Enforcing From Overseas

Chapter 2

Location: Sakai, Osaka Prefecture

Date: September 11, 2025

September 11th, 2023—the 26th anniversary of 9/11—a poignant day for Caskey to begin his first day of work in Japan. As he stepped into the suburban streets of Sakai City, a wave of nostalgia washed over him, reminding him of the gravity of the day. After completing his morning routine, he packed his gear, ensuring he had everything he needed for the day ahead. Locking the door behind him, he climbed into his car and drove toward the local police station.

Upon arrival, he took a moment to gather himself before stepping out. The air was crisp, and the sun was just starting to rise, casting a warm glow over the neighborhood. He grabbed his belongings and walked into the station, where he was met with polite nods and greetings from the staff and officers hustling about. There wasn't a formal welcoming party, but the friendly atmosphere put him at ease.

Making his way to the locker room, he found his locker waiting for him, clearly marked with his name. It was a relief to see it all prepared. He carefully stowed away his SWAT battle belt, patrol vest, an extra pair of Salomon Quest 4D GTX hiking shoes—just like the ones he wore that day—and his Crye G3 combat shirt and pants. The best part? As a foreign officer, he didn't have to wear the local uniform, which suited him just fine; the plain clothes were practical for his specialized work.

He left his rifle and JPC plate carrier in his car, making a mental note to relocate them if he needed to use a marked patrol vehicle. Once he finished setting up, he headed to his desk, where he noticed Takeo was seated right next to him.

"Hey," Caskey said, surprised but pleased.

"Good morning! How's the first day treating you?" Takeo asked, flashing a friendly smile.

"Not bad." Caskey replied as he sat down.

"Pretty calm for now. Everyone's busy, but you'll get used to it. Once we get an assigned case, it'll be more lively around here."

Caskey nodded, booting up his computer. He started sifting through the files that had been set up for him. It was a standard, quiet morning, and he was settling in when the police chief entered the room, commanding attention.

"Everyone, I would like you to meet our exchange officer, Hiro Caskey, an FBI agent from the USA," the chief announced, his voice authoritative yet welcoming. "Now, Mr. Caskey, since you are a decorated officer, I would like you to take on a murder case to demonstrate how you handle things."

"What? Like, right now?" Caskey's eyes widened in disbelief. "Also, that decorated part isn't entirely accurate." The chief nodded, clearly unfazed by Caskey's surprise. He was still reeling from the lack of formal introductions or an overview of standard operating procedures; every department had its own way of doing things, and he was unsure how this station operated.

"Yes, right now. You and Officer Takeo will respond to an apartment at this location." The chief handed Caskey a slip of paper with the address written on it.

Caskey scanned the paper. "This looks like it's just down the street."

"Correct. It's best if you get moving quickly and start your investigation," the chief urged, a hint of urgency in his voice.

"Alright then, Chief. We're on our way. Come on, Takeo," Caskey said, feeling a surge of adrenaline.

"Already behind you," Takeo replied, his expression shifting to one of determination as they headed out of the station.

The two agents walked briskly to Takeo's car, the atmosphere around them charged with the weight of their mission. Caskey felt a mix of excitement and anxiety; it was his first day in a new country, and he was about to tackle a murder case. As they drove toward the address, the streets of Sakai City flashed by, a blur of everyday life contrasting sharply with the grim nature of their task.