29

I got discharged early as my injuries were minor. The others were unconscious at the moment and under watch. Because of this, the city was under surveillance, and a curfew was in effect. Nobody was allowed outside after 8 pm. If so, they will be taken in for questioning. When I got home, I felt empty inside. Nothing felt real anymore. I slumped in the chair as I turned my phone back on. I re-watched the video that was sent to me. I was shaking as I stared at Aria, but I noticed this strange noise in the background. A clunking sound like metal. I pulled the phone closer to my ear.

CLANK. CLANK. CLANK.

For some odd reason, I recognize the sound from somewhere— but where? Disheartened, I plugged my phone into my laptop and played with the audio enhancer. I took out the voices or any extra noise that was irrelevant. It took a while, but I know what it is.

Pipes. I remember Aria saying the person smelled like rust and oil. A junkyard in the city only collects cars over on 35th Street. I sn