Hello, it's me again. So, this is likely going to be the last side chapter of my story, and it's going to be a big one. So big that it'll have to be split into two parts, if not three.

So last time we left off, Bobby has gotten himself in trouble after dropping Lori off at her house, and it seems that this trouble will spread to the Louds as well. But in the meantime, we need to see what led up to this.

As usual, I want to thank DukeyDukeyDoo and Mike the Red Engine for helping me proofread.

Side Chapter 3A: Those on Trial

One week ago, inside an old motel room in Detroit...

[The front door opened in the darkened room and with a flip of the switch, the light turned on, revealing Koch followed by Yuri. As the pair looked around, the whole room looked like it had seen better days.]

[The disgraced detective walked over to a chair and sat on it while Yuri sat on the bed before kicking off her shoes.]

Yuri: "Bozhe moy, what a dump!"

Koch: "Hey, don't get mad at me. This was the cheapest place I could find in this hellhole, what with the little money we had left. And those technicians don't exactly pay very well either."

[Koch sighed and took the remote off the end table and used it to turn on the TV, which was an old set without color. The news showed Alex being tried live before a grand jury as his defense attorney stood beside him. The attorney appeared to be Italian-American and was a little on the pudgy side.]

Bailiff: "All rise! The honorable Tobin Prescott presiding!"

[The judge walked into the room and took his place. The African-American in his sixties sat at his desk, which had the sign showing his name which read, Hon. Tobin Prescott. He then took the gavel and tapped it on the desk.]

Prescott: "Court is now in session. What have we got?"

Bailiff: "Docket number 101517... People of Michigan vs. Alex Santiago."

Prescott: "Ah, yes... That guy... And pray tell, what is Mr. Santiago charged with exactly?"

Bailiff: "Your honor, the accused has been charged with domestic abuse, conspiracy, child abuse in the first degree, breaking and entering, the murder of Lydia Santiago, and the kidnapping and attempted murder of Lincoln Albert Loud, which also resulted in the hospitalization of his own daughter, Ronalda Andrea Santiago, which reflects attempted manslaughter."

Prescott: "I see... And how does the defendant plead?"

[Alex looked at his attorney before looking back at the judge.]

Alex: "Not guilty."

[The crowd murmured in response before the judge banged his gavel.]

Prescott: "Will the defense please introduce himself?"

Defense Attorney: "I speak for the defendant, Your Honor. Rocco Rosato of Rosato & Sullivan at your service."

[Rosato did a bow of courtesy, much to the prosecutor's annoyance.]

Prescott: "Welcome, Mr. Rosato... This court also welcomes Edward Vyzer of the prosecution."

Vyzer: "Thank you, Your Honor."

Prescott: "Now, have you got your cases prepared, gentlemen?"

Vyzer: "Of course, your honor."

Rosato: "Ready when you are."

Prescott: "Alright then, let's get this trial underway. Mr. Vyzer, you may present your case first."

Vyzer: "Of course."

[Vyzer cleared his throat before presenting his case.]

Vyzer: "Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, it is quite clear that Alex has abused his family for many years. And all just to keep them in line for his own self-aggrandizing needs. But, when his wife finally had the courage to tell her husband off and leave him, how did he respond? By stomping on her head numerous times until it was nothing but a pile of brain matter, ending her life before it even had the chance to turn around. Forgive me for the graphic details, but that's exactly how it happened. Who's to say this man should remain free in this world? He is a menace to society and deserves life in prison!"

Prescott: "Thank you. Mr. Rosato?"

Rosato: "Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, my client is just a simple hard-working man who only wanted to keep his family well-fed. I'm not saying this case should be dropped entirely, but all I'm saying is to put yourselves in his shoes. Think about how much he slaved to be treated as an equal in this society."

[Vyzer's assistant spoke up.]

Vyzer's Assistant: "The people are requesting for remand, Your Honor."

Rosato: "And I frown upon that. Your Honor, isn't there a chance for my client to be, uh...let off on bail?"

Prescott: "Not this time, Rosato. I speak for the people, so the defendant is remanded to custody without bail."

[Prescott then tapped his gavel.]

[Koch turned the TV off.]

Koch: "Well, it looks like things aren't going off to a good start. I don't really have much faith in that Rosato guy."

Yuri: "So, what now?"

Koch: "We stop by BoEMC's and see what can be done. That's all I can think of for now."

Yuri: "Da."

[Koch went outside, took a cigarette out of his pocket, put it in his mouth, and lit it using a lighter.]

[As Koch stood there blowing smoke into the night air, he heard a conversation coming from below his feet.]

Man: "Dude...this shit is getting out of hand."

Man 2: "I know, right? The president is actually recruiting women into our ranks? Why even call it the Brotherhood of Exemption at this point?"

Man: "Man, I don't like it either, but *cough* Rodd said he didn't want to have another Las Hermanas situation. Maybe he's got a point?"

Man 2: "If you want my honest opinion, I think the R-Man's going soft. I mean, dealing with the cops, letting girls fight alongside us, that whole power struggle. At this rate, it looks like the new VP is running the show. It's only a matter of time before there's fallout, and I got a feeling ol' Rodd's not gonna be around for much longer."

Man: "What's that mean? You think he'll step down as president?"

Man 2: "Like I said, only a matter of time. But I have to admit, without Rodd, the whole group would be reduced to nothing but chaos and disorder. If that ever happens, I'd be better off hittin' the road."

[Koch kept listening in on their conversation. From the way they were talking, it sounded like they were high on weed. When Koch had heard enough, he thought for a moment.]

Koch: Recruiting women, huh? Power struggle? New VP? Disorder without leadership?

[Once he connected the dots, he went back into the motel room to talk with Yuri, who was still lying down on the bed.]

Koch: "Yuri, I think I have a plan."

Yuri: "What is it, Matt?"

Koch: "I heard a couple of pothead bikers talking, and apparently, there's a power struggle happening within the ranks of BoEMC. Plus, the head honcho is recruiting girls into his group, which has been getting mixed results from what I can gather. So, I want you to go in there and look the part and get whatever you can from them."

[Yuri thought for a moment.]

Yuri: "That is... Not bad plan."

Koch: "You just need to change a few things about yourself first."

Yuri: "What's wrong with how I look?"

Koch: "Nothing, sweetheart. It's just that, you're probably still being hunted down by the police. Besides, those BoEMC assholes probably don't want any Russians in their group. No offense."

[Yuri smirked as she thought about what Koch had told her.]

Yuri: "Ni odin ne vzyat, Matthew. None taken. Just tell me what to do, and I'll be open to adjust."

Koch: "Good! Now, the first thing you have to change is your voice. Maybe try to act tough. You think you can do that?"

Yuri: "Very well. Let me see..."

[Yuri cleared her throat before speaking again in a seductive American accent.]

Yuri: "How's this, handsome?"

[Koch thought for a moment before giving the Russian woman a thumbs up for acceptance and a shit-eating grin.]

Koch: "I love it! Just keep that up and those bikers will be none the wiser."

That night, at the Lonesome Buffalo...

[The boys were just hanging about at the Lonesome Buffalo drinking beer, playing games, and watching TV while the jukebox was playing Don't Bring Me Down by ELO. A few female bikers were also sitting with the boys while the rest sat by themselves. Ever since Las Hermanas was disbanded, BoEMC managed to seize their remaining territory as their own.]

[One of the bikers, Darrell Braxford, sat alone at one of the tables drinking a bottle of beer while wearing a look of disgust on his face every time he looked at any of the women. The man was in his late 30s, was of medium build, and wore a black goatee. He had been vice president of BoEMC ever since Rodd took charge. But ever since Alex's arrest, things have been changing around him.]

[Just then, a young woman with red hair walked in through the front doors. She was wearing a T-shirt and hot pants along with tennis shoes. She also had a few scars on her face and a tattoo on her leg that had a heart with an arrow through it. The woman looked around the place but said nothing as she strutted over to the bar and sat at one of the stools, while Darrell watched with disdain. The bartender was cleaning the mugs when he noticed the woman sitting at the bar.]

Bartender: "What can I do for you, miss?"

