Realistic or Modern &nbsp; [SYN] Act III IC

---STARBUCKS CAFE, KOWLOON---

The busy city was bustling with life, with the average denizens rushing along the crowded sidewalk towards their offices. Across from Un Chau road was the magnificent highrise that was home to a powerful man of the underworld. Orchid Tower, the presentative office of their creation, Sarti Corporation, towers over its lesser peers in both height and influence. Within a matter of weeks, Orchid Tower was bought and commandeered by the Syndicate. An investment that saw much of its share in blood money. But to many, it only spelled the end of an era for some white collars, and the beginning for the younger generation of cutthroat business men and women. How quickly many forgot the deeds of the founding members, yet here they were, on the receiving end of their toils. Little did the progenitor knew that their work in China at the end of the 19th century would lay the foundation of a powerful entity in the modern era. While they may have passed, their journey across the old world would remain close to heart for the current Pentateuch Marshal of Asia.

Three dark SUVs were parked outside of Orchid Tower, where the local Starbucks resided. A young man in a suit resided beneath the shades of the umbrella stand, casually sipping on his shot of espresso. It has been a while since his departure from the city, yet he could not forsake the pleasant atmosphere that was most dearest to him when he was lying bleeding on the side of the road. His hazel gaze caught the sight of the dazzling creatures that gave him a few nods. Yet the man looked on, intrigued by someone else, whose emergence from the SUV demanded his full attention. Their white hair complemented their dark suit, as well as the other men in suit that perforated the area. Seeing the young gentleman getting up from his seat, the approaching man simply extended his hand to deny such a courteous gesture.

"How was your flight?" The white-haired man asked casually with a Nordic accent, before taking a seat across from the dark-haired gentleman. He then withdrew a cigarette from his jacket.

"Refreshing to hear some Cantonese after spending some time with the Americans." The Hongkongnese answered, before taking a lighter out of his pocket to help light the caucasian male's cigarette.

The cigarette was then cast aside on the ash tray, without so much as a puff - an indication of a task at hand by the man on the opposite end of the table.

"It sure has been some time since that rainy night."

"Hm. I can still remember when I was bleeding out on this very side of the street. Back when this place was just a couple of old apartments."

"And here you are, the Head of Procurement of Sarti Corporation Hong Kong. Nothing's certain in this life, Mr. Au-Yeung. But I have faith in you, and so too will the Organization." Viktor mused.

Au-Yeung's eyes narrowed, fixed on the man's mentions of the Organization. Only now did he truly understood why the man chose this location as their headquarters. It was a reminder to both him and Au-Yeung of their beginning. A sentimental thought, but a heavy one that was most concerned for, should he fail.

"You think the Dragons and the Kinugasas are gonna like me?" Au-Yeung spoke in Cantonese with a stern look.

"They better. Especially when we are all obligated to keep an open channel going forward. I wouldn't have chosen you if I knew you weren't up for the task. Besides, you're not alone." The Finn replied in Cantonese with an amused smile, before waving one of his men over to hand him a couple of files.

"Ferrari. Warehouse Manager. Our silverwares go through him. Ex-military. Heavy lifting is his detail when you need it."

Flipping through the first dossier, Au-Yeung studied its contents briefly. Before the man could ask about the erroneous naming scheme, Viktor swiftly answered.

"It's easier to remember. I did bought him one last Christmas to follow up on that joke." He chuckled.

"Makes me wonder when I'll be able to afford one."

"You don't strike me as a Ferrari person. More of a Ford F-150 or a Toyota Tundra."

"Damn right, sir. But I'll work on one myself. Before you get any funny ideas."

"As you say. I know you're more of a hands-on person and I respect that."

The two chuckled.

"So how'd you get a hold of this troublemaker?"

"Sulli? Well, she seems bright enough to breach our systems. Took cybersecurity some time to trace her. She's good, but not that good. Though I have to go through the trouble of bothering Jekyll and Hyde."

"Good enough to give you cause to bother the Twins." Au-Yeung raised a brow with an impressed look.

"Can't beat them, recruit them. One less hacker for our rivals." Viktor shrugged.

"Denying the enemy of resources. Still reciting Sun Tzu these days?"

"We tend to miss out on the fundamentals when we're busy confusing one another."

"Speaking of confusing, weren't you cutting budgets for the productions team?"

"Ms. Kwon is more of a quality control specialist. Why waste time cutting quality when you can have someone to optimize it?"

"There are others on the list, which I'm sure you'll find quite interesting."

"Like this one? How did an Irish ended up here?"

"The same way you would never see a Scot fighting a French during the Opium War. Our predecessors were far more busier than us, it seems. But that's a history lesson for another day. Too much?"

"Hm. I'll handle it, you have my word."

As the cigarette finally burnt out, the Marshal got up from his seat and pat the man on his shoulders with a placid smile.

"Good. We'll have a proper talk once I return. Got a plane to catch. Inform me on any new developments with our 'friends.' Your itinerary for the day is in your office. Start with that, and everything else will fall into place. Oh, and try not to break the recruits."

"I'll try not to." He nodded. "Good hunting on your trip."

Viktor acknowledged the farewell and waved, as he got into his vehicle.

Au-Yeung then eyed the dossiers briefly, before getting up from his seat to fix his suit. The bloody corner of the street passed him by, as he reeled back to reality with focused visage.

"Time for work." He muttered to himself.

---FLOOR 59, ORCHID TOWER---

Upon arrival at the reception desk on the ground floor, Au-Yeung studied the place of which will be his new home before setting his gaze upon the receptionist.

"H-how may I help you today sir?" The receptionist asked, with her cheeks flushed from merely looking at the man.

"Au-Yeung. Au-Yeung Lam. Head of Procurement." He spoke in Cantonese.

"Oh. Mr. Au-Yeung's..." She ran through the computer's system. "...not in at the moment."

"Of course not. It's my first day."

"Oh gosh! I'm so sorry Mr. Au-Yeung! This is your ID, it will give you access to all the building's floor. I'll give you a tour of the place!"

Lam eyed the woman, gradually peeling away at her confidence with his stern eyes before finally nodding with an expressionless look and a monotonous voice.

"Lead the way."

After touring the place, he finally arrived at his office on the fifty-ninth floor, of which has yet to receive any personnel. It seems that he was the earliest in the bunch. Then again, those that would form the bulk of his team was stationed across different departments and floors.

"Mr. Au-Yeung. Would you like for me to arrange a secretary to assist you, sir? I'll be willing to a-apply." The receptionist offered.

"I'll consider it. Thank you for your time..." He replied, looking at her ID card. "...Ms. Chow."

"You can call me Lisa, sir." She then quickly wrote her phone number on a note and gave it to Lam.

"Ok, Lisa. You may go now." He said simply and got into his seat, as Lisa sashayed out of his room with a smile stuck to her face. After seeing the woman off, Lam began reviewing the itinerary on his desk, as he studied the dossiers.

Sighing to himself, Lam swept his hair back and contemplated the details handed over to him by the Marshal. Far from a small detail to protect the organization's interests, but Lam was ready to take on the challenges ahead. Not so long ago, he would have been dead, if it were not for Viktor's benevolent act of kindness. It was time for Lam to repay them by becoming the man that Viktor saw he could become.

Taking down notes, the man then dialed his landline and called on the receptionist.

"Please arrange a meeting room for me at nine o'clock. I'll send you the names of required personnel to follow. Thank you, Lisa."

With the meeting scheduled, Au-Yeung would spend the next two hours going through the files. Before long, he entered the meeting room with the window screens closed, where the others were waiting for him. As the clock on the wall struck nine, the young gentleman would take his seat.

