Perception

Chapter V: Barcelona

Danny sat alone in his penthouse while opening a folder in front of him. Inside were documents detailing a tech mogul, Alejandro Vega, who's based in Barcelona. A man who had turned his software company into a billion dollar empire, but like so many in their world, his success was layered with corruption. Danny studied the photo of Vega- a slick, sharp looking man in his early forties, with the kind of charisma that commanded a room. He could tell immediately why Anthony chosen him. Vega was the kind of man who believed he was invincible, untouchable. Those were the best marks. Inside the folder was a yellow note from Anthony saying:

"Vega's hosting a launch event for a new security software. It's happening at his estate in Barcelona in two weeks. He's using it to showcase the latest in high end encryption and cyber security. Wear ya best suit, see you at the airport."

*2 Weeks Later*

The duo landed in Barcelona, their plan already in motion. They had spent days studying Vega's estate, learning the ins and outs of his security, the patterns of his staff, and the guest list for the launch event.

"I came up with fake names for ourselves tonight. You're Bruce," Anthony pointed at Danny "and I'm Clark."

Danny chuckles. "Seriously man? Batman and Superman?" He says

Anthony shrugs "Dynamic duo, but we know who's the most powerful one."

"And yet, he still lost." Danny winks at his best friend "Isn't that right Clark?" He teases

"Anyways." Anthony rolled his eyes "That's what we're going by. You pack your best suit?" He asks as he puts on a silver Armani suit.

"Course I did." Danny answers while dressing in his red suit.

The estate itself was massive, sitting on the edge of the Mediterranean, a fortress of glass and stone overlooking the city. It was the kind of place designed to intimidate anyone who dared to step inside.

"You read the note, right?" Anthony asks his friend, who nods.

"Yeah, he's also siphoning off millions of dollars into offshore accounts. Money stolen from private investors who've no idea they're being robbed blind." Danny explained

"And we're going to walk in and take that money." Anthony says with a sly grin on his face. "I like it."

"No, not on this job." Danny said "We're going to make it look like someone inside Vega's own team did it. By the time they figure out what happened, his entire empire will be in ruins and we'll be long gone."

In a small case, Anthony opens it and two pistols were inside. He takes one, the same with Danny, and they both load the guns.

"We've pulled shit off just as dangerous before." Anthony says in a serious tone "this bastard has resources. Security. God forbid, if this goes south-"

"It won't." Danny interrupted putting his hand on his friend's shoulder for reassurance. "We're in, let's do it."

The two step out of the penthouse and get into the Mercedes Benz. Anthony sets the tone with A3's "Woke Up This Morning" as it blasts while they head to the estate. It's the song they always listened to before pulling off a job. As they parked at the estate, they adjusted their earpieces and made their way inside through the grand entrance.

The estate was buzzing with activity. Guests from all over the world had flown in for the launch, mingling in the open air courtyard where waiters carried trays of champagne and hors d'oeuvres. A live band played softly in the background, and the Mediterranean breeze swept through the air, carrying with it the scent of the sea.