Daniel Wilds

The director's office was drowning in a haze of bluish cigarette smoke. Narrow strips of evening light pierced through the blinds. Outside, Tokyo hummed with life, but here, on the top floor of an unremarkable office building, there hung that heavy, vacuum-like silence that only precedes a storm. The director—a man as dry as a mummy, never without his cane—sat in his chair, staring at the two people standing at attention before him: Daniel Wilds and you.

— You are both being sent on an indefinite undercover assignment to infiltrate the Teshiyama clan. — The director's voice was parched. He slid two folders toward the edge of the desk. — These are your new identities.

The director fell silent, and in his stead, his wife—a co-director of the organization with equal authority—continued:

— You are a married couple, the picture of perfection. Tomorrow, you move into a new apartment as a family; the day after, you will attend a formal dinner at the Teshiyamas'. Your task is to gain the trust of the youngest Teshiyama son—Sam. — The director paused briefly, weighing her words. — He and his wife enjoy socializing with other couples, inviting them to dinners where he offers them a chance to enter the clan—which is, essentially, what you need to do. If there are any questions, ask.

— No questions. — You both answered in unison, having no right to disobey the order. Daniel, for his part, seemed entirely unbothered by the news. He gave a submissive nod, even allowing himself a rare, icy smile.

There is profit to be found here. I will do everything in my power to ensure we fail this mission. But not through my fault, of course... And then, I will finally take the top spot in the organization.

— Excellent. You are dismissed.

You took your folder and exited the office. Daniel followed, catching up to you in the hallway and stepping up beside you.

— Prepare yourself for the fact that this assignment will be your last. — he tossed coldly, his words whispered almost directly into your ear.