"Good morning. I'm Au-Yeung Lam. Mr. Samanova have appointed me as Head of Procurement and starting from today, I'll be working with you going forward. And so, let us begin." The man gave his introduction, and swiftly transitions the slide on his powerpoint presentation.

"We'll be dealing directly with our competitions starting today. This will help us establish commerce and relations where possible. With Mr. Samanova away, I would like to maintain the status quo on the streets as long as possible until a grand course of action is established. Until then, we will be reestablishing our connections, and settle affairs on Mr. Samanova's behalf. This initiative will provide us a better understanding of our competitions' methods of responses and perhaps sharpen our reaction accordingly. By the end of this month, I expect to be able to monitor the Dragons and Kinugasa's movements properly and with detailed reports on their ongoing operations."

"And so, first things first, we'll go see the Eighty-Six Dragons this evening. A woodcarving expo as a cover for business interactions among their customers and cooperators. Mr. Samanova have requisitioned for us an invitation to participate, in good faith. But for security reasons, I'll have someone pick you up personally at six pee-em. Last thing I want is for my team to be all floating in the river on the news tomorrow. Each of you have been chosen for your individual skillsets that Mr. Samanova believes will be of use to the organization. So do your best and earn your worth. Any questions?"

Worthlessplebian · Jan 25, 2023

SANTIAGO MERCADO FERRARO
Orchid Tower, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Pilgrim59

---ITALY'S MAN---

Near the stretch of coast that met the Tyrrhenian Sea, a singular warehouse stood imposing to the somber waters. Imposing and busy. Lights flooded out into the nightsky from its side and roof windows, men of various shapes and sizes all descending from Italian stock moved about the place determinedly. Two however rested on a wooden crate with the warning sign of a cracked wineglass stamped on the side. Little attention is paid to the two on break, in fact that's what they loved about their jobs. Take a break, sip some liquid fire then back to moving, cataloguing and shipping them out with the trucks. One of the men is stocky with a thin, hooked nose and verminous eyes. The other broad, tall, and a face betokening the stereotype of stupid but strong. The larger man gestured with a recyclable cup, "God, please... Stop sending the junior for booze." He chastised. The stocky man in the black skullcap turned with confusion towards the disgruntled co-worker. "Who? Vinnie?" "Yes, Vinnie!" Came a curt reply. "Looks, I aint bashin' the kid-a, but he has no business being in a liquor store. He buys the most expensive, shit-tasting beer! Paying more fo' the brand than anythin' 'lse." The stocky one creased his lips in a mocking manner and eyes looked questioningly at his friend. "Well, I'll trust your experience on how shit tastes." Suddenly the man winced away as the larger brute raised a fist. "Kidding, kidding... Hey, let's go ask the Boss if you're so desperate for a good drink." He appealed and his fellow grunted in approval, seemingly appeased by this gesture. The stocky man clumsily knocked a box over, spilling its contents on the floor. And an upper receiver for a rifle. "Careful, stronzo!" One of the busied workers cried.

A man looked out from the hanging administrative offices of the building. Looking down on the dutiful worker-"ants" through a window with side-mounted blinds. From below, he appeared taller than usual. Actually, a small trick of perception. Stature aside, he had skin of light-bronze—that came from his mother—a dignified look in his eyes yet the thin lips that oft turned into a casual smile now bereft of that joy. He stroked the groomed chin thoughtfully while one hand rubbed a silver pendant behind his back. He appeared to be lost in thought, rather than actively observing his workers below. Mind circling around the coded message which now rested on the centre of his maple wood desk. It came as a shock in all honesty, the man's brow furrowed and squinted when he first read it as if he could not believe his eyes.

He did good work for this group, what could spur them to such an interesting decision. He sauntered over to the desk chair, his outfit contradicted the importance of their operations; an opened dress shirt in hot red, dotted by contradicting-coloured flowers or leaves that formed tightly over his shoulders but loosened on his torso and a white t-shirt underneath. The light above his head casts a luminous circle around his desk, the foreground half-submerged in the dark. His hands deftly took up the letter again only now smiling, pushing up his thin cheeks. Soon enough, a hearty laughter escaped the man. So loud that it almost paused the two men from entering, but they didn't let that stop them.

"Eh, boss?" The man stopped his jovial expression, looking to the two men who entered. "Oh, boys! Come in, come in. What can ol'-Tiago do for you?" He called with an Italian slant, he was not that old. But the employees find it disarming when he speaks casually to them. The men explained their conundrum, but Santiago Mercado Ferraro could only put his hands together and contemplate it. Until his eyes lit up with an easy idea. "Gentlemen, gentlemen. Get down and finish your shifts after which tell whoever's closer to not go home straight away, your Boss is throwing you a party at our usual place. Everything'll be on the house," the men were confused at first but the glee settled in soon after.

The men had gathered, the place was packed full. It can noted that everything was rushed, especially since Santiago ordered it so late in the night. But the men, humble and hard-working, did not have it in them to care. The alcohol was great, the white-powders pumped their heads with fire, and the... entertainment was... plentiful in more ways than one. He only partook in the alcohol tonight though. Santiago even got up on the counter with a blindfold on and started tossing bundles of Euros, whoever caught them got a nice bonus. Unfortunately, not all could be merriment. Santiago explained to his men that he'll have to be going away. And through their gaiety, they frowned. Some of them even took off their hats, but all of them toasted at the departure of their boss.

He was the last to leave even if he had a flight to catch in the morning. "Salute!" To an empty place.

---ENTER THE OPERATOR---

The journey to Kowloon had been uneventful as far as Santiago had been concerned. A minor detail did hold him up at the Hongkongnese airport, it was cleared away swiftly. Could that have been interference from his employer? Idle curiosity aside, the former military man whistled when he stepped out into the city. It couldn't compare to Italia's lowliest cities, to his eyes, but it did hold a certain allure. An allure... Of crime and beauty. Unfortunately, he could not pack any of his vehicles much to his chagrin. To get to the Orchid Tower, he ferried a cab. As the speedy driver whizzed passed streets, Santiago's eyes saw all manner of crimes. Most at this time of day were not at all apparent to untrained eyes, but Santiago felt as though they were jamming their thumbs in his sockets.

"What an eyesore," he spoke aloud in Portuguese. The Mafia at least had the decency to not look like the street trash they peddled their product to, and had an understanding to them. But these lowlifes couldn't even bring water to them. He reached for a simple canteen in the depths of his black blazer, flicking the cap off with precision thumb action, the man sipped immediately. The cab rolled slowly through the Hong Kong streets. Ferraro swiveled the alcohol in his can before flicking it close.

The cab drive wheeled to a stop in front of the tower. Now this was what actually impressed Santiago. The Syndicate had always been thorough and right under everyone's noses, it's why his warehouse back in Italy had been so thoroughly disguised from authorities. With the aid of the Ferraro as well. He appreciated the Syndicate for that, prove yourself worthy enough and you'll have almost free-reign to your own operations. A freedom that was not afforded to him by the highest echelons of his military. With good reason though, the Syndicate is organized crime but the military is the... Well, Military.

Despite his striking stature and foreign complexion, Santiago blended with the bustling pedestrians and grey background. A nifty trick that he picked up from SERE training and the wise words of a US general that graced their base with his presence. He still thinks back to that man's words.

"Ah, son. You got the guts to make it, I can tell. Every special forces nowadays looks like an action figure that kids get for Christmas when they've been good little kiddies. Us old timers use to look like your average joe and not a gym rat with bigorexia."

Funny man, that general. But he took the words to heart, appearing near-average was just enough to slip under everyone's noses.

Inside the building, Santiago strolled to the receptionist desk. "Olá senhorita," He called to the receptionist before flashing an inviting smile. The scar on his face somehow made him more approachable instead of the opposite. "Miss Chow, I take it? Santiago Mercado Ferraro, I am supposed to meet Mr. Au-Yeung." The name of the bloodsworn trailed off his tongue harshly, he hadn't gotten acclimated to the intricacies of Asiatic languages. The captivating receptionist typed away on her keyboard before sending him up without much fuss. Ah, being expected. Not something that Santiago could ever get use to.

