Lines Blurred, Traces Found (Published Under Ukiyoto Publishing)

Chapter 30: Champ's Downfall: The Final Confrontation

Champ's Downfall: The Final Confrontation

Harry gently released Maya, his expression resolute. "Maya, please stay. I'll bring Champ to justice, I promise."

Maya's jaw set, determination burning in her eyes. "I'm coming with you, Harry."

Gabriel stepped forward. "I'll watch her back, Harry. Let's go." The group exchanged weighted glances, then sprang into action, mobilizing for the high-stakes operation.

The FBI team poured into the hallway, their swift footsteps echoing off the walls. Each agent's face set in determined lines, their eyes burning with a focused intensity. The operation's weight settled heavy upon them, a palpable force propelling them forward.

The police formed a tight perimeter around the airstrip, their vehicles strategically concealed. SWAT teams, camouflaged and armed, merged seamlessly with the surroundings, ready to strike. Every officer's gaze locked onto the descending plane, anticipating the green light to apprehend Champ.

The CID team, comprising Steve, Brenth, Jace and Neil, stood poised and alert under Eros' leadership. Concealed in the shadows near Champ's suspected hideout, they maintained radio silence, eyes scanning the surroundings. Breath held, they awaited Eros' signal to swoop in and apprehend their target.

Eros' voice whispereda single word through the comms device: "Ready?"

The CID team nodded, nearly imperceptible. "In position," Steve whispered.

"Clear view of entrance," Brenth murmured.

"No visible hostiles," Jace added.

"Perimeter secure," Neil confirmed.

Eros stood rigid, phone pressed to his ear, as he awaited Agent Walter's crucial update. His gaze swept across the CID team, poised and ready. Steve, Brenth, Jace and Neil exchanged tense glances, hands resting on their weapons.

Harry's voice came through the comms device, low and steady. "Team, hold position. Champ's plane lands in 20 minutes. Wait for my mark." The FBI team nodded, muscles tensed, scanning their surroundings, but they saw Champ's men arrive in the distance, scanning the whole area, waiting for their boss' arrival.

"Roger that, Phoenix," Agent Lincoln whispered into the comms device. "Hostiles are moving into position, approximately 20 yards out."

"Confirmed," Agent Carter replied softly. "I've got eyes on four tangos, all armed."

"Team, be advised: hostiles are patrolling the western perimeter," Agent Walter added. "We need to adjust our position."

Harry's voice remained calm. "Hold steady, team. We don't want to spook them. Wait for Champ's arrival."

Eros spoke calmly into the phone. "What's your coordination, Agent Lincoln?"

Agent Lincoln's voice remained composed. "Eros, Champ's plane has landed. The SWAT is moving in. We've confirmed Champ exiting the jet, flanked by his men, and I saw Vladimir Guzev with them. Your cue is greenlit. Proceed with caution."

Eros nodded curtly. "Roger that, Agent Lincoln. Team, move out!" he whispered urgently. "Stay sharp, Champ's goons are closing in."

Champ stepped off the luxurious jet, his designer suit contrasting starkly with the stark, cold tarmac. His entourage fanned out around him, their eyes scanning the surroundings with a mix of curiosity and paranoia. Vladimir trailed behind, his imposing figure casting a long shadow across the ground.

Champ's voice cut through the night air, low and urgent. "Check the perimeter, ensure we're clear. I want no surprises."

His men dispersed swiftly, merging with the darkness. They scrutinized every detail, searching for any sign of unwanted presence. Each bush, each car and each distant noise was a potential threat. Their radios crackled softly, static-filled voices confirming the all-clear.
 
"Guzev, are you expecting someone to come fetch you? Or will you just accompany us to the hideout?"