Chapter 6: A Lake and Baits.

With a swift and enthusiastic response, Joseph eagerly accepted Meme's invitation to a fishing expedition. His fingers danced across the keyboard, not only confirming his attendance but also mentioning his intention to invite his steadfast companion, Riff. The plans solidified rapidly, and tomorrow was decreed as the auspicious day for their rendezvous. The chosen setting, none other than the storied Kamassa Lake, held a poignant significance, as it was the very location where Joseph's path first intersected with that of Riff's—a twist of fate that now saw them converging again for a shared adventure.

Soon thereafter, Joseph departs from the cyber cafe and makes his way toward the nearest convenience store. A low, persistent growl from his stomach reminds him of his hunger, prompting him to mutter, "It's been a while since I had a proper meal." His hand instinctively finds its way to his belly, as if in agreement with his appetite's insistence. As he approaches the store, a sense of anticipation fills him, hoping to find an affordable culinary solution to his grumbling stomach. The store's exterior suggests budget-friendly offerings, coaxing him to venture inside, in pursuit of a satisfying reprieve for his hunger.

He peruses the array of items neatly arranged on the store's shelves, his eyes skimming over the choices. Before long, his selection is made – an energy bar that promises a quick fix to his persistent hunger. With the sought-after snack in hand, he proceeds to the checkout counter, where he exchanges a sum of 150 Banana Leaf for the replenishing sustenance. Exiting the store, a renewed sense of contentment accompanies him as he envisions savouring his impromptu meal.

Nestled upon a solid rock that had likely witnessed the passage of countless souls, Joseph made himself comfortable. The rock's location, not too distant from the vibrant pulse of the town's central attractions, offered him a serene vantage point. As he settled, his eyes were captivated by the grandeur of the expansive sea before him – its undulating waves, like storytellers of distant lands, whispered tales of adventures yet to be had.

Unwrapping the energy bar with anticipation, he took his first bite, savoring the harmonious dance of flavors that erupted in his mouth. The nourishing sustenance was a welcome companion to the soothing symphony of the sea breeze that enveloped him. Bite after bite, his senses were invigorated, each morsel imbued with a burst of vitality that mirrored the sea's restless spirit.

With each glance cast at the horizon's boundless expanse, he felt an intangible connection to the world around him. The rhythmic cadence of the waves, the symphony of the winds, and the panoramic canvas of sea and sky all converged to create a tranquil moment amid the ceaseless currents of his life. It was a fleeting yet profound communion, a quiet pause amidst the hustle and bustle that surrounded him.

A cry for assistance pierced through the air, capturing Joseph's attention like a siren's call.

"Help! Help! Help!" The anguished plea reverberated urgently, the desperation evident in the woman's voice. Her distress was palpable as she recounted the crime that had just unfolded – a brazen snatcher had callously seized her purse.

Reacting swiftly, Joseph sprang to his feet, his innate sense of justice propelling him into action. But before he could fully assess the situation, another figure emerged onto the scene. Ban Sukpimai, a familiar presence known for his adept hunting skills and tenacity, sprinted forward with a resolute determination. With an impressive burst of speed, he closed the gap between himself and the snatcher, launching himself into a tackle that brought the thief crashing to the ground.

In the blink of an eye, Ban's practiced movements transformed into a seamless display of restraint. Swiftly, he subdued the snatcher, applying a deft chokehold that left the miscreant incapacitated. The thief's struggles dwindled, his consciousness fading as the hold exerted its unyielding grip.

The stolen purse, once a symbol of violation, was promptly reclaimed from the clutches of the snatcher. The woman's anxious expression melted into relief as she clutched her purse, her gratitude evident in her gaze.

In this unexpected tableau of heroism, Joseph witnessed the convergence of Ban's unwavering courage and swift action. It was a stark reminder that within the multifaceted tapestry of life, moments of adversity could give rise to acts of unexpected valour.

Joseph praised the acts, not knowing he just saw the most trusted Van Do Lee's, right-hand man whipping a grown man with an act of righteousness in his sleeves.

"Your kindness is greatly appreciated. I had just left the bank, needing to settle my house loan urgently. Without your intervention, I would have been left in dire straits, uncertain of where I'd lay my head in the days to come," the woman expressed her gratitude to Ban with heartfelt sincerity.

Ban's response resonated with a sense of purpose, his words embodying a commitment to rectify the challenges that plagued their community. "Rest assured, ma'am, it's my solemn duty to contribute to the betterment of this land."

With warm wishes exchanged, the woman offered her blessings, confident that Ban's efforts would lead to triumph. "May the blessings of the day shine upon you, propelling you towards success."

