Chapter 2: Historical Places

As Jericho strides along the foyer, he makes his way into an empty chamber to indulge in the pleasure of freshly rolled tobacco, seeking solitude for his solitary vice. Unperturbed by the risks, Joseph seizes the moment without a moment's hesitation, slipping into the room with stealth and determination.

"What's wrong with you, pal?" Jericho antagonized.

"Nothing particular, I just want to ask a few questions."

"I don't even know who you are, the best you can do is to walk out from here,"

"I want to be in your family!"

"You reckon I give a damn about you, punk? Learn some manners before you dare to confront someone like me," Jericho retorts with a cutting sneer. His voice drips with disdain, a clear display of his contempt for Joseph's audacity.

Undeterred by the derision, Joseph stands his ground, his gaze unwavering as he meets Jericho's icy stare. He refuses to be intimidated, the fire of determination burning fiercely within him. Although faced with a formidable opponent, Joseph knows that his quest for the truth and justice cannot be swayed by mere taunts.

In the face of Jericho's arrogance, Joseph remains resolute, holding firm to his convictions. He knows that the road ahead is perilous, but he is unyielding in his resolve to uncover the secrets that lie beneath the conflict. With a calm yet unwavering demeanor, he silently vows to persevere, undeterred by the obstacles that stand in his path.

This tense exchange marks the beginning of a battle of wills, where Joseph's determination and fortitude will clash against Jericho's arrogance and power. In this high-stakes encounter, the outcome remains uncertain, but Joseph is willing to face whatever lies ahead to achieve the freedom and justice that he and his people deserve. As the two adversaries lock eyes, a silent storm brews between them, and the stage is set for a gripping tale of courage, sacrifice, and the unyielding pursuit of truth.

Jericho promptly ejects Joseph from the room, crushing the teenager's first attempt to glean information about the conflict. The air crackles with tension, hinting at the possibility of a brewing confrontation within those walls. However, Joseph, undeterred by the aggressive response, chooses a more prudent approach, opting to play it safe for the time being.

Although war may loom inside that room, Joseph recognizes that discretion is the better part of valour. Instead of engaging in a direct altercation, he decides to bide his time, strategically assessing the situation and waiting for a more opportune moment to unveil the truth behind the conflict. Like a crafty player in a high-stakes game, Joseph chooses to navigate this treacherous terrain with caution, keeping his cards close to his chest.

In this dangerous dance of intrigue and power, Joseph remains steadfast in his pursuit of justice and freedom for his people. As he treads the fine line between audacity and prudence, he knows that the stakes are high, and one wrong move could tip the scales either way. The stage is set for a gripping battle of wits and wills, where the fate of a nation hangs in the balance, and Joseph must tread with the precision of a seasoned tactician to outmanoeuvre his adversaries and achieve his vision of a liberated future.

Feeling the weight of the situation, Joseph seeks solace in the counsel of his trusted companion, Riff. With a mix of vulnerability and determination, he approaches Riff, knowing that their bond goes beyond mere friendship – it is a connection forged in the tranquil waters of Kamassa Lake, where they first met at a fishing camp.

United by shared experiences and a mutual understanding of life's complexities, Joseph finds comfort in Riff's wisdom. They have weathered storms together, their camaraderie strengthened by the challenges they've faced side by side. Riff's presence is a source of reassurance, a grounding force that helps Joseph navigate the uncharted waters of their current predicament.

As they converse, the weight of their exchange is not lost on either of them. They delve into the intricacies of the conflict, exchanging thoughts and ideas, seeking a way to untangle the web of secrets that surrounds them. Riff's sagacity becomes a guiding light, illuminating the path ahead and imbuing Joseph with the courage to face the unknown.

In the face of adversity, their bond proves unshakeable, serving as an anchor in the tumultuous sea of uncertainty. Together, they share the burden of responsibility, determined to rise above the challenges that stand in their way. In this crucible of friendship and determination, Joseph draws strength from Riff's counsel, realizing that their unity holds the key to unlocking the truth and forging a path towards liberation.

