Spirit of Justice

Chapter 1

Manhattan, New York City, New York

The night was chilly yet calm, the soft moonlight blockaded by the harsh glow of the street lamps. New York City was seldom silent; though traffic was minimal and the bitter snap of the cold winter evening convincing most to remain in their homes, there was a sour aura that could be felt for miles.

Within the innards of a high-end Madison Avenue apartment complex, a blonde-haired female backed slowly into the wall nearest her. Though she could feel sweat beading on her forehead, she forced herself to keep a calm façade. "It's funny," the female began. "I've been catching guys like you for a long time, but I never imagined that I'd die in the line of duty. I always imagined retiring at a lakefront home with a husband and a few pets."

"..." The shady figure that continued to draw near said nothing.

"The strong, silent type, yeah?" She chuckled nervously. The quip drew no response from the figure before her. "It really is a shame though. How you've cornered me like this, now of all times. I was so close to taking you down, I could taste it." She snorted, maintaining eye contact with him. "But they'll catch you in my place, I promise you that."

"...will they, now?"

"So, you can speak after all." A scoff was received in response. "Yes, they will. They'll find out what really happened tonight. They'll find my notes – ones you won't ever be able to find. And when they do, they'll catch you in my honor. They'll restore peace to the city once you're locked away for eternity."

"Oh, Agent Davis." He chuckled. "Or should I call you Melissa, since we're on such an intimate level, now? Either way, it doesn't matter. They'll never catch me."

Melissa clapped. "I'm so thrilled to know we're on the same page, except for the last part. They know me better than you do, hotshot. You don't stand a chance."

"Go to Hell," he seethed, aiming his weapon at her.

She smirked. "I'll be sure to save you a seat, and I'll be at your inauguration."

Bang!

--

Buffalo, New York

BREAKING NEWS: Federal Agent Found Dead!

December 20th, 20XX

The New York City police department responded to a call at 3:45 AM from a local shopkeeper, who complained of gunshots fired at a nearby apartment complex. Upon further investigation of the complaint, police found the body of Melissa Davis, unit chief of the Federal Plaza FBI unit and multiple-time author. The death as it stands has been ruled a suicide but is still under investigation with the New York City police and Manhattan Federal Bureau of Investigation.

"Hanson! Are you going to stand there and stare at the paper all day?!"

The female in question looked away in surprise but shook her head. "No, sir. I'm sorry."

The other just sighed. "It's all right. I know how much you looked up to Agent Davis. Which is why I've called you in here." The male shifted some papers, revealing his name plate, which read MARTIN BRADLEY. "Hana, for your next assignment, I want you to go to Manhattan to investigate Melissa Davis' death and finish her open terrorism case."

Hana looked surprised. "With all due respect, sir, why did you choose me? Surely Riley or Edwin would be better, as they won't be emotionally invested."