Deadly Dealings and Dirty Deeds in the Dark [Part I]

[Tokoz]

 It was dark on Bravo Bravissimo. Of course it was, it was always dark. Still, even the lights of the everpresent casinos and entertainments for the rich were duller than usual, the halflight of early morning as it was too late for most people to stay up, but too early for any to awaken. Things were still operating, but at a much reduced capacity. The streets were quieter, and few people did much but hurry past, some bearing subtle red marks. In that twilight silence strode a suited figure, moving from building to building with little sound. If you looked directly at them, you wouldn't see much of interest. A briefcase, cheap watch and slightly worn shoes. The dress of someone with not much money and not much time.

This was intentional of course. The young man was attempting to be as uninteresting as possible. Finally, after passing a particular building, he slipped into an alley and carefully scaled into a second-floor window. Palming a key out of his pocket, he opened and then closed the lock on the window. Placing his briefcase down, he tossed the hat onto a hatrack and reached into his suit. 

Removing a vial, he carefully flicked off the top and poured it down his throat. Eyes closed, he swallowed, and there was a brief grinding as he straightened and shook and stood taller. Opening her eyes, she rolled her jaw and stretched before sitting down. It seemed there would be a few minutes until the contact arrived and they could discuss the mission, and if so? She might as well change up a bit. Both to feel more comfortable, and to keep cover as best as possible. 

Stretching out in the chair, she folded her hands and waited for the contact to arrive. When they did, she tilted her head and smiled. "Hello there. You are Inspector, yes?" 

(Use whatever you like for the codephrase! risaka )

[risaka]

In the midst of the dying lit up city that is Bravo Bravissimo a sole man kept his ground on a silent corner. Keeping himself obscurred and barely noticable to those passing by the Courier eye'd from the left, taking a moment to gander the scene and dragging those calm nonchalant eyes all the way to the right, seeing those few that just passed him disappeared in the darkness of the dimlit street. Rolling his shoulders he pushed himself off from the wall of the corner with delicate movement, making each step have intention of where he's going. 

After waiting a solid hour outside he took the very moment no one is in his presence, and with a swift walk he dipped around the corner. Reaching up he adjusted his round black hat, at least that's what most would believe. He tipped his hat up, and out from the inside an envelope fell out. Snagging it quick he opened it as he approached his destination. Within the envelope a key fell out on his palm, folding the empty envelope neatly he disguised it as a tissue, which he smoothly placed in his chest pocket. He takes a quick peek around him and doubly make sure no one is watching. Once reassured he cleared his throat and stopped infront of a worn down door, placing the key into the keyhole twisting it the opposite end, which indeed opened something. Right next to the worn down door a plate slid to the side and revealing a secret door.

Pushing the door open he went inside, and upon closing it behind him the plate slides right back to place. A small set of staircase went up, each step giving a bit of a creak, but with his light walking he barely made a sound. And finally he arrived into the meeting spot room, an old crook of a living room, disconnected from the rest of the building, likely once used for illegal activities some time back. And as expected, he met his colleague, someone of a promising talent and excellent mind. However, Coleman took a moment to stare upon being greeted, raising his bushy eyebrow and crossing his arms, something was off.

''So you know my codephrase, the code being Inspector... and I can safely say you are the Cipher Pol Trainee I've been informed about. But I recall the document stating they are a male, and not a female.''

For such a trivial detail the Inspector took great deal of his attention to keep the records straight and the facts even straighter. Misinformation like this to him could be lethal in some cases, but in this one he didn't seem too fussed about it.

''Ah pardon me madame, I should introduce myself first. As you may already know, I am the Inspector of Cipher Pol. My real name of course is classified.''

[Tokoz]

 As the bushy-mustached Inspector entered, Lassa took their measure. They were quick on the draw, but not easily panicked it seemed. Good to know. Also good to know they were willing to call out on discrepancies. IF they were willing to let such a thing slip at first, it would likely mean they'd make more slips. 

"A pleasure to meet you. Feel free to call me Cointoss for the moment, we can select cover names when necessary. As for the document, allow me to rectify the discrepancy for the moment at least."

Flicking a small vial out of her sleeve, she quickly downed it and turned away for a moment. After a few seconds of shrinking, a male face with a much shorter height and dexterous build looked back. 