Inside the meeting room, Santiago sat there with a relaxed demeanor in his chair. He listened carefully to the Asian man, not wanting to miss a detail of this... Powerpoint meeting. Breathing a sigh of relief, good thing he never made that kind of play to his men back home. Otherwise, they would've laughed Santiago's semi-corporate arse out of the warehouse. The presentation had been quick and more sterile than rubbing alcohol from the UK.

He sequestered the canteen again, before treating himself to another sip. "No major questões from me, colega." He snapped his fingers. "This kinda operation wouldn't call for heavier hardware, but a submachine could not hurt. Are these dragões known for being prepared?"

He glanced at the rest of them, two women notably caught his passing eye. Santiago had been surprised, they betokened a beauty and lethality in their own way though. One looked firm like a rifle, a property of poverty-stricken living. Smelled faintly of chemicals too. Ah, just like in Brasil again. He remembered the times, they seemed funny now.

koala · Jan 27, 2023

AISULU KALIEV
Location
Orchid Tower, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Tags
Everyone present. I am too lazy. You know who you are.

Five minutes. That was how long Aisulu allocated to the scene unfolding before her.

Trains zipped passed her, sucking away strands of her midnight black hair as she blinked back growing curiosity. There was a couple a few steps away from her—a woman around her age and a man only a few years older. Their conversation was mostly muddled, drowned by the rickety subway tracks and loud city dwellers, but Aisulu heard enough to make her take a step closer.

Three minutes.

"I hate you." The woman cried.

"This is your fault, don't paint me as the villain." The man responded nonchalantly.

"You cheated on me."

"You don't give me any attention. I'm sorry."

Two.

She pulled down her baseball cap, trying to block her peripherals so she wouldn't blatantly stare at them. However, when she heard the woman say "Don't touch me" with a familiar pained desperation, Aisulu's head cocked back and scowled at what she saw.

The man firmly held the woman’s wrist in his hand, while the woman was trying to free herself.

It seemed everyone was nosy enough to look but not empathetic enough to care. That was the problem with city people. Children were taught to mind their own business at a young age, and they usually made heartless adults. Aisulu would’ve been a liar if she said she didn’t consider walking away herself, but she was feeling particularly benevolent that afternoon. Though she knew Samanova would disagree with her actions since she’d inevitably be late to her plane.

Zero.

Screw it.

Clumsily, Aisulu made her way towards the couple. She excused herself as she bumped into others until she nearly dropped half her weight onto the unsuspecting man. A few of her things fell out of her opened backpack, and the man released his hold on his partner so he could grab onto Aisulu.

“Oh, sorry.” She murmured with a sheepish smile. “I forget I shouldn’t walk while looking at my phone.” The woman bent down to pick up her things, stealing a glance at the outline of the man’s wallet. She made light conversation before finally standing with a grin, taking the slightest step closer so she could brush her phone against his thigh.

“Thanks. Have a good one.” Aisulu said as she walked back onto the waiting platform, eyes returning to her phone as she thought of which charities to send the man’s money to.

> FLOOR 59, ORCHID TOWER <

Hong Kong was a different city animal compared to the Big Apple. The ambience was familiar yet the smog was undeniably worse. It was why she’d rejected previous offers Samanova had made about transferring to the Asian branch, and why she’d initially argued about the formation of this new team.

Aisulu had scrunched her nose from the moment she left the airport until the moment she stepped into Orchid Tower. Pollution tickled her nose and she rubbed back a sneeze as she entered the building. She looked like a stain compared to the sleekness of the interior design and the people that occupied the area. Their pressed suits compared to her lace black dress. Their slicked back hair compared to the colorful clips on her own.

“I’m here to see Lam Au-yeung.” Aisulu said, her eyes following the receptionist’s finger to the elevator.

The meeting began swiftly upon her arrival, as she was one of the last ones to make an appearance. During the briefing, she couldn’t help but stare at her new boss. There was something oddly familiar about him that she couldn’t place, and it wasn’t until the lights came back on that her lips curled into a sly, knowing smile.

She leaned forward on the table, chin resting on her hand as she raised her eyebrows towards Lam. “No questions at all.” The woman said, the tone of her voice hinting at potential mischievousness.

The job sounded easy enough but learning the culture of a new team did not. She studied the others that sat around her, noting their individual features and marking them in her mind. When no one thought to introduce themself first, she stood up and turned to Lam with an outstretched hand.

“Sulli. Cybersecurity Consultant. It will be a pleasure working with you.”

Worthlessplebian · Jan 29, 2023

SANTIAGO MERCADO FERRARO
Orchid Tower, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Pilgrim59

"Ah," the former special forces operator gasped. It immediately became clear to Santiago that they have missed an important step in this parlay. In part to the petite, computer hacker which Santiago assumed introduced herself by first name or sobriquet. His knuckles rapped gently but firmly against the table. "Looks like I've forgotten my manners." Conversed Santiago with a leisured voice and laid back in his chair. "Former tenente colonnello Santiago Mercado Ferraro," spoken seamlessly in an Italian accent. "That would be former lieutenant colonel of Italia's 9th Paratroopers Assault Regiment." An introduction edged with nationalistic and militaristic pride. The steel canteen appeared from the inner pocket of Santiago's coat retrieved with a subtle swiftness. "For the duration, I'll be 'andling provision of... Silverware." Glancing at Mr. Au-Yeung.

The term's double entendre of weaponry never failed to tickle Santiago's amusement. Though it's only just one of several terms that they use. For example, his warehouse branch used fireworks in regards to the occasional C-4 or grenades that they fence. On the nose if anything else.

He waited for the others to finish their introductions before speaking again. He gestured with a hand for Au-Yeung to continue.

Huntertabbysandshark3 · Jan 29, 2023

Felix
interaction: everyone here ye
Location
Orchid Tower, Kowloon, Hong Kong

for Felix the trip here hadn't really been much of a problem getting his kit across was.. more so having to shop through parts of his weapon hidden in separate parcels over the course of a few days looking innocuous but with his mass of luggage assembled all his kit was hiding amongst an unreasonable amount of superfluous garbage that served as luggage honestly it was just stuff he'd collected over the years.. still better than getting held up in customs.

Hong kong was certainly different from Felix's usual stomping grounds more built up but he couldn't tell if that was a good thing not have much time to ponder on it he had a job to do, Orchid tower was where they were supposed to meet up, tan jacket zipped up all the way partly hiding his face Felix only to find that he'd been rather late. well not exactly late only bearly on time. "sorry about that.. luggage you know how it is" he'd say with a notable accent, before taking a seat and listening too the meeting glad that he'd not missed it that would have looked bad but hey? its airports what could you do. anyway, the job seemed simple.. but they never were simple but that was how this business rolled felix simply shook his head. "none boss"

Pilgrim59 · Jan 29, 2023

LAM AU-YEUNG
Orchid Tower, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Worthlessplebian

Doctor Nope

Zariel

---FLOOR 59, ORCHID TOWER---

Lam turned towards the former Lieutenant Colonel with a soft smile to acknowledge his preparatory inclinations. "I intend to find that out in-person, Senhor Ferraro. If all goes well, we won't have use for the silverwares. Though I would certainly appreciate it if you would forward me an overview of our arsenal." He then turned towards the Irish guard that just arrived. Despite his tardy arrival, he was on-scene nevertheless. Saving Lam's the trouble of having to brief him over in redundance, his role was straightforward as the man picked up on Felix's immediate detail as soon as he sat down. "Mr. Macgregor. Please follow up with Senhor Ferraro on the detail and select the best platform for close and medium engagements. Perhaps any other equipment that might prove useful for an event most unwelcomed." Lam said, giving the Irish and the Italo-Brazilian a chance to work out the details on whichever weapon platform was suitable for an evening which may or may not end up in a firefight. Though Lam himself was confident of their mission's civil nature, he appreciated Ferraro's right to be cautious.