Woman: "Hey, you know where a poor girl like me can get a drink in this city?"

[Just then, the woman felt a big hand grab her shoulder before turning her around to face Darrell, who was now sitting on the stool beside her and glaring at her with disapproval.]

Darrell: "What the hell are you doing here? This place is for bikers only!"

Woman: "I just wanted to get a drink, is that too much to ask?"

Darrell: "Oh, you just want a drink, huh? Well, what's wrong with the cabaret?"

[The Cabaret was once the base of operations for Las Hermanas until the club was disbanded due to Alex's involvement.]

Darrell: "If you want my advice, you better get off your ass and fuck off!"

Bartender: "Now, Darrell. This isn't how we treat our guests. Just let the woman have her drink and leave her alone."

[Darrell kept glaring at the woman before slowly letting go of her. He then got off the stool and went outside in frustration just as the bartender placed the woman's shot of beer in front of her.]

Bartender: "Sorry about that. There's always a bug up this guy's ass. By the way, what's your name?"

Woman: "My name? Oh... It's Yolantha."

Bartender: "That's a pretty name. Why do you want to hang around here?"

Yolantha: "I got tired of my mundane home life, so I wanted to live on the edge. Not much excitement here in Detroit these days."

[Once she finished her drink, Yolantha thanked the bartender before heading for the door. Once she was outside, Darrell simply watched the woman walk away with a look of anger.]

Darrell: "Yeah, that's right! Get on out of here! And don't even think about showing your ugly face around here again!"

[Yolantha scoffed as she continued walking away.]

Later, at Koch and Yuri's motel room...

[Koch was sitting on his bed munching on a pizza that he had ordered not too long ago. Just then, he heard a knock at the front door. The former detective dropped his pizza slice, got off the bed, and walked to the door before looking through the peephole. He saw a frustrated Yuri standing outside and unlocked the door to let her in.]

[Once Yuri was inside, she told her partner everything that happened.]

Koch: "So, how'd it go, baby?"

Yuri: "This is...much harder than you thought. This guy at the bar had the nerve to call me ugly!"

Koch: "Well, we can't give up now, honey. If we're ever gonna get our revenge on Castleton, we have to try harder. Maybe you'll have better luck tomorrow night?"

Yuri: "I will, but for now... Kochavich...I need some stress-relieving. I'm still angry from that insult."

[Koch then decided to cheer Yuri up by giving her shoulders a massage before they made out and slept for the night.]

The next night, on the streets of Detroit...

[Yolantha was walking to the Lonesome Buffalo. But as she passed by an alleyway, she was suddenly surrounded by a group of three men, all dressed in biker getup. Among the men was Darrell, who appeared to be the one in charge.]

Darrell: "I thought I told you not to show your ugly face around here! Now we're gonna have to teach you a lesson!"

[Both of Darrell's henchmen grabbed Yolantha dragged her into the alleyway while Darrell led the way.]

Darrell: "You are really dense to try and show up at our hangout."

Yolantha: "Hey! I just want to be like you guys!"

[Darrell's thugs then threw Yolantha at some trash cans, knocking them over. The biker then walked over to the woman and towered over her.]

Darrell: "You think you're so tough, huh? Well, why don't you fucking try it? Huh?"

[Darrell raised his fists and started pumping them while Yolantha stood up.]

Yolantha: "I am tough! Watch me!"

[Yolantha tried to lay a punch on Darrell, but the man grabbed her wrist and threw her to the ground.]

Darrell: "Your little game of pretending is over, hussy! Let's have at it, boys!"

[And with that, Darrell and his friends started kicking Yolantha like crazy. The ringleader laughed as he did so.]

Darrell: "You still feel tough, huh?!"

"That's enough, Darrell!"

[The group turned around and saw a small group of female bikers at the end of the alley. Three of them had their pistols aimed at the other group and the ringleader appeared to be a strawberry blonde who was around 40 years of age.]

Darrell: "Burgundy! We were just helping this poor woman up. She's had an accident."

Burgundy: "Cut the shit, Darrell! That is not how we treat our family."

Darrell: "You shitting me, ma'am? This woman's not even a member! She's an intruder! I mean, what right does she have to wander around our turf?"

[Burgundy walked over to Darrell and spoke in his face.]

Burgundy: "We'll decide whether she's a member or not! You and your friends best drop her before I report you all to Rodd... Got it?"

[Seeing no choice, Darrell let Yolantha go while his henchmen lumbered in the direction of the bar. Darrell followed the two shortly after while giving one last glare at the two women.]

Burgundy: "Are you okay there?"

[The woman extended her hand down to Yolantha, who took it.]

Yolantha: "Yeah, thanks for saving me... What's your name?"

Burgundy: "My friends call me Burgundy, and I'm a pretty seasoned rider. Why don't you come to the Buffalo? I can help you defend yourself better."

Yolantha: "I'd appreciate that."

[And with that, the group of women took Yolantha to the Lonesome Buffalo.]

Burgundy: "Oh, and before I forget...what's your name?"

Yolantha: "It's Yolantha. I appreciate the help."

Later, at the Lonesome Buffalo...

[Burgundy was healing Yolantha's wounds with bandages in the women's restroom.]

Burgundy: "I can see that you already know Darrell. Don't mind him, he's been a real pain in the ass ever since his demotion."

Yolantha: "Demotion?"

Burgundy: "Yeah. He used to be vice president of this club until Rodd started his reorganization process. You see, BoEMC was once at war with a rival motorcycle gang called Las Hermanas, but after their leader was arrested, most of those who were not killed or in jail were let into this group, though some went their own way. But then, Darrell started making a lot of rude noises against the whole ordeal, so Rodd had no choice but to demote him. In all honesty, I think he should've just kicked his ass to the curb."

Yolantha: "I see."

[Once all of Yolanda's wounds were treated, Burgundy reached into her jacket and pulled out a card before handing it to the girl.]

Burgundy: "Well, Yolantha, here's my card. Come meet us at the clubhouse tomorrow, and make sure you bring a hog."

[Yolantha took the card and looked at the number.]

Yolantha: "Why do I need to bring a pig?"

[Burgundy laughed in response.]

Burgundy: "A bike, Yo! Hog's the biker's term for motorcycle, you know."

Yolantha: "Right! Hog! Bike! I knew that! I was just joking."

[Yolantha chuckled a little as Burgundy rolled her eyes.]

Burgundy: "I'm sure you were, Yolantha. Anyways, I'll see you tomorrow."

[And with that, Yolantha left the restroom and made her way through the crowd to the exit.]

Later, at Koch and Yuri's motel room...

[Koch was on his bed watching the trial on the TV when he heard a knock on the door. He got up off the bed and walked over to the door before looking through the peephole to see Yuri standing there. Koch then unlocked the door and allowed his partner into the apartment.]

Koch: "So, what happened out there?"

Yuri: "I got attacked by a few members of BoEMC, but then this woman named Burgundy saved my life. She also gave me her number and decided to vouch for me."

Koch: "Uh-huh? And what else?"

Yuri: "She also told me I need to bring a bike when I come back."

Koch: "Alright, so now the next part is to find you a bike. But where?"

[The two individuals thought for a moment.]

Yuri: "I think I might know someone who has one. He's an old friend of mine, holding Angelina's bike."

Koch: "Alright, just show me the way."

[With that, the two left the hotel room.]

Later...

[Koch and Yuri pulled into a garage. They got out of the truck and approached someone tuning a motorcycle. It was a young man in his mid-twenties with black hair and a blue mohawk.]

Yuri: "Hello, Buck."

[Buckley Wilcox was originally from Liverpool on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean. The man stopped tuning the bike and replied in a cockney British accent.]

Buck: "Ello there, Yuri. I 'eard that Angie and Es got pinched. Real shame too. Anyway, what brings you 'ere, and who's your boyfriend?"

[Buck pointed at Koch.]

Yuri: "This here is Matthew Kochner. We stopped by to ask if you still had Angelina's bike."

Buck: "Sure thing, luv. Just follow me out back."

[Buck headed for the back area while Yuri and Koch followed him. Once they were out back, Buck stopped next to a custom-made sports bike. It was colored red with a feral cat painted on both sides.]