As they continue to navigate the labyrinth of intrigue and danger, Joseph knows that he can rely on Riff's unwavering support and wisdom. Their connection is more than mere companionship – it is a lifeline in a world of uncertainties, providing hope and fortitude as they strive to reclaim their land and create a future where freedom and justice reign.

With a keen eye and an insatiable thirst for knowledge, Riff shares his findings with Joseph, delving into the intricate web of suspects entangled in the conflict. As a seasoned observer and an avid researcher, Riff's insights prove invaluable in shedding light on the shadowy figures behind the turmoil that haunts their land.

He reveals a roster of intriguing names, each etched with their own tales of power and influence. Jericho of the Bima, a formidable presence known for his ferocity in combat; Judas Iscariot of the Irish Whip, whose cunning ways evoke an air of betrayal; Callanderino Davey of the Great Stranded Boys, a figure shrouded in mystery; Goda-Onna, whose enigmatic presence looms like a haunting spectre; and Gatling Gaylord of the Red Lights Night, a name that conjures images of unyielding force.

As Riff recounts these names, his passion for discovery is evident, a spark igniting in his eyes as he shares the fruits of his tireless research. Each piece of information unravels a thread of the enigmatic puzzle, bringing them closer to uncovering the truth that lies beneath the surface.

In this crucial moment of revelation, Joseph realises the value of having Riff as an ally. His knowledge and acute observation skills provide a beacon of clarity amidst the fog of uncertainty. With Riff by his side, Joseph knows that he has an invaluable asset, a partner who can help navigate the complexities of the conflict.

"You have figured out the suspects so far, now the motive is the score." Riff addressed.

"Wait, how could you get so much information regarding this matter?"

"One of our fishing buddies, Meme. He witnessed the raping of Yynn Lee."

As Riff unveils another harrowing piece of the puzzle, Joseph's world is shattered by the revelation. Anguish and fury surge within him, mingling with an overwhelming desire for revenge and justice.

The gravity of the situation weighs heavy on Joseph's heart, and his mind races with a torrent of emotions. In the face of such heinous brutality, his sense of righteousness burns with an intensity he has never known before. Vengeance becomes a whisper in his ear, urging him to take matters into his own hands, to avenge the unspeakable harm inflicted upon Yynn.

Yet, amidst the tempest of emotions, the word "justice" stands as a steadfast beacon. A gnawing need for redress grips Joseph's soul, fueling his determination to bring the perpetrators to account for their abhorrent deeds. In this crucible of sorrow and rage, Joseph recognises the dangerous path that revenge might lead him down. Instead, he resolves to seek justice through lawful means, to channel his fury into a pursuit that will hold the guilty accountable and heal the wounds of those they have harmed.

With Riff's absolute support and wisdom, Joseph finds the strength to navigate this turbulent sea of emotions and devise a plan that upholds the principles of truth and justice. The path ahead is fraught with peril, but he knows that he must rise above the darkness within to ensure that the light of justice prevails.

In the heart of this unfolding tragedy, Joseph's resolve crystallises, steadfast in his vow to protect Yynn and seek retribution for the atrocities committed against her. As the echoes of their fishing buddy's witness resound in his mind, he sets forth with a heavy heart and an unyielding spirit, determined to confront the darkness that threatens to engulf their world. The pursuit of justice becomes a battle cry, driving him forward on a perilous journey that will test the limits of his courage and resilience.

"So, this Meme guy, I know he just witnessed something terrible and sure he was afraid of that moment because you know how these furious entities would do to him. But shouldn't now be the right time for us to do the right thing? Not a single report has done by anyone, well maybe we shouldn't lodge a report out of Yynn's knowledge because that'd bring shame to her and her family. The wrongs hadn't been punished yet, they are still out there creating traumas in these folks heads. Am I going to let it be? Negative." Joseph spoke out his mind.

The plot is easy, to add insult to injury. Yynn's father Van Do Lee is the ruler of this injustice land and patronage of these filthy families. What would it take to make such an extremist leader hear what an underling would say to him about his subordinates?

