Chapter 38 - The Checkmate MoveRenata knew the local police were on Hector's payroll. She needed someone entirely outside of his sphere of influence.
She bypassed the city hierarchy completely and went straight to Mariana Silva, a notoriously ruthless, uncorrupted federal prosecutor known as the "Iron Maiden."
Meeting in a secure, underground parking lot, Renata handed Mariana the sworn, videotaped testimony from Camila.
Mariana watched the video on the tablet, her eyes widening. "If this is true, half the Senate will go to prison."
"Are you brave enough to sign the raid warrant, Mariana?" Renata asked.
Mariana handed the tablet back. "Hector Del Rio is hosting his annual 'Summit of Leaders' at his Valle de Bravo estate tomorrow night. Every corrupt politician on his payroll will be there. It’s the perfect time to drop the net."
"Then let's go hunting," Renata said.
The next evening, the Valle de Bravo estate was a scene of ultimate luxury. Helicopters landed on the lawn, delivering the elite of Latin America. Hector Del Rio stood at the head of a massive banquet table, raising a glass of vintage wine.
"To the future," Hector toasted smoothly. "And to the unbreakable power of our alliances."
Just as the guests raised their glasses, the glass ceiling of the banquet hall rattled.
May you like
The sound of rotor blades filled the air. Not luxury choppers. Military-grade tactical helicopters.
Before Hector's private security could draw their weapons, the heavy oak doors of the banquet hall were kicked open. Dozens of heavily armed federal agents poured into the room, their red laser sights painting the chests of the elite guests.
