"City S"

The secretary hesitated, then continued, "The Forensics Director called to ensure you received the information about the ASH spy, sir." But Hodge didn't wait for her to finish. He stormed out of the office without a word, leaving the secretary feeling perplexed and a little shaken.

"Is everything okay, Lieutenant?" she called after him, but he was already gone, his large figure disappearing down the hallway.

Hodge stormed into the forensics department, his expression tense as he confronted Henry, the FD (Forensics Director).

"What's this I hear about an ASH spy?!" Hodge demanded, his voice sharp with urgency.

Henry glanced up from his work, a knowing look in his eyes. "Yes, we found evidence suggesting that the victim in the alley was indeed a spy from ASH," he confirmed.

Hodge's brow furrowed deeper. "And how did you go by identifying the ID card found on the body?" he asked, seeking clarification.

Henry paused, then reached for a small device on his desk. "I used the MS (Magical Scanner) to analyze the ID card. It detected traces of both obscurium and auricite," he explained, his voice grave.

"Explain," Hodge demanded.

"Obscurium is a rare mineral that has the ability to cloak objects from detection by most conventional means," Henry began. "Auricite, on the other hand, is a powerful conductor of magical energy. When used in combination, they can create powerful illusions and shields, making them invaluable tools for espionage and defense."

Hodge listened intently, absorbing the information. "So, they're essentially used to hide and protect sensitive information and individuals?"

"Exactly," Henry confirmed. "They're highly sought after in the world of clandestine operations due to their unique properties."

Hodge inquired, "But it still doesn't explain why you're saying the dead guy is an ASH spy."

Henry nodded solemnly. "Quite certain. The materials found on the ID card are distinctive to ASH. They're known to use obscurium and auricite in their espionage and investigative work."

Hodge frowned, absorbing the information. "So, is ASH the only organization known to use these materials? What about Hero Killer (Haker) or a villain group… even foreigners?"

Henry shakes his head. "I'm not 100% sure, but for now, I'll say It's highly unlikely that anyone else would have access to these materials other than ASH in Blue Star City."

Hodge sighed, acknowledging the weight of Henry's explanation. "I see... "

Henry looked at Hodge intently. "You guys must thread lightly on this case, there's more to it that meets the eye."

Hodge patted Henry on the shoulder reassuringly. "Don't worry, Henry, you just focus on your job here. We at the homicide department will handle the rest."

With that, Hodge turned to leave, but before he went, he glanced back and asked casually, "By the way, where did you get the magical scanner?"

Henry smiled knowingly. "Ah, Lieutenant, you know everyone has their secrets. Some things are better left unsaid."

Hodge nodded, understanding the implication. "Fair enough," he conceded, then made his exit from the forensics department, his mind whirling with new questions and suspicions about ASH and what's really going to happen next during this investigation upon new evidence.

In the dimly lit office of the detectives, Lennie and Anna sifted through stacks of old newspapers and digital archives, their faces illuminated by the glow of computer screens. The air was heavy with anticipation as they delved deeper into their investigation, determined to uncover the identity of the mysterious ASH spy.

Lennie furrowed his brow as he scanned through the articles. "This is like searching for a needle in a haystack," he muttered.

Anna nodded in agreement, her focus intense as she navigated through the digital records. "Tell me about it. There are so many heroes in ASH, it's hard to narrow down who our victim might be."

"We need to find something that connects the victim to ASH," Lennie said, frustration evident in his voice.

"Agreed," Anna replied, her determination shining through. "Let's keep digging. There has to be something here that can help us identify him."

Anna's eyes widened as she stumbled upon an intriguing article with the headline, "The Brother of the Hero Shadow Spotted in City S: Involved in Prostitutes and Drugs?"

"Hey, Lennie, check this out," she called out, drawing his attention to the screen.

Lennie leaned in to read the headline, his interest piqued. "Well, well, well... This could be something," he remarked, noting the resemblance between the victim and Shadow's brother.

"Shadow, huh? He's a Tier A hero, right?" Anna asked, confirming her knowledge.

"Yeah, that's right," Lennie confirmed, nodding thoughtfully. "Looks like our investigation just got a lot more interesting."

"Let's dig deeper into this," Lennie suggested, his mind racing with possibilities. "If this guy is indeed Shadow's brother, it could lead us to some valuable information."

"With any luck, we might find some leads in City S," Anna added, already thinking ahead to their next move.

With renewed determination, they prepared to delve into the seedy underbelly of City S, where secrets lurked in every shadow and danger loomed around every corner.

