spots that same man again, the one that comes into his restaurant every week. At least his food is being appreciated...
"Give him his first drink free," he instructs the waiter. Loyalty was always rewarded.
"Give him his first drink free," he instructs the waiter. Loyalty was always rewarded.
quirks a brow when a drink is brought to his table...one that he did not order. "I didn't order this..." He says simply and the waiter smiles
and tells him it's on the house. Ludwig takes a moment before he's thanking the waiter and he goes back to working on his meal. There hadn't been
any strong leads but Ludwig had caught sight of Living on multiple occasions....as well as a few others that were on the Interpol list. He doesn't say anything...just observes...
watches the man for a moment, before heads into the back. He checks in the kitchen -fixes up a few of the dishes- and then heads into... well.
'The Back', where he has men counting money, and talking business. He frowns when he hears that the Russians have been closing in on their territory.
finishes his meal and takes his time with the beer. it was easy to look around casually when drinking. He doesn't see Lovino but he's sure he'll make an appearance again.
makes a plan, instructing certain men to do certain jobs, to push them back, to weaken their hold. He didn't want fucking Russians in his territory._
sends his men off to do their jobs, to be useful, and wanders back to the kitchen to check on them -who the fuck was serving less than perfect carbonara??- and then moves to survey his customers.
is nearly done his drink and he's getting ready to head out. It looks as if this will be like the last few weeks...slow on getting anything concrete in the man.
furrows his brow a little at the one customer sitting in the corner. He's been getting reports of rudeness from his staff,
_and when he sees a waitress -Maria, such a sweet girl- in tears, he decides enough is enough, and heads over.
| It's at that moment that the attack occurs. There isn't very much time to react...at least not for a civilian. It was clear that whoever had been watching the
restaurant they had been waiting for Lovino to make an appearance. Ludwig is quick to tackle Lovino to the ground as bullets wheeze pass them as he
knocks a table down so they can use it for cover. the glass windows which provide great surveiling areas but horrible protection shatter....and it almost seems unsure when this will stop.
| There is screaming from.thr back and soon a couple of men are moving forward to try and fight back...bullets with bullets.
is glancing over the table swearing lightly as he makes sure Lovino is in sight...and safe with him. They didn't want him dead after all.
's breath leaves him, not at the sound of bullets, or shatter of glass, but at the huge fucking man on top of him. _
shoves him off, taking cover behind the table only long enough to pull his gun from within his jacket.
Who dared shoot at his restaurant, at his customers? Probably fucking Ivan trying to make a statement. _
Who dared shoot at his restaurant, at his customers? Probably fucking Ivan trying to make a statement. _
peered around the table before trying to move towards his men to provide back up.
glances over at Lovino before he's sending a quick message to his unit to arrive quickly. This was not planned....but they would hsve to work with it. -
also pulls his gun out as he keeps it close just in case. It's not very long before police sirens can be heard racing towards them. -
| There is a moment where the shooting pauses for a split second as if everyone is listening at the sirens coming closer.
bolts from his hiding place, using the pause to get a few shots in as he shoves a few straggling people towards the back. Fucking police. He orders his men to split.
_half of whoever hadn't gone off to Ivan, get people out of here, the other half, get rid of anything the cops shouldn't be seeing.
_If he'd had more than a little handgun on him... actually, there's a rifle under the counter by the kitchen, if he can just get over there...
decided there's no point in wasting and since he's been fired upon it was time to take action. -
peers over the table before he's up and firing. His aim ins impeccable as he pegs quite a few Russians. His priority is Lovino so he has to make
sure that the Italian is fine...his cover was blown anyway. When the initial danger is averted the cops are arresting men from both sides. -
| It's at this point that Ludwig turns on Lovino. "Romano Vargas, you are under arrest." He has his gun pointed at him and a displeased expression on his features. This was not how he
wanted it to go down.
keeps an eye on the blond, surprised when his regular pulls a gun. It's when the gun is turned on him instead of the Russians that make him take pause.
"For what? Owning a restaurant? Giving you a free drink? Or being a victim in a shooting?" He's composed for now, it's easy to reign his temper in when
|the man -fucking police the whole time- has nothing on him.
knew he was going to get such a response and so he quirks a brow. "Let's try harbouring known criminals, selling illegal firearms and consorting with known criminals...just for starters."
scoffs at that. "What, I serve people at my restaurant, and I get arrested? I have regulars and what they do with their time is none of my business. Get that fucking gun out of my face, dickbag."
