D-MINGO

Chapter 5: The Middleman's Web

Scene: Outside Pinto's Restaurant

As Rajdeep and Aditya step outside Pinto's, Aditya, looking slightly puzzled, finally asks, "Sir, who exactly is this Alex? He didn't seem like any ordinary restaurant owner."

Rajdeep gives Aditya a sidelong glance, deciding how much he should share with the new recruit. "Alex is... a fixer. He knows everyone in Goa who's involved in the less-than-legal side of things. He makes connections, handles problems, and most importantly, keeps things quiet."

Aditya, curious but cautious, raises an eyebrow. "So, he's involved in crime?"

Rajdeep smirks. "Indirectly. In Goa, people like Alex are essential. They maintain a balance. And, like it or not, we have to work with them sometimes to get the job done."

Scene: Rajdeep's Car

As they drive back, Rajdeep explains, "A place like Goa has layers. On the surface, there's tourism, parties, and beach resorts. But beneath that? It's people like Alex and others even higher up who maintain an invisible balance. They ensure no one new muscles into the drug trade without... permission."

Rajdeep pauses, letting that sink in. "Alex gives us tips, and in return, we don't pry too much into his business. He doesn't deal directly, but he has his ears everywhere. For us, he's valuable."

Aditya, trying to understand, asks, "So, who's at the top of this 'balance'? Isn't it dangerous for us to rely on people like him?"

Rajdeep's gaze hardens. "Sometimes you have to choose the lesser evil to keep the peace. Goa isn't Maharashtra, Aditya. Here, the game is different."

Scene: Rajdeep's Office

Back at the station, Rajdeep briefs Aditya on how they'll work with Alex. He gives Aditya tasks that involve more observation than action, teaching him to read people and understand the alliances between law enforcement and the underworld. Through this, Aditya realizes Rajdeep's pragmatism but also his own need to stay sharp in a place that doesn't operate by the book.

Scene: Back at Alex's Restaurant

Meanwhile, at Pinto's Restaurant, Alex is in a private area, discussing business with a bartender named Kiran. Alex leans forward, intent on gathering intel. "What's the latest on the street? Any new players?"

Kiran, polishing a glass, nods. "Yeah, there's a newcomer pushing meth around here. I've heard he's got some serious product. The kind that gets people hooked fast."

Alex raises an eyebrow, intrigued. "Really? Who is he?"

Kiran pulls out his phone, scrolling through contacts until he finds a familiar name. "He's been making waves lately. Word is, he's got connections with some big shots. If you want to make a move, now's the time."

Scene: The Beach Meeting

Later that night, Rajdeep meets Alex at their usual secluded spot on the beach. The moonlight glints off the waves as Alex flicks through his notebook, looking up when Rajdeep approaches.

"Got any updates?" Rajdeep asks, keeping his tone professional.

Alex grins, the glint in his eyes revealing a mix of excitement and mischief. "I heard about a new player in the game. He's been making a name for himself, pushing some serious product around."

Rajdeep narrows his eyes, cautious. "What do you know about him?"

Alex leans back, his demeanor shifting to one of calculated interest. "I want him in my yard. He could cook for my clients. The way he's moving, he's bound to attract attention. I'd rather keep him close than let him run wild."

Rajdeep nods slowly, processing the information. "And where can we find him?"

Alex smirks, "Let's just say I've got my sources. I'll keep you posted. But you need to be careful. This guy's got ambitions, and he's not afraid to step on toes."

Rajdeep feels a twinge of unease but maintains his composure. "We'll handle it. But keep your nose clean, Alex."

As they part ways, Rajdeep turns to Aditya, who has been quietly observing. "See? This is how it works here. We can't ignore the players on the board."

Aditya nods, realizing the complexity of their mission. The game was only just beginning.