The revelation that Yynn's father, Van Do Lee, holds a position of power as the ruler of the unjust land and is closely associated with the very families responsible for the despicable acts leaves Joseph grappling with a complex dilemma. To confront an extremist leader like Van Do Lee and make him listen to an underling's words about his subordinates requires a delicate balance of strategy, courage, and tenacity.

Knowing that approaching Van Do Lee directly may be a perilous endeavour, Joseph realises that he must devise a plan that subverts the layers of patronage and power. He understands that appealing to Van Do Lee's conscience may be an exercise in futility, as such leaders often prioritise their own interests and hold little regard for the plight of their underlings.

To penetrate the walls of Van Do Lee's influence, Joseph recognises the importance of gathering allies and evidence to bolster his cause. He must rally the support of those who have also suffered under the tyranny of the ruling families, uniting the oppressed to form a force greater than the ruler's grasp.

In this quest for justice, Joseph must be both cautious and cunning. He might explore covert means of spreading awareness, using underground networks to share the truth about the families' atrocities and Van Do Lee's complicity. Disseminating the information discreetly could create cracks in the façade of power, eroding the foundation of patronage and revealing the truth to those who have been deceived.

As he embarks on this perilous mission, Joseph knows that he and his allies must be prepared for the risks and sacrifices that lie ahead. Van Do Lee's wrath will undoubtedly be formidable, and the price of speaking out against such a tyrant may be steep.

Yet, the call for justice and the desire to protect the innocent fuels Joseph's determination. Together with his friends and allies, he will weave a tapestry of resistance, seeking to dismantle the web of patronage and confront the extremist leader with the truth he so desperately wishes to hide.

In this thrilling tale of courage and rebellion, the stage is set for a battle that goes beyond physical might. It becomes a clash of ideals and a test of the human spirit, where the quest for justice drives Joseph and his allies forward into the heart of darkness, aiming to bring down the oppressive regime and liberate the land from the chains of tyranny.

After school, Joseph invites Zechariah and Riff to his compound located at a stigmatised property near Joseph's place.

"You got quite a lot of companions here buddy." Zechariah joked about it.

"Oh, you stop it now." Joseph scolded.

"So, you all got the message right? This matter here is deadly serious. This place got full of criminal activity, thanks to these atrocious fellers. It's a long journey for us since we are too young. Still, that's not the point here because our foes are about the same age as us. So, if we gather enough strength, sooner or later we can free ourselves from this never-ending suffering." Joseph declared.

"Yeah, we play a hero role now eh?" Zechariah ridiculed.

"I don't mind about it at all, those family members, they have been victimising us all along the watchtower. Now, I have the chance to shut them up, why would I waste it huh?" Riff complimented Joseph's intelligence.

"You need to ask Meme Chanchaburi more about the incident, he couldn't give me the full details and it pissed me off. Do I look like someone who can't be trusted?"

"Well I don't know about that, but you are terrific(terrifying) buddy," Joseph responded.

"You hear that Zack? What's wrong with folks these days?!"

"Listen, we need to make sure we have the higher grounds." Said Joseph as he explains the plan later on.

"Ah, it's getting late boys, do what you want, I'm out of here." Said Joseph as he goes to a worn mattress and lay his head, mind and heart ready to call it a day.

Hidden away like a long-lost secret, the compound stands silent and forgotten, an old gang hideout concealed within the shadows, merely ten kilometres from Joseph's residence. Over the years, its existence has remained shrouded in mystery, evading the prying eyes of the world. Somehow, the knowledge of its existence eluded discovery, veiled by an invisible cloak of secrecy.

It was a chance encounter, etched in Joseph's memory like an indelible mark, that revealed the presence of this enigmatic building. A mere ten years old at the time, he stumbled upon the compound by accident, stumbling into the depths of danger without the slightest inkling of what lay ahead. As he approached, his heart pounding with trepidation, the sight that met his young eyes was nothing short of intimidating.

