Upright 5 of Cups:Your mind will try to shield you with a fog of confusion, anger, and fear – do not let those emotions steer you. Your heart is your beacon of hope that you must trust and follow. Though you have much to mourn over right now, listen to your heart and understand that not all is lost."
"Sooooooo… you two stuffit yet?"
It was only a few minutes after 10PM and Lizzie's Bar was packed. The music was loud, the drinks were flowin', and best of all, the braindances were back to their top-notch quality all thanks to a recent upswing Night City's most brilliant braindance editor had been riding for the past few days.
Judy's eyes widened as she quickly covered her mouth, almost choking on her drink, The Braindance. A mixture of vodka and citrus juices – tangy and sweet. "W-w… What!?" the techie blurted out as she coughed, trying to clear some of her drink from her windpipe.
"I asked… if you two…. had stuffed yet?! Docked?!" the purple-haired Mox asked, her eyes gleaming as she leaned her face extremely close to Judy's. The tattooed Mox slowly leaned away, taking another sip from her drink, avoiding having to provide a response.
"Jeez, dude, she's only known the gal for like, a couple of days," Rita chuckled as she grabbed Candy's shoulders, pulling the nosey Mox from the techie's personal bubble. "Yeah, but… that's plenty'a time! Like, ya'll could'a done it, like…" the purple-haired Moxer began counting on her fingers, quickly using up one hand and moving to the other, "… like… at least like thirty times by now."
Rita's eyes widened, "Thirty!? Girl, she LITERALLY met her four days ago!" Candy narrowed her eyes, turning her head toward the pink-haired bouncer, "What? Is that considered a lot to you?"
Judy laughed as she sat her drink down on the bar counter, "Rita – realize who you're talking to. Candy could get an input one morning, fuck 'em at least fifty times, then dump 'em before movin' onto the next schlub… all on the same day. So, yeah, I don't think thirty is a lot… for her. Especially over a course of four days."
Candy's jaw dropped as she quickly looked at Judy in horror, "T-That…. That was ONE time!" Rita gently pat the top of the purple-haired Mox's head as she took a sip of her No Save Point IPA. "But seriously… Is that, like, a lot?" Candy asked, scrunching her nose in confusion. Rita gave a slight shrug, "Well I mean, in this line of work… average maybe? Yeah, probably average for y'all. But definitely not average for me n' Judes. I get some like… I dunno. Once or twice a day?" Candy's eyes widened.
"But, in all seriousness, Jude," the bouncer suddenly asked, playfully fluttering her lashes at the techie, "You two gotten' nasty yet?"
"Oh my God, Rita. You too!?" Judy laughed while shaking her head, "Why can't you guys leave me alone?!" Rita and Candy both pouted while staring at the techie, holding their puppy-dog paws under their chins, eyes welling up with the desire to know about Judy's sex life. The tattooed Mox rolled her eyes with an exaggerated sigh, "… No. Look, I only talked to her that one night. N' you guys know that I don't just… do that with anyone. That's output stuff... It's special... I mean, yeah, I'd like to get to know her better, but we've both just been… too busy."
Rita narrowed her eyes, "Judes, when's the last time you docked?" Judy clenched her jaw before reaching for her drink. "Oh my God, no. Judy, seriously, how long?!" The techie froze before she could reach her drink, "… Like…" she mumbled as she grabbed her glass and took a sip. "What?" both Moxers asked, leaning in closer to the techie. Judy mumbled under her breath again before looking away.
Both Moxer's performed an in unison, over-dramatic gasp, "OVER A YEAR?!" Candy ungracefully fell from her barstool as Rita's jaw dropped. "Guys?! You gonks - way t'make me feel terrible about it," Judy said as she placed her hands over her eyes.
Candy immediately stood up, "Gimme'er digits so I can holo her gonkass. Tell'er there's a sexy babe gettin' drunk at Lizzie's who's all hot n' bothered for her," she demanded while leaning closer, holding her palm up toward the techie, "Pffft. 'Too busy'. Puh-lease. Nuh-uh sweetheart. Ain't no one 'too busy' to leave a lady like you waitin'."
Again, Judy leaned away from the purple-haired Mox with a small, uncomfortable laugh, "Woah, relax there, puss-patrol… Look, I think we sorta… have a date… planned?" The techie looked away from her friends as her cheeks blushed. "The hell? Whaddya mean 'think' you have a date?" Rita asked, her eyes narrow. Judy scratched the back of her neck, "Erm… Uh, well, I mean we didn't exactly set a date or anything. N'… it wasn't through holo. We flicked messages."
Candy still had her palm extended toward Judy, "The phone. Now please. 'fore I jump on this bar and start tellin' everyone in this joint that you're single n' ready to mingle. I'm sure all these fine people here wouldn't mind gettin' close n' personal with the famous BD editor." Rita continued to narrow her eyes as she took another sip from her beer, "How… do you not know if you have… a date with someone?"
Judy rolled her eyes as she pulled out her phone, searching for her conversation with the mercenary, "You're such a brat, Cand's. Just… Please DON'T message her, okay!?" the techie pleaded as she handed the purple-haired Mox her phone. Rita peeked over Candy's shoulder as the bratty Mox playfully mimicked Judy's request in a mocking tone and snatched the techie's phone away. The two began reading the text exchange:
[Judy]: Hey, V?
Just wanted to wish you luck. All of you guys, really.
You're probably busy with everything and all... Haven't heard a peep from you since you left Lizzie's.
… Not sure if that's something you normally do? Buy a chica a few drinks and then ghost on them? ;)
But… Y'know… yeah. Hope you get this message.
[V]: Judy!
So, so sorry! Been super busy with prep work
But we're finally good to go tomorrow. Keep your fingers crossed for us, yeah?
AND NOOOOOOO I DIDN'T GHOST YOU! OMG! Please don't think that!
[Judy]: Mhmmm…
[V]: OMG Judy, NO! I haven't. Seriously.
I'm super sorry. For real!
I've really wanted to reach out. Things have just been crazy here.
And… Uh… I sorta, got… nervous?
[Judy]: Heh… Nervous? Why nervous?
[V]: …I dunno?
[Judy]: You're telling me the big-scary-mercenary is afraid of lil' ol' me?
[V]: not afraid. all I do is think about u. cant stop talking about u. always looking at my fone… I am crazy 4 u mi amor 3
[Judy]: … What?
Hello? V?
YOU CAN'T SAY SOMETHING LIKE THAT AND THEN NOT RESPOND!?
[V]: HOLY SHIT JUDY OMFG JACKIE TOOK MY PHONE
Omg please just ignore that GONK swear if I didn't need him tomorrow I'd break all his fingers.
[Judy]: …
I'm laughing so hard right now
[V]: -_-;
[Judy]: Anyway… Before this gets even more awkward… :P
Just wanted to send you good vibes. Hopefully you'll make it back and stop by the bar for another drink?
[V]: Of course! It'd be fun to have another drink
… Unless it's by myself. Then that's not so much fun.
[Judy]: Hah! You wouldn't be alone. I promise to accompany so you don't look all pathetic again ;)
[V]: ha ha haaaa… And I promise to unnecessarily buy you another round ;]
Rita and Candy slowly narrowed their eyes as they looked over at Judy, who was attempting to ignore their judgmental gawking as she sipped her drink.
"First, you two are… kinda cute? Like, in a gross, cheesy n' repulsive sorta way," Rita chuckled as the purple-haired Mox returned the phone to its rightful owner. "Shut up," Judy murmured as she grabbed her phone back. "So, that convo was yesterday... She said she was preppin' to do something today? 'suming it wasn't somethin' to do with you since she ain't here. Where is she? I still can't believe she hasn't been back yet," the purple-haired Mox asked as she pulled out a pack of 'Fields of Green' strawberry flavored cigarettes from her rear pocket.
Judy shifted in her seat as she finished off her drink, "Uhmm… I dunno? You saw the convo – she didn't say and I didn't ask," The techie gave a small shrug to the two girls, hoping her friends wouldn't ask further questions about the true nature of the mercenary's absence, "I'm hoping to hear from her tomorrow, if not tonight." Rita narrowed her eyes, "Mmmhhmmm…" She then looked down at Candy's cigarette pack, "Mind if a bum a cig?" The purple-haired Mox nodded and handed the bouncer the pack.
"Okay. Second, her name is V? Is that, like, short for somethin'? Or… is that just how you saved her name in your phone because you two love-birds already have some… cute n' gross inside joke already established?" Rita asked, raising her eyebrow. "Uhmm… I… Uh… I don't know, actually. She introduced herself as 'V' and that was that. Didn't even think about if that was her actual name or not… huh, now I'm curious…" the techie said as she scratched her right temple.
Candy snorted, "Heh… prob'ly didn't ask her cause you were too busy day dreamin' about how you want'er to ravish your body." The purple-haired Mox giggled and fist-bumped the bouncer as Judy rolled her eyes. "Well, I still prefer 'S.F.T.A'," Rita lightheartedly chimed in. "Yeah, same," Candy responded as she lit both of their cigarettes.
"S.F.T.A?..." Judy asked, slowly squinting her eyes at both women.
Candy giggled as she took her first puff and blew out pink smoke, "Yeah. 'Sweet Face, Tight Ass'. It's what we all call her." The techie's face immediately flushed red, "W-what?! 'We all'? Who's 'We All'?!" Rita and Candy laughed, "Uh… Everyone. Literally, everyone calls her 'S.F.T.A' now." Judy's jaw dropped, "W-when…. When did this happen?!"
"Uh, pretty much right after she left and your head was up on cloud nine. Candy ran outside 'n told us about how she played match maker with you n' S.F.T.A… Then, well, y'know how word spreads 'round here. So, yeah. She's S.F.T.A."
Judy clenched her jaw as she stared at Candy, "Is that why someone carved… 'SFTA+JA4EVAR' in the girl's room?" The purple-haired Mox gave a half-hearted shrug as she averted her eyes from the techie's accusing glare.
"Judy," a stern voice came from behind the three Moxer's, "Can we go somewhere private?"
The techie spun her barstool around, "Evie? Oh hey, when'd you get here? Everythin' okay?" Evelyn gave a small nod toward the techie before giving a Pan-Am smile to the other two women, "Excuse me, ladies. I hope you don't mind if I borrow your braindance geek. I need to steal her for a bit." The two smoking Moxer's nodded and gave the techie a quick wave goodbye.
"Ev, seriously. You're starting to make me nervous. Why won't you answer me? What's going on?"
Evelyn quickly walked into the braindance editor's studio as Judy jogged behind, trying to keep pace. The blue-haired woman folded her arms, "Turn on your TV and tune it to N-54." The techie's eyebrows furrowed as her eyes lit blue, flicking one of her TV monitors on.