"Apologies for the delay. As you might imagine, my dualistic tendencies come in quite helpful in our line of work." Cracking his neck slightly, he settled back in his chair once more and removed a file from the briefcase he had beside him. 

"Just to ascertain everything is in order, I'll run through the information as I understand it. Our current goal here in Bravo Bravissimo is to locate a gang potentially acting as agents of the Underworld. There is suspicion that someone is planning to begin working towards causing some trouble here, although there are conflicting reports as to whether it is the Red-wearing locals plotting an assassination or an outside force planning a theft. Either way, the members of the identified gang are acting as brokers for the plot, and locating them will assist in stopping it."

Flipping to the next page, he continued. "It's unclear who the leader of the gang is, but we have various hints to work off of. Ideally we would eliminate the gang under cover of an attack by a rival, but at the very least we have to cut off this link to the island they represent." 

Closing the folder, he steepled his hands and looked back to the Inspector. The information was passed off in a dead drop about a week ago, so it was potentially outdated. Still, it would likely be largely correct. If it wasn't, that was a problem, as it meant these thugs were cleverer than they had initially suspected. Either way, this would be a job that had more than one way to solve it, and many more ways for it to go wrong. 

[risaka]

Coleman nodded his head towards Cointoss, a dapper name for sure, quite fitting considering they're on an island driven by tossing coins over the table. Being already over inconsistency of gender he quickly took a sharp surprise to his expression. His eyes widened as his colleague quickly took the appearance of a male-counter part! She now being a he really had the Inspector think for a moment, before shaking it off and taking a seat. He thought he has seen it all, but he has never really dealt with the arts of disguise, probably a lot more to it than attires.

''Mhmph, I must say, I am fairly shaken by this revelation, but that speaks for itself. A stupendous skill really, I have a feeling plenty of agents can learn this. Ah, apologies, let us not ponder too long on that matter, of course!''

Coleman took a seat, placing his hat to the side as he crossed his legs in a true gentleman fashion, fingers interwened and resting on his lap. Lending his ears he absorbed the drop off intel given to the Trainee, something that Coleman has received some time back aswell. However, reaching Bravo Bravissimo proved to be a hassle, and ensuring the meeting goes smoothly time is required. Indeed, this intel could end up just being a dump of outdated information. Coleman with a worried gaze rose his left eyebrow upon hearing of the uncertainty of the leader. To track down a group is easy work, but not knowing the prime target means the entire operation can reach a full stop once a mistake happens. As much of a perfectionist he is its simply not something he'd be willing to risk, this operation is something far bigger than the usual courier mission.

''Not a surprise such a group like this works for the underworld organization is located on this island. This place thrives of shady works, slave trading, heists reward deliveries, or even simply a place for two sides to conjoin their interests. We'll find crime around every corner, theres no doubt about that, but to know which one is the right is like picking a very specific straw from a hay field.''

Scruffing his stache the Inspector pulled up a folder from under his trenchcoat. Putting it on the table he gave a bit of a smirk.

''We might now know the target, but we know others do, oh so many do. I've taken a bit of a survey once I arrived here, two days ago I took the opportunity to fish up potential spots for us to search. Of course we can't bring along the force squad into these territories, so this'll be a classic undercover mission. But I have no doubt this is your expertise.''

Opening up the folder he revealed the two sides of the city, with outline sectors which he has marked and scratched, leaving only three places. First place is the scummy district of beggars, appropiately named Fool's Avenue which where people of no hope left are left stranded after misfortune taking over their stable lives.

''Fear south of the city, just next to the main shores is the slum, prime location for people doing the dirty work of those above. I've been at the edge of the place myself, gathering rumours, even a couple of beggars had a few words to say. I can say with confidence this place has people working for those aiding the Underworld.''

He then points at the second one, on the far west of the city is the luxurious cuisine coast. With fancy buildings ontop of cliffs that gives visitors and local wealthy people a place to enjoy an evening with amazing food, and of course a prime spot for pirvate locations, WIP certified.

''The Cliffside is another ideal spot for brokers from the Underworld to use as a meeting spot. However, with the exclusivity mindset of these people it is hard to stand around and not catch their attention. Plus the food is expensive. If we are going to seek out brokers from this wealthy area we'll need some extra precautions.''

And finally pointing at the north, basically in the middle of the city, the actual attraction of the place. The many casinoes connected to eachother into one giant hive of fortune seekers.

