Los Angeles, California

The air was thick with the scent of saltwater and diesel, and the rhythmic clanging of metal against metal echoed through the shipyard. Seagulls squawked in the background while the water glistened, reflecting against the looming cranes towering overhead.

This marked the beginning of the investigation. I was at the very bottom of the organization, and Fanucci was at the top.

Izaya Fanucci was a cunning figure who had an iron grip on the drug trade, and he was known for being unpredictable.

He would smile calmly and shake a man's hand only to slice open his throat with the other. It was said that even his closest allies feared him, knowing that a single mistake could lead to their death. His reign was built on terror, and he relished the fear of those powerless against him.

After hearing about the man I would be getting close to, I thought I should feel more intimidated and concerned, but the truth is, I didn't. To me, he was just another criminal.

I was doubting the chief had made the right decision to put me in the shipyard, far away from the action. My chances of running into him here were slim, and getting close to him seemed even slimmer.

I had already been working at the shipyard for two months, and the information I had was little. I couldn't say for sure who was involved and who was an innocent bystander.

I knew we were playing the long game, but I thought I would have something by now.

The work was demanding, and making small talk with others was a challenge. I couldn't force anything. Conversations needed to happen naturally. Rushing things would be a huge mistake, so I had to be patient.

It was a warmer day than usual, making it hard for me to concentrate on my thoughts.

My sweat had already soaked through my shirt; the material clung tightly to my skin, making it even more unbearable. I gripped the edges and flung the shirt over my head, using it as a rag to mop the sweat dripping from my brows.

I grabbed a water bottle and poured it over my face to cool off. Now, I can think more clearly.