Buck: "There she is, all tuned up and waitin' for 'er owner to return."

Yuri: "That's great. You don't mind if I borrow it for a bit, do you?"

Buck: "I'm not so sure. Why would you want Angie's bike, anyhow?"

Yuri: "I just want to take it out for test drive. See how she handles since last time."

Buck: "Well, that might be up to Angie, not you."

[Koch scoffed.]

Koch: "Some supportive friend you got there, Yuri."

Yuri: "Shut up, Koch."

[Koch simply rolled his eyes.]

Buck: "Listen, I just think Angie will be pissed if I let anyone use 'er bike."

Yuri: "I'll bring it back, Buck. Can't you do this just once?"

Buck: "No can do, Yuri. I can't just give you the bike."

[Yuri sighed and took some time to think. Buck wasn't willing to give her the bike that easily, but she needed that bike if she were to show up at the clubhouse. Once she was finished, she walked over to Koch.]

Yuri: "I have plan, Kochavich. Go back to the truck and drive back to motel."

Koch: "What's your plan, baby?"

Yuri: "I'm not sure... But, if Buck won't give me motorcycle, then I will take it from him...the hard way."

Koch: "Wait, I thought you said you had-"

Yuri: "Just go! I'll be back at motel with the motorcycle!"

Koch: "Alright! You just...do what you have to, baby."

[Koch made his way back to the truck, leaving Yuri to deal with Buck alone.]

Yuri: "Hey, kid... Just so you know, I am not leaving without this bike...I promise you."

Later, at Koch and Yuri's motel room...

[Koch sat on his bed waiting for Yuri to call him. He was then snapped out of his thoughts by a sudden revving sound outside. Koch got off the bed, grabbed his key, and went to the parking lot to find Yuri riding on Angelina's motorcycle.]

Yuri: "Did somebody call for hog?"

Koch: "All right, Yuri! Now we're making progress!"

[Koch went down the steps and walked over to Yuri.]

Koch: "Now that you have a bike, all we need to do now is get you some new clothes."

[Koch rode with Yuri on the bike as the woman revved the engine and drove away from the motel. As they continued down the road, Koch asked a question.]

Koch: "By the way, uh... How did you get that bike?"

Yuri: "We settled on deal, Kochavich. No need to worry."

The next day, outside the Brotherhood of Exemption clubhouse...

[Yolantha arrived outside the clubhouse while riding a sports motorcycle and stopped in front of the entrance. She was now wearing the proper biker attire consisting of a leather jacket, jeans, and high-heel leather boots. Guarding the front door was a chubby biker with an orange mustache and sunglasses.]

T-Bone: "Hey, now... That's a pretty sweet ride you got there, girl."

[Yolantha got off the biker before walking up to T-Bone and giving him a pat on the cheek.]

Yolantha: "Thanks for the compliment, handsome."

T-Bone: "So, what brings you to this side of town?"

Yolantha: "I have business with Burgundy."

[Yolantha then showed T-Bone the card.]

T-Bone: "Of course. Come right in, ma'am."

[T-Bone moved out of the way and extended his arms towards the door, allowing Yolantha to walk into the building. As soon as Yolantha was inside, she is greeted by the music playing from the jukebox, which was Sharp Dressed Man by ZZ Top. She looked around before she spotted Burgundy playing five-finger fillet with some of her crew members at a table.]

Yolantha: "Hey, Burgundy."

[Burgundy stopped what she was doing before looking up at Yolantha.]

Burgundy: "Hey, Yolantha! Why don't you join us?"

[Yolantha nodded before she sat across from Burgundy at the table and began to play with her.]

Burgundy: "I take it you've met the guy at the front door?"

Yolantha: "Yeah... He was...friendly compared to Darrell."

Burgundy: "That's just our Sergeant-at-Arms, T-Bone... He's been a loyal member of BoEMC for years, and never has he let the president down."

[Yolantha had just finished the first round of the game, much to Burgundy's amazement.]

Burgundy: "Woah! You're real good at this game."

Yolantha: "Thanks! So, who's the new vice president?"

[Before Burgundy could answer, they heard Bearl yelling.]

Bearl: "Change the channel! We wanna see the trial!"

[The bartender changed the channel on the suspended television set in the corner and it showed the trial. And on the witness stand was Harold McBride.]

Vyzer: "State your name for the record."

Harold: "Harold McBride."

Vyzer: "And how do you know the defendant Alex Santiago?"

Harold: "Too much, I'm sorry to say. My husband and I were never particularly fond of Mr. Santiago when he was still living in Royal Woods, mostly because of his attitude. But once we heard about all the things he did to his wife, especially how she died, we were just utterly horrified. I mean, how can you not hear about murder and not bat an eye? It also didn't help that he manhandled his own children and shot one of them in cold blood. She survived in case you're wondering, thank heavens."

Vyzer: "And is it true that you also have somewhat of a negative opinion of his daughter, Ronalda Anne Santiago?"

[Harold sighed for a moment.]

Harold: "Yes...once... A few months ago in June, my son got beaten up by Ronnie Anne at school. My husband and I were mostly angry at Mr. Santiago, but we also geared our outrage towards his daughter as well. To be honest, we didn't know what Ronnie Anne was going through at the time, but being under an abusive parent can definitely send you down a dark path. And there was also the time where a group of bikers kidnapped my son's friend, Lincoln. We didn't know it at the time, but they were hired by that very same scoundrel right over there!"

[Harold pointed his finger at Alex.]

Harold: "I can safely say, without a doubt that...that man right there is nothing but a liar, a con man, and a murderer. As a family man myself, I think that a child needs all the love and support from his or her parents and not use violence and threats. That method of parenting can also spread to their children if they go down that route and the cycle will only worsen from there."

[Alex whispered into Rosato's ear.]

Alex: "Oh, somebody, bring out the violins because this is breaking my fucking heart!"

Rosato: "Just keep your cool and you might have a chance of dodging the chair."

Vyzer: "No further questions, your honor."

[Rosato got up from his seat and walked over to Harold.]

Rosato: "So, you say that you weren't too fond of my client's daughter once?"

Harold: "Yes?"

Rosato: "Did you have any bad blood towards my client's son as well, Mr. McBride?"

Vyzer: "Objection!"

Prescott: "Overruled."

Harold: "Of course not! I mean, I don't see Bobby much. But from what my husband and I could observe, our son used to have a crush on Bobby's girlfriend, Lori Loud, and did not take too kindly to him."

Rosato: "So, your son was into older girls? Didn't he react badly when he found out this Lori was pregnant with Bobby's child?"

[Alex let out a small growl, but no one heard him...except for Rosato, who looked back at his client for a moment.]

Rosato: "Don't..."

Harold: "Yes...he did. But he later came to terms with that new reality and moved on."

Rosato: "How about we get to the moment where your son was beaten up by Ronnie Anne."

Vyzer: "Objection, Relevance, Your Honor?"

Rosato: "It is quite clear that your son has had a few problems, which included his...past obsession with Lori Loud."

Harold: "Now, wait just a minute! My son has a therapist that he goes to when he's dealing with those kinds of problems, and any others he might have. What right have you to judge him?"

Rosato: "What I'm getting at is that you knew about your son's problems which led to Ronnie Anne beating him up. But instead of taking responsibility and helping him deal with the problem yourself, you blame my client and his daughter for it. Very hypocritical if I say so myself."

Vyzer: "Objection!"

Rosato: "Withdrawn. No further questions."

[With that, Harold walked down from the stand, feeling pretty miffed at Rosato's accusations.]

Prescott: "We shall now recess for lunch. We reconvene until 2:00."

[Prescott tapped his gavel before he and everyone else started clearing out.]

[Yolanda looked back at Burgundy.]

Yolantha: "What the hell was that all about?"

Burgundy: "There's a trial going on about someone who used to be in the club, goes by the name of Alex Santiago...or El Jefe to anyone who still admires that jackass."

Yolantha: "What did this guy do? I'm quite curious."