"You're probably wondering why Mr. Samanova decided to pull you from your labs. Well, there is a small matter that I would like for you to oversee. We have intel that the Dragons' chemist might be there. Word on the street is that they're pushing a new kind of drug to kick us out of the game. I'm curious about their new partner and origin. I'll need you to run a sample as soon as I get my hands on one." He revealed her purpose in the coming days.

Past the Korean chemist, Lam caught a familiar visage, of whom he acquainted himself with a few years ago. Recalling his own remark about her to Viktor, the man himself was curious about her disposition since they parted ways in school. But above all, he had to make sure that she was up for the task. Her playful tone was far from the warm melodious voice that he was used to when they were younger. Surely, a lot have happened since then, and he would not pry unless a force most sinister was to come between her and the Organization.

"If there are no more questions, I would like for you Sentinels to submit an overview report of your operation during the past three months and the respective forecasts at the time. Mr. Ferraro, your latest inventory list of our security's armaments and their distributions. Complaints and reliability feedbacks included. Ms. Kwon, your latest project and budget requirements. That'll be all, this meeting is concluded." He said, closing the projector and opened the door for them to depart.

Before Sulli's silhouette touched the edge of the screened glass, Lam was towering over the woman with a pair of indifferent eyes. "Ms. Kaliev. I would like to have a word with you in my office." He said, as the others sashayed away. Upon entering his office, the man pulled his landline and called Lisa. "Please tell Ms. ... Watson... " He requested the name that he was perusing via the notes that he had on his desk. "...to pick me up in fifteen minutes. And tell Mr. Yamazaki to meet me at the Regal Riverside Hotel at ten sharp. Thank you." Lam then hung up the phone and shot his soft glance at the woman. "Please, have a seat, Ms. Kaliev." The man then leaned into his leather chair and propped his notebook open.

Zariel · Jan 29, 2023

Yamazaki Jin
— Young Sparrow —

The tumultuous clamour of car horns and sirens infected the air on the dual carriageway.

Jin fell back in his leather seat, sealing his eyes and pinching his temple, still enervated after the hours-long flight from Kyoto. The jet lag was getting to him, for he hardly slept these past few days, catching a mere forty winks.

"You alright?" asked Hisashi, the driver.

"I'm fine," Jin replied flatly, stifling his fatigue. Looking through the windscreen, Hisashi bobbed his head, pouting, unconvinced by the other's answer.

Turning his head, Jin looked out the side window, gazing at the forest of cloud-piercing skyscrapers on the other side of the river. Hong Kong was a region of commerce rife with opportunity. But it was the wicked underbelly that kept this city afloat on stilts of blood, reminding Jin of his purpose.

"See that one over there? That's Orchid Tower, owned by those 'friends' of ours," Hisashi explained, gesturing toward the impressive construct towering above the rest. "You'll be meeting one of their representatives."

Welcome to Hong Kong OST

Jin didn't twitch a muscle, his eyes fixed on the skyline, though he acknowledged the details Hisashi offered. He felt a familiar pressure weigh on him after the lights turned green, and Hisashi put his foot down. The driver weaved through the traffic in his matt black I8, switching between the lanes with sharp jerks. Casually exceeding the speed limit, Hisashi let out a psychotic cheer, to which Jin crooked a smile. The thrill never gets old.

The car roared as it tore through the streets, and the tires made their monotonous hiss over the rain-washed tarmac. They were a blur of black soaring through the air. Their presence was heard and felt streets away. Everyone looked with curiosity, but only caught a glimpse.

It wouldn't be long now, five more minutes - no, less - before they arrived at their destination—the Regal Riverside Hotel. That was the location disclosed by the receptionist at Orchid Tower. There were no further details. Clearly, whatever was to be discussed was not a conversation fit to be had over the phone. When one possesses much power, naturally, they also inherit the envy of many enemies, prying into one's affairs, scavenging for weakness, like vultures drawn to a carcass. And though crippled, the Dragons still live on in these parts.

"How much longer?" Jin asked.

"Less than one minute," Hisashi smirked. Drifting around the bend and taking a sharp right, he eased off the gas, reaching a downhill. From there, he turned right again, letting the car cruise to a graceful halt as it slipped into the lay-by outside the hotel entrance.

"Here we are," Hisashi declared. "Regal Riverside Hotel."

"Thanks for the ride." Jin tilted his head over his shoulder, bumping fists with his chauffeur.

"Don't mention it."

After the vehicle's ostentatious scissor door opened, Jin climbed out of the car, walking to the boot to retrieve his luggage. Taking his black suitcase, he stepped onto the pavement, about to make his way toward the revolving doors when the I8's car horn caused his feet to stop. When he turned around, the driver-side window slipped down, and Hisashi poked his head through.

"Good luck, kid," he began, speaking in their native tongue. "Saito might trust these guys, but I still have my doubts... Watch your back out here. Got it? It's going to be rough."

Jin responded to the ponytailed man's word of caution with a subtle nod.

"For the Kinugasa." Hisashi revealed a closed fist, shaking it with conviction. Several deafening revs later, he bolted off, vanishing into the distance, becoming little more than a speck of black.

Now on his own, Jin made his way past the entrance. As soon as he entered the marble-floored building, a smartly dressed worker welcomed him to the hotel and proffered a clear bowl containing lindt chocolates. Accepting the hospitality, Jin grabbed three spherical pieces before proceeding into the lobby. He found an empty table in a secluded spot, away from the hustle and bustle, and took a seat on one of the chesterfield chairs surrounding it. His mercury eyes trained on the vintage clock hung up on the wall, watching the minutes tick by closely as he awaited the arrival of his contact.

koala · Jan 31, 2023

AISULU KALIEV
Location
Orchid Tower, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Tags

Pilgrim59

Aisulu fought the urge to raise an eyebrow when Lam requested her presence in his office. If he were a normal boss, she wouldn't have questioned it. It was entirely plausible for a cybersecurity specialist to be one of the first to debrief. But he wasn't a normal boss and they didn't have a normal relationship.

Nostalgia briefly washed over her as she stepped into the room, smile falling as she shut the door quietly behind her. Memories of her years in university peppered her thoughts. Visions of stray clothes and mingling breathes grew clearer with each second as her blue eyes followed Lam's actions. She studied each of his characteristics, from his hair, to his face, to his build, and even to the way he moved. He looked the same, older, of course, but she still felt strangely comfortable with him in the vicinity even though he'd looked at her with such indifference earlier.

The softened glance in her direction after his phone call made her release a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding. Her hand instinctively reached to cover the scar on her neck, wondering if he'd been picking apart her differences the way she had with him. She let her arms drop to her chest, however, when she reminded herself that the scar was barely noticeable now.

The corners of Aisulu's lips twitched but she didn't smile as their eyes met. "Samanova must not know our history." She finally smiled then, chin resting on her hands as she leaned forwards against the desk. "If I'd known you'd make it this far up, I probably would've tried seducing you."

Pilgrim59 · Feb 3, 2023

LAM AU-YEUNG
Orchid Tower, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Doctor Nope

A nostalgic but nonetheless a strange encounter, as Lam found himself at a loss for words. Despite the fact that he was the very one that requested her audience, the man could not help but be mesmerized by the salted taste of lavender and carnation that lingered upon his closed lips. His attempt to maintain his objective was not unchallenged by the woman's pair of azure solace that brought back a certain tenderness that would otherwise be perceived an allusion of an intimate nature. What exactly did they share in a past so simple yet to be unraveled in a most complicate nature where they are now?