_
_
glared at him, turning away from Ludwig to glance around and make sure none of his staff was being loaded into an ambulance. Fucking cops.
's lips thin. He knew taking in Lovino would not be easy but he hadn't gotten as far as he did because he liked things easy. "Don't make this difficult
for yourself." Ludwig warns because he would manhandle Lovino if that's what it took.
huffs, walking away from him a little to peek into the rooms, make sure everyone had gone.
"I should be telling you that. Piss off before you embarrass yourself."
"I should be telling you that. Piss off before you embarrass yourself."
.
sighs as he turns on the safety of his gun and holsters it. He was quite certain he didn't need a weapon to deal with Lovino. -
strides forward and grabs Lovino. It seems harmless at first but then he's pinning Lovino against a table and has both his arms behind his back. "I did
warn you but you chose not to listen."
growls, fighting him and swearing, right up until Ludwig pins his arms behind his back. He bites back a wounded noise, going completely still. Fuck! "Get the fuck off of me!" he bites out.
does loosen his hold when he feels Lovino tense. "Are you injured?" Ludwig asks with slight concern. He doesn't let him go though.
lets out a huff of breath, tugging again. "It's a scratch. I'm fine." It was just a very small, very minor bullet in his shoulder. That's all.
frowns as he grabs both of Lovino's wrists with one hand and uses the other one to gently run over the man's shoulders and back. Ludwig feels something moist and he
pauses as he pulls his hand away to find blood smeared over it. "A scratch...right." Ludwig turns his head. "I need medical over here. I have a shoulder injury that
needs treating ASAP." Ludwig doesn't have to wait long as a paramedic makes their way over to check on Lovino. It's at this point that Ludwig has to pull away. They couldn't bring him in bleeding.
scowls, glaring down the paramedic. "It's a little scratch, I don't fucking need help." he could patch himself up fine with tweezers and some rubbing alcohol. _
is happy though that this giant asshole finally lets go of him. "Is the staff safe?"
| The paramedic looks a little unsure but Ludwig motions him to continue. "You have a bullet in your shoulder it's not fine." He says sternly as he comes to stand by hin
so the paramedic is so afraid. "Most of the staff came out of it with their lives...there were quite a few injuries."
pales at that. "Most of the staff is alive? Who the fuck died? Fuck, they have... they have families, who the fuck died!" he almost knocks the paramedic with the way he's gesturing, but he needs to know!
had no idea how he could be so animated with a bullet in his shoulder. "Calm down!" He growls sternly. "I'll get you a name in just a second." He says as he motions for one of the officers to give him
the report that had been written up. Casualties and all.
practically snatches the paper from the blonde's hand, taking in the report. These were...a lot of people... three deaths. That might be nothing if it was mafia business, but it was the restaurant. _
stared at the names, feeling sick and angry and murderous.... Maria was just trying to get through school and she was dead. Anthony had a family, a small child... and Andrea was just _
a stupid kid trying to get his shit together and now he'd never have the chance. He was going to fucking kill Ivan. He was going to make him suffer long and slow.
.
frowns when the report is snatched from his hands but when he sees Romano's expression he lets it be. It was clear the man was beyond angry. "We can avenge them...if you come in quietly."
glances up at him, pausing for a moment. "You're going to let me torture and murder the man that did this? Not likely."
should have known that was the response he would get. "No, you will not get to torture and murder him but we can bring him under the scrutiny of German court."
scoffs at that. Bullshit. However. "You'll take him to prison then?" He had people on the inside... he could work something out.
would disagree seeing as it's a just course of an action. There was no benefit in extracting your own revenge if the end goal was only to torture and kill. "You ask as if you're unfamiliar with the justice
system." Ludwig says dryly. "Either way you're coming with me today."
figures that was a yes. So he'd have to put people in place then...
"Am I now? To help you bring in that Russian asshole?"
"Am I now? To help you bring in that Russian asshole?"
passes the report they had both been looking at back to the other police officer. "I said that was an option. However, if you choose not to help, you'll still be coming with me. You have committed your fair
share of crimes."