Burgundy: "He kidnapped a 12-year-old boy and tried to kill him. He was a horrible father to his children and beat them for years on end, from what I've heard. There's also a bunch of other crimes he did while he was in the group, but the list is so long that we'd be here all day if I could name every single one. And in case you're wondering, the dumbass at the bar is Bearl... Pretty much a big fan of Alex's...but far too stupid to realize that asshole's crimes."

Yolantha: "I see. You think I can interact with this Bearl?"

Burgundy: "Good luck with that."

[Yolantha nodded and sat on the stool beside Bearl at the bar. The redneck turned his head to look at the unfamiliar woman.]

Bearl: "Well, well... hey there, purty lady. What's your name?"

Yolantha: "It's Yolantha. Burgundy's vouching for me."

Bearl: "Well then, it's a pleasure to meet ya! Bearl Boon, qualified mechanic extraor-din-aire. Or you can call me B.B., like the gun."

[Bearl pointed to the little patch on his jacket signifying his nickname.]

Bearl: "So, how are you likin' our family so far?"

Yolantha: "It's...kind of a mixed bag. But I'm getting used to this lifestyle."

Bearl: "Yeah, well...things ain't been too good since El Jefe went to jail."

[Bearl suddenly poked up.]

Bearl: "Wait a minute!"

[Yolantha shot up as Bearl eyed her with suspicion.]

Bearl: "There's sumthin' familiar about you, but I can't quite put my finger on it."

[Yolantha started to sweat a little.]

Bearl: "You're that girl we saw at the Buffalo last night! I knew I'd recognize you anywhere."

[Yolantha chuckled a little.]

Bearl: "So, can I get you a drink, missy?"

Yolantha: "By all means."

Bearl: "Hey, barman! Get this gal a drink, will ya?!"

Bartender: "On it."

[As the bartender prepares Yolantha's drink, Burgundy sat down on the stool to her left.]

Bearl: "Howdy, Burg. How's it goin'?"

Burgundy: "Okay, I guess? How are things on your end?"

Bearl: "Oh, just dandy...mostly. T-Bone had to pacify another fight earlier."

Burgundy: "Was Darrell misbehaving again?"

Bearl: "Of course..."

Burgundy: "Well, if he doesn't stop his bullshit in a few days, I'll have to tell Rodd to give him the ax."

Bearl: "Ouch..."

[Finally, the bartender slid a small shot of beer over to Yolantha, and the woman caught it.]

Bearl: "Well, I think I better get some fresh air. Lookin' forward to seein' ya again, Yolantha."

[Bearl got off his stool and went out the front door. Almost immediately, Burgundy spoke to Yolantha, who had just sipped down the whole shot in two seconds before putting the glass on the bar upside down.]

Burgundy: "It's me."

Yolantha: "Huh?"

Burgundy: "You asked who the new vice president was, didn't you? Well, you're looking at her. As such, I'm in charge of this division, so we're basically the Sisterhood of Exemption."

Yolantha: "You mean SoEMC?"

[Burgundy nodded.]

Yolantha: "But, why have your own division?"

Burgundy: "Because we didn't want both of our genders to be in the same group, so we demanded that the president make a separate division for the girls. He agreed, of course, and SoEMC was born."

Yolantha: "But, isn't that segregation?"

Burgundy: "If it's for our own safety, it's for our own benefit. Besides, Rodd's the one who let us have this branch, so he's not too bad for a man. I mean, when he's not leading the group, he's tending to his significant other and offspring at home."

Yolantha: "So, your president is a family man?"

Burgundy: "Oh yeah... I heard that his wife used to ride with him before she became more civilized."

Yolantha: "You don't say?"

Burgundy: "Yeah... But enough about that, let's keep watching the trial and see where it goes. I think the president is up next."

[With that, Yolantha, Burgundy, and the other bikers kept watching the trial on the TV.]

[Shortly after recess ended, Rodd was called onto the stand. The biker president was wearing a formal suit as he faced the jury.]

Vyzer: "State your name for the record, please."

Rodd: "Calvin Harburton, president of the Brotherhood of Exemption Motorcycle Club."

Vyzer: "So, what motivated you to join up with such a group, Mr. Harburton?"

Rodd: "I wanted to get through the trials of Detroit's decline. My friends and I are like a family and we have a code of honor to follow."

Vyzer: "And Mr. Santiago was a part of your little family? Is that correct?"

[Rodd nodded in response.]

Vyzer: "And how long has he been in your group?"

Rodd: "About three years...until he decided to retire."

Vyzer: "And what was his motivation for leaving the Brotherhood back then?"

Rodd: "He told me he wanted a fresh start, so he opened up a motorcycle dealership somewhere between Detroit and Royal Woods while still remaining in contact with me. He also met a woman named Lydia and started a family with her."

Vyzer: "Was Lydia the very same woman who was found dead back in July of 2017?"

[Rodd sighed.]

Rodd: "Yeah... She was..."

Vyzer: "And how did you react when you found out that Lydia died?"

Rodd: "Well...I was shocked. I mean, I never would've thought that Alex's old lady would die so suddenly."

Vyzer: "And how did you react when you saw him again after all this time, Mr. Harburton?"

[Rodd sighed.]

Rodd: "To be honest...I really thought we had a good thing going. When he showed up in my life again on that day, I thought he wanted to catch up on the old times. But really, he only wanted somewhere to hide because of what he did earlier."

Vyzer: "And is it true that you allowed him to hide out in Canada instead of turning him over to the proper authorities?"

[Rodd sighed again.]

Rodd: "Yeah...but that doesn't mean I feel proud of it. I mean, I couldn't really grasp what his intentions were at the time. But I needed to let him go so I could wrap my head around this."

Vyzer: "I see. And what made you want to collaborate in his arrest?"

Rodd: "I got in contact with a detective from the Royal Woods Police Department. The very same one who visited me at my clubhouse along with his partner. They were looking for Alex. One of them spoke with me while the other searched upstairs. Yet, for some reason, the other detective didn't seem to find him. I sometimes wonder if that other detective was even looking."

Vyzer: "And were you aware that Santiago conspired with Las Hermanas to kidnap Lincoln Loud?"

Rodd: "I wasn't until I got that call from the R.W.P.D.."

Vyzer: "And what is your opinion of Santiago in light of this new evidence?"

Rodd: "I can say without a doubt that Alex Santiago was nothing but a con man from the very start. He has done nothing but kill and deceive just to get ahead. I just hope he'll have time to reflect upon all that while he's behind bars."

Vyzer: "Thank you, sir. Nothing further."

[Rosato then stood up and walked over to Rodd.]

Rosato: "So you admit that you've done some pretty heinous things during your time in BoEMC?"

Rodd: "Yes."

Rosato: "Have you ever told my client to kill people?"

Rodd: "Yes...but mostly our enemies."

Rosato: "What kind of enemies are we talking about here?"

Rodd: "Las Hermanas, the Partnership, the Street Boys, most of the gangs in this city."

Rosato: "Do you mind if I read your criminal record then, Mr. Harburton?"

Rodd: "Go right ahead."

[Rosato looked at a sheet of paper that listed all the felonies that Rodd did in the past: Armed robbery, murder of a police officer, drug dealing, weapons dealing, protection racketeering, etc..]

Rosato: "You've done a lot of crimes in your life, and yet you've managed to gain immunity by dealing with the Detroit Police Department. Why?"

Rodd: "I have a family...a wife and son. I wanted them to feel protected."

Rosato: "I see... And was your wife a member of BoEMC as well? Or should I say...your old lady?"

Rodd: "She was...until she bore our son."

Rosato: "Maybe some of the crimes that Alex did while in BoEMC were under your orders? Did you order him to kill innocent citizens?"

Vyzer: "Objection!"

Rodd: "NO! Only those who were our enemies! That's our club policy! A lot of criminals in this city wouldn't give two shits about innocent lives, but BoEMC is not like that!"

Rosato: "No further questions, your honor."

[With that, Rodd walked down from the stand.]

Prescott: "We shall recess until tomorrow."

[The judge then banged his gavel before everyone began to clear out of the room.]

[Yolanda and Burgundy got off the stools and sat at one of the tables in the corner.]

Burgundy: "Well...now you've gotten the pleasure of knowing the man in charge."

