The smell of motor oil and rubber hung outside the Modification Workshop in the East End Police Department's underground parking garage. Four brand-new E-350 Patrol Vans stood in a row, their headlights reflecting a cold gleam in the gloom.
"Finally, some decent equipment."
Dren pulled on his oil-stained coveralls and patted one of the doors. "Things really are looking up in the East End, Sheriff. I still remember how Bob nearly tore his hair out getting approval for that first vehicle."
"Times change. We can't keep sending everyone out to risk their lives in Crown Victorias."
Li Jie smiled and tossed a paper bag onto the table. "Four thousand for labor, materials extra. Same modifications as before. One for me, one for James Gordon at Central Headquarters, one for Wilson's squad, and one spare."
"You're switching too?" Rongke came out of the equipment room, wiping his hands. "Can't the old one handle it anymore?"
"I can't keep driving around with a 3116 Engine every day. The noise alone scares the hell out of people." Li Jie pursed his lips. "I'll park it in the garage as a keepsake in a few days. And this time, no matter what Wilson tells you, don't install any cooking equipment in his van."
"No problem. Whoever pays calls the shots." Dren stuffed the money into a drawer. "New air-conditioning again? Gordon's too?"
"New air-conditioning." Li Jie waved a hand. "No point pinching pennies on that. Besides..."
His phone rang. He checked the caller ID: dispatch. He gestured for them to wait and answered.
"Sheriff, the Brilliant Jewelry Store on Grant Street is being robbed." The dispatcher sounded urgent. "The caller reported seeing at least three armed suspects, and... and one particularly large man."
"How large?"
"The caller said... like an NBA player, but much