Narrows his eyes at that. "What fucking crimes have I committed? I just got shot, and you want to bring me in?" He's nudging the medic away from him, not pleased in the slightest.
almost has half a mind to cuff Romano and drag him in screaming. "I just listed crimes that you committed." He growls as he already pulls out his cuffs.
Rolls his eyes. "Why are you going after me? You should be going after Ivan!" He tugs his hands away, glaring.
frowns. "You know why. We found evidence of your mafia in many crime scenes especially dealing with arms dealing and murder. Does the name Sokolov ring a bell?"
....knew to cover his shit, they wouldn't have found anything like that going back to him. He narrows his eyes at the name, trying to think. Solokov...
_he finally puts a face to the name and nods a little. "Briefly. He's less of an asshole than those other Russian pieces of shit. What the fuck does that have to do with me?"
quirks a brow. "The murder was linked to you and your men. We found evidence that traces it back to you." There is a pause as Ludwig contemplates something. "Looks as if something a little more sinister is
occurring here."
Blinks at that. He was dead? Solokov... was that because of him? Had Ivan killed him because he'd... Kind of helped him out with something? What a piece of shit. "What evidence?" What the fuck was Ivan doing?
straightens and carefully puts his hand inside his coat pocket before pulling out a photo. He passes it to Romano and watches him carefully. "This was beside the body."
...
spots the crest immediately. That... that was their signature, but that was not their kill. He hadn't sanctioned that, and his men were better
trained than to kill without his say. "If I agree to work with you, can I see the body?"
doesn't answer immediately as his lips thin and he really has to take a few minutes to think about. It's almost an intimidating look but not long after he tilts his head from side to side. "I can pull some
strings...so you can."
Glances up at him. This man was a piece of shit cop, but if he could help him put Ivan away... "Then you have a deal. I want to know what this fucker thinks he's doing."
doesn't smile because this meant that he had to protect a criminal. "Then we better head to the station...I'm sure my bosses will want to have a word with me." He usually made the calls himself but something
like this needed to come from higher ups. He knew they wouldn't disagree but rules were rules.
Gives him a look, but agrees. Anything to make Ivan pay."Fine, but you're not putting me in those fucking cuffs"
's lips thin. "No funny business then." He says simply as he motions for Romano to follow him. "But you will be riding in the back of my car."
snorts at that. He follows Ludwig out, letting himself into the front passenger seat. "I don't know what fucking funny business you mean."
looks highly unimpressed when Lovino immediately sits in the passenger seat. He almost has half a mind to manhandle him but he refrains and just shakes his head as he walks around the car to get into the
driver's seat. He puts on his seat belt and looks pointedly at Lovino to do the same before he brings the car to life. "Behave yourself." He says simply because he knew these types.
Rolls his eyes at that. "Behave myself. Am I a fucking child?" He does his seatbelt though, and starts fiddling with the radio.
pauses to stare at Ramon. "You are a mafioso...I feel like behaving I'd not your forte." With that he pulls out of his parking and starts the drive to the station.
Huffs. Being a mafioso had nothing to do with acting childish. "Whatever." He simply grumbled the rest of the way, flicking through the stations.
decided not to complain about Lovino messing with his radio. Small sacrifices. When they arrive, Ludwig is quick to move to Lovino's door
so the other doesn't think anything of it. He needed to keep his eyes on him...this was the best way if the other was not handcuffed.
rolls his eyes, opening the door and slipping out. "So we're going to make Ivan pay, right? Because he needs to fucking pay."
's lips thin. "I feel like we both have two very different definitions of pay." He holds the door open for Lovino and people at the station are already staring at them.
Ignores all the dirty fucking pigs in the station, rolling his eyes at the blond. "Yes, or no?"
makes sure to direct his frown at Lovino. "Since we're using my definition of pay than the answer is yes." He replies as he motions for Lovino to sit on the chair in an isolated room. "Would you like anything
to drink while you wait. I need to speak with my superiors."
Huffs softly. He doubted they had wine... "Coffee, per favore." But Christ, not that shitty German coffee.
nods as he leaves momentarily and makes him a coffee before bringing it over to him. "Try not to get into too much trouble while I'm gone." He says as he closes the door behind him to go do as he had said he
would.