Knowing his work was done here, Ban prepared to depart from the scene, his resolve evident in his demeanor. "I must take my leave now," he conveyed before making his exit, his presence a fleeting yet impactful reminder of the difference that an individual's actions could make in the lives of others.

"Red building, six stories tall, unmistakably the Irish Whip headquarters. Since I'm in Leng Kong Bashi, it's only a matter of time until I encounter Judas Iscariot," Ban muttered with determination. His search led him through the labyrinthine streets for about twenty minutes before he finally stood before the imposing structure that housed the heart of the Irish Whip operations.

A figure emerged from the shadows, introducing himself as Mr. Tortilla, and immediately cast a skeptical gaze upon Ban. "Latecomers are hardly our preference. We don't entertain just anyone."

Remaining calm, Ban replied, "I approach with peaceful intentions, sir. There's no need for hostility."

"So, what's your purpose here?" Mr. Tortilla inquired, his tone cautious.

"In spite of the late hour, I have a desire to meet with Mr. Iscariot," Ban's words were forthright, though he recognised the audacity of his request. "Perhaps my timing is poor. I apologise for the intrusion."

A dismissive nod came from Mr. Tortilla. "Well, the hour isn't in your favor. You can go now."

With a nod of gratitude, Ban turned to leave, his mind already mapping out the next steps in his quest. The encounter was brief, yet it affirmed his determination to overcome obstacles and seek his goal with unwavering dedication.

Mr. Tortilla's phone pierced the air with its urgent ring. Without hesitation, he answered the call, a sense of alertness overcoming him as he took in the identity of the caller – Judas Iscariot himself. The unexpected interruption left him puzzled, his mind racing to discern the reason for Judas's sudden contact during their conversation with the stranger.

His gaze shifted back to Ban Sukpimai, the unknown figure whose intentions were shrouded in mystery. Could this stranger be of significance to Judas Iscariot? Was there a reason for the leader's concern? Mr. Tortilla's thoughts were a whirlwind, questioning the possible connection between Ban and Judas.

From the vantage point of Judas Iscariot's office, a commanding view of the surroundings lay before him. In this pivotal moment, he made a request that cut through the tension with an urgency that could not be ignored. "Eliminate him, that's Ban Sukpimai!" Judas's voice held an edge of alarm, the order clear and resolute.

"Damn you!" Mr. Tortilla's exclamation carried a mix of surprise and frustration as his fist hurtled toward Ban's head. Ban's instincts kicked in, and he swiftly swayed to the left, the punch narrowly missing its target. The tension in the air was palpable as the two figures locked in an impromptu confrontation.

Sensing an opportunity, Ban moved with agility, rolling forward and seizing Mr. Tortilla's right leg in a firm grip. In a fluid motion, he executed a brutal calf crusher, a move designed to inflict excruciating pain on his opponent. Mr. Tortilla's grimace of agony confirmed the effectiveness of the manoeuvre, but his determination burned undiminished.

Despite the searing pain, Mr. Tortilla fought against the hold, his muscles straining as he sought to break free from Ban's vice-like grip. The struggle continued, a battle of wills and strength as the room echoed with the sounds of their grunting efforts. The confrontation had escalated, a clash between unexpected adversaries that would shape their fates in unforeseen ways.

With a surge of brute strength, Mr. Tortilla's massive hands clamped onto Ban's head like a vice. In a swift and vicious motion, he repeatedly slammed the back of Ban's skull onto the unforgiving asphalt road, each impact resounding with a sickening thud. The ferocity of the blows left no room for mercy, and Ban's body went limp, his consciousness fading away.

Unconscious and defenseless, Ban's body was hoisted by Mr. Tortilla, as if he were a mere doll. With a powerful heave, he hurled Ban's motionless form toward the nearby beach. The body collided with the sand, a stark contrast to the earlier vitality that Ban had exhibited.

As the sea breeze swept over the scene, a chilling question hung in the air – was Ban still alive? The savage barrage of head smashes was a lethal onslaught that could easily prove fatal. Mr. Tortilla's thoughts wavered, the gravity of his actions sinking in as his mind grappled with the consequences of his violence. Amidst the turmoil, a struggle between his darker impulses and a flicker of restraint played out, shaping his next move.

With her grocery bags in hand, the woman moved with the agility of a fox, her steps quick and purposeful. Time was of the essence, and she couldn't afford to linger outdoors for too long. As she walked along the pathway near the beach, her eyes caught a glimpse of something that didn't quite fit the scenery – a figure lying motionless on the sand. A sense of unease prickled at the back of her mind, urging her to investigate.