"-just now tuning in, I am Gillean Jordan, bringing you breaking coverage from N-54 News. We have been informed that there is currently an ongoing situation occurring at Konpeki Plaza."
"…Oh shit," Judy quickly looked at Evelyn who began pulling out a cigarette from her purse. "Ev – please tell me you've heard from them. Did they make it out?" The blue-haired woman shook her head as she lit her cigarette, "I'm not sure." Both women looked back toward the screen.
"I have arrived on site with cameraman Chip. We are just beginning to cover this story, so please stay tuned for live updates. We are working with our sources to try and figure out what exactly is happening here… Again, this is Gillean Jordan with N-54 News bringing you breaking news coming from Konpeki Plaza."
The blonde-haired news woman approached the luxury hotel as far as she could; red and yellow digital NCPD [DO NOT CROSS] banners lit up the front entrance as officers urged onlookers to stay back. The woman returned her eyes back to the camera.
"So far, we haven't been told anything other than the hotel was placed on lockdown – From what we can assess outside here, the building has been surrounded by Emperor 720 NCPD Ironclad vehicles. There are also currently NCPD aerodynes circling above. Again, we are not entirely sure what's going on at this luxury hotel, but nothing like this has ever happened before."
Judy chewed her inner left cheek nervously, "What do you think is going on?"
Evelyn took in a long drag from her cigarette, "Don't know… Haven't heard anything from anyone. No one's contacted me... Can't even get ahold of Dex. Maybe this isn't related to them? Maybe they've already gotten out and Yori's sounded the alarm because he's lookin' for the biochip…," the blue-haired woman gestured toward the techie's pants, "Have you checked your phone to see if anyone might've messaged you?"
Judy quickly grabbed her phone from her pocket, looking to see if she had received any updates. She let out a frustrated sigh, "No, nothin' new." Evelyn slowly nodded, "Look, we don't have any information right now, so let's not let our minds wander too far." Judy nodded as she gripped tightly onto her phone.
"This just in – we have an update. NCPD officers have begun entering the hotel. From what I understand, they are going in to assess the situation inside and begin evacuations. Again, this is Gillean Jordan at N-54 News bringing you live updates to the Konpeki Plaza situation."
Both women snapped their attention back toward the screen.
"Okay, it looks… It looks like people are now being escorted from the building… Hotel staff and guests are coming out. Hundreds of them from the looks. NCPD are guiding them out... People seem… confused? Let's see if we can talk to someone. Maybe they can tell us what's happening on the inside."
The news anchor motioned for the cameraman to follow as they walked the perimeter of the NCPD banners, attempting to get near the evacuees.
"Ex-excuse me. Miss. Miss excuse me – Gillean Jordan, N-54 News. Can you tell us what's happening here? … You aren't sure? … They haven't said anything? O-okay, thank you. Sir. Excuse me S-"
Unexpectedly, an ear-splitting explosion echoed within the hotel followed by several rapid rounds of gun fire. The news anchor quickly covered her head and ducked as mass panic began to ripple through the crowd. People began screaming and fleeing from the hotel, pushing and pulling on each other, trying to ensure their own individual safety. Some people were knocked down and trampled over as they were cast to the side by the herd of frightened people.
The cameraman attempted to assist the news anchor while also capturing most of the event. He panned the camera toward an NCPD officer who was on his radio, sprinting toward the entrance while signaling for the rest of his troops to follow, "Shots fired! – I repeat, multiple shots have been fired! Sir? Understood – Let's go boys! SHOOT TO KILL AUTHORIZED!" A swarm of armed NCPD officers began flooding toward the hotel entrance.
"O-oh my God. T-this just in... A-an e-explosion of some sort has occurred in the hotel. Again, w-we just heard a very loud explosion and several gunshots have been fired. Armed NCPD officers have stormed the building with Level B2B clearance, or commonly known as 'Shoot to Kill' authorized orders. Again, this is Gilliean Jordan, N-"
Another wave of deafening gunfire crackled through the air. Mass panic quickly became chaos as more people screamed and cried as they attempted to push others out of their way.
A running woman slammed into the news anchor, "Oh-Owww! Shit! O-oh okay—h-hold on, p-people are running – there's now mass panic. Jesus Christ, Chip, CHIP! We need to move, we need to move, now!" The camera panned toward the ground as it captured pairs of fleeting feet. Then, another piercing explosion sounded.
The camera cut out and the screen switched to the N-54 logo rotating with a [STAY TUNED] message scrolling across the center of the screen.
An abrupt sound chimed from Evelyn's purse that quickly caught the two women's attention – a phone was ringing. The blue-haired woman made brief eye contact with the techie before she quickly pulled her phone from her purse. Her eyes flashed blue:
[Evelyn]: V?! Konpeki's all over the feeds! What the fuck's going on there?
[V]: Got a problem! Cryocase's damaged. Biochip's integrity at… Jackie?... Eighty-six percent and droppin'!
[Evelyn]: Shit…! Okay, listen to me. There's only one thing you can do. One of you's gotta slot the Relic into your neural port!
[V]: What the hell are you talkin' about?
[Evelyn]: The Relic can't be isolated - it has to be nested in a safe environment!
A brief moment of silence…
[V]: Jackie…? You Okay?
[Evelyn]: Once you're back, we'll take out the Relic and run a full brain scan and sweep. But you two need to get the fuck out of there first!
[V]: We're workin' on it!
The blue from Evelyn's eyes quickly diminished as she looked at Judy. "Evie, was that V?! Is she okay!?" an alarmed Judy asked as she stepped closer to her friend. The blue-haired woman nodded as she placed a gentle hand on the techie's shoulder – the tattooed Mox was trembling. "Yes Jude, that was her and someone named 'Jackie'. They're alive, they have the biochip… but the case that the chip was in got damaged so that's why she called. It sounds like they're okay and are working on getting themselves out safely…" Evelyn watched Judy, hoping her words would calm her friend.
Judy nodded as she looked down – her hands continued to cling onto her phone.
The screen flashed back to live feed, startling both women as they returned to watch the events unfold.
The news anchor, who originally was very well manicured, looked a bit different. Her hair was ruffled and her lipstick had been slightly smeared. She sounded out of breath, "H-hello all. We have a new update. Uhm-Multiple bodies have been found. Again, multiple bodies inside and several more wounded. At this time no one has been identi-Oh my gosh, look! O-okay, it looks like Max-Tac has now arrived. Folks, this is now very serious. Again, I am Gilliean Jordan, N-54 News bringing you live upda-"
Windows began to shatter throughout the building's exterior as a waterfall of stray bullets glass shards began raining down on the crowd.
"Oh my god! COVER! C-Chip find us cover!" The camera violently shook as the news anchor and cameraman ran from the bullets and flying pieces of shrapnel, attempting to find cover. "T-the van! Get behind the van!" The camera suddenly dropped to the ground, causing the screen to flicker for a moment.
The screen was crooked, as if the camera had fallen on its side. On the top of the screen was part of the N-54 news vehicle with a man leaning his back against it. He began slowly sliding down to sit on the ground as a streak of blood was drawn on the vehicle behind him. "C-Chip, you okay? Chip, hey, lo-oh my God Chip your side, there's blood. Chip? C-chip! Ple-"
The camera cut out and the screen switched to the N-54 logo rotating with a [STAY TUNED] message scrolling across the center of the screen.
Judy continued to stare in terror at the screen as her hand covered her mouth. Evelyn was pacing back and forth behind her while nervously puffing on her cigarette, "They'll be fine… They're professionals… They'll make it out…" the blue-haired woman mumbled to herself as she continued pacing.
Several minutes passed without a word being said. The techie continued watching the rotating news logo and the aspiring-actress continued chain-smoking through several cigarettes.
The news station returned to its live feed. "Good evening. This is Gillean Jordan, N-54 News." The news anchor seemed calm. Her makeup and hair had been refreshed.
"I am on-site with camerawoman Bridgette. We have a very unfortunate update on the Konpeki Plaza situation… A body has been identified at the top of Konpeki, in a suite… The… The Emperor – whose birthday was today… Turned 158 years old – Saburo Arasaka, is dead. You heard right… S-saburo Arasaka, at age 158, has been killed."
Only a select few in Night City knew of Yorinobu Arasaka's true intentions of visiting; Sell the stolen Relic to NetWatch, and kill Saburo Arasaka. Evelyn Park happened to be one of the few.
She immediately stopped pacing and stared at the screen as her jaw dropped and her eyebrows scrunched, "Saburo? Why the fuck was Saburo… there? Did… Jesus Christ, they actually did it. They killed him. Tonight, out of all fucking nights… and at Konpeki…"
Judy couldn't hear as Evelyn spoke – her ears were ringing as she stared at the screen.
"It is to be believed that this attack was specifically related to Saburo Arasaka. Currently, there is a body count of 13 people. Several more are injured. We have seen multiple NCPD and MaxTac personnel evacuated from the front door on stretchers. We have also been informed that there are a total of three assailants responsible for this heinous murder – Two gunmen who we believe are cyberpsychos, and one netrunner. Arasaka cybersecurity has informed us that they've located an assailant and are enroute to the traced location. We have deployed an N-54 News drone to follow. We will pan over to them now. Bridgette, please go ahead and switch over."
The News Channel went black momentarily before switching to the drone's point of view. The screen showed the hallway of what looked like an apartment building. Standing in front of a maroon door were three NCPD officers, two Max-Tac agents, and an Arasaka netrunner. "Shoot to kill authorized. Breeching in 3… 2… GO!" The netrunner disabled an access panel and one of the NCPD officers kicked the door in, allowing the other agents to storm in with their weapons drawn, "NCPD, HANDS IN FUCKIN' THE AIR!"
Silence hung stale in the air as the drone continued to hover in the hallway. After a bit of time, the drone slowly floated its way toward the kicked in door. A Max-Tac agent began to exit while dragging something out, "Threat was eliminated. Target was already neutralized." As the drone began to capture what was being dragged out, the screen cut to black as audio continued to come through.
"Oh Jesus... I-I'm not sure what I'm even looking at here… Ladies and gentlemen - I believe… It's a body … A human body, I believe. Their skin looks… almost completely fried off. The face completely distorted… Eyes melted from their sockets… O-oh my God… I cannot tell if they're male or female because of the damage… I ha-Hold on. What's that? Oh—Okay. Uhm, it seems that we have a positive ID. The body is of a local underground netrunner who went by the alias 'T-Bug'."
