The black van slowed to a stop in front of a gated residential complex on the edge of the green zone. A tall security fence surrounded the quiet neighborhood, and a uniformed guard stepped out of the small checkpoint booth as Andrey lowered the driver-side window.
The guard looked at the three of them carefully. "Good morning. This is a private residential area. May I ask your business here?"
Andrey didn't hesitate. He reached into his jacket, pulled out his official Hero Association ID card, and held it up clearly so the guard could see the holographic seal and his rank.
"Andrey Thompson, B-Rank Hero. This is an emergency inspection regarding Rank A hero Miguel Pestrine. He's been reported missing, and we have reason to believe there may be a connection to recent demon activity. We need immediate access to his residence."
The guard's eyes widened slightly when he saw the ID, then scanned the card with his handheld device. After a moment, the screen beeped in confirmation.