''And the only other place is of course the most important place of the city. All sorts of people go through here, including wares and slaves behind scenes. If an operation by the Underworld takes place here on this island then the casinos will be their point of interest. However I got no clue on how to seek out potential targets in such a populated place, if anything this place is where we will enter with little to no information.''

[Tokoz]

Thankfully, it seems the Inspector had been hard at work even before Lassa had arrived on the island early today. "Indeed, bringing obvious forces would just cause the rats to scamble back into holes and vanish away before we even got to them. These sorts are adept at smelling trouble coming." 

Looking over the three locations presented, he sat for a few moments in thought. Fool's Avenue would be insular and suspicious of outsiders, requiring a good method of entering. It was clearly a recruiting ground for patsies, thugs, and other such sorts. 

The Cliffs were expensive and exclusive, but such a place also required staff to keep the wheels running. Indeed, if you wanted to pass messages without seeming to meet, giving goods to a passing waiter or busboy who was on the take was a good method. Taking the place of such a person would be difficult, but there was potential there. 

The Casinos were... Well, they were the biggest gamble, and little surprise there. Casinos didn't like giving away their secrets at the best of times, and if they were covering up a major operation, then they'd be keeping it well hidden. 

After about 30 seconds of assessing the situation, Lassa looked up. 

"Of the options, I would suggest first the Cliffs, then Fool's Avenue, then the Casinos. The Cliffs is public enough that there must be some crack we can use, and if I have to impersonate someone on staff I can. You would almost certainly pass for a diner, and I'm certain we can manage to acquire the necessary funds to keep up the charade for at least a short time. I don't like to engage in petty sleight of hand, but if it keeps things quiet, it's better than leaving corpses behind."

Gesturing to the Fool's Street, he tapped his finger on it for a moment. "If we get clocked here, then the peons may run to tell their bosses. If we are identified at the Cliffside, then I doubt they will bother to warn their goons right away. If we're lucky, we may even be able to sneak over there and join up with the foot soldiers being called in when they get paranoid. If not, we will have an idea of who to shake down for information."

Finally, he pointed at the Casinos. "This should be the last stop either way. If the headquarters is buried there, then we need as much information as we can get. Hitting at least one of the first two means we're not going in blind and potentially ending up made because we don't know some crucial detail."

Sitting back once more, he nods slowly. "This is excellent work, by the way. I can see why you have that codename." 

[risaka]

Coleman nodded, its a good thing Cointoss had a similar mindset as him, for far too many times has this Inspector worked with impatient people that would end up ruining the mission in record time. Holding back resources and take one bite at a time is key, with a delicate situation brewing up it'd be foolish to force actions. Time is precious, Coleman knew that all too well, but in his mind its better to be late than never finishing the job. And seeing Cointoss putting a great amount of delicacy into this eases the Inspector's worries.

He observed along with Cointoss, his finger tapping the corner of the folder while seeing the eyes of the elegant agent gazing at the sectors with such intense sharpness, truly focused, something Coleman did not want to interrupt. He waited patiently, then listened to the suggestion.

''Certainly, when I took my time around the city I noticed far many more suspicious eyes down by the slums. Despite the lack of security those street people can be quite timid, and nimble on the feet.''

Coleman as a professional courier knew how to stay low and not gain any eyes on him, so for him to speak ill of himself when going down by the slums it really meant something. With a constant high alert it'd be hard for him to get anywhere.

''Compared to the other two places the slums might the hardest to blend in, ironically enough. You're absolutely correct on that matter. If we are to take these places in that order we'll need to figure out potential targets already on the cliffs. Big names should pop up, and as suggested by you, using funds to get around will be the ideal approach. As much I dislike using the funds of the superiors this is the only way I can see progress being made.''

Closing the folder he puts it back into his trench coat, then pulling out the envelope he had with the key, with the address of their supplier. 

''Let us figure out a list of items or supplies we'll need for this, and where to place our men incase of emergencies.''

Taking out a pen from his other front pocket he wrote on his noticeblock of the funds. Four hundred thousand beli should be sufficient enough for a Cliffside visit, dinner for one.

''Oh, and don't worry who's receiving this information, he's our supplier working by the main shores, he'll smuggle in our stuff without prying eyes from the local pirates.''

