over her ears, leaned toward Tan Ying. “I’ve heard love makes people blind, but I didn’t know it made them deaf too. Can’t she tell those two are singing in eight different keys?”

Tan Ying looked up at the group. “I think there might be something wrong with all their heads.”