Yolantha: "So, what do you think the verdict will be?"

Burgundy: "If anything, that sick fuck's looking at life on Death Row. I mean, shooting a child? That is just downright detestable."

Yolantha: "Right... And what if they find him innocent somehow?"

Burgundy: "I don't even want to THINK about what would happen. But I tell you, sister, if my old high school friend was here right now, we would've kicked his ass 'til there's no tomorrow."

Yolantha: "Your old...high school...friend?"

Burgundy: "Yeah, I knew this girl back in my days at Royal Woods High. When we first met, she was kind of rough around the edges and used to pick on me...a lot. But after saving my ass from a group of bullies, she proved to be more than just an adversary. She once told me that she got her training from her father, who once served in the Navy, so I asked if I could learn a few of her moves to better defend myself. After gaining some extra training, we became a tag team. We would go around being all cool and stuff, pick a fight with any mean girls who were harassing other boys, she even taught me how to tune my first bike. Life was good for about a year."

Yolantha: "Really? What happened that made you drift apart?"

[Burgundy looked down and sighed.]

Burgundy: "Well, by the end of the second year, I was invited to join a group. However...it turned out to be a gang of really bad girls and I found myself helping them with a dangerous crime. I'd rather not say what it was or what happened, but I had to go on the run because of that. I had to say goodbye to my best friend before I went on the lam...but I didn't even want to tell her why."

Yolantha: "You really miss her, don't you?"

Burgundy: "Hell yeah, I do. She was a good friend. From what I've heard, she's still living in Royal Woods. And the last thing I remember about her, she took a part-time job as a crossing guard while in college. I was hoping to pay a little visit there soon and see how she's been doing for old time's sake. But with Alex's trial still going on, well...I guess now's not a good time... I just...sometimes wish that I could see her again."

[Yolantha was curious about who Burgundy's old friend was, but she decided that it wasn't too important right now.]

"You mind if I join you?"

[Yolantha and Burgundy looked up to see T-Bone standing by the bar.]

Burgundy: "You're welcome to it, T."

[T-Bone then sat on the stool to the right of Yolantha.]

Burgundy: "So, who's watching the front gate?"

T-Bone: "Bearl's covering for me."

[T-Bone turned his attention to the young woman.]

T-Bone: "We haven't been properly introduced back there. The name's Terrance Bonneville, but my friends call me T-Bone."

Yolantha: "I'm Yolantha. Nice to meet you...again."

Burgundy: "He may look tough, but he's also a pretty friendly guy from here to Royal Woods."

T-Bone: "It's true. I've befriended an old man last year, and boy can that guy party like wild. His grandson's a real cool kid, too. I gave him five dollars for a sign that same year."

Yolantha: "What would you want with a sign, though?"

T-Bone: "Some simple decoration."

Yolantha: "So, when do you think can I meet Rodd?"

Burgundy: "Stop by tomorrow, and we'll introduce you to the president in person."

Later...

[As Yolantha was walking back home, she heard a conversation between two men coming from an old building. Using the shot glass against the door, she listened in on the conversation.]

"So, how's it lookin'?"

"I managed to soften the blow between Alex and the court. But, don't get your hopes up, because anything could go wrong with a temper like Alex's."

"God dang it. I really hope he gets to walk free."

"Now I can't guarantee Alex's freedom, but the most we can hope for is to remove enough infamy so that he wouldn't receive the death sentence. Capisce?"

"Capee...capee...I think?"

[Yolantha could make out the familiar voices behind the door. One was redneck, and the other was Italian.]

Rosato: "By the way, how's it going with the, uh...recruitment?"

Bearl: "Well, I managed to get Darrell and a few of his boys on board. Hopefully, I'll have enough vol-un-teers for the plan."

Rosato: "Alright, Mr. Boon. Be sure to catch me on the tube tomorrow. Alex's testimony could be the game-changer we've been waiting for. But if they find him guilty, you'll know what to do...don't you?"

Bearl: "No problemo, Mr. Rosato."

[However, Yolantha was so busy listening to the conversation that she didn't move out of the way in time. The door opened and the woman tumbled to the floor, getting the attorney's attention, as well as Bearl's.]

Rosato: "What the hell is this?"

Bearl: "Oh! Howdy, Yolanda! Fancy seeing you here."

Rosato: "What business do you have snoopin' around this place?! Huh?!"

[Yolantha looked up to see the lawyer staring down at her.]

Yolantha: "I was...looking for the bathroom?"

[Of course, Rosato wasn't buying that for all the money he made as a lawyer. He reached into his suit and pulled out a six-shooter before aiming it at the woman's head.]

Rosato: "Get up and get in here! Now!"

[With her hands in the air, Yolantha stood up and walked into the building before Rosato shut the front door and locked it. He then ordered the woman into a windowless room. In the middle of the room was a wooden chair with a lamp hanging from the ceiling above. Rosato then ordered Yolantha to sit and she complied.]

Rosato: "Where do you get the nerve to listen in on our conversation?"

Bearl: "Now, now, wait a minute there. Maybe she WAS lookin' for the restroom?"

Rosato: "We'll see about that. Tie her hands, Bearl."

[As instructed, Bearl tied Yolantha's hands behind her back. Rosato then spun the barrel of his gun as he began to explain.]

Rosato: "Now...we're gonna play a little game. It's a bit like Russian Roulette, only there's one bullet in the revolver. And the more bullshit I hear, the closer the bullet gets to its firing point."

[Rosato then pointed the gun at Yolantha's forehead.]

Rosato: "So, go ahead...entertain me..."

[Yolantha looked up at Rosato before the crooked lawyer asked her a question.]

Rosato: "You clearly didn't join BoEMC just for fun. So, why were you spying on us? Huh?"

Yolantha: "I was only sent here to get info on BoEMC."

[Rosato stared at Yolantha for a few seconds before he pulled the trigger, turning the cylinder to the next empty area. Then he asked another question.]

Rosato: "You a cop?"

Yolantha: "No! I'm more than just a cop!"

[It was then that Rosato noticed something familiar about that woman.]

Rosato: "You can drop the fake accent now, woman! I know exactly who you are!"

Yolantha: "What do you mean?"

[Rosato pulled the trigger again, and now the bullet was two shots away from firing the bullet.]

Rosato: "You're that Russian woman the police are searching for, aren't ya? The one who was friends with the Las Hermanas secretary! Angelina, was it?"

Bearl: "Wait... We let a Ruskie into our group?"

Yolantha: "I don't know what you're talking about! I swear!"

[Rosato pulled the trigger again, and the cylinder was now at the bullet.]

Rosato: "Really?! Why didn't you and your friends kill Vyzer as I asked?! What happened to the money you took from him?! I think you DO know...Yuri."

[All Yuri could do was sigh in defeat before speaking in her native accent.]

Yuri: "Da... You got me."

Rosato: "Go on?"

Yuri: "I am really Yuri Petrovsky, and I'm associate to Angelina Moretto."

Rosato: "Yeah, that's what I thought. So, what are you doing spying on BoEMC anyhow? And you better answer wisely because we're now at the bullet chamber and my trigger finger is getting rather itchy."

Yuri: "My friend sent me to find a way to break Alex Santiago out of prison. I heard your plan and I want to help! Just don't kill me!"

[Rosato and Bearl looked at each other. Maybe this woman might not be a fly in their soup after all. Rosato then lowered his revolver as he stared reluctantly at the woman.]

Rosato: "I'm listening..."

Yuri: "You see...my friend has fallen on some really bad times...we BOTH have. And it all concerns Sergeant Ian Castleton."

Bearl: "Ooooo! You mean that dirty cop who put El Jefe away? The nerve of that man! I want to see him pay fer it!"

Yuri: "So do I. He is the one who put my good comrades behind bars, and now I want my mest on him."

Bearl: "Uhhh... What does that word mean?"

Rosato: "Revenge, Bearl. Didn't they teach you Russian at school?"

Bearl: "Nah, I dropped out of middle."

Rosato: "Anyway, I think she's on the level here. I mean, it's just like Alex said, this Castleton person was involved in his arrest."

