Can't I Just Raise Myself?

"Ryan, the director wants you!"

A colleague called out.

He raised his hand in acknowledgment and walked to Jonathan's office, where the latter sat frowning in his chair, looking troubled.

"Why are you only here now?"

"Uh... Director, didn't you assign a task yesterday? I went to scope out the place at night and got back late."

Jonathan nodded, unconcerned, and waved Ryan over. "Another murder case has come up, a major casualty incident. I've got urgent matters on my hands, so go check it out for me."

"A murder case? Where?"

"From the Snake Mouth Gang. Twenty or so of them died together this morning. My initial judgment is that it might be related to a Supernatural Being. Be careful."

"It's not the Blood Cult again, is it?"

"Not sure. Do a preliminary investigation first; I'll have someone else take over later... Damn it, these bastards never let anyone rest easy."

As soon as he finished speaking, the office phone rang.

Ring-ring~ Ring-ring~

Jonathan grabbed the receiver and snapped, "Who is it?! Huh? Yes, it's me... Ha? Say that again!"

Slap!

He hung up, his face more serious than ever.

"Ryan, trouble's here."

Ryan looked puzzled. "What now?"

"The Snake Mouth Gang has been wiped out."