Chapter 10 Fishing

Marcus, feeling a bit down, was reluctant to provoke a conflict between the two big bosses. However, there were certain principles he couldn't compromise on. He knew his role and importance in the team. Losing his information network within the gang would make it nearly impossible for him to maintain his position in the "robbery and murder department" by himself.

"Bosses," Marcus began, "I can't reveal the 'postman's' true identity, but I assure you, he's only involved in selling modified guns illegally. He's not connected to the robberies. And even if he stops selling them, someone else will. He's a resource we can use later."

After a brief silence, Susan replied, "We'll discuss this later. Continue with your report."

Marcus, feeling a bit relieved but still wary of Susan, continued, "According to the postman, he placed the modified Taser guns in three stores: Joe Wei's, Cadia's, and Kukamon's."

"Raymond, Jenny, investigate Cadia's. David, Luke, check out Kukamon's and identify the buyer as soon as possible," Susan instructed.

"Yes, captain."

"The meeting is over. Marcus, come to my office," Susan said, getting up to leave.

Marcus turned to Vincent, "Deputy team, you'll back me up, right?"

Vincent patted Marcus on the shoulder, "Good luck."

David made a supportive gesture to Marcus, who scratched his head in frustration, muttering, "Damn it!"

...

In a black Dodge Challenger, Luke drove while David sat beside him, chuckling, "Poor Marcus, he's in for a tough time."

Luke replied, "Don't laugh at others' misfortunes when you're not in the clear yourself."

After a moment, David mused, "If this keeps up, it'll just be Raymond and Matthew left on the team."

"Raymond's a model officer, and Matthew's a civilian," Luke noted. "If you want to stay, change how you handle cases."

"Easier said than done. How do you suggest?" David asked.

"Use your head more," Luke pointed to his temple. "Watch me."

"You're getting weirder. Before your head injury, you'd avoid thinking whenever possible. That attack really changed you," David remarked.

Luke didn't respond. If the original Luke hadn't been attacked, he wouldn't be here now.

Ten minutes later, they arrived at Kukamon's gun store. Luke went in alone. A clerk polishing a pistol asked, "What kind of gun are you looking for?"

"I need a Taser."

"Have you used one before? What model?"

"I don't know much about them. I need something powerful."

"What's your budget?"

"Money's not an issue if it meets my needs."

"I recommend the X26-C Taser. It fires 50,000 volts, enough to incapacitate an adult man within fifteen meters for 10 to 30 seconds, giving you plenty of time to handle a situation." The clerk showed him a yellow Taser.

Luke tested the Taser but seemed unimpressed. "It's okay, but not powerful enough."

"This is plenty for most people."

"My family runs a farm, and wild animals often cause trouble. This might handle groundhogs but not wild boars."

"In that case, I suggest a semi-automatic rifle. More bullets and power, better for wild animals."

"I'm not here for a gun. Don't tell me how to handle things," Luke retorted, turning to leave.

"Wait," an older man approached. "We have a Taser with an impulse voltage of 100,000 volts, strong enough for wild boars, even black bears."

"Are you the boss?" Luke asked.

"Yes. This Taser is modified and much more powerful. Use it carefully."

Luke examined the gun. "Any other modifications?"

"The magazine won't eject confetti after firing, avoiding identification issues."

Luke smiled. "Perfect. How much?"

"Four thousand dollars."

"You think I'm a fool? I'll pay two thousand, tops."

"You might not find another like this. If it's too expensive, get a standard Taser for a thousand."

Luke played with the Taser. "Three thousand, final offer."

"Deal. Just to make a friend and future business."

"I need more like this."

"Only this one. Another customer bought one in January."

"This is illegal, isn't it?"

The boss's demeanor changed, reaching for the Taser. "If you're here for trouble, remember, my guns aren't for show."

Luke took a step back, showing his police badge. "LAPD. You're connected to two robbery cases. Come with us for questioning."

He radioed, "David, bring the warrant. We're making arrests."

A burly man with handcuffs entered. The boss, now panicked, pleaded, "I was wrong. I'll cooperate fully."