The live-feed turned back on to the news anchor. She cleared her throat, taking a moment to herself. Her eyes were closed as she shook her head, trying to erase the image that had been burnt into her memory, "Good evening all. Gillean Jordan, N-54 News with a Konpeki Plaza situation update. There are three assailants, two believed to be psyberpsychos and one netrunner. It has been confirmed that the netrunner, known alias 'T-Bug' has been neutralized. Her body has been taken by NCPD for proce-"
A sound of skidding tires, screeching brakes, and mangled metal ruptured behind the news-woman. She quickly spun around as the camera captured a black vehicle exploding through Konpeki Plaza's garage doors. More gunfire and was heard within the garage as the vehicle peeled its wheels, attempting to gain traction on the road beneath it.
Flash bang grenades were thrown from the vehicle, instantly detonating and turning the scene bright white.
A rain of bullets could be heard ricocheting from the exterior of the vehicle alongside a sudden roaring crash with metal crunching. "Holy shit, is that Adam Smasher!?" the news woman shouted. "Combat Mode: Initiated" a robotic voice announced with the sound of an accelerating engine. The vehicle approached quickly and then began to fade as it sped away. Several sirens from Max-Tac and NCPD vehicles approached and then faded in pursuit.
The camera cut out and the screen switched to the N-54 logo rotating with a [STAY TUNED] message scrolling across the center of the screen.
Evelyn quickly looked at Judy with wide eyes, "Judy? Jude! I-… I think that was them! There were two people in the back but I couldn't really make out who they were before everything went white. I mean, who else would the pigs be chasing!?"
Judy couldn't pry her eyes from the screen as she held her hand over her mouth. Please, please, please be okay. Please… she repeated silently to herself. She didn't notice her other hand had gone completely numb as it continued to clutch her phone.
It felt as if an eternity went by as they both stared at the screen.
"Should… Should we try WNS? May—" "No," the tattooed Mox grimly whispered, "… keep it on this channel." Evelyn pulled out another cigarette as they waited. She looked at her metal cigarette case before holding it our toward her friend, "Do you wan-"
The live feed flicked back on.
"Hello all. Gillean Jordan, N-54 News with an update from the Konpeki Tower situation. We've been informed that the two gunmen have escaped in a black vehicle. It is believed that it was a Delamain taxi. NCPD and Max-tac are currently attempting to relocate the vehicle. Until then, we have a few messages from our sponsors…" The news channel took a commercial hiatus.
"O-oh… Oh t-thank Christ," Judy's breath shook as she exhaled with relief. Her exhausted eyes closed.
"Hot… damn… Those guys know how to make a fucking scene," Evelyn smirked to herself as she lit her cigarette, "Well, V should hopefully blow up my holo here soon. We need to figure out where we can set up a brain sweep safely."
Judy's eyes remained closed as she slowly breathed in and out. Her tense body began to relax except for her stubborn hand. Its tight embrace was still locked around her phone. Please let me know you're safe, V…
"Do you want a smoke, Jude? Help calm your nerves. You've been shakin' this entire time…" Evelyn reached out her lit cigarette to her friend.
Judy slowly opened her eyes and glanced over, hesitating for a moment before accepting, "T-thanks Evie… Haven't smoked in a while..." Evelyn nodded as the techie took the cigarette, "I think this is a special occasion to toss in your chips. Tonights' been'a… a bit dramatic." The tattooed Mox forced out a small chuckle, "I think 'a bit dramatic' is an understatement. Maybe 'petrifying' is more fitting."
The blue-haired woman lit another cigarette for herself. Her fingertips danced with a nervous flight of impatience as she waited for her hired help to contact her.
Judy took a small puff of her cigarette, struggling to hold back a small cough. Evelyn chuckled as she looked over at the techie, "You weren't kiddin'. When's the last time you smoked?" Judy wrinkled her nose as she forced her lungs to accept the smoke floating within them, "Night I left Maiko. Decided to kick all the bad habits in one fell swoop."
The current playing commercial abruptly cut off as the news live-feed returned.
"Good evening all, Gillean Jordan, N-54 News. We have another breaking update on the Konpeki Plaza situation…"
Both women quickly snapped their heads toward the screen. "Shit…" Evelyn mumbled.
"… The black vehicle, which was indeed a Delamain taxi, has been located by NCPD aerodynes. The assailant's vehicle has been spotted in Heywood. Handing this over to Bes Isis who is at the scene now. Bes?"
The screen switched over to an older woman who appeared to be walking and holding her own camera, "Hello, and thank you Gillean. Bes Isis here – I was able to tail the NCPD as they zeroed in on the vehicle. However, something seems very strange – the vehicle was not trying to evade law enforcement when it was being followed. I am not entirely sure what is going on, but we've been led to the front of an 'El Coyote Cojo' – apparently a local bar here in Heywood operated by the Valentino Gang…. Again, not entirely sure what's happening… but stay with us." Bes stopped walking.
A rumble of thunder was heard as Bes panned her camera toward the sky. A storm was rolling in as lightening flashed a few miles away. She continued to lower the camera to the scene in front of her.
It was late – just past midnight. For Night City, all of its streets were bright with life no matter the time of day. Shops, stores, and clubs always remained open as their neon signs lit the pathways for people. However, tonight, this particular street within Night City was different. It was dark.
The black Delamain taxi was parked in front of the El Coyote Cojo entrance as several NCPD and Max-Tac vehicles surrounded the area. The vehicle was pitch black – none of its exterior or interior lights were on. Its dark tinted privacy windows made it next to impossible to see inside the cab.
The flashing lights on the nearby law enforcement vehicles randomly lit up the area in small bursts. An NCPD aerodyne hovered above, turning on a spotlight to shine down on the vehicle and attempt to provide light to the scene, but it didn't provide much help.
"NCPD and Max-Tac ground officers arrived. Right now, it looks like a Max-Tac officer is attempting to open the car without any luck."
The Max-Tac officer attempted to pull open the back door of the cab, but it wouldn't budge. He then attempted to smash out the window with the butt of his rifle.
"Excuse me, but you cannot open this vehicle," a robotic voice came from the car. "I have been given specific instructions to make a delivery to a 'Guadalupe Alejandra Welles'. If you are not Guadalupe Alejandra Welles, please move back 50 feet, otherwise, combat mode will enable and you will be vaporized. You may approach once she has received her delivery. Thank you."
Following its directions, the Max-Tac officer raised his hand and rifle in the air as he slowly stepped back from the vehicle. Several other law enforcement members ensured that they too were 50 feet from the vehicle as they all proceeded to create a perimeter around the area.
Then entrance to the El Coyote Cojo slowly opened. Bes zoomed her camera for the audience to have a closer look.
An older woman with silver hair hesitantly peeked outside as she placed her hand over her eyes, shielding them from the flashing law enforcement lights, as she looked around in confusion. She opened the door wider and began to step outside. She wore a black synthleather vest over a long-sleeved, hand-woven red sweater. A Valentino's logo was on the breast pocket of the vest.
As she stepped forward, a much larger male followed closely behind. He had short dark hair with facial hair and also wore the same styled vest with Valentino's logo. His right arm was gold plated.
"E-excuse me? H-hello? W-what is happening here? Why are you all here?" the woman asked.
"Are you Guadalupe Alejandra Welles?" the vehicle asks. "S-…sí?..." the woman replied.
At the bottom of the screen, the N-54 News auto-translated to English. [Y-…Yes?]
"Ah, greetings . Thank you for using this Delamain delivery service. With Delamain, you leave your problems at the door."
stared with confusion at the vehicle.
"I have been instructed to deliver something to you. Please approach the back seat and I will unlock and open the door for you."
The woman apprehensively looked at the large Valentino behind her. He met her with the same confusion as he shrugged his shoulders before giving her a small nod and gesture toward the back of the car, encouraging her to proceed.
turned back around and slowly approached the back door of the vehicle. The door clicked and opened automatically.
There was a brief moment of silence…
…before a gut-wrenching scream was heard.
"N-No, no! ¿¡Q-qué has hecho?!"
[N-No, no! W-what have you done?!]
She quickly covered her mouth and took a step back from the cab. Her face had lost all color as she continued to looking in.
She began to quietly sob as she took a small step forward. Her arms trembled as she reached into the car, "N-nono no ... Esto no está pasando ... N-no ... no nononono ... mi hermoso bebé ... Por favor ..."
[N-nono no… This is not happening… N-no… no nononono… my beautiful baby boy... Please...]
Two Max-Tac officers, a male and female, immediately zeroed in.
The male officer held up his rifle and pointed it at the large Valentino who was standing behind , "Step away from the vehicle, NOW!" The officer began pushing the man back as he pressed the barrel of his rifle into his chest. The Valentino held his hands in the air, stumbling back as the officer continued to aggressively force him away.
The female officer rushed in behind, grabbing the silver-haired woman and violently yanked her from the vehicle, dragging her away. The distraught silver-haired woman immediately began screaming in agony as she tried to break free from the officer.
The male Valentino's eyes widened as he saw the older woman in distress. As he tried desperately to help her, the male officer cracked the man across the face with the butt of his rifle, rendering the Valentino immediately unconscious as he collapsed to the ground.
viciously kicked her legs into the air as tears streamed down her face. She landed a powerful blow into the female officer's ribs and broke free from her grasp. The officer stumbled back, falling to the ground as the silver-haired woman scrambled back to the vehicle, shrieking with anguish as she began reaching inside again, "¡No! Por favor, no mi pequeña Jackie ... ¡¿Dios, por favor?! ¡Evitarle! ¡Te lo ruego!"
[No! Please not my little Jackie… God, please?! Spare him! I beg you!]
Additional officers swarmed in to establish control of the scene.
Two officers grabbed 's legs and forced her out of the vehicle, dragging her away by her feet as she screamed and cried. She kicked violently as she tried to break free again.
Another officer reached into the vehicle and pulled a blood-soaked man from the car, throwing him on the ground, and placed the barrel of a handgun against his crimson-coated temple.
The two officers who were handling the frantic silver-haired woman threw her to the ground and pinned her down with their feet.
looked at the body on the ground. Her face distorted with pain as her chin quivered. She attempted to push herself up to get to the body. One of the officers slammed their boot against her back, drilling their heel into her spine, demanding submission. They pointed their rifle toward her head, "Move one more time, and I'll blow your FUCKING HEAD OFF!"
The silver-haired woman slowly shook her head with defiance. More tears streamed down her face as she reached out, desperately trying to touch her youngest son's hand. Her entire body was exhausted and in pain. She couldn't breathe.