He steadied his lungs, of which were as fiery as the brimstones of wrinkled sheets and tossed pillows. The heavy aroma of whiskey and vodka remained as vividly bitter as the day they parted ways. Neither goodbyes nor good will in parting - only the taste of unwritten intentions and unspoken regrets. Lam dared not to divert his gaze from her bright windows, lest he finds himself a young teenager again whose solitary nature gave way to a mistake that he now must bear in the face of his partner-in-crime before him. Alas, his duty called to his senses, parting the clouds of self-indulged doubts that circled his thoughts like vultures. How excrutiating it must be, to see someone in the same manner as if time ceased to materialize.

The way she attempted to cover up her scar beckoned many questions for the man, as he realized that he had walked out on a seemingly pivotal aspect that led them here many years later. So many questions yet so little time, he contemplated. He must admit to himself, despite the years that passed them by, he was still content with the fact that she remained just the same as their last September.

"No, he doesn't. Or perhaps he does know, and chose to close one eye." He replied with a light smile.

"I see you haven't changed one bit." Lam retorted with a light chuckle, clicking his pen swiftly and wrote something into his notebook. "I'm glad." He muttered to himself softly, while tapping his phone hastily with speed to initiate a package for delivery. He then looked up at Sulli again, this time with a coy smile.

"As awkward as this must be, I look forward to working with you. Let's see what you've learned since we last met. Get on your knees." He said with a straight face, as he stood up from his seat and towered over the woman with an overwhelming presence.

He then ripped the recently-written page from his notebook and gave it to Sulli which read:
My desk is bugged. I need you to trace it, but keep the device intact. Thanks.

Lam then pointed towards the underside of his desk where a peculiar device the size of a small coin resided, to which he hoped Sulli would be able to backtrace on its frequency however she can. He gave her a thumbs-up and waved the woman goodbye as he quietly exited his office and headed downstairs to catch his ride. He gave Lisa a passing nod as the latter got up from their seat to greet the man, just in time for a peculiar vehicle to pull up on the building.

Entering the vehicle, Lam gave the redhead a brief gaze via the rearview mirror before turning towards the window. Another descendant of the apocryphal Founding Fathers, whose fate intertwined with the deeds of their progenitors. Perhaps it was true that one could not escape their destiny. "Regal Riverside. Think we can make it there in under ten minutes, Ms. Watson?" He challenged the driver, as the clock showed nine forty-nine. Given their current position, it would take at least twenty minutes to get to the hotel in clear-traffic conditions. But the rows of vehicles on the main driveway protested otherwise, despite the man's inclination for a test drive.

Doctor Nope · Feb 9, 2023

Hinami K. Watson
On the roooooaaaaaaad, Hong Kong

Pilgrim59

She was told to pick up the Head of Procurement in 15 minutes, and so she arrived in 10. 5 Minutes left over to sift through the bag of snacks she'd bought at the gas station she'd been at prior and have herself a swift mini-feast. By the time her self-allotted time was over, she'd cleaned everything up and by the time her passenger arrived, no trace could be seen.

"10 minutes...?"

Her face was blank as she looked on at the traffic before them. "Legally, no. But if we're willing to bend the rules, no problem."

Then came the slight curling of the corners of her mouth into a smile. "I won't bother asking. I've already memorised the blind spots of the street cameras and modded the suspension. Hang tight."

Now, how does one reach a destination in half the estimated traffic-less time, while there is heavy traffic to deal with?

By changing roads, for starters.

car-jumps-off-to-the-opposite-road-cyberpunk-edgerunners.gif

After the brief terrifying death trip that ensued, reminiscent of a roller coaster , the car drifted cleanly into view of the Regal Riverside. With a screech, it came to a sudden halt in front.

10 minutes on the dot.

Pilgrim59 · Feb 11, 2023

LISA CHOW
Orchid Tower, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Worthlessplebian

LAM AU-YEUNG
Regal Riverside Hotel, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Doctor Nope

Zariel

---59th FLOOR, ORCHID TOWER---

The raven-haired woman traversed the squeaky floor, navigating her course swiftly with a stack of paperworks tucked between her arms. Her eyes widened at the sight of new office floor, of which was only renovated a few days ago in preparations for a new officer. She reflected on their first words, curious as to who the man truly was, as well as the familiar managers that were to report to him. As a receptionist, she was armed with the specifics of her given details. After all, not all members of the Sarti Corporation were full-fledged sicarios or smugglers.

Strange, for most would have attempted to settle in by displacing certain pieces of furniture in their office. But for Mr. Au-Yeung, he seemed to disregard the comforts of his office in pursuit of his workload instead. Truly a professional among the upper management, thought Lisa as she settled a couple of paperworks on the desk in the main room and made her way past the empty space to deliver a set of documents to the Warehouse Manager.

"Mr. Ferraro?" She greeted with a smile. "These are the POs from our storage unit in Macao. I'll need your signature here and here." She said, presenting the documents promptly with the little sushi-themed stickers attached to the designated pages.

---REGAL RIVERSIDE HOTEL---

Lam quickly ran by his phone for messages, texting back to the contact known as "Knight."

Recipient

me

A Kinugasa shinobi. Do you trust him?

them

ur the head of procurementyou tell me

me

Only one way to find out. The Dragons will no doubt be expecting me at the Regal Riverside to test my mettle. Should they succeed, they'll just play it off as mismanagement. Typical Triad greeting.

them

i c

them

problem?

me

No. We'll see how the shinobi holds up.

them

seems like u already getting the hang of ure job lol

them

gl

Lam buckled himself up swiftly as soon as the red-haired woman mentioned the legality of the task that he gave her. The perfect chance to see how capable she was also served as a chance to get killed. A double-edged sword for a simple task, but as the recently-assigned commander of their operations in Hong Kong, he shared little sentiments for safety. After all, being in caught in the sinews of danger keeps the man alert and sharp, while allowing him to see the truest form of his peers' personality. As they shifted lane, Watson weaved their way past the oncoming vehicles. An unorthodox but effective method, as they managed to arrive at the designated location, with five minutes to spare. The man could feel his legs shaking just a little, despite his calm facade. Alas, he did gave Watson full authority on the matter and she completed it without fail. Even so, the man had to reel back for a moment from the pump of adrenaline that kicked in just as she pulled into the driveway with a hard brake.

"Not bad. Fetch me in an hour." He remarked softly, stepping out of the vehicle and adjusted his suit. The Hongkongnese then paced himself gradually towards the lobby, where he came to a halt to scan the surroundings briefly, before casting his sights upon a dark-haired gentleman in black just across the floor. Their solitary position had full visibility on the entirety of the room, just as any experienced spy or assassins often preferred to possess before all else. Approaching him, Lam extended his hand to greet the man with an inexpressive but confident look.

"Mr. Yamazaki." He greeted, assuming that he already knew the man prior, unless the Kinugasa themselves fail to even update him. But Lam expected more from the Yakuzas, especially when they themselves are no stranger to the field of business intelligence.

Snatching a key card from the receptionist, they made their way towards the elevator. While the site was supposed to be Lam's temporary place of respite before he could find proper accomodations, the man had other plans for it. Gazing at their reflections in the elevator's closed doors, Lam finally spoke after swiping the card for Floor 35. As the two men were alone in the elevator, the camera's red light would fade, indicating that it was intentionally switched off.

"I actually prefer the rundown motels in Old Kowloon. Which is why I chose this place instead. Consider this as part of my staff evaluation." He said, alluding to the fact that he had intentionally leaked his itinerary for the Dragons to catch on. "I speculate about seven or so personnel. A bit tight for space, but they have the manpower to spare. As for their firepower, I'm sure you'll manage." Lam gave Yamazaki a heads up.