Curiosity mingled with concern, prompting her to approach cautiously. The form she had initially dismissed as a mannequin began to take on a more human quality as she drew nearer. Dread settled in her stomach as realisation struck – this was not an inanimate object, but a person, and one who appeared to be in a dire state.

Setting her grocery bags down, she knelt beside the injured figure, her heart racing. The sight that met her eyes was grim – battered and bloodied, the person's condition was far from reassuring. Every second counted, and she knew that swift action was essential. Her fingers pressed gently against the person's neck, searching for a pulse. Relief washed over her as she detected a faint but steady rhythm beneath her touch.

Summoning her resolve, she retrieved her phone from her pocket and dialled for emergency assistance. Her voice was urgent as she relayed the situation to the dispatcher, describing the injuries and the person's condition. As she awaited help, she kept a watchful eye on the injured individual, her expression a mix of concern and determination. The fleeting thought of the mannequin on the beach had transformed into a stark reality – a life in need of rescue.

"Hey, are you okay?!" she called out, her voice laced with concern.

Silence hung in the air for a moment, the injured figure offering no response.

And then, she saw it – a flicker of movement, a subtle shift in the person's position. Her shock was palpable as realisation dawned upon her.

"Wait, you are!" she exclaimed, her astonishment mingling with relief.

The injured man, seemingly on the brink of unconsciousness, had shown a sign of life. Her quick thinking and prompt action had not gone in vain. A surge of hope swept through her, overshadowing the grim circumstances of their encounter.

As the next day arrived, Joseph found himself eagerly awaiting the arrival of Meme and Riff at the rendezvous point. Positioned by the water's edge, he watched with anticipation as a rented canoe approached. The canoe, though of a rudimentary design, was sizeable enough to accommodate their venture. Gratitude welled within him for the opportunity to secure such a vessel, allowing them to traverse the waters using nothing but paddles and determination.

In a matter of minutes, the familiar figures of Meme and Riff came into view, confirming their arrival. The trio had converged at the designated spot, ready to embark on their shared adventure.

"This is quite the experience," Riff remarked with a sense of appreciation in his voice.

"It's true, this old-style canoe adds a unique charm to our adventure," Meme agreed, his eyes filled with excitement.

With their canoe bobbing gently on the surface of the lake, Meme and Riff settled into their seats. Meanwhile, Joseph applied his energy to the task of propelling the vessel forward, his paddling creating ripples in the tranquil water. The trio was set for a day of exploration, their anticipation mingling with the calm beauty of the surrounding nature.

As the canoe glided over the serene waters of Kamassa Lake, the vast expanse of the 41.88 square kilometre lake unfolded around them. The sheer size of the lake was humbling, and its calm surface reflected the clear blue sky above. The trio's destination, the heart of the lake, was a perfect spot to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

Meme took charge of the paddling, his movements skilful and rhythmic as he guided the canoe towards the middle of the lake. The water was so clear that they could catch glimpses of aquatic life beneath the surface – a world teeming with Largemouth Bass and Bluegill fish. The tranquillity of the scene was almost meditative, a moment of unity between them and the natural world.

As they reached the middle area of the lake, the canoe gently rocked on the water, and the group took a moment to absorb the surroundings. The vastness of Kamassa Lake seemed to stretch endlessly in every direction, an oasis of calm and beauty that stood in stark contrast to the chaos of their daily lives.

"I could tell that this spot is a jackpot," Meme remarked.

"Get your baits ready, boys."

"Do you have any recommendation on the baits, Riff?" Joseph questioned.

"For the first try, I would suggest a worm."

"Are you an amateur, Jo?"

"Been a while since I went fishing, nevertheless, you always got my back on this one."

"That's my role after all this time."

As they settled into their fishing expedition, Meme's expertise in the craft became evident as he meticulously prepared his bait and cast his line into the water. His concentration was unwavering, revealing a familiarity with the intricacies of fishing. Meanwhile, Joseph and Riff engaged in lighthearted banter, reminiscing about past experiences and sharing the kind of camaraderie that only old friends could understand.

Riff's seasoned knowledge of fishing shone through as he guided Joseph through the process, offering advice on selecting the right bait and mastering the art of casting. Joseph, though a bit out of practice, quickly caught on and soon had his own line skillfully placed in the water. The atmosphere around them exuded relaxation and shared enjoyment, providing a welcomed pause from the challenges of their daily lives.

Amid the anticipation of a potential catch, the tranquil setting of the lake enveloped them. The soft rhythm of the water brushing against the canoe's sides, the distant melodies of the birds, and the gentle touch of the sun combined to create a sense of calm that soothed their souls. They were a world away from the urban rush, embraced by the serenity of nature.