[Tokoz]

 It seemed the read on the slums was accurate, thankfully. Lassa hadn't had a chance to check out this city's poor district specifically, but it was generally a good guess based on the insular nature of the dispossessed. To hear that even a Cipher Pol courier was hard-pressed was fairly shocking though. If people were that on edge, it meant they had something to lose. Or better yet, something to hide. 

"We may need to do a bit of a walk around and consult some of the files on notable names in the city. Hold on." Walking over to one of the armchairs, he kicked the side, then pulled the back forwards. Leaning down, he spun a hidden dial on the left arm to the right, and then another dial on the right arm also to the right, then to the left again. He paused.


"Ah, yes, it was pushing both back at the same time." He pressed the arms back, and there was a slightly audible click. Lifting the seat cushion, it revealed a hidden safe which when opened included a file cabinet. Flicking through, he peered into a few files before selecting 2 and bringing them over. 

"These look promising. Jaldiala Poncel, and Norman Nails. Poncel is one of the Middles, an owner of a mid to low-tier casino, meant mostly for less important nobles who can't afford the big stuff. He seems to be living pretty well despite that, though. Nails meanwhile used to be a member of the city's "Help", with pretty firm implications of being connected to criminal activity, but 6 months ago he won big at a casino and is now considered one of the Middles too. Seems like a possible bribe meant to ensure his cooperation and get a man somewhere they can keep an eye on him."

Nodding at the mention of supplies, Lassa considered for a long moment. "A couple firearms, certainly. I have a selection of knives and whatnot already secreted about my person, but a few disposable ones that look 'local' would be handy. A standard disguise kit, I'll probably lean towards a mustache and some glasses for the waiter disguise. I don't think we want to be that loud even in the worst case scenario, so no explosives. Other than that, I have a standard list." 

He handed over a short list including a small cache of climbing equipment, a few changes of clothes to be stashed nearby, and the like. 

"As for our men, I would say we want to keep them away from Fool's Avenue for the same reason discussed earlier. So for the moment, let's focus on scattering them at a few of the bars around Cliffside. There's probably some quiet places catering to bodyguards and servants who wouldn't be allowed in the nice places but are still wanted to be kept nearby."

Standing, he brushed himself off. "Once we have the list, and have gotten this supplier working, it seems as though work proper can begin." He was ready to head off, unless Inspector had some other idea in mind. 

[risaka]

The Inspector leaned over his chair to look back at his colleague approaching the unsuspecting chair. Watching he could already tell that chair held importance when walking in the living room. Cointoss went back and forth with the dials, seeming to go in a loop, which admitedly got the Inspector crack a small amused grin underneath his bushy stache. But once the code got cracked the seat popped, revealing the contents so neatly hidden in a chair. The arts of hiding stash and intel in the most ridiculous spots has grown ever since he started his courier career.

''Harumph, those secret safes usually got that feature, to hinder any potential... accidental reveals for the public.''

He briefly commented before taking a gander on the two highlighted profiles, providing with valuable information of their daily activities out in public and routines over the week. These two high profile men surely held something, Coleman could practically sense that just from analyzing the contents of the files. He ruffled the tip of his stache and tapped his finger at Mr Nails.

''This man, a classic case of someone getting a promotion. Being a former member of a group that focuses on helping the community certainly raises a few eyebrows. One just doesn't change morals, this was a planned jackpot. If someone won that great sum of money with no strings attached they wouldn't still be walking on the streets six months later. As mentioned, Mr Nails likely held a role with the Underworld, and were promoted to a wealthy figure. In short, that money is not actually his.''

The Inspector then tapped his finger at Poncel.

''Nothing too unusual with this lad, even being one of the lesser casinos there is a noticable wealth to be had. He doesn't do much to hide that fact, being a frequent visitor to the cliffs is practically holding a mega phone and announcing his status. However, that is far too common with owners of such businesses, we'll gonna need to take our time with him, observe and pick out hints for whats going on in the background.''

After detailing his thoughts regarding these targets, Coleman had finished writing down specifically all the equipment needed. Just seeing the list told him alot about Cointoss, a handy agent for sure. Once done he tore the page from his noteblock and folded it gently before inserting it into the envelope.

''Our supplier will get these ready tomorrow, I put down coordinates for the drop off point. Our men will be at their stations as early as six AM, but I doubt we will be catching neither of these two in action till two PM. The restaurant Mr Nails will visit will be our first checkpoint. That should be all though.''