Huffs sipping his coffee and trying to peer out the window. If he could map out the police station, it might be handy information in the future...
returns barely fifteen minutes later with a serious looking woman. She exhumed respect and competence as she moves to sit in front of Romano. She's quiet as she studies him and then she's regarding Ludwig
next. "Mr. Vargas." She greets him. "We're glad that you've decided to cooperate with us. We've decided to make it an undercover mission for Mr. Beilschmidt here. We want him to act like your bodyguard, a new
identity is being planted for Mr. Beilschmidt that will take the scrutiny off of him. We just need assurance that you will do everything in your power that your men accept him into your family." Ludwig looked a
little uncomfortable by this entire thing but he wasn't the type to disobey such an important order.
furrows his brow at that. "Che cosa? I don't need a bodyguard. If you want him in mi famiglia, he should be my errand boy or something. That's more likely."
| The woman quirks a brow as she glances up at a clearly displeased Ludwig. It's the large German who speaks with arms crossed across his chest. "Errand boy?"
Nods. "Si,si,an errand boy. I don't need a bodyguard, but I always have use for an errand boy. Everyone will accept that, no one will question it."
Ludwig
gives
him this very very unimpressed look. It was clear from his facial expression that he was ready to slap Lovino but he knows self-control so it comes out more on his features than anything. -
's supervisor hums lightly because she knew that in the end...Ludwig would still be acting as a bodyguard. She motions for Ludwig to bend down and whispers something in his ear. He lets out a sigh but then nods
as he straightens himself. "As your errand boy then." She says.
is absolutely smug at that, sitting up a bit straighter. "Perfect. I'll have a meeting with what's left of the family, and introduce him. So what's
the plan for getting Ivan? Are we going to go in guns blazing?" or assassinate him in the middle of the fucking night.
's frown deepens and he can feel the beginning of a headache. The woman looks only mildly amused by Lovino's naivety. "You're working with the police." Ludwig grunts. "We're going to get him at his own game...
his none killing game. We need to catch him in the act, get close and then take him out. Unravel them from the bottom up."
Stares at Ludwig like he's an idiot. "Why? You know he's doing this shit, you saw them shoot up my restaurant!"
pinches the bridge of his nose and his superior brings up a hand to place it on his arm. "Because we have to go through legal channels or else we can't arrest him." He was trying to keep his cool but the
Italian really tried his patience.
Thinks that's fucking stupid. "Fine, whatever. As long as it takes Ivan out." These Germans always made things so difficult for themselves.
Ludwig
is
glad that Romaon finally caved for this at least. It's Ludwig's superior that speaks. "We'll drive you back to your restaurant. Mr. Beilschmidt will arrive tomorrow to take up his role. Any other questions?"
Huffs. "I still don't know what you expect me to do. I can give you things on Ivan, but if I show up I'll get a bullet in the face."
|The woman squares him a look. "Act as if nothing has changed. Give Ivan the impression you're ignorant to his plans and then investigate with the help of Mr. Beilschmidt here."
turns a little red at that. He's trying to watch his language in front of the lady, but he's pissed.
"We'll be retaliating! I don't have time to run around playing detective. He shot of my restaurant, mi famiglia... there are dead workers that have nothing to do with the mafia, he has to pay!"
comes up behind Romano and clamps a hand on his shoulders very hard. "Nein! You need to calm yourself."
Jerks away from him immediately. "Don't fucking tell me to calm myself when there are innocent people dead, because of Ivan."
's frown remains. "You think being irrationally emotional will do anything now that they're dead?"
wants to kill him. "You thinks it's irrational? You're a fucking robot, don't you even have any fucking family?"
sighs. "I'm saying at this very instance it is irrational to react this way."
Still thinks he's a fucking robot. "You don't have anyone else to assign to me?" He asked Ludwig's boss.
| She gives him a shake of her head. "Officer Muller will take you back to your restaurant." She says as she motions for Lud to follow her out.
Huffs "I don't need an escort, I can find my own way." He didn't need to be seen being passed between pigs, word would get out.
| Ludwig had barely made it home when he had gotten word that Lovino's restaurant had caught fire. It was certainly arson and it was easy to tell that it had something to do with Ivan. He was glad that he had
managed to take a shower before he was putting on one of his best suits and sliding into a car that had been given to him so that his license plate could not be traced. Ludwig arrives quickly enough and it was
honestly hard to miss the Italian mafia boss standing outside of his burning restaurant. Ludwig doesn't say anything as he comes and stands beside him. He doubted there was anything he could say. The man had
lost three people and now his restaurant...his cover.
