Jared and Agnes made their way to the police station together, where Detective Jarvis Harrison was waiting to take Agnes's statement.
The atmosphere was tense as Jarvis broke the ice, "Ms. Pritchard, I must admit I'm surprised. I didn't expect your ties with Albert’s Arms to run so deep. To think the notorious Honey Badger calls you Miss Septima... I guess I misjudged the situation."
Jarvis's eyes were a mix of emotions. Once upon a time, he had hoped Agnes would join their special task force. Yet, here she was, commanding respect from one of the most feared figures in the underground scene.
He was still trying to piece together the puzzle of Miss Septima's true identity, which clearly held significant power and influence.
Agnes broke the silence, "During your investigation into Honey Badger, what have you found?"
Jarvis frowned, puzzled by her question.
Agnes continued, "You came here intending to dig into Honey Badger's identity and whereabouts, but their network is uniquely protected. I assume you hadn't made much progress until this morning when an anonymous tip led you to Serenity Hall, is that right?"
A look of surprise crossed Jarvis's face. Ms. Pritchard was spot on.
Jarvis had a sudden thought, "Was that anonymous tip... from you?"
Agnes replied calmly, "Yes, it was me."
Jarvis was confused, "But you're associated with them. Why would you—"
Agnes interrupted, "I've never been part of their crew. Yes, I'm the so-called Miss Septima, the Seventh Princess of the underworld in your files, but my connection with Albert’s Arms is minimal. I don't meddle in their affairs and am practically clueless about their operations. My relationship with Reggie is purely personal."
Jarvis's brows furrowed even more. Agnes knew Reggie personally—Reggie, the enigmatic founder of Albert’s Arms, a shadowy figure in the criminal world whose face was unknown to the authorities.
"Why would you report Honey Badger then? Aren't you afraid of ruining Reggie's plans?" Jarvis asked.
Agnes stated, "I'm convinced Reggie has nothing to do with the drug trade. That's why I want this case solved more than anyone. Albert’s Arms isn’t what it used to be."
"And if it turns out Reggie is involved, that he's the mastermind behind this drug operation, where will you stand?" Jarvis pressed.
Agnes's expression hardened. She had considered this possibility, however unlikely she deemed it to be. The thought pained her, and she struggled to contemplate it further. Even if Reggie was innocent, the investigation could still implicate people she knew, a consequence she dreaded.
With a furrowed brow, Agnes replied, "My stance hardly matters, does it? I'm just a journalist, not a member of Albert’s Arms or the police force. So, my position shouldn't impact your investigation in any way."
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