Just before they arrived, Lam propped open the control panel and withdrew a handgun from the empty space within. He inspected the piece, a SIG Sauer P220 chambered in point-forty-five ACP, supplied with a two spare magazines of ten-rounds capacity. The weapon was mounted with a Vortex micro-red dot optic and a fitted Osprey block-suppressor. The Hongkongnese then handed the pistol and spare magazines to Yamazaki.

"I do hope that you'll find this sufficient. If not, then I might be wrong to assume that the Kinugasa's words were all but a fleeting remark to sweeten the ears." He remarked sharply, as the elevator's door slowly opened up.

Zariel · Feb 12, 2023

Yamazaki Jin
— Young Sparrow —

Sarti Corporation's Head of Procurement, Lam Au-Yueng, arrived on schedule, ten on the dot. Jin stood up, responding to the man's greeting with a respectful bow. The two made their way into a mirrored elevator, standing poised, and speaking at their reflections.

Lam began with a rather cryptic statement pertaining to his peculiar preference for manky vacancies. Perhaps not the most surprising detail, occupying an inconspicuous abode was a wise decision in their felonious line of work—fewer eyes to be wary of. What piqued Jin's curiosity was the other's ratiocinate for divulging this seemingly trivial piece of information. To the shinobi's relief - well, not entirely - Lam's succeeding words alerted him of the ambush waiting on the other side of the doors.

Jin was provided with a modified handgun and a pair of spare clips.

"Seven, you say?" he stared at the ancillary metal holders. "Then I won't be needing these."

The elevator came to a sudden halt, and the sliding doors hissed as they were about to spread apart.

Jin prepared with a single breath. In, and out.

Then he heard it. Unintelligible clamour beyond the sliding doors. In that instant, with his arm outstretched, he slammed Lam into the side of the elevator behind him, removing him from the direct line of sight of the narrowly opening aperture. Without pause, he reached into a hidden pocket in his black jacket, procuring a smoke bomb which he slammed into the ground. The smoke rapidly filled the elevator, expanding outward. As the doors fully open, the cloud billowed into the hallway.

The ambushing lackeys raise their firearms, but even before they can see the passengers, they disappear into a thick wave of smoke. There was a commotion, and The Dragons began yelling at one another in the language of this land.

"What the hell is this?!"

"Where are they?!"

"Fuck! I can't see!"

"Bastards! Find them!"

Jin stayed low, prowling with meticulous footfalls like a leopard stalking its prey on a moonless night. The kunai begin to fly, hitting their targets with a gratifying flesh and bone THUNK.

One. Two. Three. Four.

Jin twitched. Footsteps.

He reaches for the wakizashi on his lower back, concealed under his long coat. Darting from an angle, he races up to the approaching enemy, covering the man's mouth with his free hand before swiftly slitting his throat with a molecular sharp blade, a fountain of blood spewing from the severed vessels and sinews. Jin twisted to the side, not letting the gore sully his clothes.

Two left, he thought to himself, finally loading the firearm bequeathed by Lam. The smoke was starting to clear. He needed to end this quickly. Make every shot count. One shot, one kill.

"Hey! What the hell is going on?! Where are you guys?!" one of the remaining Dragons bawled, revealing his position. Jin wanted to smirk, but he maintained an inexpressive mask.

The shinobi turned on his heel, levelling his gun. As the silhouette of a man came into view, he pulled the trigger, sending a bullet straight through his brain.

Now, only one target remained. The smoke had almost finished clearing, and the target finally bore witness to the carnage around him.

"What the fu—!" the Dragon wasn't granted a chance to complete his sentence, as a hard karate chop to the back of his head, sent him reeling face-first into the ground. Jin stood over his subdued opponent, assuring he stayed down by fixing a bullet into his thoracic spine.

"Seven," he breathed, his gaze shifting back toward the elevator where he left Lam. Just then, Jin's head perked, hearing more footsteps racing up the flight of stairs twenty yards away. A latecomer arrived at the party, but it was already over. The second he poked around the corner, Jin fired his gun, and the bullet blasted right through the laggard's ribcage. "... Make that eight."

The black-haired man tossed the gun back to Lam, vertically smacking his gloved hands together, signalling his task was complete.

Worthlessplebian · Feb 12, 2023

SANTIAGO MERCADO FERRARO
Orchid Tower, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Pilgrim59

The half-Italian smiled at the request—rather, his first assignment in this fanciful establishment. Partly because it greased old wheels and that Ferraro need not do much thinking when it comes to these almost-trivial tasks. Also because the soldier was possessed of a certain fondness for these articles of destruction. He gave a curt nod when their bloodsworn handler concluded the meeting with a hasty debrief. During his tenure as the sole leader of a large dispensary, Santiago often was dragged to lengthy meetings to discuss fiscal quarters with all the gob-smacking joys those brought to him so it is a relief that he finally has someone who does not bother with it. The pegs of the chair were slid seamlessly across the floor as Santiago rose, glancing at his fresh-minted co-workers. "I shall be in my office, amici. Addio!" A casual send-off salute marked Ferraro's departure from the conference room.

---------In the Merc's Post---------

Conveniently housed on the same floor level, Santiago sat in the dimgray desk chair. His hands rubbed against the molded plastic of the armrests finding himself sinking a little in its surprising comfort. Certainly cosier than his homely one back in Italy. An almost childlike grin settled on Santiago as his feet spun him in place before hands stop the revolution. Time to work, the man called as index finger pushed the embedded power button on his work station's computer. The office is spartan, Santiago did not feel to bring in the decor just yet. And even if he did, it would only mildly change; a few wood-framed photos, an antiquate medal, and his flask—which would obviously be hidden in the drawer next to a pistol.

He hummed a tune while automatically inserting his credentials. Wasting no time he navigated through the files and documents, an admiring hmm escaped him as he scrapped the thin-haired goatee with two fingers. These seguranças were no slouches, they had palatable tastes when it came to firearms too. Although if there is one alteration that should be done. His fingers danced across the keyboard's buttons imputing a new order for MP7s, he's had experience with these SMGs before and found them effective. Their initial choice of the CSIG JS9 whilst not inadequate, Santiago figured that they'd fare far better with a traditional and proven choice.

The door opened. Santiago looked up from his side-placed monitor with an amiable smirk as his eyes identified the arrival. "Ah, obrigada, Ms. Chow." Santiago thanked as he skimmed the documents briefly. The man's eyes caught themselves on the little sushi pins plastered on the documents. His smile thickened as he tapped the tiny pins with the butt of his pen. "Adorable," he commented while fluently leaving his signature on the dotted lines. "Is that all or do you need anything else from me, mocinha?" He asked in a relaxed, honeyed voice to the receptionist.

Huntertabbysandshark3 · Feb 13, 2023

Felix
interaction:

Worthlessplebian
Location
Orchid Tower, Kowloon, Hong Kong

"got it boss though already brought my own equipment it's partly why I'm a little late no offense Mr Ferraro I just trust me own stuff more but, if that's what ye request sure ill follow up with em" Felix would say with a small nod and a smile if the boss wanted him to talk to the guy he was clearly the logistics for the operation so any rounds or munition would need to be sourced through him anyway so, of course, he'd decide that he should probably go along with the guy and ask about their situation be it manpower or actual weaponry en all.

so he'd more or less follow Santiago waiting for a moment to actually speak to him once the man had actually settled into his new position as well a "desk man" as it where. "right then, what ave we got firearm en men.. if we gonna be musclen in on other organisation business then we betta make sure securities good and what they've gots solid ye know? also like to know what im worken with personally"

Pilgrim59 · Feb 15, 2023

LISA CHOW
Orchid Tower, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Worthlessplebian

LAM AU-YEUNG
Regal Riverside Hotel, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Zariel

---59th FLOOR, ORCHID TOWER---

Lisa smiled brightly when Santiago complimented the post-it stickers on the documents. "They are, aren't they!" Tilting her head slightly, she added onto his remarks. "I am glad that you think so too, Mr. Ferraro! Hm. I wonder what Mr. Au-Yeung thinks of them..." She continued, while re-arranging the signed documents into her folder. The man's soothing tone and calm facade made him one of the few Sarti personnel that she enjoys talking to.

