The storm

The meeting with Principal Chen passed in a blur of warnings and concerned looks. As Kan and Wick left the office, the weight of everything pressed down on Kan's shoulders. The twins' kidnapping wasn't just about territory or money - it was personal. Joaquin wanted to hurt him where it would sting the most: through Ellie.

"You never told me the full story," Wick said as they walked through the empty hallways. "About Ellie and Joaquin."

Kan's jaw tightened. "It's complicated."

"Always is, mate. But if I'm getting involved, I need to know what I'm walking into."

They pushed through the school's double doors into the cooling evening air. Thunder rumbled in the distance.

"Ellie used to run with Joaquin's crew," Kan finally said, his voice low. "She was his best lieutenant. Smart, fearless, could talk her way into or out of anything. That's how she earned her nickname - 'Silver Tongue.'"

"And then?"