Lines Blurred, Traces Found (Published Under Ukiyoto Publishing)

Chapter 12: Critical Pursuit

Critical Pursuit

"Our goal: dismantle Champ's syndicate once and for all," Director Andrei emphasized, his voice firm and resolute. "Share your findings, Inspector. Every detail counts."

Eros nodded, confident in their research. "Our investigation reveals Champ's syndicate operates on a complex network of money laundering, extortion, and racketeering."

Brenth added, "We've identified key players, including high-ranking officials and business leaders, who've been bribed or coerced into cooperation."

Steve provided additional context, "Our forensic analysis suggests Champ's operation spans multiple jurisdictions, making this alliance crucial for success."

The FBI agents listened intently, their faces set with determination, asking pointed questions to clarify the evidence. "There is one of Champ's men in our custody; his name is Calix Reynolds," Agent Lincoln said, his expression serious. "For sure, you already know about that. We've been trying to communicate with you for the past few days, attempting to establish a connection with your team somehow. We believe our combined efforts will yield better results."

Eros nodded, intrigued. "We've been aware of Calix's arrest. What have you learned from him so far?"

Agent Lincoln leaned forward. "He's been tight-lipped, but we've managed to extract some valuable information. We believe he can lead us to higher-ranking members of Champ's syndicate."

Vince added, "We didn't reach out to you initially because we thought you had your own strategies and operation in place. We didn't want to interfere or compromise your efforts."

Eros's eyes narrowed. "I appreciate your consideration, but our goals align. Sharing intelligence will only strengthen our chances of success."

Brenth asked, "Have you considered offering Calix a deal in exchange for cooperation?"

Agent Lincoln hesitated. "We've discussed it, but we're unsure if he's willing to flip. Champ's syndicate is notorious for their loyalty and retaliation."

"We also have a lead from the person who approached me," Eros said, his hands remaining on the table as he gestured to the folder. "Maya Anderson, she's been working with us, providing valuable insights into Champ's operation."

He put down the folder, and the agents opened it, scanning the contents with interest.

"One of Champ's men, but she's not in your custody?" Agent Lincoln wondered, his brow furrowed in curiosity.

"Not yet, Agent Lincoln," Eros said, his expression cautious. "She's the only one who serves as our eyes and ears outside, providing crucial intel on Champ's operation. She's willing to cooperate, but in exchange for her safety, she's ready to tell us everything she knows about the syndicate and Champ."

Agent Lincoln nodded, understanding the delicate situation. "I see. We'll need to ensure her protection, then."

Steve's brow furrowed, concern etched on his face. "But our problem now is that we couldn't reach her a few days ago. That's what we're worried about-that maybe Maya is just playing tricks on us, feeding us misinformation."

Brenth added, "Or worse, she might have been compromised. If Champ's syndicate suspects her loyalty, they'll silence her."

Eros's gaze turned thoughtful. "We've considered that possibility. But Maya's been reliable so far. We need to reestablish contact, verify her situation."

"I can't stop myself from worrying about Hyunjie," Vince said, his voice laced with concern, which caught Eros' attention when he heard Hyunjie's name mentioned to Agent Walter. "It's been a few days since the raid operation was made, then she disappeared suddenly, and now she's nowhere to be found."