Yuri: "Da! Is true! So, if you could just let me go, we could help each other out."

[Convinced, Rosato put the gun back in his suit. Bearl walked over to Yuri and untied her bonds.]

Rosato: "Okay, Yuri... You're off the hook. But I do have a little favor to ask of you."

Yuri: "And what would that be?"

[He then pulled a pen and a piece of paper out of the suit, wrote something on the paper, and then showed it to Yuri.]

Rosato: "Tell your friend I'll be at his place tonight. And tell him that I'm really eager to speak with him."

[Yuri took the paper and nodded before leaving the room. Bearl looked at Rosato with concern.]

Bearl: "How do we know if we can trust her?"

Rosato: "Forget about it. She's in the same boat as the rest of us. What matters now is whether or not Alex is found guilty. Because if Alex's testimony goes to shit, we'll have to resort to Plan B. You just make sure that phase one is all set."

Bearl: "Whatever you say, Rosato. And don't worry...should the jury reach their verdict...we'll be ready."

[And with that, Rosato left the room.]

[Yuri took a good look at the paper and saw a phone number, which must've been Rocco's.]

Later, at Koch and Yuri's motel room...

[Koch was laying on his bed sipping on a bottle of beer when he heard a knock on the door.]

Koch: "Who is it now?!"

Yuri: "It's me, Kochovich! I have someone who could help us!"

[Koch got up and answered the door to be greeted by Yuri. Accompanying her was a familiar face with a briefcase.]

Rosato: "This the guy?"

Yuri: "Da."

Koch: "Hey, aren't you that attorney I saw on the TV? The one who's defending Alex?"

Rosato: "That's right, my good man! The name's Rocco Rosato, Esquire, attorney at law. Very pleased to make your acquaintance, Mister...?"

Koch: "Matthew Kochner. Just call me Koch."

[Rosato extended his hand to Koch and the former detective shook it.]

Rosato: "Aren't ya gonna invite me in?"

Koch: "Come right in."

[Once the formalities were over, Yuri and Rosato walked into the hotel room. The lawyer was quite dismayed at the place.]

Rosato: "Christ... What a shithole."

[Rosato then sat on the chair while Yuri sat with Koch on their bed.]

Rosato: "So tell me, Mr. Koch... What are your troubles with this Ian Castleton?"

Koch: "I used to be partnered up with him in the Royal Woods Police Department. But after solving a case involving Alex, I was promptly given the ax."

Rosato: "Ouch...that sure is a pickle. And what about you, Miss Petrovsky? What exactly happened to Angelina and Esther?"

Yuri: "I was helping my friends rob grocery store out of town, we needed to make some quick cash to get north of border. But then, Castleton arrived and arrested my friends. A couple of kids saw what we were doing, so I ran after one of them. A young boy with white hair if I recall. I lost track of him, but I saw this blonde zhenshchina attacking my friends before Castleton arrived...she is...the boy's mat'. From what Matthew told me, she has about eleven children."

Rosato: "That's quite a story. By the way, I've spoken to Bearl and he's on board with the whole plan. I guess you're both aware that BoEMC now has its own female division in the group. They call that branch the Sisterhood of Exemption. The girls requested that and the president had to go through with it. So, he made one of the girls his vice president and put her in charge of the aforementioned SoEMC branch."

Yuri: "I know. I heard all about it from Burgundy herself."

Rosato: "Right, that's the one... Now, from what I can tell, you guys are itchin' to talk to my client for advice. Ain't I right?"

Koch: "Yeah... You think you can get us a chance to speak to Alex while he's in the can?"

Rosato: "I can try. But if they find him guilty, we might have to get our hands dirty."

Koch: "And what are you planning to do, I wonder?"

Rosato: "Well, I won't say unless Alex receives the death sentence. But for now, I'll see if I can arrange a little visit for you two."

Koch: "Sounds fair to me. I just hope you're as good as you say you are."

[Yuri then whispered into Koch's ear.]

Yuri: "I thought you said you didn't have much faith in-"

[Koch quickly shushed Yuri before she could finish. Rosato then turned his attention to the woman.]

Rosato: "Oh, and by the way, Yuri... If this plan goes well, I might forget about your failure from weeks ago. AND, I also have something for both of your troubles."

[Rosato set the briefcase on the bed and opened it to reveal a lot of money, all of which had Benjamin Franklin's face printed on them.]

Koch: "Jesus... You could buy a mansion in Switzerland with that kind of dough."

[Rosato closed the briefcase and lifted it by the handle before standing up.]

Rosato: "Alright, I better head back home. I'll do my best to keep Al in control and see if can pull a few strings to have him talk to you both. In the meantime, Yuri, you just keep gaining BoEMC's trust until you seize an opportunity...and whatever you do, try not to blow your cover."

[With that, Rosato was out the door.]

The next day, at the clubhouse...

[Yolantha had just returned to the clubhouse and saw Burgundy and T-Bone sharing drinks with another man at a table in the corner. It was the same man who testified against Alex in court last night, only this time, he was wearing the same getup as the other bikers and his jacket had the title of president on it. Burgundy saw the woman and called out to her.]

Burgundy: "Hey, Yolantha! Come over here! Meet the head honcho!"

[Yolantha didn't hesitate and walked over to the table.]

Rodd: "So, this is the new girl?"

Burgundy: "Yes, Rodd. This is Yolantha. Yolantha, why don't you have a seat and get to know the president better?"

[Yolantha sat at the table with the three heads of the group.]

Rodd: "So, Burgundy and T-Bone say that you're a fun-loving girl?"

Yolantha: "Of course."

Rodd: "Well, I'd say they made a good call in showing you the ropes, especially Burgundy. The name's Calvin, but everyone calls me Rodd. Welcome to our family. I know it's not exactly happy, but it's still big nonetheless. I assume that Burgundy told you about the tension that's been going on around here?"

Yolantha: "Yeah, but I'm doing my best to fit in."

Rodd: "That's good. I know things have been uneasy lately, but we're not gonna let all this negativity tear us apart... Are we, you two?"

Burgundy: "Like hell we are."

T-Bone: "No way, R."

[Just then, the TV showed the trial.]

Burgundy: "This is it, Yolantha. The last day before the final verdict is given."

T-Bone: "Who are they going to call to the stand this time?"

Rodd: "Well, there's only one more person left to question... And I have a really good feeling who it might be."

Yolantha: "Who?"

Rosato: "I now call... Mr. Alex Santiago to the stand."

Burgundy: "Does that answer your question?"

Rodd: "We best get a better view. Let's hope that asshole has the decency to admit himself."

[With that, Yolantha and the trio took their seats at the bar.]

[Alex was called to the stand. Koch was watching the trial from his hotel room while the BoEMC and SoEMC members were watching from the clubhouse bar, Yolantha being among them. Alex had one hand on a bible while having his other hand raised.]

Bailiff: "Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God?"

Alex: "Si."

Prescott: "Alright, you may speak now, Mr. Rosato."

Rosato: "Thank you, your honor."

[Rosato walked over to Alex and cleared his own throat.]

Rosato: "Alright then, Alex. Let's get one thing clear: Did you kill your wife on the night of July 9th, 2017?"

Alex: "Si...I did."

Rosato: "And why did you do it?"

Alex: "Because I...was trapped in a love triangle between her and Gena Artega. She wanted me to choose, and I ended up picking Gena. She even told me to kill my wife. I wanted to back out of that affair, but I was so stressed out that I couldn't think straight and...completely lost it."

Rosato: "Was that the only reason why you did it?"

Alex: "No...it wasn't. Less than two weeks prior, my son's girlfriend started staying over at my house after an argument with her father. But then, she started talking to my daughter and my wife before they started warming up to her."

Rosato: "You also found out that Lori was pregnant with your son's child shortly after you murdered your wife, didn't you?"

Alex: "Yeah... I didn't know about it when she first arrived. But once my son let it slip during an argument...I lost it. I've been teaching him and Ronalda not to be so reckless, and Junior ended up doing it anyway. We lived on a low income, so there was no way I could pay for child support. That was when the Loud familia took them in."