Again, she attempted to get closer to her baby boy. Her voice shook as she tried to crawl to him, "Mátame en su lugar… Por favor devuélveme a mi bebé… Mi Jaquito… M-mi… mi dulce y pequeña Jackie… No puedo perderlo también…"
[Take me… Please return my baby boy… My Jaquito… M-my… my sweet little Jackie… I can't lose him too…]
A much older man who had a mustache, wore a black button-down shirt under a brown sweater, and was much smaller and more fragile than the first Valentino man, stepped outside, "PLEASE! Please don't shoot! I'll take her back inside! Let me take her back!"
He quickly came to ' side as the two officers removed their feet from her back.
He gently placed his hands around her arms and helped her sit up. She collapsed against him, weeping into his chest. He held her tight - his left arm around her body and his right arm holding the back of her head - helping to support her. He closed his eyes and he listened to her cry into his chest while continuing to protect her.
After several minutes, the silver-haired woman stood up with the man, trembling as she looked back at her son's corpse, and slowly walked back into the bar.
"Bes Isis here… I've received an update. The body within the vehicle has been identified. Jaquito 'Jackie' Welles, now deceased. Cause of death, fatal gunshot wound to the abdominal aorta. His body will be confiscated by NCPD for booking and processing. His next of kin will receive his ashes within 4 to 6 weeks… Back to you, Gillean."
The screen went black for a moment before switching back to the front of Konpeki Plaza with the blonde-haired news anchor.
"Thank you, Bes. Glad to see another piece of filth has been swept from the street! We also have another update - we've received word from Konpeki Plaza – The luxury hotel will be shut down until further notice... This is an absolute tragedy. My thoughts reach out to those who've experienced the sumptuousness of their cuisine… What a nightmare… But my suggestion is if you find yourself craving a good bite to eat… visit Bleu! Experience a gourmet dining experience with some of the highest accolades and richest portfolios in the city. If you're after high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, Bleu is the place for you! Among its marquee dishes are authentic caviar, oysters, and imported prosecco. The alabaster white interior adorned with minimalist décor is perfect for a relaxing night out follow a day of hustle and bustle!
... What was that? Ah, yes. Great! Folks, we just received a fabulous update. Our sources state that the third assailant - who was a female - has also been neutralized. I repeat, sources indicate that the third gunman-er, gunwoman… has been killed! Our sources did not provide identification, but once we know more, you'll be first to hear it Night City... So, until then, this has been Gillian Jordan from N-54 News. Good Night, Night City."
Neither one of the women could move. Their glazed over eyes stared blankly at the screen as a NiCola commercial played.
They suffered a paralyzing loss.
Evelyn's grand plans were so purposefully and so intricately crafted that failure wasn't possible. To believe that it was even an option would mean she would have to accept the possibility that her present could be permanent - a fate worse than living at all. To her, this heist and her future were the same - and she saw them both crumble to dust in her hands.
Evelyn felt like someone had just signed her death warrant.
Judy's ears were ringing. Her phone, which she never once let go of, slipped from her fingers and dropped to the floor.
She felt like she was already dead.
It had been over a week since the heist.
Neither Evelyn or Judy were themselves; they were quiet, dissociative, and unemotional. They hadn't left Lizzie's Bar, other than one afternoon where they took Judy's van out so they could pickup a few pairs of clothes and hygiene essentials.
The techie drowned herself in work to keep her mind from drifting while the broken doll did the opposite - she laid on a cot in the braindance editor's studio day in and day out, drowning in 'what could haves'. Evelyn no longer wore her expressive outfits and eccentric colors. She dyed her hair black and wore darker makeup; primarily eyeshadow and lipstick, and started wearing neutral colors like greys and blacks.
If Judy wasn't working, she only worried about her friend – it was easier than thinking about her own thoughts and feelings. She placed her braindance player down as she looked at the broken doll, "Hey… Evie?"
"Huh?" the now black-haired woman grunted as she laid facing a wall.
"Think we should… go stretch our legs. Would probably do us some good…" the techie said as she stood up from her chair. "Go ahead… think I'll just stay here," Evelyn replied, waving her hand back toward Judy. "Ev, come on. We haven't seen daylight in… well, days. Could go for a scopdog or somethin'. All we've eaten are… protein bars and booze. You can't tell me you aren't hungry," the tattooed woman said as she walked over toward the cot.
"I'm not really hungry, Judy…" Evelyn said, as she began curling herself up into a ball. "Ev, please... If not for you, for me? Please come up with me. I don't want to be alone and I don't want you to be alone either. Please….," Judy begged as she knelt down beside her broken friend, gently placing a hand on her shoulder.
Evelyn let out a small sigh as she rolled over and looked at Judy, "… Okay, Judes. For you." The broken doll sat herself up slowly, trying to avoid herself from getting light headed, "I guess… I could eat somethin'. Could go for a smoke too." Judy smiled softly toward her friend as she helped her to stand, "Sounds like a plan."
They walked down the block toward a corner store – one that Mox members frequently visited during their shift breaks. While Evelyn smoked a cigarette, Judy kept her sights straight forward with her hands in her pockets as they walked together.
"It's kinda weird not seein' you in your signature overalls," the black-haired woman commented toward that tattooed Mox as she let out a puff of smoke. The techie was wearing a blue and pink hoodie that had the Moxes logo on the back and the gang's signature skull girl icon on the front chest, a pair of ripped blue jeans, and black sneakers. She looked over toward Evelyn with a raised eyebrow, "Why? What's so weird about it?"
The doll shrugged her shoulders as they continued walking, "I dunno. I feel like anytime I've seen you, you're wearin' them." Judy narrowed her eyes, "I have other outfits, ya know. I've worn a different outfit every day this week!" Evelyn raised an eyebrow, "Mmmhmm…" She took another puff from her cigarette.
"I have! My overalls are dirty right now… speakin' of which, we should actually probably go to my place and do some laundry… we're runnin' low on clothes…" the techie said as she looked down at her attire.
As the two arrived at the corner store, Evelyn headed toward a bench that was near the entrance. "You not comin' in?" Judy asked as the black-haired woman sat down. "Nuh. You go ahead – wanna finish my smoke," Evelyn replied as she folded her right leg over her left knee. "Okay. Want anythin'?" Judy asked as she headed toward the entrance.
"Surprise me."
She pushed open the front door and stepped into the store – Judy was the only customer there. The shopkeep, a mixed Japanese woman, gave the braindance tech a small wave, "Afternoon!" Judy gave the woman a small nod before proceeding through the aisles, looking for anything that caught her eye.
She picked up a few bottles of Real Water, a couple different flavors of Chromanticore, some Yikes! Tofu Bars, three protein bars, a box of Pop-Turds to subdue her occasional sweet tooth, a couple packs of instant Rammmmen, and two Hawt Dawgs for the walk back.
The techie approached the counter with her bounty as the shopkeep gave a small, friendly bow. "That all?" the woman asked. Judy shook her head, "Can I get a pack of cigarettes?" The shopkeep nodded as she reached under the locked counter, grabbing a pack of Morley cigarettes, and placed them in Judy's bag, "That'll be 80§" The techie pulled roll of crumples eddies and handed the woman a 100§ bill, "Here, keep the change." The tattooed Mox smiled at the woman before heading outside.
She opened the door and immediately saw Evelyn pacing in front of the entrance. Judy tilted her head to the side, "Ev, you okay?" The black-haired woman gasped from being startled, "Jesus, Jude. You scared me." Judy walked over toward Evelyn who seemed on edge, "Ev, seriously. You freakin' me out a little. What's got you all knotted up?"
Evelyn shook her head as she looked over Judy's shoulder, "Let's… Let's just head back, yeah?" The techie narrowed her eyes as her friend turned around and began walking back toward Lizzie's. Judy swooped her eyes in different directions, trying to see if she could identify something that seemed out of the ordinary – But the only thing Judy found strange was Evelyn.
The techie jogged to catch up to the doll who was moving at a brisk pace, "You gonna… tell me what's going on when we get back?" Judy questioned as she matched Evelyn's pace. The black-haired woman shrugged, "Nothing's going on. I just wanted to get back's all." The techie rolled her eyes, "Fine, if you don't wanna tell me…" Evelyn looked at her friend, "Judy, relax. Everything's fine."
"The hell you mean you're going back to Clouds!?" Judy crossed her arms as she glared at Evelyn.
The black-haired woman sighed as she pulled a cigarette from her metal case, "Jude. It'll be safer if I'm there. I already said this." Judy shook her head as she held her palm toward Evelyn, "How? How's it safer? Please convince me, 'cause from where I stand, Evie, you have protection at Lizzie's, twenty-four seven. There's nowhere safer than here. Clouds offers you nothing."
Evelyn looked at her friend with a half-hearted smile, "Jude… You'll understand one day." Judy threw her hands in the air, "What that hell's that mean!? Evie. Please. Please. I need you to see straight – You aren't makin' sense."
The doll lit her cigarette as she watched her friend pace back and forth in the braindance studio, "Roxy's comin' to pick me up soon." Judy immediately stopped pacing as she shook her head and dropped her arms down at her side, "Know what, Ev? Fine. Whatever. I can't stop you. Do what you want."
Evelyn took a puff from her cigarette as she continued to watch Judy, "I'm sorry. I know this isn't what you wantta hear, Jude. But… Like I said, it'll be safer if I'm there." The techie shook her head again, "Look. I-…I need to get outta here. Been couped up in this basement for too long. Startin' to get stir crazy… So… Please take care of yourself, Evie. Okay? Please?"
The black-haired woman looked away as she tapped on her cigarette, "Thanks, babes." She took another puff before looking back at Judy, "And… you take care of yourself too, you hear me? I know it doesn't seem like it now… but, things'll turn around for you. Just needa be patient." Judy shook her head again as she grabbed the Moxes coat she wore earlier and her van keys, "Let's setup a brunch or somethin' n' a week? So, I can see how you're doin?"
Evelyn nodded at her friend, giving her a hug goodbye.
She leaned against the doorway, finishing off her cigarette as she watched Judy head through the basement toward the back entrance where her van was parked. As her friend exited the building, Evelyn pulled out her metal cigarette case and stared at it.
She walked over to Judy's desk and rummaged through the drawers, searching for a pen and a piece of paper. As she found the supplies, she sat down and begun writing …
My dearest Jude,
Do you remember when we were out at that corner shop? You kept asking me what was wrong?
I didn't tell you, because I didn't know how to tell you.
There was a man. I saw him watching me from a vehicle… I knew him. He is a VooDoo Boy.
I'm sure you'll understand what that means by the time you find this note… if you ever find it.
I knew immediately that I had to leave Lizzie's… that I had to leave you.
Judy, didn't go back to Clouds because it was safer for me.
I went back because it was safer for you.
I promised you that you would be safe after the heist… And with me near you… you aren't safe.
