Discourse

Chief Inspector Black didn't try to intimidate any of the four teenagers nor did he threaten them with anything. In fact, he even suggested that they all come inside where it was more comfortable.

"I understand that this is a very difficult time for you, Miss Briefs," he said, marching ahead of the blue-haired teen as armed men escorted her three companions into separate rooms. They arrived at the living room, the coffee table buried underneath a stack of dossiers and folders. "Losing your family can't be easy, and to be a suspect in their murder-"

"I did not kill my parents!" Bulma said hotly, fists clenched in outrage.

The Chief Inspector wordlessly nodded. "I'm sure you will be cleared of those charges but I'm afraid there's more bad news. Our investigation has revealed some rather unfortunate evidence that the Capsule Corporation is involved with the Red Ribbon Army."

"Like hell we're involved with those psychos. We're victims of the Red Ribbon Army!" Bulma opened her mouth to say more. But then she remembered her declaration of silence until a lawyer was present and her mouth promptly shut.

Black picked up a thick folder and opened it. "This sort of thing must come as a shock, learning that your father was helping a militia like the Red Ribbon Army. Or it's denial. But you can't argue with the facts. The capsule inventory indicates numerous capsules containing military-grade weapons are missing. Then there's the R&D proposals for capsules that would contain military-grade vehicles including but not limited to tanks, stealth planes, bunker-busters..." he trailed off, looking up from the list to study the look of disbelief on Bulma's face.

"There are other things, more schematics and research notes but the important details are missing. Likely stolen. The Red Ribbon Army must have gotten what they wanted and silenced your father. Your mother was just in the wrong place at the wrong time." Not once did Black's tone ever waver from calm and amiable.

"I want to see those files!" Bulma demanded.

"I could but your lawyer must be present for that. If you're impatient, you could waive your rights to a lawyer," he said with a small, friendly smile.

She glared at him and instead asked, "Why did you separate me from my friends?"

"Corroboration," was all Black said. "I will be interviewing them all to assess their level of involvement. Depending on their answers, they can either be proven innocent or guilty."

"Guilty of what?"

"That information would be between them and the law, Miss Briefs. But if they're proven guilty, they may never see daylight again."

A beat.

"Unless," Black began.

"Unless what?"

"Unless you cooperate with us, Miss Briefs. It's no secret that you're a talented genius. I'm sure we could use someone with your knowledge and skills to help us in our goals. I can't guarantee that your cooperation will absolve your family, but you can at the very least ensure the safety of your friends."

"I..."

A/N: Not quite back with writing. Thank you for understanding.