Fearsome men, their steely gazes scanning the surroundings with the precision of hawks, stood as formidable guardians of the hidden fortress. Joseph's young mind couldn't fully comprehend the implications of what he witnessed, but he knew enough to sense the gravity of the situation. This was no ordinary building; it exuded an aura of danger and forbidden secrets.

In the years that followed, the memory of that day lingered in Joseph's mind, etching itself deep into his consciousness. He wondered about the purpose of the compound and the powerful figures who seemed to command its dark corridors. Yet, the passage of time buried his curiosity beneath the weight of life's daily challenges.

As Joseph cautiously attempted to draw nearer to the hidden compound, he found himself under the watchful gaze of some fellow shady men, who seemed to emerge from the very shadows themselves. Their presence was an unsettling reminder of the danger lurking within those walls, and they wasted no time in issuing him a stern warning.

"Boy, you better turn around and leave this place be," one of them growled, his eyes narrowed with suspicion. "This ain't a life you want to mess with. It's dangerous, and it'll swallow you whole if you ain't careful."

Their words carried the weight of experience, a cautionary tale woven from the dark threads of their own past. They knew all too well the perils that accompanied their chosen path, and they felt compelled to protect a young soul like Joseph from the same fate.

Although the encounter was brief, it left a mark on Joseph's impressionable mind. The warning echoed in his thoughts, a haunting reminder of the life he almost stumbled into. But, as the years rolled on, the allure of mischief and rebellion gradually took root within him.

The call of thrill and rebellion, coupled with the undeniable curiosity of youth, led Joseph down a mischievous path. He ventured into acts that tested the boundaries of society, a path that seemed exhilarating but, in reality, only brought fleeting satisfaction. With each transgression, he found himself drifting further from the advice of those shady men, who once sought to steer him clear of trouble.

As he grew older and wiser, the haze of rebellion began to dissipate. In the aftermath of his wild pursuits, he confronted the consequences of his actions and the regrets that clouded his conscience. The clarity of hindsight revealed the wisdom behind the advice he had been given.

The mistakes of his past weighed heavily upon him, but they also served as poignant lessons. With maturity came introspection, and Joseph vowed to change his course. He resolved to become a better version of himself, to heed the advice he had once disregarded.

In the crucible of self-discovery, Joseph made a solemn promise to live decently and to embrace the path of righteousness. He recognized that true strength lay not in rebellion but in the courage to choose decency and integrity, even when faced with temptation.

The journey of growth and redemption lay ahead, and Joseph embraced it with humility and determination. As he strove to shed the shadows of his past, he discovered the power of self-awareness and the value of embracing the advice of those who once sought to guide him. In his quest to be a decent man, Joseph found strength in his newfound wisdom, a beacon of light guiding him toward the life he had always been meant to live.

"Jericho is a strange feller, not much that people know about him. He is an orphan, I guess growing up is difficult for him. Being a family member is not uncommon here, but a leader? That is impressive! I should not praise him that much, he is a suspect in my case and I'm not going back down this time, this only time!" Joseph brightened himself up as he is against a prodigy.

Under the cover of night, the boys found themselves gathered in the old compound, their minds ablaze with the audacious plan they had named "Faith" – a daring scheme for freedom and liberation. The symphony of crickets filled the air, a fitting backdrop to their fervent discussions and dreams of a better tomorrow.

As they exchanged ideas and strategies, their hearts brimmed with hope and anticipation. They yearned for the day when their land would be free from the clutches of injustice, a day when the shackles of oppression would be shattered. Their vision of "Faith" was not just a fleeting desire; it was a beacon of hope that illuminated their path toward a brighter future.

Amidst the nocturnal symphony, parents, those guardians of love and concern who held the key to the hearts. Any parents' hearts will be filled with worry and care. They longed for their children's safe return home, nurturing dreams of their offspring blossoming into something meaningful and beneficial.

Each mother carried the precious burden of a child within her womb for nine months, cherishing the hope that they would grow into individuals of integrity and purpose. The fathers, too, bore the responsibility of nurturing a small organisation known as the family, where love and support were the very foundations upon which our lives were built.