So, whatever happens…
Please know it isn't your fault. Please do not blame yourself.
You've always been like a little sister to me… Know that I love you very much.
- Evie P
Evelyn stared at the letter after she signed her name. Tears began to fall from her eyes.
Her hands shook as she folded it in half and as she opened up her metal cigarette case.
She placed a gentle kiss on the folded letter before hiding it behind a row of cigarettes.
Then she closed the case and left it on Judy's desk.
As she stood up from her chair, she trembled. She didn't know why, but she knew deep down in her heart this would be the last time she would ever see her friend. She quickly dabbed the tears from her eyes as her breath quivered.
"Bye, Judy…"
Evelyn turned and quickly walked out of the braindance editor's den.
Judy slammed her van door. She pulled her jacket on and shoved her fists into her pocket. She felt like she failed Evelyn – that something happened and her friend didn't feel comfortable enough to tell her. It made Judy feel inadequate, like she couldn't protect anything she cared about.
She couldn't do anything to help her childhood town - the home to her friends and family when it was bought out and flooded.
Majority of the JoyToys and Dolls she tried to recruit under the protection of Lizzie's were turned away by Susie.
She couldn't help Evelyn as she slipped away into a depression. No matter how much Judy tried, she felt like all she did was push her friend away.
She couldn't help…
…V
Judy leaned against her van as the painful memories made her feel weak. The many feelings she felt that night – Happiness, excitement, joy, a potentially bright future… suddenly ripped away and replaced with sorrow, fear, loss, grief, and death.
She felt like her spirit was had been shredded up and flushed away.
Her eyes began to fill with tears as she struggled to manage the whirlwind of emotions spiraling in her head, making her feel dizzy. It was easier drowning herself with work and worrying about Evelyn because she didn't have to face these feelings.
But now she was alone.
And no one could hear her as she silently screamed for help.
She closed her eyes as her chin quivered and her chest ached. She didn't want to feel this way anymore. She wanted the thoughts and feelings to vanish.
Judy pulled her jacket sleeve over her wrist as she raised it to her face, blotting away her tears. The techie took a deep breath as she tried to calm herself down. She took a moment to look around and suddenly realized she didn't know where she had driven – she didn't even remember the drive. She had gone on autopilot, retreating to the quietest place she could find in her mind when she left Lizzie's Bar. She sniffled as she forced back her sorrow – she looked around at signs, road names, and buildings. Nothing seemed familiar to her. How did I end up here?...
The only other places she could go was work or her apartment, and she didn't want to be at either place – So she decided to just take a walk. It didn't matter where, how long, or how far. Being alone at her apartment only made things worse and being at work was really no better.
The tattooed Mox crossed the street and decided to go wherever her feet carried her. As she looked up, she saw a glowing district sign; She was still in Watson. Okay, so I didn't stray too far from Lizzie's… Below the sign said the subdistrict she was in; Little China.
Judy turned down a street that several other people seemed to be walking through. It wasn't a street that vehicles drove down, but more like a very wide sidewalk. She saw a large sign flickering, pointing toward a building that many people were entering and exiting; Gomorrah Strip Club. The techie crinkled her nose as she read the sign – a strip club was one of the last places she wanted to be at, so she decided to see what other shops were down the strip.
As she headed down the walkway, she heard a man shouting. She couldn't make out what the man was saying, but his voice started to become clearer as she approached. "And if you are their pawn?! Unknowingly carrying out their secret agendas!?" he screamed as people walked by. Ah… Loco conspiracy theorist…
The skinny braindance technician hid behind a group of people walking by so she could avoid eye contact with him. As she passed by safely thanks to the group, Judy slowed down to take a look at the other attractions near her.
She turned and looked up at a sign that was glowing bright; Misty's Esoterica and Chakra Harmonization.
Judy tilted her head as she stared at the sign. Something about the small shop sparked a curiosity in the techie. She stepped inside and took a moment for her senses to adjust; the interior was very dark and many different incents filled the air. The shop seemed to have the ability to drown out all exterior noise as Judy only heard the quiet sounds of wind chimes and bells gently ringing harmonically.
A woman stood silently in front of what looked like a shrine. Is she… a customer? Or… The techie continued to look around – she was the only one in the store other than the quiet woman. She decided to browse and examine the several interesting figurines and signs scattered throughout the shop.
Judy approached a sign for 'Crystal Radiation.' She scrunched her eyebrows as she stared at the sign. A pamphlet sat nearby that explained what this type of therapy was and what its benefits were, but it didn't explain the various symbols and cryptic codes within the sign. The techie was so focused on the numbers and letters, she hadn't realized the woman was now behind her.
"Judy Alvarez?"
Judy's eyes widened as she immediately turned around. A young woman with short blonde hair stood with a soft smile, staring at her.
She wore a black spiked collar and two low hanging necklaces; one with a skull and the other with some type of symbol. She also wore a purple sweater that hung low on her shoulders, black shorts over fishnet stockings, and black platform boots.
"Y-yes?... How do you know my name?" The techie asked with apprehension in her voice. The woman continued to smile, "I remember all of my clients."
Judy continued to look confused, "I'm… I'm sorry – I've been here before?" The blonde-haired woman nodded, "Yes. About a year or so ago, you came here very late at night. I'm not very surprised that you don't remember… You were pretty intoxicated."
Her eyebrows remained permanently scrunched as she became more confused, "I- I… What? I'm sorry, I feel like a total gonk right now. I… I have no idea what you're talking about… I don't even know your name." The woman slowly nodded as she motioned for Judy to follow her, "Come with me. I keep records or all of my clients. I have yours – what we talked about, readings I gave you, so on n' so forth. Also, the name's Misty." The techie tilted her head, "…readings?"
Misty led Judy toward the register. The tattooed Mox stood quietly as she looked around, patiently waiting for the blonde-haired woman to pull together her records. Misty pulled out a tablet and cleared her throat, "Judy Alveraz. You were here sometime last year, around the beginning of March. Near your birthday, I believe you said. You're a Pisces… Water sign|…"
Misty hummed as she scrolled through the page, "Ah yes… when you came in… The Reversed Hermit tarot was your predominant card at the time. You struggled – thrown into a period of loneliness, isolation, and contemplation. You felt lost on your journey. Helpless." The blonde woman looked up at Judy, whose eyes were wide as she stared at Misty.
"I had told you that… though that period of time in your life would be trying, you needed to make the most of it. It was the time for reflection - figure out who you were, what your goals were, and to identify what you wanted from life… and from a partner. This period of self-discovery would become a fundamental building block for you to have strong relationships in the future… Oh, and I also gave you a dreamcatcher. You were apparently having nightmares and couldn't sleep," Misty looked back up at Judy, who now had tears forming in her eyes, "The… The dreamcatcher is above my bed…"
The blonde-haired woman quickly grabbed tissues from under her counter and nudged them toward the techie. Judy grabbed a tissue and dabbed her eyes as she stared down at the counter.
"I could feel you approach the moment you stood in front of my shop. Your spirit… it's been shattered… And from what I sense, it happened very recently. I can feel your grief and mourning, even when you try to suppress it…," Misty looked softly at Judy. The techie cleared her throat and averted her eyes.
The blonde-haired woman reached her hands across the desk and laid them gently on Judy's – they were shaking, "May I suggest we perform a new reading for you? It might calm your nerves… provide you with some answers or insight you might need in order to cope?"
Judy nodded slowly as she continued looking away. Misty smiled as she withdrew her hands and bent over, pulling two stools from under her counter. She slid one around to the techie, "Here. Get comfortable."
Judy grabbed the stool and slid it in front of Misty's counter. She swung her leg over and made herself comfortable as she watched Misty begin shuffling a deck of two-toned purple and orange cards.
"I believe you would benefit from a Seven Card Forecast… The more guidance you receive at this stage in time will help you if you adhere to the tarot's advice… We will be using a standard 78-card deck that includes the 22 Major Arcana and 56 Minor Arcana. Having both Major and Minor arcana present will help with clarity… So, are you ready, Judy?" Misty stopped shuffling and looked at the tattooed Mox.
She nodded, "Is there… anything special that I need to do?"
"Yes. I will fan out the entire deck. You will need to choose your 7 cards, and without flipping them over, you will place them in order… Listen to your heart and your gut. Does that make sense?" Misty looked at Judy again as she began fanning out the deck. The techie nodded and waited patiently for the Tarot Reader to finish.
As she looked at all the cards, she could feel her chest becoming very hot. She unzipped her jacket and slid it off, dropping it on the floor. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes as she reached her hand out. She hovered her hand over the deck, moving it back and forth slowly… Then she began sliding random cards out.
"Good," Misty said as she quickly swiped up the remaining 71 cards, "Judy… You have a very, very strong heart… I'm guessing that's why you took your jacket off… Chest hot? Felt your own power? Can be overwhelming at times" Judy opened her eyes and stared at Misty. The blonde-haired woman smiled and gestured her hand at the remaining 7 cards on the table, "Now… place them in whatever order seems natural for you. Starting from your left and ending at your right."
Judy looked down at the cards. She felt her heart beginning to race again as she lifted both hands and began swapping the positions of the cards. She stopped for a moment as she lined them all up and tilted her head. She reached back over and hovered her hand over the 6th and 7th positioned cards, ultimately swapping them.
The techie leaned back as she looked at the spread, then nodded toward the Tarot Reader. "Great! Are you ready for your reading, Judy?" Misty asked with a soft smile. Judy felt her breath shake as she nodded her head, "Y-yeah… Um… Go ahead…"
Misty slowly flipped the cards over, one by one, and discussed their possible meanings:
- Upright 5 of Cups: "Ah, I am not surprised… As I said, I felt this energy when you arrived… You're currently going through a period of grief and mourning. You've suffered a great emotional loss recently… Perhaps, a break up of some sorts? Something… that you had wanted to continue, yet it ended abruptly… Be wary, Judy. Your mind will try to shield you with a fog of confusion, anger, and fear – do not let those emotions steer you. Your heart is your beacon of hope that you must trust and follow. Though you have much to mourn over right now, listen to your heart and understand that not all is lost."
- Upright Wheel of Fortune: "Change is inevitable – and most change comes as unexpected and uncontrollable events. For you, I get the sense that this is regarding a relationship of some sorts – one that you didn't see coming. You will find yourself drawing closer to someone and a commitment will grow; you two must be there for each other in times of need. You both will be tested and with these challenges, your partnership will grow as you both learn how to navigate ups and downs in life as a team…"
- Reversed 9 of Swords: "Hmm… Terrible loss will befall you. Nightmarish that might keep you from sleeping at night… Struggles of remorse… Great loss, pain, and suffering… You will have an important choice – either face it alone and suffer all of these feelings in silence, which is a common trait among water signs… Or you can choose to open yourself up and reach out for help, where you will be rewarded with the ability to become truly vulnerable, gain support, and… love. The extremes will pull you in both directions, but ultimately, they will balance out if you seek help."
