Fernando_Torres was a visitor to America, a typical tourist doing the whole typical touristy thingy. You know the type, going on various sight-seeing adventures, taking pictures of just about everything in sight and popping in the odd bar or two trying to blend in with the local people but getting mostly blanked. The latter did not not bother Fernando though, you see Fernando is a nice quiet guy who keeps himself to himself. He enjoys the simple life, likes things to be easy-going with little or no effort and gets great satisfaction from helping others. In fact this is the reason Fernando is in Chicago in the first place. You see, back home in Spain there was a civil war breaking out, the country was dividing and it broke poor Fernando's heart to see it. Fernando couldn't take much more of this and decided he had to leave until everything was settled. Taking his entire life savings he had he managed to get himself a ferry ticket. Destination: Chicago. The plan was to firstly, get to Chicago. Then spend a few days enjoying himself and then it was time to look for a job and get his own place. He wanted to make a good life for himself until he could bring himself round to going home if/when everything was back to normal.

After almost a week doing the touritsy thingy and relaxing the funds were starting to run drastically low. Fernando decided it was time to find himself a job and find some sort of accommodation. What he didn't realise is how hard that would be to do. Strolling down town Fernando visited dozens of businesses in search of a job but to no avail. The recession had meant that even the laziest of people had gone and got themselves a job. The only jobs that were available paid extremely poorly and would in no way be enjoyable or beneficial to himself. But still Fernando continued his search, everyday he was out 12 hours a day non-stop trying to find something worthwhile. He continued this cycle for a further week, the desperation was getting to Fernando and his appearance and morals were starting to go out the window. These were bad times, nearly as bad as what times were back home, Fernando was starting to think his American dream was over.

Another long, fruitless day was the tipping point for Fernando, he had had enough now and all else had failed so he found himself in a little backstreet bar, drowning his sorrows over numerous glasses of whiskey. Fernando wasn't a big drinker really but he had hit rock bottom, with just a few dollars to his name, he didn't know what was going to happen to him the very next day. In the corner of the bar he just sat there and cried, tears streaming down his face. Biting his hand he heard someone sit beside him and felt an arm pat him on the back. He turned to the man and wiped the tears away. The stranger began to speak to him.

"Hello there, my name is SpuffWaffle. I noticed something seems to have upset you, whatever appears to be the problem?"

Looking at SpuffWaffle, Fernando instantly felt better. The way this gentleman had made an effort to console him, a nobody, was very heartwarming for Fernando. Sniffling, he sat upright and told Spuff his story.

"Well well, i can see times are very hard and i genuinely feel for you. i think given the chance you could be a valuable asset. I tell you what, you seem like a great guy and i would like to help you out some. Meet me tomorrow and we can talk business, same time tomorrow, here. I only ask that you keep an open mind."

Fernando agreed to meet Spuff, after all if there was any hope of getting himself out of the mess he found himself in, it was worth a try. Spuff stood up and walked out the bar. Realising the time Fernando decided to call it a night. He downed his last whiskey, put on his coat and exited the bar. Lying in his hotel bed, Fernando couldn't stop thinking about his meeting. Despite having no idea what it was he was nonetheless excited, he had a good feeling for once, something he hadn't had for a long time. He closed his eyes and went to sleep. Maybe tomorrow will be a brighter day...

Arriving at the bar 10 minutes early, Fernando got himself a soft drink, things were not that bad that he couldn't even afford a beer. He sat down and waited until SpuffWaffle arrived. Bang on time he walked through the door and headed straight over to Fernando.

"Ah, Fernando, i am so glad you could make it. I don't exactly have too much time. In my line of work and job specific, i am usually very busy, but it is always good to try and do a bit of recruiting myself."

Spuff winked at Fernando, who was clearly lost and found himself very intrigued to find out what line of work Spuff was into. So he asked him.

"Well Fernando, i am what we call a Right Hand Man, to my direct boss, Kimble. We are a relatively new family. We specialise in things that are not exactly legal. We are part of a powerful organisation in the city of Chicago. We are known by many as the most powerful crime syndicate in the country. Despite being new, we are a close knit family, we look out for one another and treat eachother with deep respect. Like all the other syndicates like ours, we are always looking to recruit new people. We are not 'gangsters' or 'petty criminals', we are professional businessmen who conduct our business in the swiftest and most respectful of ways, well as respectful as we can anyway. I know this is a lot to take in, but this is a fantastic opportunity for you and one you would definetely not regret. You'll have a good life with us and there are no limits on how high you can go. I know it could all be new to you but me and my associates will do our best to train you up and show you the ropes. Give it a go and if you don't like it, i'll see you get back home alright and we'll forget the whole thing. What do you say?"