Coleman handed the folder with said information, and as such leaving Cointoss with everything needed for this mission.

''Oh, and one last thing, you likely have heard of this more than enough, but consider it a tradition of a precaution.''

The Inspector stood up, putting his hat on and straightening his coat, and crossing his arms as he locked eyes with his new colleague.

''The moment we depart from his room, we won't be talking until the first checkpoint is reached. If we see eachother, we are not interacting, you don't know me and I don't know you. You have never seen me or my stache in your life, for I am nothing but a mere stranger enjoying the tourism of this island. Solid?''

After doing his usual depart speech he nodded to Cointoss one final time. Tomorrow is gonna be a busy day.

[Tokoz]

 Cointoss nodded, tapping his chin for a moment. "It's possible Poncel is unrelated, but something about him is making me suspicious. Still, we can get a better read on him once we see him in person. As for Nails, it seems we share the same understanding of his situation. Targeting said wealth is a potential avenue. Perhaps tax auditors, although that may be too direct. For now, we can focus on the immediate avenue of surveillance."

Picking up his hat and coat, he quickly flipped the suit jacket inside out and fished a new tie from his pants pocket. It didn't completely change his look, but it did throw things off for when he left in a moment or two. Picking up the coordinates and list of backup locations, he quickly read through them twice and then tossed them into the fireplace, flicking a match in after. Once he was sure the paper had burned up, he turned back to Inspector.

"Indeed I have, but it bears repeating. It only takes one crack for a job to fall to pieces, after all. Solid indeed." Giving a sharp nod of approval, he stepped over to the window and peered out for a moment before carefully leaving, the click of the lock behind him and the quiet whisper of roof tiles as he made his way to the next alley over the last signs of his presence. 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The next day found Cointoss adjusting his cufflinks. Recently dyed hair, a sharp mustache and goatee to hide the shape of his face, and the basic makeup required to give it different accents. His walk was different, as was the way he held himself. Most importantly, the calm and slightly disinterested air of a high-class waiter. That had taken a bit of time to pick up on before he had arrived at the restaurant. It was about an hour before Nails was likely to arrive, and he had wormed his way onto the current shift about 2 hours beforehand. 

In a high-class place like this, most people would know each other to some degree. Thankfully, the fact that Nails was of slightly lesser means meant this was one of the places that was owned by someone who ran multiple restaurants. 

"Apologies for the inconvenience, sirrah. Hamilton required me to cover his shift today, so I came over from The Swan's Grace as normally I would be off. I'm afraid he came down with something and did not wish to risk disappointing the customer or yourself, Mr. Handil." 

That particular line of bullshit was courtesy of a night spent finding a waiter from the restaurant, getting them distracted enough to knock out, and then simulating a night of excess drinking while lifting a set of clothing. Hamilton had been talkative, and there were enough details dropped to make the lie sound convincing. 

Besides, if you missed a day of work due to being drunk, you were not about to question your shift being covered unless you wanted to be fired. 

Stepping lightly around tables, Cointoss narrowed his eyes and kept a sidelong glance out for the arrival of Inspector. 

[risaka]

As soon as morning came the Inspector had to be out of his rented room before most people went out. With very little time to give himself to enjoy the scenery of Bravo Bravissimo he sought after the nearest coffee brewer shop to keep his senses sharp through the day. He did not require a whole lot of food or drinks to feel refreshed, another typical trait of someone who spends half of the day spying on people without a break. Watching the sun rise up with the coffee in his hand he awaited for the supplier to arrive to the meeting spot by the main shores. There the supplier met on the minute, with a bag over his shoulder. No words traded, not even a glimpse of eyecontact. The Inspector watched out at the ocean while the supplier put down the bag right behind the bench, and left. After a minute Coleman finally turned leaned around to look behind him, then pulls the bag up next to his lap. Scratching his chin he pondered for a second, still brainstorming to himself of various potential outcomes to the first mission. And for once he needed to plan out what to eat, which is a rare case for this codger of an agent.

''Hrrmph, if I have to eat I might aswell treat myself, a steak of the finest meats should be wonderful.''

Two hours pass from that point, in which he has prepared his formal attire, groomed his hair back and even trimmed his stache just so slightly. Barely a difference, but it made him feel incredibly fresh. Taking the appearance of a rather well going man he set his eyes to the restaurant, the first checkpoint.