- Upright High Priestess: "Like I said before – as a water element, you struggle with keeping your emotions to yourself. You run away or shut people out during times of crisis… But if you become honest to yourself and to others, you'll be able to expose the things that are hidden under the surface. This will increase intimacy, openness, and possibly heal old wounds."
- Reversed Fool: "Beware your tendency of recklessness. Again – another trait that water signs struggle with. Majority of the time, you tend to listen to your heart over your head. In many cases, this is one of your greatest virtues… But in others… it may cost you something you cannot afford. Do not let your passionate energy blind you and impact your insight and judgement – understand and know the potential consequences of your actions before moving forward."
- Reversed Moon: "Remember that you are dealing with an illusion. Deception and confusion may try to confuse you and make you believe that you have all of the right information… but you might be manipulated and details are withheld from you. Rely on your intuition to navigate to the truth."
- The Lovers: "A representation of unity, cohesiveness, harmony, and commitment. A rare but beautiful, soul-honoring connection with someone… A soul mate or life partner? You will find yourself in your most vulnerable state as you've learned to open your heart. The sexual energy between you both goes way beyond instant gratifications and lust to something much, much more amazing… It becomes spiritual and almost Tantric."
Judy stared down at the cards as she attempted to comprehend and grasp what Misty had told her. 'Not all is lost'? 'Unforeseen relationship'? 'Terrible loss'? 'SOUL MALE' or 'LIFE PARTNER'?! The techie continued to stare at the cards as Misty watched her silently.
"Misty? Misty!" A man's voice shouted. Judy quickly looked up as Misty turned around.
An older man's voice was coming through the back of the shop as he abruptly walked in, "Misty? Are you up here? I wanted to talk to you about your Omega Blockers. Her numbers are lookin- Oh…"
He was an older gentleman with old scars peppered across his face. He had short black hair and tattoos covered his entire right arm. There were round studded earrings in both of his ears and he wore thick black-framed glasses, a blue button-up shirt with the sleeves rolled up, and black jeans. A stethoscope was draped over his shoulders and a necklace with a boxing glove pendant hung from his neck.
The man stopped talking as he saw Misty and Judy, "Oh… Misty, I'm so sorry. Didn't mean to barge in... I didn't know you were with a customer; I'll wait."
Misty smiled at the man before she looked back at Judy, "We actually just wrapped up… What a coincidence… But I don't believe in coincidences – I believe in fate."
Misty gestured toward the man, "Judy, this is Dr. Viktor," she then looked at the man, "And Vik, this is Judy." The two exchanged small waves and smiles. "Don't mind me," Judy said, "Just… trying to figure out these cards." Misty smiled at the Mox member before she looked at Viktor, "So, what were you sayin' ?"
A smile spread across his face, "Yes. Your Omega Blockers… Originally we estimated a lifespan of about two to three weeks, right?"
Misty nodded.
"From the numbers I'm seeing… I have every reason to believe that her brain is still in the repair process – happenin' in places we can't see, which means it's greatly impacting the blockers efficacy… Misty, her numbers today… started looking really, really good. If we keep monitoring her… and if my calculations are close… Your blockers could expand her life expectancy to… at least several months, if not more!" Vik had a large grin across his face.
Misty smiled, "This is preem news Doc! With your approval, I'd like us to run a checkup on her in about… five, six days? We could get a better estimate of the blockers ability and I could check her tarot. When I checked her cards a few days ago, they were all over the place… there was too much interference with two souls."
Vik rubbed the back of his neck as he continued smiling at the floor, "Misty… if we're right… You might've bought her enough time to figure out how to actually pull through this," He smiled at the blonde-haired woman, "I told'ya… She's a fighter like me."
Misty nodded, "Yes… Valerie is definitely a fighter."
Judy lifted up her head as the two finished talking. Huh, that's a really pretty name… 'Valerie'
Misty waved Viktor goodbye as he headed back to his clinic. Suddenly, the Tarot Reader felt goosebumps travel across her body. She stopped waiving and continued to stare in the direction of the clinic for a bit before slowly turning toward Judy.
The tattooed Mox raised her eyebrow at the blonde-haired woman who was staring intensely at her.
Misty continued to stare inquisitively before slowly turning and looking back at the clinic again for a bit.
A small chuckle escaped the Tarot Reader's mouth as she turned back to Judy, with a large smile across her face.
"Judy, like I said… I don't believe in coincidences – I believe in fate… Listen to your heart… Because all was not lost.
"Whoa… start again. What's it you want us to do, now?" Rita asked the JoyToy. "Beat some sense into him. That don't work – I dunno, use lead! I don't care. Just want my room back," the woman pleaded. Rita folded her arms, "Your pimp through you out, that it?"
Lizzie's Bar hadn't opened yet. Several Moxes were hanging around the club resting before their shift began in a few hours. However, Rita, Candy, and Judy were hanging around the bar, talking to an outcasted JoyToy unit who had become homeless, seeking a place of solace.
The woman let out a frustrated sigh, "He told me I was generatin' losses, then just said 'Have a nice life!' and slammed the damn door. I don't got nowhere to SLEEP tonight." Rita motioned her handed up and down toward the JoyToy's body, "Still got your body, though, don't you? Work it, girl!"
The JoyToy shook her head, "Don't think I do? Every 'enny I make gets eaten up by upgrades! So, I said, 'Fuck It' – got a doll-chip. Went to Clouds, said they weren't hiring no more. Now I gotta work the streets to pay back my ripperdoc!"
Candy chimed in and she crossed her arms, "Doll-chip's not all ya got… From the look o' things, faceplate's high design, custom made. WhooOOOooAAaa, tits are too!" The purple-haired Mox's eyes grew larger as she leaned in toward the JoyToy's breasts.
The JoyToy rolled her eyes and took a step back, "I 'INVEST' In myself. Still wasn't good enough, still told me I was 'underqualified.'" Rita sighed, "But what are we supposed to do about it?" The woman placed her hand against her forehead, "I told ya! Just want my room back! That's all."
Rita shook her head, "Sorry, but that's not how it works here anymore, hun." Candy nodded, "If you were a Mox, this'd be a whole 'nother convo."
Judy chimed in, "We really don't have a place for her to crash tonight? I mean, I've got an extra cot downstairs that Ev used… N' it's just one night…" The JoyToy smiled wide at the techie. Rita tossed her hands in the air, "Jude – you'll have to go to Susie with that one and I'm warnin' ya… She's been a ROYAL B' today… so… feel free to fight that good fight. You know she ain't gonna be happy about this…"
Judy shook her head, "Yeah, n' it's bullshit. Moxes came to be to help JoyToys, not throw 'em back on the street and leave 'em fendin' for themselves." Candy scratched the back of her head, "Judy… M-maybe… Maybe talk to Suse on another day? She's like, totally seriously pissed today. Somethin' to do with finances. Y'know how she gets…"
Judy felt her fists tighten, "Yeah – I do. Finances is ALL she cares about. She doesn't care about you, me, Rita, or anyone. You're just a number t-"
*BEEP**BEEP*
Judy's phone began to ring obnoxiously loud. She had been listening to music earlier and forgot to lower the volume. Her eyes rolled over with annoyance as she reached into her back pocket, "Sorry… One sec' guys. Lemme turn this off."
As she went to hang up the call, she let out a deafening gasp as she quickly covered her mouth. Emotions began to quickly flood into Judy's head and chest as she stared at the name on her screen.
Judy tried to quickly answer the call as her phone fumbled in her hand, "FUCK! "H-how is this possible?! N-no. No, this can't be her. It's not possible. This doesn't make any sense. M-maybe someone else found her phone.
Rita, Candy, and the JoyToy immediately stared at Judy with concern and confusion.
She finally tapped the button to accept the call and flicked the conversation to her holo. Her irises lit up blue as her eyes immediately grew wide with disbelief and confusion.
[Judy]: V…? That you? H-holy shit V… I thought you were… gone.
[V]: You're not alone in thinking me dead… Heh… Thought it was game over for me, too.
[Judy]: Things went ass up, huh? Not as planned?
[V]: Heard about the heist, I take it. Must've talked to Evelyn.
Ev? Why is she mentioning Evie?
[Judy]: Didn't need to. Whole damned city's heard.
[V]: Judy, listen. I need to find Evelyn.
W-what the fuck? This is why she's calling me?! V's been alive for two weeks, doesn't have the decency to talk to me… and now she's callin' to hunt down Evie?!
The techie immediately began to feel fear – she remembered how Evelyn acted the last time she saw her… Evelyn was afraid of something… Was Evelyn afraid of V?
[Judy]: Uhm…I really don't wanna talk about her.
[V]: I'm serious. Do you know where she is?
[Judy]: V, what'd I just say? Drop it. I won't tell ya' again.
[V]: Judy, you're my one hope. The only lead I got. I gotta find her… An' I know you can help me do that.
[Judy]: Who told you I'd want to?
[V]: …Can we meet? Let's meet, please? You at Lizzie's?
Judy hung up. She was white as a ghost as her eyes darted side to side, struggling as she tried to assess all of her thoughts. What made sense? What didn't make sense? What could be warped to make sense? What should she do?
Her mind was screaming one thing; She's going to hurt Evelyn
While her heart screamed another; Listen to what V says and trust her
The techie felt her blood pressure begin to quickly rise and her pulse sped up as she tried to manage her feelings; happiness, worry, excited, fear, joy, sorrow, relief, confusion, grief, loneliness…
She felt like she stood in a thick fog, alone, not able to see anything around her. She didn't know which direction to walk in order to break free. Should she bother walking in a random direction and hope she figures her way out? What if she gets further lost? Should she just sit down and wait for it to clear? What if it never does? No one could hear her as she silently screamed for help.
Judy's fists began to tighten – her emotions and thoughts spiraling out of control was too much to handle. She didn't have time or the bandwidth to process any of this new information. She hadn't even processed what had happened over the past two weeks.
She was reaching her threshold, and if one more thing happened…
"…Jude? Y-you… okay?" Rita asked with caution.
Judy closed her eyes for a moment. Jude, just breathe… take a minute… and breathe…
"So… M'i gettin' a room? or…" The JoyToy quietly asked.
Judy's eyes tore open. That was the straw that broke the techie's back.