"I have no idea what you just said, but that should suffice. Thank you Mr. Ferraro!" She said, before pausing to look at the calendar. "Hm. Your birthday is coming up within a few days, right? Any plans to go anywhere? Asking so I could get you the best deals on flight tickets and hotel bookings." Lisa explained, with her index finger pointed upwards to emphasize her attentive thoughts.

---REGAL RIVERSIDE HOTEL---

The shinobi sprung past Lam, and into the heat of battle, leaving the latter to his own devices to go over his text messages. If the Kinugasa shinobi was as self-assured as he proclaimed, then Lam at least knew that the Yakuzas still retained some pride in their line of works in raising killers - the perfect double-edged sword that Lam could use as leverage in the future. That was to say, should the worst come to pass. Amidst the briefly incessant exclamations, things and perhaps bodies being thrown across the room before him, Lam casually perused his phone, while the Sparrow picked off his expected assailants one by one. When the smoke finally cleared, the man's gaze finally diverted its attention from the handheld device. The muffled blast from the handgun echoed across the narrow corridor, yet the other doors remained closed.

As Jin announced his final kill, Lam swiftly raised his hand to catch the handgun. "All in under five minutes. I am impressed, Mr. Yamazaki." He noted with a smile. At least, the Kinugasa inspired some sense of confidence in the man as a capable combatant. Lam then veer to the side, where one of the hitmen was still conscious, despite their grievous wounds sustained at the hands of a skilled shinobi. Lam made his way into the room, eyeing one of the bodies slumped over against the blood-stained wall. His other free hand raised forth, before plucking a kunai from their lifeless physique. Lam finally bent his knees to meet the dying gunner's eyes.

A loud scream rung against the plastered walls, as the kunai pinned the gunman's hands against the ground. With their attention finally paid to Lam's focused eyes in earnest, the bloodsworn finally spoke. "Tell your Jiangjun (General) that Sarti Corporations appreciated their warm welcomes and that we look forward to meeting them tonight." As he did, the gunman nodded, and tried to hold in his suppressed whimpers. An audible thud could be heard, as Lam knocked the wounded man unconscious with the backend of his handgun. Searching the hitman's body, he found a certain small ziplock bag that came with the very substance that he was looking to procure for Nari to analyze. It seemed that his day was progressing quite swiftly with great successes. At least, it will save him the trouble of having to shake down the Dragons and their local smuggling production. While they are technically bound by a truce, there were many ways to sabotage one another unofficially.

Lam's thumb pressed against the magazine release, ejecting the magazine entirely, before pulling the slide back, to empty the current round in the chamber. Having done so, Lam tossed the empty gun onto the bed and fixed his suit promptly.

Reaching for the hotel's phone, Lam dialed for a line that was not marked on the tab by the hotel. "Good morning. This is 35-05. I would like to request for room service please. Seven bottles of water and a pack of dehydrated fruits please for my guest, please. He's craving something sweet. Thank you." Lam then hung up and waited outside the room with Jin until a couple of janitors arrived on scene. Despite the sight of the lifeless body in the middle of the corridor, they remained suspiciously calm about the ordeal. One of them approached Lam, reaching for a handshake.

"You must be the Marshal's new representative. Since this is your first time here, we won't charge you for it."

"I appreciate it. But I wouldn't exactly call it my first. I'd like to settle this on my own terms." Lam said, slipping the man two peculiar coins that resembled that of Italian florins, but exclusively used within the Syndicate as a currency in exchange for goods and services provided by its own members. Due to their obsolete nature in the modern world, they became the very tool that paved the way for the extensive growth of the organization as a non-traceable currency. "The one with the kunai in his hand will deliver my message. See if you can return him to sender." Lam noted.

"So that's what the second florin is for. Seven water bottles and a pack of dehydrated fruits to return to sender. I'll see to it, Bloodsworn." The janitor then tipped his hat, before getting to work with cleaning up the scene with his crew. The casings were carefully bagged, bodies disposed off, and ligament stains bleached. Before long, it seemed as if they were never there and that a firefight never occurred.

"There's one more stop I'd like to make before we return to the office." Lam said, leading the man to the rooftop of the hotel. On scene, Lam paced himself slowly along the railed edges, carefully studying the surrounding area. After a while, he would set his sight on a particular building just in the distance. Making a mental note of the place, Lam turned towards Yamazaki. "I've read your file. But I've yet to read the sparrow himself. As one man to another, can I trust you?" The man's eyes began to glow, neither with solemn judgment nor endowed distrust, but with a hint of earnest inquiry.

Zariel · Feb 15, 2023

Yamazaki Jin
— Young Sparrow —

Jin bit the inside of his cheek, transiently averting his gaze when Lam commended his proficiency. He had always been one to be unheeding to praise, a trait fostered from a young age.

Lam strolled to a slumped body stained with red, passing him a message to deliver to his masters and carefully obtaining something from his person.

"Tsk!" Jin hissed, snapping his head over his shoulder. To his chagrin, he failed to eliminate them all. Though in his condition, the man was already bound for the grave, the fact that he could yet open his lungs and his heart still beat taunted the shinobi's mind. He must've narrowly evaded being hit at a fatal point by the dagger as it ripped through the smoke toward him.

Fortunately, Jin felt an iota of consolation after learning the man's fleeting survival was, in fact, a favourable outcome for them. Although, he would not view this as a sufficient excuse to become complacent.

Jin crossed his arms, sighing.

A short while later, janitors arrived on the scene—the clean-up crew, as some might call them. These must be the accomplices summoned at Lam's behest. Seven bottles of water and a pack of dehydrated fruits, Jin recalled. He noted the unique coins exchanged but kept his curiosity locked away in his sequestered mind. With promptitude, they swiftly erased all evidence of a skirmish ever taking place. Deducing from what the representative conferred earlier in the elevator about this entire affray being nought but a simple trial, Jin presumed he had formerly made arrangements to deal with the aftermath.

Howbeit, the yakuza narrowed his eyes and leaned back against the wall to cogitate if Lam had a contingency in place had he failed to terminate The Dragons. The other rooms on the floor were all dead silent. It was a possibility that they harboured reinforcement had matters gone south.

Jin's eyes raked keenly across the corridor, laden with suspicion.

Just then, Lam invited the Kinugasa to join him elsewhere. The latter nodded, following his new 'boss' to the rooftop. Once at the top, Lam trailed off to the precipice to inspect something along the horizon. Jin watched and waited at the door for a while before following suit. As his approach came to a halt, the other man asked him a question, and his tone was of candour.

The shinobi met Lam's oddly cordial gaze as he spoke of trust. For a few long moments, Jin remained silent. The voices of his masters back in japan echoed in his subconscious. Eventually, he sighed, dropping eye contact, and instead peered into the distance where the other's discerning orbs once fell.

"Before I was sent here, my superiors gave me strict instructions... I am to obey the commands of the Syndicate's upper echelons as though they were their own. I have reason to suspect Lord Saito himself had a part to play in all this, although why he chose me specifically to complete this task remains a mystery." Jin paused. An evanescent gust of wind whistled as it swept by, dishevelling the man's dark locks. "... Nevertheless, while I stand on the soil of this land, then my answer to your question... is yes, Lam Au-Yeung."