After being greeted and invited inside he eyed around, not seeing the key details of their target, Mr Nails. If recent reports are accurate he should be flaunting his yellow vest with gold rims. If anything such a fashion choice should be a sore sight the moment it is seen, shouldn't be too hard spotting it. For now Coleman ordered his steak. Early steaks are wonderful to have for lunch, but it does seem he is the only one having such a meal in the large room. Looking more around he assumed he has already seen his colleague, hard to look through the disguise of a professional.

And that was when Coleman finally saw his target, that golden vest shun out in the room like a beacon. He squinted, somehow it looked way worse than he initially thought. But this is no time to judge clothes. He stood up, grabbing his glass of water, pretending to be on his way to request a change of beverage, sparkling water! But in actuality he walked rather fast towards Mr Nails, who's trying to pick a table to sit at with his wife. When walking past a round table Coleman hurried up and took aim, clashing himself against Mr Nails as if they were bumping against eachother on a street corner. The glass of water of course splashed between their fronts, especially that golden vest. A gasp and a shocked yelp soared through the air, Mr Nails speechless at what just happened, and Coleman being the actor he is, just as shocked.

''Oh blimmey! I beg your pardon good sir! I was just so frustrated over my stale water I didn't even look straight! Oh what a mess! What a mess! I cannot believe this happened!''

While being extremely apologetic he took the nearest tissue and offered the gesture of drying the wet spot on the vest, all the while a couple of waiters came over to calm the situation down, effectively stopping Mr Nails on his tracks. And if the man even dared to try walking away Coleman would insist with more pressure.

''Ouh what a foolish clumsy man! He just stained my good husband's wonderful vest!''

[Tokoz]

When the bump came, Cointoss was ready. Stepping smartly up to Nails, he spoke in a low tone. 

"My humblest apologies, my colleagues will deal with the mess. If I may take your clothing to be dried quickly before it is damaged?" He said, his hand hovering over the vest. Nails snorted and nodded.

"Yeah, good. Idiot, this is my favorite vest." He sneered, as Lassa nodded understandingly and subserviently. Helping him take it off quickly, his hands rover a bit farther than they perhaps should have as he straightened the clothing. Fingers fluttered over pockets and located a small black book, which was folded into the vest and carried off. 

Quickly bringing the vest to be placed next to the fire, he grabbed a spare dress shirt and more subdued vest that the restaurant kept in case of such emergencies. As he did so, he flipped through the notebook and read quickly. He only had a minute or two before the man might think to check and if he noticed it was missing, then there would be a problem. 

Words flew past, and he made note of certain high points. 

It seemed this Nails was working for some Underworld types indeed, and a few specific numbers verified Inspector's suspicion that Nails was acting as a patsy or money holder for someone. There was no direct name, even he wasn't that stupid. There was, however, mention of a meeting with a time and place for later that evening. It was towards the end of the book, meaning it had likely been scheduled within the past day or two. 

Returning with the fresh clothing, Lassa bowed to both wettened parties. The book was slipped into the pocket of the coat resting on the chair, and then he returned to the kitchen. "Three glasses of wine, to assuage tempers for the two gentlemen, yes?" The sommelier nodded, and soon enough Lassa was returning to the floor with the glasses, and a hastily scribbled note hidden in his palm. 

Placing the first two glasses on Nails's table, he bowed deeply. "My apologies for the rudeness and the delay in getting you taken care of. Please let us know what else we may do to ensure you have a lovely meal." 

Nails grumbled for a moment, but then raised a hand and waved dismissively. "Ah, it's fine. No need ta bother oneself with such trifles, eh?" As he raised his arm, however, he paused and a frown crossed his face. Patting his leg for a moment, he then reached back and felt his coat pocket. A moment of relief crossed his face when he felt the book within.

As Lassa passed Coleman's table, he placed a glass of wine on the table as well, and bowed. Leaning in, he said in a low but carrying tone: "We apologize for the mess, but the manager has asked that you do not carry glasses across the restaurant in future." As he did so, the piece of paper was slipped into Inspector's coat. Standing, Lassa returned to work for the moment, waiting to see what his partner thought of the recent discovery. 


Nails: #e6c219

[risaka]

Oh what a bothersome codger he was! Coleman kept apologizing while giving a joyous attitude about it, his way to seem as innocent one could possibly be. But the moment one of the waiters acquired the vest the Inspector cleared his throat and bowed one final time.