City S, the notorious district where the destitute seek refuge, and the ground is filled with prostitutes seeking for their next meal ticket. It's a place where the scent of Fumaria (something like coke) lingers in the air, a drug coveted by those known as Skunk Heads. (It doesn't have much of an effect if you smell it indirectly)

These Skunk Heads are no ordinary users; they are individuals who abuse Fumaria to enhance their abilities, fueling work efficiency and productivity at a dangerous cost. In City S, where temptation and danger intertwine, every step taken could lead to salvation or damnation.

As the two detectives arrive in City S, Lennie said, "Good thing we got permission to come here, else it would've been much harder for us to get the job done." Then Anna asks Lennie what's first on the agenda. Lennie glanced around the bustling streets before turning to her, giving off the expression of a grin through his metallic wear.

"Well, first things first, we need to dive into the heart of this place and see what we can uncover," he said, gesturing to the lively surroundings. (The prostitutes)

Anna raised an eyebrow, waiting for a more specific plan.

Lennie chuckled. "Alright, alright. Let's start by talking to the locals, see if anyone's heard or seen anything suspicious lately. Then, we'll make our way to a few of the local bars, see if we can pick up any rumors or leads."

Anna nodded in agreement. "Sounds like a plan. But let's keep our wits about us. City S isn't exactly the friendliest place for outsiders."

Lennie nodded, his expression serious now. "Absolutely. We'll stick together and stay alert."

With their plan set, they delved deeper into the labyrinthine streets of City S, ready to uncover the truth amidst the chaos and deception.

After talking to the locals and showing them photos of Shadow's brother for over an hour, they came up empty-handed. Disheartened but undeterred, they made their way to their first bar, hoping to glean some information from the barflies(Patrons or regular customer(s)).

As they approached the bartender, Lennie and Anna couldn't shake off the unsettling encounter with one of the sneering patron. Despite that, they pressed on, hoping the bartender might have some information to offer.

The bartender chuckled at their presence. "Hahaha! What in the hell is this? We got Robo-Cop and Raven. Has anyone ever told you guys you're a weird combo?"

Anna shot him a deadpan look. "Are you done?" she retorted, then asked, "Have you ever seen this man before?" She showed the bartender the photo of what could be Shadow's brother.

The bartender grinned mischievously. "Oh, I've seen him alright," he said cryptically. "But if you want more than that, it's gonna cost you a hundred bucks."

Anna's eyebrows shot up in disbelief. "A hundred bucks? Are you serious?"

The bartender shrugged nonchalantly. "Hey, if your that desperate, this information ain't gonna come cheap. Take it or leave it."

Anna glanced at Lennie with a smirk. "So, how about we go fifty-fifty on this?"

Lennie feigned surprise. "Oh, you want me to pay? Sorry, didn't bring my wallet."

Anna's expression turned incredulous. "You didn't bring your wallet? Why not?"

Lennie shrugged casually. "Come on, Anna, this is City S we're talking about. I didn't want to risk getting robbed."

Anna rolled her eyes playfully. "Fine, whatever." She reached into her pocket and pulled out a crisp hundred-dollar bill, sliding it across the counter to the bartender. "Here you go."

The bartender grinned, snatching up the bill. "Pleasure doing business with you."

Anna shot Lennie a playful glare. "You owe me one, partner."

The bartender leaned in and whispered to them, "That guy in the photo? Yeah, he's been in here a few times. Always with this other dude. The other guy is always handing him envelopes," he pointed at the photo, "but I don't know what's in 'em. Could be drugs or something else. Either way, it ain't no good."

Anna and Lennie exchanged glances, intrigued. "Envelopes, huh?" Anna mused. "Definitely sounds suspicious."

Lennie leaned in closer to the bartender. "Can you describe the guy for us?" he asked.

The bartender started to describe the man in detail. "He had slicked back hair, wore a pair of gold ball earrings, and had glaring eyes. Oh, and he wears tropical shirts."

Lennie nodded appreciatively. "We appreciate it," he said, turning to Anna. "Looks like we've got our next lead."

As they stepped out into the dimly lit street, Anna turned to Lennie with a questioning look. "Drugs? Or money? What's our game plan?"

Lennie glanced at her, his expression thoughtful. "Remember the article? I'm leaning towards drugs for now."

Anna nodded in agreement. "Sounds like a plan."

Lennie paused, a hint of amusement in his voice. "Hey, Anna, do you always keep hundred-dollar bills in your pocket?"

Anna raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk on her lips. "You never know when you might need some extra cash," she quipped, before walking off into the bustling streets of City S.