As they patiently waited for any signs of movement, the passing of time seemed to slow down. Each cast of their lines was a hopeful gesture, a connection to the underwater world teeming with life. The bonds between the trio grew stronger with every shared moment, a testament to the enduring friendship that had brought them together on this tranquil day. And as the sun began its descent, casting a warm golden hue across the water's surface, they understood that regardless of the outcome of their fishing expedition, the memories forged would be cherished forever.

"So, how was the meeting with Judas Iscariot? Everything went well?"

"My application was not accepted."

"Zack?"

"He's a different breed."

"This whole time, it's not me who gets the job done, Zechariah always assists me in every situation, the same goes for you."

"That's what friend is, we always got your back, we rise together and hopefully not going to fall into the bottom pit of hell together."

"What does that even mean?"

"I'm not religious, but I don't even want to see my companion go on another path that is wicked."

"Some things in this world are sure will blind us somehow," Joseph spoke.

"At least I'm grateful I have someone to rely on when things go downhill,"

"Not to mention, the guard was strange."

"You despise him?"

"Just acting weird, that's all."

They continue fishing.

The trio realised their fishing expedition had yielded only modest results. But sometimes, it's not just about the catch – it's the experience, the camaraderie, and the simple joy of being outdoors.

With the meagre harvest in hand, they decided to turn it into a rustic feast. A makeshift grill was fashioned from oak wood, flames dancing and crackling as the fish sizzled over the fire. The aroma of cooking fish mingled with the fresh lake breeze, creating a tantalising melody for their senses.

With a heart full of anticipation, they tasted the fruit of their labour. The delicate tenderness of the bluegill fillets burst with flavour, the result of their collective efforts. They savoured each bite as they shared stories and dreams, the tranquil view of Kamassa Lake serving as the backdrop to their gathering.

Slowly, Ban's consciousness began to resurface, like a swimmer emerging from the depths of slumber. His surroundings gradually came into focus, and he found himself in a hospital room. The soft hum of medical equipment provided a steady rhythm, accompanied by the gentle beeping of a heart rate monitor.

As his senses awakened, Ban noticed a nurse by his side. She was focused on her task, diligently monitoring his heart rate through a Holter monitor. Wires and electrodes were attached to his chest, connecting him to the intricate web of medical technology.

"Good to see you awake," the nurse smiled, her voice carrying a sense of genuine concern. "How are you feeling?"

Ban's throat felt dry as he tried to speak. "Water," he managed to croak out.

The nurse nodded and reached for a cup of water, assisting Ban as he took small sips. The cool liquid eased the parched sensation in his throat, and he let out a sigh of relief.

"Quite injury you were having, Mr. Sukpimai."

"I'll get the doctor in charge now for further check-up."

"Wait, how long have I been here?"

"1 week to be precise."

"That long?!"

"By the way, Miss?" Ban asked her name.

"Donatelli." She replied while ticking a health examination sheet.

"Ms. Donatelli, could you bring me a newspaper, please?"

"Alright, Mr. Sukpimai."

As Ban lay there, his thoughts swirled with the weight of his responsibilities and the consequences of his actions. The nurse's departure provided him with a moment of solitude to reflect on the events that had transpired in his absence.

He couldn't help but feel a sense of unease about the state of affairs in Sayon. His efforts to encourage families to abandon their illegal activities seemed to have had a fleeting impact, but his sudden absence had created a void that might have been exploited. Ban's dedication to change had been challenged by the forces of the world he sought to transform.

The newspaper that the nurse brought in might hold the key to understanding the current situation. As he waited for her return, Ban's mind raced with questions. Had there been any significant developments? Were his efforts to bring about positive change slowly unraveling? He wondered if he would see the fruit of his labor or if he would need to redouble his efforts upon recovery.

In that hospital room, surrounded by the beeps of monitors and the scent of antiseptic, Ban contemplated his role as a catalyst for change. He knew that the path he had chosen was not an easy one, and setbacks were inevitable. But Ban was determined to rise again, to face the challenges head-on, and to continue fighting for the betterment of Sayon. With every beat of his heart, he was reminded of his purpose, and that was enough to fuel his resolve.

Suddenly, the doctor in charge enters the room. "You are thinking too much Mr. Sukpimai, it's not good for your current condition." The doctor uttered.

"The current state of Sayon is more important now as it is under my supervision," Ban added.

"But you should think of yourself first, Mr. Sukpimai. Sometimes, there's a thing we cannot change."

"That's because we don't try, at least I want to die trying or protecting the one I adore, that's. . . that is honourable."

"Now, you are under my supervision. You need to hear my words." Said the doctor with a bright smile to Ban.

"By the way doc, who brought me here?"