Trying to comprehend exactly what was going on, Fernando was astonished at what he was hearing. He had never been involved in a crime in his life and wouldn't do anything to hurt anyone. He couldn't ignore what Spuff had said to him though. Phrases such as 'family', 'good life', 'power' and 'respect' had caught Fernando's attention. It sounded like a dream but was worried if this is the path that was right for him. Catching himself in the mirror Fernando could see a scraggy, desperate man. Yet here next to him was a man offering Fernando a massive opportunity, one that was too big to miss. Fernando could smell a new adventure and couldn't wait to get started. He turned to Mr.SpuffWaffle and shook his hand, he vowed to do whatever he could to help the family.

"You've made a great decision here Fernando, i look forward to working with you. Come now, let's go meet some friends of mine."

Fernando stood up and exited the bar with Spuff, they started walking down the street, the air smelled as fresh as ever and Fernando now had a sense of direction. Life instantly seemed so much better. Fernando told himself that he was going to give 100% to his family and indeed, the city. A new adventure and possibly a new life had dawned for Fernando and he was extremely excited about getting started. I am going to be the best he thought to himself...

Grabbing himself a coffee from the little diner on the corner, Spuff realised he only had a few minutes until he was due to meet that Spanish lad from the bar last night. Fuck, he was going to be late. He knew that inviting Irene over yesterday evening for a bit of slap and tickle had been a mistake. Hastily throwing some change on the counter, he grabbed his hat and bustled his way out of the door, much to the chagrin of an annoyingly attractive young couple who were coming in from the street. Still, he didn't think he'd bumped into them that hard. Or perhaps it was the coffee spilt down the fellow's trousers that caused their ire. Either way, Spuff didn't really care, and decided he'd treat himself to a cab ride. Usually extremely unwilling to part with his money, a little extravagence wouldn't hurt. He might even make it on time this way.

As the taxi pulled up to the pre-arranged meeting place, Spuff smiled as he looked at his watch, realising he was bang on time. He didn't have any strong feelings about whether or not the Spaniard would be annoyed by lateness, but he put great stock in punctuality regardless. It was more about having a sense of pride in one's actions than anything else.

Following the meeting, Fernando agreed to help out on a little bit of business. It was always nice to have willing dogsbodies around. Spuff was not a lazy man, but neither did he particularly enjoy conducting errands which he felt could be delegated to someone willing to impress. The pair made their way over to a little automotive workshop owned by the Morningwood Elite, and it was here that he introduced a couple of his associates.

Fernando, these guys here? They're a bit rough around the edges, but are damn good at what they do, and you'll be working with them on your first job. Do as they say, and you'll be just fine. I know you're not used to doing this sort of thing, but follow their lead and do as they say. You'll get you cut, and if you prove yourself in this I'm sure we can find something else for you to turn your hand to. You hold up your end of the bargain, and we'll see you right. Fuck up, and you'll wish you were back home in that civil war of yours. Nothing personal you understand, just business. I have a feeling you'll do alright though son. Don't prove me wrong.

Standing in the workshop Fernando was starting to feel nervous, not knowing what he had let himself in for he started to doubt whether he had made the right choice here. The guys Spuff had introduced him to looked a little more than rough around the edges, they looked like the type that would rip someone's head off simply for saying the wrong thing. Fernando took a deep breath and and composed himself. The last thing he wanted was to let Mr.Waffle down after the opportunity he had given him. He had his heart set on becoming part of Spuff's family and wanted to repay the faith that he had shown in him.

No problem Mr.Waffle, you can count on me. I know what i want and whatever this job is, i will do it to the best of my ability. I will not let you down sir.

Fernando takes a seat and waits to find out what the job was that he was going to take part in. He had mixed emotions, his nerves were all over the place yet he felt great excitement. He just wanted to get the job started and done as quickly as possible with the minimum of fuss. This was his chance to prove himself, he needed to, he had no money whatsoever, his future depended on this job...

Sitting in the corner of the room, pouring himself a small whiskey was Isacaron, the head of this operation. Isacaron was a Capo to boss Kimble and had been involved in many of these so called transactions before. He was a man that didn't like to be messed around, nore did he have time for new kids that couldn't cut it. Necking back his small whiskey, he begins to pour himself another before reaching out to Fernando and exchanging an friendly handshake...

Nice to meet you lad. Now, you're all probably wondering why I got you here, well heres why.

Isacaron said as he gently placed a black leather briefcase on the table. Fernando looked curious as to what was in the case, he had an idea but surely it couldn't be what he thought it was he said to himself. Fernando had only been here a matter of minutes and already they were getting into something as serious as this.