''Seems like it is being taken care of, oh have my biggest apologies once more! Now if you'll excuse me, I'll bring my clumsy rump back over to my table, ha-ha!''

Giving a spin to his sole he walked with a strut back to his table, chin high up and returning to his merry way. Once seated he looked over the room with far more calmer expression than before, fiddling with his thumb as the heat of his steak went away slowly. Then out of the corner of his eye, a waiter approached. Coleman leaned back to his chair, arms crossed and looked up to the waiter. There he is, Cointoss, but Coleman brought back the jolly expression as the message is delivered.

''Ah-ah oh my apologies my good sir, I didn't want to bother someone busy with mere water, ohoho! But seems like I bothered everyone, oho! But I'll remember that, oh I will!''

And as soon the note slipped into Coleman's coat he stood up to give a stretch, eaten half of the meal and already on his way out, of course leaving behind the payment on the table. Swinging his coat on he tipped his hat to the waiters on the way out. Nearing a corner he pulled the piece of paper out, absorbing the content of it and cracking that rare smirk of his.

What an awfully unslick person you are Mr Nails, keeping importants in your glaring attention seeking vest? You must've been a true boot licker to reach such a position.

He leaned to the corner, where a female stood with thick black shades and simply minding her own business. That is until Coleman cleared his throat, making the female turn her head and reach her hand down. Coleman placed the note into the palm while absent mindedly looking out on the street.

''Hm hmhm... tell the coordinator we'll have a place to infeltrate tonight, until then keep your eyes on Mr Poncel.''

The female nodded and swiftly leaned off from the corner, strutting away with her high heels, a sleek lady with a wide brim hat that protected her from the strong sun. As for the Inspector, he went back to the street infront of the restaurant, staring at the opposite corner from where he stood inititally, where a man with black shades aswell stood all by himself. Coleman very briefly waved his hand up with a finger pointed up, gesturing the agent to move up. The agent nodded and quickly dipped off, including Coleman who walked back into the crowds of the streets.

Once alone again he pulled out his hidden small Den Den Mushi, calling Cointoss.

''Hrmph, Cointoss, damn fine work in there, a meeting with the folks from the Underworld is a splendid start, we however can't lose track of the next step. We'll pinpoint the movement of Mr Poncel, for now finish your shift and meet me by the edge of the casinos. If our information serves right we will catch Mr Poncel coming out from the casino around five PM.''

[Tokoz]

Once he saw Inspector leave the restaurant, Lassa quickly moved away and back towards the Den Den Mushi the other agent had given him. Heading up to the roof with a box of cigarettes, he lit one and answered the snail once it rang a minute or two later. 

"Indeed, the meeting won't be till later, so we should focus on Poncel next. I should be getting off at 4, long enough to change and meet you there. If I left immediately, even that idiot might get suspicious. He was aware enough to check for his book after only a few minutes of it missing, so he's not totally hopeless."

Glancing at the door from his spot leaning against glass skylight, he hummed for a moment. "I'll see you there. If you need me, send an agent to say that there's a problem back at The Swan's Grace and Mr. Pierre is needed back there."

With that, he stowed the communications gastropod and headed back downstairs, flicking the lit but uninhaled smoke into an ashtray. 

A couple hours later, after Nails had left, he doffed his apron and thanked the Manager for his understanding before heading out of the restaurant. From his bag, he drew a suitcoat and a new tie, removing the bow tie and fake mustache. Snagging a hat from where he had hidden it above a windowsill, he mussed up his hair and undid the bob he had tied it in. Placing the hat on his head, he vanished into the alleyways of the Cliffs. 

At half-past four, Cointoss strolled past the Casino run by one Mr. Poncel. Stopping at a small news stall, he purchased a cola and a paper and leaned against a wall to drink and read. Over the edge of the paper, he glanced at Inspector from across the way and nodded briefly, ready to follow the man to somewhere quieter to discuss if need be, or keep an eye on the casino doors for their target if that was too risky. If there was a safehouse or private room nearby, he wasn't aware of it, but he was also not established with the network on this island either. It was part of the reason he was so thankful for the presence of the older agent on this mission. 

Trainee though Lassa might be, technically speaking, he was determined to prove that he was worth the candle. 

