The rain fell relentlessly over the city of Manila, its rhythmic patter against the pavement mixing with the distant sounds of the busy streets. But in the quiet streets and dim alleys, something else lingered — a tension in the air, like the city was holding its breath. You walked through the wet streets, the cool dampness of the rain settling over you, but something felt off.

You had been tracking down a lead for a case you’d been working on, but every step you took seemed to only lead you deeper into the maze of Manila’s darker corners. You had gotten used to the shadows of this city, the hidden dangers that lurked behind every corner. But tonight felt different.

Your phone buzzed in your pocket, a message flashing on the screen. It was from Basilio.

“Stay where you are. Don’t move. I’m coming.”

Your stomach sank. There was a sense of urgency in the message that you couldn’t ignore. Basilio wasn’t the type to rush, and when he said something like that, you knew there was danger nearby. You didn’t even hesitate before moving to the nearest alleyway and ducking into the shadows, hoping to blend into the darkness until he arrived.

Minutes passed, but it felt like an eternity. You stood in the alley, straining your senses, feeling the tension in your bones. The streets were quieter than usual, and every sound seemed amplified in the stillness.

Then you heard it — the faintest sound of footsteps, almost inaudible. But they were getting closer. You turned just in time to see a figure emerge from the misty rain. It was Basilio, his expression focused and determined, as always, but there was something in his eyes that you couldn’t place. A sharpness, a hint of something buried beneath the surface.

"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice calm yet edged with concern as he approached you.