40 lbs of Colombia's finest Cocaine, 275k's worth. We're to take it to the Lorenzi's over in Little Italy. They give us the cash, we give them the merchandise. Spuff will be coming to see how you handle yourself Fernando, He'll know at the end of it if you have what it takes to work for us. Any questions?

The room fell silent as Fernando looked amazed at what stared him right in the face in the middle of the table. Not in his wildest dreams did he ever think he would be doing anything remotely like this. After all, he only came to the US to find a job and live a better life than what he did back at home. What the heck he thought, if this was the kind of cash this line of work made, it was definately worth it.

Better take this kid, just incase things turn ugly...

Watching from afar was Spuff's driver, Horatius.  He had asked Spuff the day before for more opportunities with the family, and this was his first task.  He had never been a driver for anyone like this.  Most of his work came from driving the getaway car for robberies and boosting cars for chop shops.  Another venture to add to his growing repertoire.

"A quarter after eight."  Horatius spoke to himself.  It was about time for the deal to go down.  He didn't recognize the other two guys standing with Spuff, only that they all worked for Kimble.

Horatius walked over to Spuff and whispered into his ear.  "A quarter after, Spuff."  Spuff nodded and flicked his cigarette over to the side.  Horatius walked back outside and over to his car.  Glancing around for any bystanders or police, he gets inside and starts the engine.

It had been a while since Fernando entered the workshop and the nerves had began to settle, especially after meeting Isacaron and Horatius, albeit for a brief moment. They seemed like decent guys, both men acted very professionally. Fernando felt himself easing in with the men and could feel himself gaining more and more confidence. Seeing the huge amount of cocaine that was laid out on the table he began to think of the money he could potentially earn if the deal was successful. That along with the prospect of joining the family and starting a new life was more than enough reason for him to make sure he done his part. He was actually starting to look forward to getting the job underway. Spuff then turned to Fernando and Isacaron.

Alright then guys, lets get this thing done, the sooner we get there the sooner we get back and have us some drinks in the family bar.

Isacaron closed the briefcase and exited the workshop, followed by Spuff and Fernando. The guys headed over to the car where Horatius was waiting, Spuff got into the passenger seat and Isacaron and Fernando took place in the back. Spuff then nodded at Horatius and the car pulled away. This was it Fernando thought to himself, the start of his first job...

The drive to Little Italy was uneventful. Spuff leaned back in his seat, pale blue cigarette smoke being sucked out of the cracked window, grinning to himself whenever they cruised by an attractive lady. He was not short of a vice or two, but a woman's legs up to her armpits was amongst his favourites. It was not the warmest of days, so most people were wrapped up warm, but more often than not the dresses and coats carried more than a hint of what lay beneath. Lost in such thoughts, he was almost startled when Horatius leaned over to inform him they'd arrived at Lorenzi's.

Oh, yes, right. So we have.

He glanced around to care to remind himself who he had with him today. Horatius, Iscaron and the new guy. Fernando wasn't it? His name wasn't important, what mattered was that he did the job asked of him.

Okay boys, we've got to go and drop this shit off inside. Thing is, I've a sneaking suspicion that the dirty stinking rats are going to try and pull a fast one on us. You all need to be on your guard. Horatius, you stay here in the car and keep her warm in case we need to get the hell outta dodge. Iscaron, I want you to watch the room whilst I do the talking. These fuckers have tried to short change us before, so I want to count the cash there and then before we let them go anywhere. Whilst I'm doing that, you keep an eye on where their hands are moving. You know the drill.

He twisted around in his seat to face the new guy sitting directly behind him.

Spaniard, it's up to you to look after the stuff. Don't let anyone get to close to you unless I give the nod. You keep that shit close, you hear? If the shit hits the fan, get the hell out of there and back here to the car. Horatius here will know what to do. I know you've not done this sort of thing before, but don't let them get a whiff of fear from you. That could turn the whole deal sour, you dig?

Pulling his six-shooter from his inner jacket pocket, he checks that the barrel is clear and that he's not going to leave himself short should the lead start flying. Satisfied, he tucks it into the rear of his belt where it can be whipped out if necessary.

Okay lads, we good to go?

Listening with much care to the plan outlined by Spuff, Fernando was happy with the overall plan and the individual task he had been given. Look brave, act professional and most importantly, don't let any fucker get anywhere near the briefcase without Spuff's approval. If the shit hits the fan, get the fuck out of there. Fernando was more than confident that he could pull this off.