The tattooed Mox looked at the JoyToy, "Y'know. I don't really fuckin' care, okay? Take the cot. Sleep in my studio. It's my studio, and if Susie cares so much about profits, then she can come toe to toe with me. Let the fuckin' JoyToy sleep here, or lose your braindance technician. I'm sure the bitch will make the right fuckin' decision for the 'business'."
The two Moxes and the JoyToy stared quietly, afraid to say anything.
Judy immediately snapped her attention at Rita, "If V comes here, you do not let her in. Do you understand me?" She hissed through clenched teeth, "She is not welcome here. EVER." Rita slowly nodded as she stared.
There was a moment of silence.
"Do… Do I get any special instructions…?" Candy asked under her breath. Judy slowly narrowed her eyes and glared at the purple-haired Mox, "Yeah. Candy, you do… Keep everyone the fuck away from me." Candy saluted her friend, "Aye Aye! Guard Dog Duty begins… Now!"
The raging ball of fire turned around and walked through the double doors that let her down to her den of silence and brewing.
The JoyToy looked at Rita and Candy, "Well, uhm… If she's down in her studio then… Y'know, I think I'll just hang around upstairs? Like, until she leaves because she… scares me and I don't want to be alone with her…" The two Moxes nodded, "Good idea." The woman walked away and sat down at an empty booth. She pulled out some makeup and spent time freshening up.
"Jude was… really upset… I haven't seen her like that in a long time," Candy said, worried. Rita shrugged, "Well… I think I'd take a pissy Judy then a… lifeless one. That's the most emotion I've seen from her in the past two weeks…" Candy scratched her temple, "What do you think happened? She was so happy a couple of weeks ago… And then she just… Changed. I just… I don't get it."
Rita slowly shook her head, "I think I have an idea about what happened… But it's just a hunch… I'll let the Jude-ster brew for a little bit before I go talk to her. Don't want my eyes ripped out. I like my eyes." Candy nodded, "Aye aye, Cap'n." She saluted Rita before walking away to sit down on a chair. The purple-haired Mox leaned back and immediately fell asleep.
Rita laughed, "What a good little guard dog." Mateo approached Rita as he held a tablet in his hand, "What's that all'bout?" Rita turned and looked at her co-worker, "Uh… Y'know, I don't think I could successfully explain anything that just happened, 'Teo."
He frowned at the pink-haired Mox, "Judy seemed upset." Rita raised both of her eyebrows as she nodded, "Uh, yup. That she was. That she was…" He continued to frown, "Heard her say that the nosey one ain't allowed in." Rita raised her eyebrow, "Nosey one?" Mateo nodded, "As I've heard you all say… S.F.T.A"
Rita let out a laugh as she pat Mateo on the back, "Y'know. I figure out how to explain everythin' that just happened." Mateo raised his eyebrow.
Rita crossed her arms, "'Lovers-quarrel'… Honestly 'Teo – best we stay out of this. I think those two actually need to talk."
Judy paced in her studio as she looked down at Evelyn's cigarette case. Ev, why the hell did you leave this? You barely had any of your shit here and yet you managed to forget this…
She closed her eyes and slowly rubbed her temples. Maybe I should give her a holocall. Haven't heard from her since she cancelled our brunch.
"ALVAREZ! Where the fuck are you!?"
Her eyes shot open as she clenched her jaw, "What do you want, Susanna?"
Susie Q stormed into the techie's den with a nasty glare, "Who… Is…. The whore upstairs, walkin' around, bitchin' about her pimp!?" Judy crossed her arms as she stared at her gang leader, "Just some JoyToy who needed a cot for the night. What – that gonna shut your business down?"
The Mox leader held her forehead with her hand, "Why can't you just stop tellin' every JoyToy you meet to come here? The hell am I s'posed to do them 'em all!?" Judy mockingly shrugged, gimlet-eyed, "I don't. Must be the club's reputation. 'Girls need help, this is where they go'." Susie crossed her arms tight, "Last time I checked, we weren't runnin' a shelter."
The tattooed Mox rolled her eyes as she placed her hands on her hips, "C'mon, they all deserve a chance! Anyone could end up useful. Give it some time, they'll pay for themselves." The Mox Leader threw her hands into the air, "Pay?! Chicks can barely take care of themselves, Alveraz!" Judy scowled, "Not when they're face down in the mud. But who knows – could surprise you!"
Susie snarled at the techie, "I hate surprises." The tattooed Mox folded her arms as she shook her head, "Mhm. Reeeaally feelin' that sense of community right now…" Judy's boss leaned forward with a glare and pointed a finger toward the techie, "Y'know, if you're so concerned about them strays…" she then gestured toward the exit, "…how 'bout you go take care of yours."
The Mox Leader immediately lifted her hand and pushed the tattooed woman's shoulder, causing her to lose balance, stumbling back out of the way as Susie headed toward the exit. Judy caught herself on her desk as she yelled toward Susie, "S-suse! We're not done here!" She heard her boss shout back, "Oh yeah, we fuckin' are!"
Judy pushed herself off of her desk as her fists clenched. She had half a mind to storm after Susie. As she took a step toward the exit, her eyes widened. The mercenary was there, leaning against the doorframe, watching the Mox Leader walk away. W-what? V?!... How th-Oh my GOD… Rita is so dead when I see her…
The tattooed Mox folded her arms as she approached the merc with a scowl, "You just don't give up, do you? Got nothin' more to say to each other. Thought I made that clear, or was I just too subtle for you?"
The mercenary shook her head as she stared at Judy, "Whatever. Wouldn't believe me if I told you that we didn't lay a finger on The Emperor – that it's all set up. All this 'murderer's been doin' is try an' get some answers. Find out what went wrong… n' y'know what? Think I got my first answer to what went wrong. I misjudged you. You were right. Everyone in this hellhole of a city does live in their own goddamn bubble. Flyin' high, or sink'n quicksand. So, thanks Judy. Thanks for showin' me who you are. You're over there, not givin' two shits while you watch me drown." V turned around and walked away without looking back.
Her eyes burnt as her body trembled. She felt like she had been slapped across the face. What made sense? What didn't make sense? What could be warped to make sense? What should she do?
Her mind was screaming one thing; She's going to hurt Evelyn
While her heart screamed another; Think about what she said… and trust her
Judy still felt like she stood lost in her thick fog, alone. She still couldn't see anything around her. She was too afraid to listen to her heart because anytime she opened herself up, she got hurt. However, continuing to listen to her head would only mislead her. No one could hear her as she silently screamed for help.
Her fists began to release - her emotions and thoughts continued to spiral. She was already angry, and anger was only making things worse. How could she process any of this? How could she process what has happened, or what was yet to come?
She continued to feel lost and confused. Her inner turmoil was tearing her apart.
She wanted to ask for help, but would anyone hear her?
"Jude?..." A soft voice said from the doorway. Judy looked up and saw Rita approaching her. "Are you okay?" the pink-haired Mox asked quietly.
Judy shook her head, "N-no… No, I'm not… I haven't been okay for'a couple weeks now, Rita…" Her friend laid a comforting hand on her shoulder, "Wanna talk about it?" The tattooed Mox gave her friend a small nod.
Rita folded her arms, "Well, first... I need you to confirm something for me… V was involved in the Konpeki Plaza debacle, wasn't she?" Judy's eyes widened as she looked at the bouncer, "H-how'd you figure that?"
"Put two and two together. Moment shit hit the news – girl, you were never the same. Then when I heard the gunner was a woman, I knew. Everything made sense… and when they announced she was dead, you… Jude, you completely shut down. Never wanted to mention her again, you distanced yourself from everyone…" Rita looked at Judy with sad eyes, "… I was really worried about you, Jude. So was Candy."
The techie looked away for a moment, "Rita, I'm… sorry. I didn't mean to make you guys worry." The pink-haired Mox playfully punched Judy's shoulder, "Girl – it's fine. Just glad you're finally talkin'. So, what's bothering you?"
Judy shook her head, "I'm just… confused about a lot of stuff right now. Can't process anything. Dunno what to think or feel." Rita nodded slowly, "Ahuh... okay, so what're you confused about?"
The tattooed Mox placed her hands on her face, "Ugh… Literally everythin'. Whole fucked sitch. The heist, Evie, V." Rita raised an eyebrow, "Ahuh… Yeah, not a mind reader here, Jude. Need you to tell me what you've been thinkin' and feelin'."
She sighed, "Evelyn commissioned the heist – hired V and her crew. When things went tits up, Evie stayed here for protection. She suddenly got spooked n' high-tailed it outta here… Apparently, V's been alive for two weeks – Hasn't bothered to reach out, but whatever – then when she finally does, she's lookin' for Evie. Puttin' two and two together, V has every reason to want to hunt her down and do something to her. The botched job, all her chooms getting' killed… Could be angry, want revenge… I won't allow that."
Rita nodded as she listened, "Okay, so that's what you're thinkin'. What're you feelin'?" Judy rolled her eyes, "Does that really matter?" The pink-haired bouncer nodded again.
Judy let out a frustrated sighed, "Ugh… I dunno. Pissed? Hurt, confused? Torn? Like… I guess you could say that for some gonk reason, my intuition says I should trust V. But I don't even know her, Rita - Jesus, thought she was maybe interested in me but didn't even bother to contact me for two weeks. Obviously, I got that wrong… so, why should I trust her?"
Rita stroked her chin as she thought, "You said that V's been alive but hasn't reached out… However, she was reported dead… Ever think somethin' might've happened that made it so she couldn't reach out? Can't believe you doubt her liking you. Dude, you two flirted at that bar for hours. If she didn't like you, she would'a told you to fuck off. And I was outside that night when she left. Totally digs you, dude."
The techie didn't respond. She silently thought to herself.
The bouncer continued, "And you think V wants to hurt Evie… Judy, you know how mercenaries are. If a mercenary came in here demanding answers, they'd either leave with answers, or someone would be killed… Did she leave here with her answers?"
Judy scrunched her eyebrows and slowly shook her head.
Rita stared with confusion at her friend, "Uh… I dunno about you, but… I feel like all of this is pretty self-explanatory. Like, that all right there should answer all of your unanswered questions, Jude."
She was silent.
Her eyes burnt as her body trembled. She felt like she had been slapped across the face, again. Everything started to make sense. She knew what she needed to do.
Her mind was screaming one thing; Holy shit. I'm a total gonk
While her heart screamed another; … Yeah, I am definitely a fuckin' gonk
There was no more fog, and she wasn't alone. As Rita helped her make sense of things, everything became clear. When she opened up and asked for help, her friend was there to listen and lend a hand.
