The following day, the investigation revealed that the perpetrators were operatives of an international mafia organization called The Vortex. This information was a serious warning to the Metronight police force.
"Captain," Alicia said, handing Vinz a folder. "This is no ordinary kidnapping. The Vortex is known for human trafficking and smuggling operations. This abandoned factory is just one piece of their network."
Vinz scrutinized the folder. "They know about us now, and we know about them. This will mark the start of a long battle."
As their first course of action, Vinz decided to investigate the Vortex's main base. However, gathering information wasn't going to be easy. Alicia suggested meeting with an informant named Rico, a former Vortex member now under witness protection.
Rico was willing to cooperate but not without conditions. "I'll tell you everything you need to know," he rasped. "But you'll have to get my family out of the city. Otherwise, you won't get a thing from me."
Alicia was skeptical, but Vinz nodded. "We'll arrange protection for your family. Now, tell us what you know."
Rico's information led them to a large warehouse on the outskirts of the city. But when they arrived, a trap had already been set. A massive explosion tore through part of the warehouse, forcing Alicia and Vinz to fight for their survival.