I understand what i got to do Spuff, you can count on me to do the right thing. I am ready for this.

Fernando pulls out his pistol and and carries out his checks. Guns were quite familiar to Fernando, but thats another story. Content that everything is in order he places his shooter in the back of his belt, making sure the safety catch is applied. Isacaron and Horatius were happy with their roles too, they had done this sort of thing before so were well prepared for whatever was going to happen.

Ok, ready when you are boss.

Placing the gear in park, Horatius glanced over to SpuffWaffle and gave him a nod.  The three gents exited the car whilst a patient Horatius kept alert and glanced around at every corner to make sure no unwanted guest would happen to make things difficult for the business transaction going on inside.

He stepped outside of the car and flicked his cigarette into a drain several feet from where he was standing.  Down the street a bit, some children were playing with a jump rope and singing nursery rhymes as loud as possible.  The other stretch of the street, some bystanders were walking towards the nearest train station, discussing the upcoming baseball season.  Apparently, the Cubs were favored in the World Series this year.  Being a former New Yorker, it would break his heart to root against his beloved Yankees.  Waking up from his semi-daydream, he snaps back to attention watching the street corners.  A police officer heads his way, curious to why he is standing out by his car.

"Car troubles, sir?" The officer asks.  "No sir, just meeting a pretty little gal here.  She's supposed to be coming off of the train there."

Horatius, with a sly grin on his face, points over to the previously mentioned train station.  This stupid cop wasn't bright enough to see through this ruse.

"Mind if I wait here with you then?" The officer had obviously seen through his attempt.  Time to shift things to Plan B.  "Certainly not, she should be here any minute now.  Well, I hope so."

Oblivious to what was transpiring out at the car, Spuff thumped Fernando boistrously on the arm reassuringly.

You afraid son? Good. Fear keeps you quick, and that keeps you alive. You're no use to use dead. Keep it on a tight rein though, it can also make you sloppy. Anyway, let's do this.

Knocking on the sturdy interior door, a darkening behind the peep hole told Spuff that their identities were being verified by whoever stood on the other side.

What do you want? demanded a gruff voice, the accent giving the speaker away as an outsider to the city. Hired help perhaps. Employing from outside of the traditional Italian circles was becoming increasingly commonplace these days. Flicking his eyes over to Fernando, he sighed as he accepted the fact that he too was guilty of such a practice. Still, it never hurt to have a few extra eyes and ears around, regardless of their origin.

We're here to see Lorenzi. We've something he'll be most interested in. Forty pounds of it to be precise. I can always take the merchandise elsewhere, but I doubt your boss would like that.

A moments silence, and then a harsh grating from within spoke of a heavy latch or bar being slip open to allow access. A battered looking face peered out, the face drawn down into what Spuff suspected was a perpetual scowl. No, certainly not from around here this lad, but he looked like he could handle himself. Still, it was to be expected really. Nothing was ever easy it seemed.

He's expecting you it seems. The thug didn't seem too enthused by this admission, but he doubtless knew that Lorenzi would brook no nonsense from his underlings trying to overstep their boundaries. The bastard was a ruthless savage, and had no finesse or decorum when it came to administering punishments. But he had money, and that meant he was worth dealing with. In an ideal world Spuff wouldn't come with two hundred zip codes of the guy, but money was not something that everyone had readily available these days.

Okay, Iscaron, let's go in shall we. Nando, come along lad, just hang back a little.

Isacaron turned to the left and checked that he has his gun safely in his inside pocket whilst making sure Spuff obscured the view of the guy that opened the door and at that they headed in. First to walk in was Isacaron, followed by Spuff and Fernando respectively.

Wait there! I'll show you the way, follow me  demanded the fella that allowed us in. Silently Iacaron, Spuff and Fernando all made their way a few yards down the grim looking corridor behind Lorenzi's guy before coming to a stained glass door which behind was Lorenzi's office. Before stepping into the office, Spuff turned to Fernando.  Here we go kid, stay behind me and hold onto that case tight.

Welcome gentlemen. Tell me, what brings you here today?

Isacaron stepped to the side allowing Spuff to step forward with Fernando lingering in the backround paying close attention to what was going on.  Enough small talk you know why we're here, lets just get down to business shall we? You got the cash?

No... Rico has. Yo Rico, in here! shouted Lorenzi and out from the door behind him stepped Rico carrying a small briefcase quite similar to the one Fernando was holding.  Let man count the cash Rico, we don't want to be here all day.

Rico then placed the case on Lorenzi's desk and then opened to allow Spuff count the cash. These guys had already ripped off Kimble in a deal similar to this a few months earlier, no way was it going to happen again.