Rosato: "And was this the reason why you kidnapped Lincoln Loud and used him as ransom for your kids?"

Alex: "Si... I was desperate. I love my children very much. But...once they turned their backs on me, my life fell apart. I lost my business, my home is gone, and now I was forced to live north of the border."

Rosato: "Mr. Santiago, what can you tell me about your childhood?"

Vyzer: "Objection! Relevance?"

Rosato: "Maybe something in his past would help us better understand his motivations. I mean, haven't we all had bad memories as children?"

Prescott: "Very well, Mr. Rosato. But be brief about it."

Rosato: "Thank you, Your Honor."

[Rosato turned to look at Alex again.]

Rosato: "Tell us about your past, Mr. Santiago."

Alex: "Well, I can't remember much, but I was abandoned by my familia as a baby. For most of my childhood, I was raised in an orphanage. None of the other kids ever wanted to hang out with me because of the color of my skin, and the nuns didn't cut me any slack either. They would just beat me around to no end. I was pretty much an outcast in that place...a loner. Finally, at the age of six, I was sent to live with a foster family. Life with those people was no better either. They've...abused me, just like the nuns at the orphanage. My foster parents would leave me with little to nothing to eat while their children were plentifully provided. They would also single me out for anything their children did wrong, then they would take me down to the basement and whip me while not wearing a shirt. But the worst part of that experience..."

[Alex went silent for a moment before having the courage to speak up.]

Alex: "My foster madre, she...tried to have her way with me... She was drunk one night and took me into the basement while wearing lingerie... I don't want to go into any more details, but living with those people was nothing but hell."

Rosato: "And what was the color of their skin, Mr. Santiago?"

Alex: "They were...white. Most of the children they had came from other ethnicities, and I was among them."

Rosato: "So you feel like you were being oppressed? Like you were ridiculed because of how you looked?"

[Vyzer sighed and rolled his eyes before mumbling to himself.]

Vyzer: "Oh, God. He's playing the race card."

Alex: "Yes...I do."

Rosato: "Is that one of your reasons for taking your anger out on your wife and children?"

Alex: "Yeah...it was. I can't help that all my anger came from a couple of white trash scumbags. They ruined my life just as soon as I was under their wing. I just wanted to be treated like a normal person, to live in society without any hardships...but I can't have that...can I?"

Rosato: "And what was your motivation for attempting to kill Lincoln instead of keeping your end of the bargain?"

Alex: "Honestly...I don't know... And I can't remember either... I guess I was just jealous."

Rosato: "Jealous?"

Alex: "Yes... I was jealous that the Loud family really loved each other. I mean, I never got to know my real parents, and my own adoptive familia treated me like a nobody, a lackey, a punching bag, a waste of space who should never have been born. I mean, it's like Mr. McBride said: That harsh method of parenting can spread to their child. Well, I was one of those children, so you can blame them for the way I am now. And when my own children didn't respect me, I only lashed at them in anger."

[Alex put his hand over his eyes as he appeared to be on the verge of tears.]

Alex: "Ay Dios Mio... What have I done? I'm not a bad person. I just wanted my children to be safe... I just wanted them to live the life that I couldn't live... Is that a crime?"

[The jury kept listening to Alex's sob story. Only a couple of Hispanic members were moved by it.]

Alex: "I know it's probably not enough to excuse the things that I've done, but if I could take it all back, my daughter wouldn't have been in the hospital...and Lydia...would still be...alive..."

[As everyone in the clubhouse watched the trial, Bearl was sobbing when he heard Alex's story.]

Bearl: "Oh, El Jefe! You poor, poor soul!"

[Bearl then grabbed T-Bone's jacket and blew his nose on it, much to the disgust of the guy wearing it.]

T-Bone: "Jesus Christ, Bearl!"

Bearl: "How can anyone live such a horrible life like that?"

[And with that, Bearl continued sobbing on T-Bone's jacket while the other stout biker groaned in frustration.]

[Rodd simply stared at the screen. Despite all the things Alex has done, Rodd couldn't help but feel a touch of pity for his former friend. But all the same, he knew that he needed to be punished for his actions.]

Rosato: "Thank you."

[Rosato then turned to face the jury.]

Rosato: "Ladies and gentlemen of the jury... What you see before you is a clearly misguided man, unloved, unwanted, forced to go through the trials of the world we live in. You know, I was certain that we were living in a more progressive and tolerant world. But now, we have a bigoted president who wants to build a giant wall around this country to keep my client's people out of it! If you ask me, the people who abused my client should be on that stand right now instead of him! But I guess it's too late for that now, isn't it? Alex Santiago may have his flaws, but he is pretty much a slave to this society just as the rest of his people in our current United States of America! And I will say, from the bottom of my heart, that if you find this man guilty, then you will find yourselves guilty as well!"

[Rosato pointed at the jury as he said that last sentence.]

[Back at the clubhouse, Bearl and some of the other bikers who still supported Alex (both male and female) simply supported Rosato's statement, much to the annoyance of the majority who didn't.]

Vyzer: "Objection! Approach?"

Prescott: "Granted."

[With that, Vyzer got up from his desk and approached the judge.]

Vyzer: "You can't seriously buy this, can you? I mean this man has murdered his wife, kidnapped a young boy, and then tried to kill him. Not to mention that he practically hospitalized one of his own kids. If you let this man walk free, there's no telling what he'll do next! We are talking about a total mistrial here!"

[Prescott raised his free hand in response.]

Prescott: "I am aware of these charges, Mr. Vyzer, but unless by some chance the defendant cracks, the jury might have to change the verdict. However, I will allow you to give your final statement to Mr. Santiago. I just hope to God that you're prepared."

Vyzer: "Thank you, Your Honor. And don't worry...I've got plenty of ammo."

[As Rosato walked back to his seat, Vyzer walked over to Alex hoping that he could turn this case in his favor.]

Vyzer: "So, you admit that you killed your wife out of anger?"

Alex: "Si...and I'm not proud of it, either."

Vyzer: "Let me ask you this, Mr. Santiago: What is your honest opinion of the Loud family?"

Alex: "Oh, well, I think they're decent people. In fact, they're pretty famous in their neighborhood. I mean, it's not every day you see a family with eleven kids, am I right? And as you already know, one of their chicas is expecting."

Vyzer: "Uh-huh... And you admit that you kidnapped Lincoln Loud and held him for ransom in exchange for your own children? Correct?"

[Alex looked over at the crowd, who were waiting for his defense. The big man just sighed.]

Alex: "Yes...I did."

[The prosecutor began walking around the room as he asked another question.]

Vyzer: "So, if you think the Loud Family are decent people, why go through all the trouble of kidnapping their only son?"

Alex: "I told you, I didn't know what I was thinking."

Vyzer: "Oh really? Then riddle me this, Alex: Who is Gena Artega?"

Alex: "An old girlfriend of mine. But what does she have to-"

Vyzer: "She was an accomplice to your little scheme in Fernville? Correct?"

Alex: "Yes...she was."

Vyzer: "And wasn't she the leader of the now-disbanded gang known as Las Hermanas? Didn't she and her sister torture Lincoln while you held him captive? Including seductive dancing and attempted statutory rape to a 12-year-old?"

Alex: "Maybe she did. But I did not authorize that!"

Vyzer: "You said that you ransomed Lincoln Loud so you could get your children back, but you claim you don't know why you wanted to kill him? Well?"

Alex: "I...uh..."

Vyzer: "Didn't you tell Artega on Thanksgiving night that, and I quote: 'You can torture him all you want'?"

Alex: "Yes... But I strictly told them not to kill him!"

Vyzer: "No! Of course, you didn't! Because you wanted to do so yourself! Right before your own daughter literally took the bullet for Lincoln, which was fired by YOUR own hand!"

[Vyzer pointed at Alex as he put emphasis on the 'YOUR' word.]

Alex: "Yeah! I did!"

Vyzer: "And is it true that you made an empty promise to Artega about making her your children's new mother once the deed was done?!"

Alex: "Of course I have! I had to get her on board somehow!"

Vyzer: "So, it wouldn't have mattered how many people you had to use and sacrifice to get your way!"

Rosato: "Objection!"