               

[risaka]

The Inspector tapped at his chin, the dunce that is Mr Nails actually checked his pocket? This had the Inspector greatly intrigued, not only because someone like Mr Nails flaunted about their wealth, but they are an actual amateur. This could possibly mean more, or perhaps, hinting at something way bigger. The Inspector noted in his head of this detail, but did not necessarily mention to Cointoss.

''Fret not young man, Mr Nails has served his purpose and likely won't do much of any interest until the meeting, till then we'll have a couple of agents keeping an eye on him. As for you I want you to focus on your awareness, just incase someone tries to take a peek at you. That is all.''

After the brief between the two Coleman put away his Den Den Mushi and straightened his coat. He had a couple of hours to prepare, he needed a new attire, and another load of funds.

--------

Hours passed and the scene is taken place right outside a casinoe among many. The rows of casinos makes it easy to access any of them from one single wide street. Coleman leaning on a street lamp all by himself covered his upperbody with the newest edition of News Coos, not that he bothered reading too much, his eyes has been occupied staring at the entrance of the casino, observing the many different kinds of people entering and exiting the place. And when his colleague arrived he looked over at him, seeing the nod.

Suppose it's time, he might leave early or late, can't leave this place until we confirm his movement.

And without giving a signal to move, the Inspector leaned off from the street pole and folded his paper twice before hurrying over to Cointoss. Walking with a casual manner he observed his surroundings like any common tourist, and when getting close he ordered a bottle of water from the nearby kiosk.

''One spitzy bottle of clear water, please! Thank you.''

Taking a quick sip from it he then finally leaned on the wall next to Cointoss, screwing the bottle cap back on as he stared up at the casino.

''Hrmph, the moment Mr Poncel steps out he will be among public spaces for quite some time, we won't have much room to work with. If he starts running or even get the slight sense that he's being followed we'll apprehend him on the spot, but we can't do that in public. How close can you get near him without being spotted?''

Coleman asked as he darted his eyes down at his pocket watch, minutes away from the hour mark.

[Tokoz]

 Coleman stepped up against the wall near the kiosk and began drinking, speaking quickly as the hour ticked closer. After considering for a moment, he tilted his head back and forth for a second. 

"It depends. If he's try to make sure nobody's following him, not very close. I could try taking to the rooftops, but that's going to be conspicuous if even one person spots me. As long as he stays on a reasonably crowded avenue, and doesn't move unusually fast, I can probably keep pace without being too obvious. I would suggest you call the Den Den Mushi you gave me and keep the line open, so I can give directions to you from a distance."

He patted the snail in his inner coat pocket, and casually reached down, feeding the microphone up and then down his sleeve, leaving it to rest in his hand as he grasped his briefcase. It allowed him to squeeze the microphone while still holding the briefcase, and well timed too. 

From the wave the man was giving to the doorman, it seemed Mr. Poncel was leaving for the day. Straightening up as the man paused in the doorway, he snapped the newspaper shut and folded it under one arm, stepping forwards into the street and watching the casino owner. From the way he was hugging one side of the exit, it looked like he would head left in a matter of seconds. Moving with purpose, but not haste, Lassa turned onto that side of the street, keeping his pace just off enough that he would be ahead of Poncel, but the man would be able to pass him after a few seconds of brisk walking. 

As they continued down the street, people filtering back and forth, the agent watched the man out of the corner of his eyes from behind a pair of fake reading glasses, meant to obscure the direction he was looking without making it obvious. Normally he'd use sunglasses, but this was a Night Island. While he was undercover, that was probably not a good idea. 

As they got towards the end of the street, and Poncel began to indicate which direction he was going, Cointoss lifted his cola bottle and paused. "Right, can't let the missus let see me with this after what the doctor said." He grumbled to himself, before turning right along the boulevard after Poncel. 

As they continued to walk, himself sometimes ahead and sometimes behind the man, he continued to speak just loud enough for the microphone to pick up on the ongoing call. 

"I'll be in dire Straights if she catches me drinking this again."

"Still, there's not a lot Left."

"Ah, I'll finish it Up now."

"I should really Stop doing this, though..."

Indeed, the man had stopped, possibly at his destination, possibly for something else. Lassa moved a few doors up on the opposite side and stepped into a Butchers, examining the cuts beneath the window and watching Poncel from behind the rim of his hat as he waited for Coleman to catch up.