Everything seems to be in order, bring the merchandise Fernando Spuff replied and at that Fernando stepped forward. 

Despite only just coming across this Lorenzi fella, Fernando already knew one thing, he didn't like him. Lorenzi sat there, perched upright in his seat, hair greased to the max and wearing a suit looking as sharp and shiny as possible. The smug look on Lorenzi's face was despicable, sitting there with a cigar hanging out of his left hand, it was obvious that he fancied and thought big of himself, the whole arrogance that was streaming off of him was seriously annoying, especially to this spaniard. Remembering what Spuff had said to him earlier about not showing fear, Fernando showed no hesitation at all and moved forward to the table in front of Lorenzi and slammed the briefcase down, he opened it and truned it to face Lorenzi.

Go ahead, have yourself a little tester. 40 lbs of Colombia's finest cocaine, you won't find any better on the market at such a reasonable price.

Lorenzi raised an eyebrow, it was obvious he was quite surprised to see a young spaniard in such a position. He looked Fernando up and down and glared at him for a a few seconds before fixing his eyes back onto the gear. He took a little knife out of his top drawer and leaned forward to the briefcase. Picking up a block, he made a little slit in the wrapper, got a bit of coke on the knife before swinging it back his way and taking the lot up his nose in one go. Lorenzi then rubbed his nose and sniffled before truning to SpuffWaffle.

Ok, i have to give it to you, this is good stuff. I don't see any problems here. In fact i would be interested in purchasing some more off you, if you could get your hands on some more that is. If you do happen to acquire some more of this gear, or any other gear for that matter, you know how to find me.

Lorenzi turned his attention back to Fernando and gave him a strange look, as if he was trying to figure him out. In turn Fernando just stared back with a blank look on his face. There was an awkward temporary pause before Lorenzi let slip a little smile, he then pushed his chair back stood up, turned around and then exited the office. Fernando turned to Spuff and Isacaron and simply nodded. The 3 men, made their way out of the building, escorted by one of Lorenzi's thugs. Closing the door behind them the 3 men let out a sigh of relief and headed towards the car when Spuff suddenly stopped.

Jesus christ, i forgot about this cop. Right, we need to get rid of him somehow. We have a quarter of a million dollars here and i really don't fancy losing it...

Fifteen, no, twenty minutes had passed and those three were still inside.  Maybe they were finishing up the deal.  Maybe it was a trap and they are being tortured at this very moment.  All the Horatius knows is that he can't do anything with this cop lurking around.  Nervously glancing down at his watch every few moments wasn't helping his ruse one bit.

"Problem, son?  You seem awfully nervous."  This cop was really asking for it now.  Doing his job?  I can live with that.  Insinuating that Horatius is nervous with women?   Please.  Not this guy.

"No problem at all, sir.  I'm just anxious for this lass to show her pretty little face."  That could have done it.  This guy was sure to move on down the street this time.  I've always learned that if you can keep your stories consistent, not many folks will catch on.

"Well, I'll just wait a bit longer then.  If she's as pretty as you make her out to be, ya know, with your nervous actions and all, she must be quite the beaut'."  Fuck, fuck, fuckin' A!  This cocksucker won't budge.  The officer continues his whistling while having a look at the getaway car.  "This your ride, son?"  He asks rather mockingly, as if he already knew the answer, but wanted to keep the fire burning in Horatius' eyes.  "Yes sir, it is."  It was obvious here that the policeman knew he was getting under the skin of young Horatius.  Maybe if Horatius would cool down a bit, the officer would go about his business.

It was at the time the three heroes came bursting out on the street through the building's side entrance.  The yelling and ordering of Spuff alerted the policeman to come running around the rear of the car and right in front of Horatius.  He nonchalantly stuck his foot out in front of him and tripped the poor policeman, causing him to fall out into the street.  His .44 caliber pistol and baton went sliding and rolling across the road almost into an adjacent sewer drain.  While Spuff, Fernando and Isacaron quickly jumped into the vehicle, Horatius looked over in the policeman's direction.  After grabbing his hat and glancing to where his pistol flew, the cop looked up at Horatius frightened and shocked at what just happened in the blink of an eye.  All Horatius could bellow out was an "Oops" and a shrug of his shoulders.

"HORATIUS, GET IN THE GODDAMN CAR!!!"  Spuff's voice carried over the noise in the street alerting Horatius to quickly come to and speed off with the gents in the getaway car.

"What took you guys so long in there?"  Horatius asked as he was speeding by traffic and paying close attention not to rear end another car while attempting to flee the scene.  "This fucking cop out here was in my business and definitely knew something was up."