Vyzer: "And it wouldn't have mattered if Ronnie Anne's hospitalization was purely an accident!"

Rosato: "Your Honor!"

[Alex's appearance darkened as Vyzer continued to talk down to his former employer.]

Vyzer: "Because in your mind, you saw her as NOTHING! A DISGRACE! A COMPLETE and TOTAL waste of space who should NEVER have been BORN! Am I RIGHT?!"

Rosato: "Objection, your Honor!"

Prescott: "Sit down, Rosato... I want to see where this goes."

[Alex's blood started to boil.]

Vyzer: "And I'm willing to bet that you think the same way about your son as well! Your wife and children were nothing more than trophies for your little collection, and the Louds were just obstacles in your way! You just wanted to see them suffer because their son spoke up about your daughter...didn't you? Because you couldn't handle the reality of losing your children to people who are more experienced in parenting than you!"

Alex: "Shut up, Ed..."

[Vyzer banged his hands on the stand and stared into his former employer's eyes.]

Vyzer: "You're either lying about everything you said or you're just stretching the truth to force sympathy from these people! And I know what kind of abuse this is because I suffered through it while working with YOU! So, why don't you just drop the whole act and tell the entire court the REAL truth? Go on now, Alex... Tell us! You have no problem with killing kids! ADMIT IT!"

Alex: "I SAID SHUT THE FUCK UP!"

[Suddenly, Vyzer felt something ram into his jaw like a high-speed train before the assistant DA was sent backward onto the floor. The crowd and jury gasped in horror at the sight, and then a few seconds of silence before Alex started to chuckle darkly.]

Alex: "You're right... You're goddamn right! I DID try to kill Lincoln because he and his fuckin' family are awful! They are nothing more than savage, degenerate white trash who live off of abuse! And as for Ronalda, it's her own fuckin' fault the little brat got shot in the first place! And you can bet your fuckin' balls that Lydia died because that blonde sin-filled puta couldn't keep her toxic fuckin' mouth shut!"

[Prescott banged his gavel a few times.]

Prescott: "Order! Order!"

Alex: "It's Lori this and baby that! Lori, Lori, Lori... Oh, I'll never forget her name! Who's to say that she wasn't a fuckin' angel herself, huh? NONE of them are, and I'll never forget any of those fucks! She charmed my son into getting her fuckin' pregnant just so she can steal him from me! Just like how that fuckin' white-haired coño Lincoln Loud did to Ronalda! Well, you know what I say? FUCK 'EM! Fuck every single one of those low-down, Loud putas to fuckin' hell and back! I fuckin' hope their entire house burns to the FUCKIN' ground until it's nothing but smoldering ashes!"

[Prescott kept banging his gavel in the hopes of getting Alex to stop his tirade.]

Prescott: "Order in the court!"

Alex: "And most importantly, I swear on my title, that one of these days, for all their actions, for taking away everything that was important to me, the LOUDS...will FUCKING...PAAAAAAAAYYYYYYY!"

[Alex's voice echoed throughout the courtroom as he yelled out that last word before silence fell again. The only sound being Alex's heavy breathing. Rosato put his hand over his face and groaned in frustration.]

Rosato: "Aw... Mama Mia..."

[Vyzer regained consciousness and spit out a tooth before rubbing his sore jaw. He had received a bruise where Alex punched him and lost a couple of teeth as well as blood leaked from his mouth.]

Vyzer: "I..."

[Vyzer spat out a bloodied tooth into his hand before finishing his sentence.]

Vyzer: "...rest my case."

Prescott: "Oh Lord, have mercy."

[Prescott made a cross signal on his chest before clearing his throat.]

Prescott: "Thank you, Mr. Vyzer. I think we've got everything we need. This court will conclude tomorrow. The jury will take its time to reflect on the verdict until then. Though given the defendant's records and truths, as well as his...last-minute performance, I highly think it will be a unanimous vote. The defendant will be held in contempt for the rest of the trial. Until then, we are temporarily dismissed."

[And with that, the whole courtroom began clearing out.]

[Back at the clubhouse, everyone was equally silent for a few seconds upon watching the scene until Bearl broke the silence.]

Bearl: "Yahoo! You tell 'em, El Jefe!"

Woman: "Oh my God, would you shut up?!"

Bearl: "Jesus, Lady! You think I don't have a right to stand up for him?"

T-Bone: "Will you just give it up already, Bearl! There's no doubt that Alex is going to get what's coming to him."

Woman: "You tell 'im, T baby!"

Rodd: "Alright, everyone just calm down."

Woman: "No! T-Bone's right! Santiago tried to kill his own children! He is one-hundred percent guilty!"

Bearl: "El Jefe should be free! He's innocent, I tell ya! Innocent!"

Women: "Guilty!"

Men: "Innocent!"

Woman: "You tough guys want to make a problem of this?! Huh?!"

Darrell: "Why don't you come at us, bitches?!"

[Sensing another fight coming on, Rodd motioned for Burgundy to take Yolanda outside for a bit. As soon as they were out the door, the two women heard the sounds of roughhousing coming from the building.]

Yolantha: "Does this happen every night?"

Burgundy: "Yeah, well things haven't been the same ever since Alex got arrested. Fighting has been getting worse and the group is becoming more and more divided. I just hope that Rodd and I can keep everyone together for a bit longer. So, what do you think of Alex?"

Yolantha: "Hm... He's...quite a charmer. That's how I'd best describe him."

Burgundy: "Well, all I can say is: After showing off THAT little display of his, it's definitely the chair for him now."

Yolantha: "I don't know about that. What if by some chance he...busts out...somehow?"

Burgundy: "HAH! As if somebody would willingly be stupid enough to help Alex break out. I'm telling you, Yo, once the jury reaches their verdict, El Jefe will be El Fin! The writing is on the wall for him."

Yolantha: "Yeah, well... I'll see you tomorrow, Burgundy."

[And with that, Yolantha headed back to the hotel while Burgundy dashed back into the clubhouse. On the way back, Yolantha took her cell phone out of her jacket and dialed a number before putting the phone to her ear. After two beeps, Koch answered from the other end.]

Koch: "Yeah?"

Yuri: "Did you catch all of that?"

Koch: "Oh, I did. I'm not surprised that the D.A. would cut so deep."

Yuri: "Honestly, I didn't think he'd be this good. Makes me wonder how different it would be if my friends and I just killed him."

Koch: "Well, nothing we can do about that now. Why don't we meet up with Rosato at the Royal Woods Detention Center? He told me that he managed to arrange a visit with Alex. Now we'll be able to talk to him about getting back at Castleton for all he's done to us."

Yuri: "Da, Kochovich. I'll talk to you when I see you again... Poca."

[Yuri hung up and put the phone in her pocket as she kept walking.]

Meanwhile, at the Royal Woods Detention Center...

[Alex sat at a table in a confined cell when Rosato walked in.]

Alex: "I really fucked up, haven't I?"

Rosato: "Not necessarily, Al. I got in touch with a couple of guys and they want to meet you."

Alex: "Really? And just who are these people?"

Rosato: "Well, I think you might know one of them. Does the name Kochner ring any bells?"

[Alex thought for a moment before smirking.]

Alex: "Si... I think it does."

Okay, well it looks like the odds are in the people's favor at Alex's trial. Also, it seems that the defense attorney is in cahoots with Alex and Bearl. But this is just the beginning.

I know that you're probably still worried about Bobby and the Louds, but as soon as the second half of this chapter is over, we'll see what happens.

Also, I apologize if the court scene isn't exactly the best. I was trying to be as accurate as I could in terms of the justice system.

Anyway, stay tuned and I'll catch you later.

Mike the Red Engine: Just checking.

Gamelover41592: Indeed.

Geo Soul: The wait will be worth it.

MoreABoutThomas: Seems likely.

wollyworld: And it's going to get more interesting from there.

Tristen: There's a chance that she might not know until it's too late.

Guest: Hopefully he will.

DarthWill3: Maybe she has, but we'll have to wait until the next main chapter.

Batdude365: What, and ruin the plot? But seriously, Lori didn't want to risk getting into an accident while she's expecting.