Los Angeles Legendary Sleuth

Matthew walked last, with a shy smile on his face.

The group ascended the stage and saluted, as Chief Frank personally awarded the medals.

Frank helped everyone put on their medals and said a few encouraging words.

Although just a few formalities, Frank's charisma was so strong that it boosted everyone's morale, at least for the next three to five days it would have a certain motivating effect.

After the group medals were awarded, it was time for the individual medals.

As expected, Luke's recent performance had been exceptional, and he had made significant progress, earning him a Courage Medal.

For Luke, this was an acknowledgment from the higher-ups of the Los Angeles Police Department, his personal honor.

Beyond the glory, the medals also came with a handsome bonus.

The Team Excellence Medal came with a $10,000 reward for each person.

The Courage Medal, a $20,000 reward for the individual.

With just these two medals, Luke would receive a $30,000 reward.

It had to be said, cash was still the most pragmatic.

The award ceremony concluded, and the officers found their families to share their glory and joy.

The chubby kid ran over to hug Luke, "Bro, I'm proud of you! You looked so cool on stage when you received the award. Can I take a look at your medals?"

Luke laughed, "Of course, just as long as you don't trade them for money."

"I want to take a picture to show Maggie."

Luke "..."

You're absolutely obsessed.

"Hey, my dear grandson, you will always be my pride," Robert came over and embraced Luke.

"Grandpa, thank you for coming to my ceremony."

"I had to come, and you must inform me about any similar events in the future. I don't care about the others, but I will definitely be there; this is a matter of family honor."

"I will," Luke replied with a smile, turning to Linda, "Mom, did your son look handsome up there?"

"Absolutely dashing, even more so than Pete and Leo."

Linda's eyes reddened. As a single mother, no one could be happier than her to see her son's growth.

"What about Uncle Val?"

Robert shrugged, "His name isn't suitable for occasions like this. Better just ignore him for now."

Luke urged, "Grandpa, uncle is really trying to change. You should have some faith in him."

"I hope so," Robert replied indifferently, no longer harboring much expectation. "Luke, what time do you get off work tonight? How about we celebrate? This is a meaningful day."

Worth commemorating."

Luke replied, "I can't tonight, as the squad is having a dinner together. This is our first time receiving a group medal."

Robert patted Luke on the shoulder, "As it should be, I'll make it up to you another day."

...

Eight o'clock in the evening.

Buffalo Barbecue Bar.

This restaurant specialized in barbecue, with the charcoal-grilled chicken as their signature dish.

Steak, lamb ribs, pork chops, fish, seafood, they had it all, and the taste was good too.

The members of Squad One of the Robbery and Murder Department were seated around a round table.

They often drank in bars, but they didn't dine out together that often.

But today was different; they had all received a team medal. It was the team's honor, and everyone was happy, making the dinner especially meaningful.

Susan raised her glass, "Everyone, our squad's achievement in earning the Team Excellence Medal couldn't have happened without everyone's effort.

I haven't been with Squad One for long, but I can clearly feel everyone's hard work and improvement, and I'm thankful for your support. Here's to all of you."

"Cheers"

Everyone raised their glasses to toast with Susan.

Just as Susan said, everyone was making progress, and Susan herself was no exception to change.

Susan, initially an outsider,

gradually came to understand and accept some of the team's ways of handling cases.

Since Susan took over as team leader, the Internal Affairs Department seldom came to 'trouble' them again, and for that alone, many people would remember Susan fondly.

The reason for this change was twofold: first, Susan would promptly remind the team to correct any non-compliant behavior,

and second, Susan had many years of experience in Internal Affairs, with the connections and knowledge of how to avoid certain pitfalls.

Tonight's gathering was bustling, with everyone appearing to be very happy.

"Luke, didn't you also receive an individual medal? Bring it out for everyone to see," Little Black urged with curious eyes wide open.

Luke didn't hold back and directly took out the Courage Medal for everyone to see.

Holding it in his hands, Little Black examined it closely, "I like this medal, it feels completely different from the collective ones."

David laughed, "You have lots of likes." Then, he also took the medal and looked it over before casually handing it back to Luke.

Dinner was nearly over, and everyone gathered together for drinks and chat.

David had drunk quite a lot tonight, and seemed a bit different from his usual self.

Luke cautioned, "David, don't get too drunk, I don't intend to take you home."

"I'm fine." David drained another glass.

Then, standing up, David announced, "Guys, I've got something to say."

Seeing David so formal, everyone stopped and turned towards him.

"Uh... It looks like I'll be transferring.

Yes, to another department.

I've already discussed it with the captain, and the captain has agreed.

So I wanted to take this opportunity to tell you all.

Honestly, it wasn't easy to bring this up. But I wanted to say it in person."

David patted the medal on his chest, "This medal was earned through our collective efforts. It's the only medal I've received since I joined the Robbery and Murder Department.

It witnesses our efforts, our friendship, our past, and I think that's enough for me.

I'm already satisfied, with no regrets."

Little Black, startled by the sudden news, said, "David, have you had too much to drink? Why are you talking nonsense?"

"NO, what I'm saying is true.

I am preparing to transfer to the Drug and Vice Division, and the paperwork should be approved very soon."

Still struggling to accept it, Little Black said, "This... this is all so sudden."

Vincent, the deputy team leader, asked, "Why transfer to the Drug and Vice Division? What position have they offered you?"

"Deputy leader."

Vincent nodded, "Sounds good, it seems like an opportunity."

"That's what I think too."

Seeing that David had made up his mind, Luke didn't try to persuade him further, "Congratulations."

Jenny said, "Although you're not the easiest person to get along with, I'm still going to miss you when you leave."

Little Black nodded, "Me too."

Raymond, who rarely spoke up, said, "Come back to visit."

David feigned lightness, "Come on, the Drug and Vice Division is just downstairs.

We can still see each other every day. Is there really any need for farewells as if it's life and death?"

Susan raised her glass, "David, I wish you good luck and even greater accomplishments.

The Robbery and Murder Department will always be your home, and you're welcome to come back anytime."

"I will."

"Cheers!"