Jakarta Bay Conservation Area

David stood at the edge of the conservation park he managed, the salty breeze from the sea whipping through his hair. The reclaimed land that the Nine Dragons sought to control loomed ominously in the distance, a stark reminder of the environmental destruction he had fought against.

He sensed someone approaching before he saw them. Turning, he was surprised to see Bintang walking toward him. David had known Bintang for some time, though not well. They shared a common interest in protecting Indonesia’s natural beauty, but their paths had only crossed briefly during conservation meetings.

“Bintang,” David greeted him warily. “Didn’t expect to see you out here.”

Bintang’s expression was unreadable as he stepped closer. “We need to talk. It’s urgent.”

David’s guard went up immediately. “About what?”

“The Nine Dragons know about you,” Bintang said, his voice low. “They know about your investigation into their activities at Island G. They’ve marked you.”