"Rita… She already left. I really fucked this up. I said some shit… I told her to never come back here…" The pink-haired Mox shrugged her shoulders, "Who doesn't say shit and fuck up once n' a while? Girl, she's out in the parking lot. Pretty sure she's… talkin' to herself out there… or something. You could pr-"
Judy quickly hugged Rita, "Thank you!" She dashed over to her desk and picked up Evelyn's metal case before racing out of her studio, across the server room and basement, up the stairs, through the dressing room, and then via shortcut: Susie Q's office.
As the door opened, the Mox Leader stood up from her desk chair and turned around, "Alveraz? Oh HELL no. You best not be comin' in he-" The tattooed Mox zipped past Susie without saying a word. "W-what… What the hell's goin' on in this crazy-ass bar!? UGH," The Mox Leader threw her hands in the air before returning to her chair.
Judy peaked outside and saw V pacing in the parking lot. Oh, thank fuck. The techie immediately ran toward her, "Wait!"
She skidded to a stop in front of the mercenary, taking a moment to catch her breath. She lifted her hand up and rubbed her temples for a moment, "So… That's it? Only reason you're lookin' for Evie is for answers?"
The mercenary raised one of her eyebrows as she stared at her, "Er…Yeah. Just… Need some answers. Needed to know who she was workin' for. I know that someone hired her and I just needed to know who that someone was. That's all. If you were worried that I was gonna lay a hand on her or somethin'… I wouldn't of done that... Wouldn't even make sense to hurt her," V said as she folded her arms, watching Judy.
She chewed her inner left cheek while she berated herself. Why didn't I just give her a chance to say all of this? Why'd I have to immediately get defensive? Ugh! She looked over toward cars driving down the street for a moment before looking back at V, "Fine… All right… Evie's a doll. Used to work at Clouds."
The tattooed Mox reached into her pocket and pulled out Evelyn's metal case. She stared at it for a moment before handing it to the mercenary, "This is her cig case. It's got the address. Take it, and once you find Evie, give it to her."
"Sorry, but… I've already made other arrangements. Got someone else I can go to for help."
Judy slowly lowered Evelyn's cigarette case to her side as her shoulders slumped. Fuck… I really did fuck this up, didn't I? She looked away because she didn't want the mercenary to see her cry, "V… I…" She sighed, frustrated with herself, and shook her head, "I'm… I'm really sorry, okay?"
She looked back at the V, trying to keep her composure, "I... didn't mean to say a lot of the things I said back there. I…just - was afraid you wanted to hurt Evie." The mercenary looked away, clenching her jaw, "Told you already. I'm not like other mercs."
Her heart felt like it had cracked. She knew V wasn't like other mercenaries. V wasn't like anyone Judy had ever met.
The tattooed Mox placed her hand on the back of her neck, nodding toward the ground, "Yeah… I know you aren't... I'm just a fuckin' gonk. And I'm sorry. Just… Really sorry. I-…" Her voice broke as her eyes began to water. She looked down at the ground to hide her tears, "I do... I do trust you, V. I do. I believe everything that you said downstairs… Look, I didn't mean to hurt you, n' If I did, I'm sorry... God, I feel like such a fuckin' gonk."
Judy lifted the metal tin up again and stared at it quietly, "B-but uhm… Yeah… guess I understand. No means no. So, uhm… I'll just head back. V, again, I'm sorry. I really am," She took a couple of slow steps back before turning around, walking back to the bar. All she could feel was disappointment in herself.
I did this to myself. I understand why she doesn't want to work with me. I don't even want to work with me... Judy couldn't continue hiding them, and her tears began to fall. As she continued to beat herself up, she didn't hear the approaching footsteps.
The mercenary slid on the parking lot's gravel as she turned to stop herself in front of the tattooed Mox. Judy gasped and froze as she stared at the woman in front of her. V…? Before the techie could gather her thoughts and say anything, the mercenary approached with a gentle smile.
Judy felt her heartbeat skip when she saw V's smile. She had missed it – It was the same smile V wore when they were alone together at the bar. The smile that made Judy feel nervous yet excited at the same time. She never thought she'd ever see it…
…She never thought she'd ever see V again.
V reached down and grabbed onto Evelyn's cigarette case, "I'll head there now. See if I can find her."
Judy didn't want to let go of the tin. It connected her and the mercenary together at this moment. She stared at V, scanning her eyes over the merc's face. She couldn't believe that V was standing there – right now, in front of her. Is she really here? Alive? Or have I driven myself insane?
She let go of the metal case as she stepped forward. She slid her arms underneath V's, wrapping them around the mercenary's body. She gripped tightly onto V's jacket, afraid to let her go. Then she stepped even closer and gently placed her ear against V's chest. She closed her eyes, taking everything in.
First, she felt the mercenary's body heat. It wrapped itself around Judy, making her feel warm and relaxed. She felt V's chest raise each time the mercenary took in a breath and felt it release when V exhaled. Judy slowed her own breathing to match V's.
Next, she heard V's heartbeat. It was slow, rhythmic, and peaceful. It made Judy feel calm. Then she felt V's arms wrap around her body. Judy felt herself tremble as she gripped onto the jacket tighter. The mercenary's arms were strong, yet very gentle on Judy's body. V's arms around her made her feel safe.
And finally, she felt the mercenary sigh and lean her head softly against Judy's. The world dissolved around the tattooed Mox as she felt V against her. Everything she went through over the past two weeks felt like a lifetime ago.
"Thanks… Thank you, V'' Judy whispered against V's chest. She smiled as she felt the mercenary hold onto her tighter. The way V made her feel was unlike anything she had felt before. She knew the woman holding her was alive, and she also knew she didn't want to lose this. Whatever this was.
"I'll let you know what I find out, okay?" Judy didn't respond.
There was a moment of silence between them. The tattooed Mox pressed herself even closer to the mercenary, feeling her own heart beat alongside V's.
Then Judy felt V begin to loosen her arms, "Uhm… Judy? You okay?" The techie shook her head as she pulled the mercenary back to her. She wanted more time with V – so much time had already been wasted.
"I… can't believe this. Like it's just now hittin' me. I was really worried, V… really thought you were gone for good. I keep... listenin' to your heartbeat, tryin' to see if you're really alive. Tryin' to tell myself I haven't gone crazy and that you're actually here."
Judy felt V chuckle at her. The techie furrowed her eyebrows in confusion as she pulled away and looked up toward V, "Why are you laughin'?" She saw a large grin spread across V's lips – Judy felt electricity explode in her chest as she realized how close she was to the mercenary's face. She stopped breathing for a moment as she experienced the ripples flow through her body.
"'cause… listenin' to my heartbeat isn't gonna help you… look, I'm real sorry to tell you this, Judy… but… You're already crazy."
Judy snapped out of it immediately – Did… Did she seriously just ruin this moment to crack a joke?
She let go of V and lightly punched her in the stomach, "You… are seriously a gonk." She stepped back with a smile on her face as she looked at the mercenary. V cocked her eyebrow and laughed, "Heh. Cute you thought that'd hurt me. Felt like a gust of wind just tickled me."
Judy immediately narrowed her eyes at V. She looked down at V's abdomen – an area she had become very familiar with for the past several minutes. She knew where the mercenary's solar plexus was, and even if she didn't have V's strength, she had brains. She balled her right hand into a fist and…
V immediately doubled over and collapsed to the ground with the air knocked from her lungs. She rocked back and forth on her back, holding her stomach, "O-ok….I…. I felt… I felt that one." She struggled to laugh as she attempted to catch her breath.
Judy slowly shook her head as a small laugh escaped her lips. She tossed the cigarette case down on the mercenary's stomach, "Here. Now go, 'fore I call the girls over 'n have them all punch you too for scarin' me half t'death."
The mercenary grabbed the cigarette case from her stomach and placed it into her jacket pocket. She rolled over and slowly stood herself up, brushing off her pants and jacket, "Okay! I'm goin', I'm goin'. If any of them hit like you do… I'd probably flatline again n'… I don't think I'd come back from that one." V chuckled as she looked at the tattooed Mox with a smile.
Judy cocked an eyebrow, "You're probably right. Rita does have a bat n' all."
The mercenary took a step toward the tattooed Mox and cleared her throat, "But… uhm… In all seriousness, Judy… I-I'm really glad I got to see you. Aside from my ripperdoc and the guy who saved my life… You're the first person I came to see since I woke up. I, uh… I wanted t-to tell you that in person. Not over the holo…"
Judy's eyes widened as she listened to the mercenary, "W-what?"
V nodded as she watched the techie, "… Yeah. You're the first person I thought of. First person I called - jumped straight into a cab to get here."
Judy looked at the mercenary, studying her eyes, "I-…I'm glad… I really… wanted to see you, V."
The merc gave her a soft smile before patting her jacket pocket, "I... uhm… I'm gonna go take care of this and uh… Hopefully, we can catch up soon?" The tattoo Mox nodded with a warm smile, "Yeah, I'd like that."
The techie gave the mercenary a small wave goodbye as V headed off to check on Evelyn. Judy watched her until she was out of sight before turning around with a smile on her face. As the entrance of Lizzie's came into her focus, she saw a flash of purple, pink, and light purple in the doorway before suddenly disappearing.
She immediately stopped smiling and narrowed her eyes. She jogged back toward the entrance, and as she entered, she found it unsurprising that no one was in the lobby. She looked over the counter so see if anyone was hiding there, but it was empty.
As she walked into the club room, she saw the three familiar colors. Candy was sprawled over a couch as she exaggerated loud snores, Mateo was hard at work behind the bar cleaning a glass that was already clean, and Rita was sitting at the bar, pretending to have a loud phone conversation without realizing that her was upside down.
Judy crossed her arms, "Were you guys spying on me?"
The three immediately stopped what they were doing. "W-wwwhaaat? N-naaaww. No way. I would never. I am just so offended you'd accuse me of such a thing…," Rita said as she put away her phone. Judy cocked her eyebrow and looked over at Candy who had one eye opened and then quickly closed it as she continued to snore. Judy shook her head as she then looked at Mateo, who just responded with a shrug.
Rita motioned for the tattooed Mox to come sit with her at the bar, "Girl, I think you need a drink before the club opens and things get crazy in here… You've had quiet the day so far," Judy laughed as she walked over and sat down next to the bouncer.
Mateo walked over, handing Judy a bottle. She raised an eyebrow, "Mateo, I didn't say what I wanted yet…" She looked down; it was a dark purple bottle of La Perle Des Alpes.
He smiled at Judy, "S.F.T.A says 'Tell Judy I kept my promise.'"
Judy held the bottle and smiled.
She remembered.
Upright 5 of Cups:Your mind will try to shield you with a fog of confusion, anger, and fear – do not let those emotions steer you. Your heart is your beacon of hope that you must trust and follow. Though you have much to mourn over right now, listen to your heart and understand that not all is lost."
