The thumping bass from the Mayor's extravagant birthday party vibrated through the ground, a stark contrast to the quiet tension Abel Oliz carried. Black cars rolled in like sleek predators, disgorging guests in red tuxedos and gowns, each seemingly more opulent than the last. He paid the taxi driver, his gaze sweeping over the scene: catering buses, discreet police vehicles, and the tell-tale signs of undercover agents blending seamlessly into the affluent crowd.

“I don’t even have an invitation card,” Abel muttered, his eyes scanning for the Asian woman whose pronounced accent had promised a meeting. Just then, a delicate hand wrapped around his muscular arm, propelling it upwards in a practiced, intimate gesture. He looked down to see an Asian beauty, an average height, clad in a tight-fitting red gown that accentuated her curves. Her oval face was fixed with a charming smile, though her eyes were sharp, avoiding his.

“Good evening, Agent Oliz. Stop staring at me and let’s move!” she chuckled, her grip firm. Abel managed a faint smile, turning his attention back to the entrance where two bouncers stood like silent sentinels, demanding invitation cards. Jenny, as he would soon learn her name, flashed a card, and they were ushered into the opulent hall, the music swelling around them.