As a final gesture to demonstrate his solemnity, the shinobi placed a hand over his heart.

Pilgrim59 · Feb 16, 2023

LAM AU-YEUNG
Regal Riverside Hotel, Kowloon, Hong Kong

koala

---REGAL RIVERSIDE HOTEL---

Lam let out a soft exhale, materializing itself in the form of a light chuckle. Neither a scoff nor an amusement at the cost of the shinobi's solemn plegde to his duty. The businessman then revealed his smile as an acknowledgement of Jin's truth. "Who can say what our bosses are thinking? My Marshal, your Tono (Master). We are but tools for a future promised only by our hands." He noted.

"There will come a day when you will have to decide for your own future, Mr. Yamazaki. Loyalty in this day and age often finds itself at the mercy of the every-coursing stream of life. This may not make much sense to you now, but know that when the time comes, you have my word that I will treat you as you are now before me." Lam then eyed his phone briefly, catching the particular clock before nodding to himself. "We still have time before Ms. Watson comes around. Coffee?" He invited.

As the two finally exited the hotel with the conclusion of their task coming to pass, Lam entered the vehicle with Jin. "Orchid Tower, if you please." The ride was riddled with silence, as Lam continued to text his boss overseas.

Recipient

me

I've sent the Dragons a message. Though I suspect something's off about their issues of orders.

them

how o.o?

me

They sent regulars, lightly armed. I think it bored the shinobi a little bit.

them

Lmao could be that it wasnt Baishe that sent em 😉

them

an independent initiative - someones abut to get their ass handed to them

them

baishe is not going to like that

me

We'll see how it turns out. How's Indonesia?

them

the gov is getting involved. wE are looking at a big player not sure who 🤔

them

i will find out sooner or later tho no worries OwO

me

Noted. One more thing. I've got a hold of a sample. Will have our Doctor run it later. Once we have the source, we'll keep tabs on it.

them

great job. Oh u should invite ur crew to lunch

me

They can afford their own. I don't want to intrude.

them

smh bro u in the guanxi field so start guanxi-ing! 🍆🍆🍆

me

As you wish. Also please stop using random emojis like that.

them

no🦽

me

I'll update you on our next course of actions after lunch. Ferraro and the Doc should have their reports in any minute now.

them

mkay, keep me posted 💅

The man gave a slight sigh at his phone before turning towards the windows to eye the cityscape that zoomed past him. "Meet me on the 60th Floor once you've made the parking, Ms. Watson." He informed his driver. It was only when they finally arrived at their office, did Lam finally lifted his voice as they made their way past the security details in the lobby.

---ORCHID TOWER---

"Where are you staying at the moment, Mr. Yamazaki?" He asked casually.

Upon his entry on the 59th Floor, Lam eyed the attendants that still lingered since his departure. It did not take long for the reports to start pouring in just as he arrived on scene. Was it a coincidence, or did they realized that he was back earlier than expected? He eyed the camera across the room slightly, before making his way towards Ferraro's room. There he nodded at Lisa, just as she was leaving. He gave her a brief look of scrutiny, especially the way she looked at the calendar. Her passing gaze towards the Italo-Brazilian gave Lam a hint of their recent discussion. The perfect excuse for him to follow up with the Marshal's suggestion of lunch.

"It's almost your birthday, isn't it, Senhor Ferraro? Since this is my first day here, I would like to invite you to lunch."

As Lisa began to recede from the background, Lam's voice demanded her stay. "I would like for you to join us as well, Lisa." The young woman was petrified for a moment, unable to process the man's simple invitation. "That is, if you haven't got any plans. I do not wish to intrude if such was the case." He added, prompting Lisa to respond with a flustered expression. "Y-Yes, of course, Mr. Au-Yeung! To lunch, I meant. Not the intrusion part. Thank you, sir!" She then hid her face behind the set of documents in her hands, before clearing the room entirely.

"Hm. She seems jumpy. You didn't spook her, did you, Mr. Ferraro? Or is this normal?" Lam turned towards the man before him. "Anyways, I'll see you at the sky lounge on the 60th floor. We'll also have a discussion over your requisition orders."

The man then exited the room to pay his next visit to the Doctor. "Ms. Kwon." He greeted her with a firm expression, before pulling up his phone with the words quoted by their brilliant production sentinel that read: 'My science is good.'

"I fail to understand what you mean by this. Of course, I believe you are more than qualified to take charge of our ... commodities. Yet, I would love to know just what exactly you are trying to requisite in detail. Seven-hundred grand is a relatively humble request, but I also wish to familiarize myself with a general idea of your capacity as well." He remarked the report. "But we'll talk about it over lunch, which I will be delighted to have you join us."

"For the time being..." Lam continued, withdrawing a small pack of powdered substance from his jacket and placed them on the table between them. "I'll need you to run a few tests. It's contents, purity and anything else you deem noteworthy. Shouldn't be too hard. But most importantly, I wish to know where it came from." His index finger pointing towards the sample.

Recipient

me

Lunch on me with the others - 12:30 - Sky Lounge 60th Floor. Don't be late.

Lam then texted Sulli. Perhaps not wanting to disturb the work that he assigned her earlier, Lam simply sent the woman a text message. But only the man himself knew the true reason why he chose to ask her over text.

Narcotics Lab Results ( Dicentra ): The origin of the substance traces back to AFGHANISTAN / MYANMAR. (choose one)
I. Consequence is determined by Nari's revelation on the origins of 86 Dragon's new drug.

Worthlessplebian · Feb 17, 2023

SANTIAGO MERCADO FERRARO
Orchid Tower, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Pilgrim59

Santiago's brow wrinkled with surprise. "Ah, excuse me," Said the military man lightly. "You get used to speaking one or two languages for so long and it's easy to forget not everyone understands." He explains as if handwaving away debris. He props himself on his left elbow and taps his left temple. "He'd find them amusing at least." Ferraro predicts to assure the receptionist. His head wheels to the calendar upon Lisa Chow's mentioning of his birthday. He scrutinizes the timetable with his two eyes. He pushes his chin outwards with a thumb scratching underneath it. "Well, whaddya know." He turns to the plucky receptionist with shrugged shoulders. "I must be getting old," he announces in an almost quiet, sad voice before breaking the facade with an upbeat tone. "Ah, it happens. I'm just glad to be here."

He doesn't even consider Lisa's question of localities instead immediately answering. "Heh, up until now, I was the one who was throwing out gifts and treating people on my birthday. Of course, my employees all pitched in and also gave me thingies from time to time." He then looks thoughtfully. An idea pops into his head. "How does dinner sound? Never had a receptionist or secretary at my last site, would've made the job easier. Or the hours shorter." He begins to type away on the keyboard to finish off the report while awaiting Ms. Chow's answer.

The head-honcho of this organisation, Lam Au-Yeung, entered his office unexpectedly. "Welcome, welcome, Mr. Au-Yeung." He greeted the man standing up from his chair. He admits that this visit is uncanny, must have something pertinent to discuss if he wants to visit him this early in the day. Unless this is a social call. Santiago watches the scene unfold in front of him with passive curiosity. A fruitful smile spreads as Mr. Au-Yeung asks-no, orders Lisa to attend their little lunch get-together. "It will be, it will be." He confirmed Lam's question on his birthday. "As for spookin' Senhorita Chow: Nope. Funnily, I did ask the young lady to dinner as well. Quite a coincidence." He bobs the canteen up to his lips before stopping. "Tá." nodded Santiago. He decided instead to sheathe the silver canteen into his jacket pocket and followed the bloodsworn. "Why wait, I'll tag along now."

Pilgrim59 · Feb 24, 2023

LAM AU-YEUNG
Orchid Tower, Kowloon, Hong Kong