Is silent as he watches it burn to the ground. This restaurant had been his pride and joy, his love as a child far before he'd even learned of the mafia.
|This... He would not stand for this. This had been his home, his respite, so much more than a front.
Would make Ivan pay. He didn't even acknowledge the blond when he arrived. Lovino was seething with anger, already making plans. Police or no, Ivan was going to suffer by his hands, nice and slow.
Ludwig
was
already beginning to conclude that Lovino was going to try and push his wants in terms of dealing with Ivan. It was easy to predict what a small emotional Italian mafia boss would be thinking at this
point and it also left Ludwig with an inability of how to properly react....since he had been told that everything he usually did was wrong. It's not too long after that he hears not only police sirens but also
the firetruck a good distance away. "Romano....we should probably go. If you want to avoid questions from the police."
Wants to punch him in his stupid face. He wants to beat the shit out of someone, regardless of who it was
. "I'm with you, why the fuck would they be asking me questions." His voice is low and quiet, too angry for
His usual outbursts and general loudness. The anger is pooling in his chest, and he just wants to beat the shit out of someone until his hands are slick with blood.
tries to understand that Romano is upset over this fire. He had every right to be. "Because I'm no longer the police. I am a wanted man like you and the police will treat me as so...remember I'm your...errand
boy now." He tries not to show how displeased he is by that but it shows a little.
Has to give him that. He lingers a little longer, staring as the fire continues to consume his_
|restaurant, taking it all in... And turns. "Come on, then. There's a meeting anyways, you should meet the famiglia."
nods and lets Lovino lead the way. He was supposed to 'tehcnically' be his bodyguard. He's sure Lovino was more than capable of taking care of himself but he did have a huge target on his head...and it made
more sense for Ludwig to get his hands dirty rather than Lovino.
Tells himself not to glance back, not to think of the fact that he can still feel the heat coming off the fire
engulfing his home. "They'll be wary of you. Especially after this, they'll be wary. But they won't question me... They'll_
Test your loyalty. You have to be ready for that."
does meet Lovino's eyes and he can see the pain. Perhaps that was one thing they had in common....their eyes were very expressive. "I'll prove myself. I have no choice in the matter. They'll come to trust me...
for your sake."
Nods a little at that. "You'll have to do things that go against your moral code. We are
the mafia, it's not fucking butterflies and pasta. I'll keep you close to me at first. I'll figure something out."
Leads him towards his car, glancing at him. "Are you coming with me, or following in your own car?"
nods once again. He was very aware of the activities of the mafia...having observed them for a very long time. "What would you prefer. I take my orders from you now." He hated that Lovino had this much power
over him. HE really did have to take the role to make it believable. However, he also knew when he couldn't step over certain lines, it would be finding that kind of balance.
Watches him carefully, just for a moment. "Come with me. I'll make sure no one touches your car." At least he had a new pet. But this... This would not be a fun meeting.
nods as he moves to open the car door for Lovino. He might as well start pretending. When Romano is inside he closes the door and moves to get in on the other side.
Is surprised by the gesture, but he knows it's an act of course. He gives the restaurant one last lingering look, before peeling out of the parking lot. There was one other place they could go.
puts on his seatbelt and as usual doesn't say anything. He wasn't entirely happy with the arrangements but as an undercover investigator he didn't have very much of a choice. This was the best way to get to a
very dangerous man despite Lovino also falling under that category. He lets Romano use the silence to reconcile what happened...maybe calm himself for the meeting they were going at. It would be tough...but
composure was necessary at this point in time.
Drove in silence, thinking. He... well, he'd have to go through the rubble in the morning. But for now he had to calm them. They would be furious and looking for a fight, and he was too! But fights born
|of anger were stupid, and reckless, and it would bring more death. They had to be smart, calculating... Lovino glanced over at the cop. They had to use their resources.
let's the silence continues until he feels as if they're getting close. "Is there anything I should know before I step into this...meeting?"
Glances over, so lost in his mind that he'd almost forgotten the man was there. "I hope you speak Italian, or you won't be able to follow.
Just stay close to me, and I'll make excuses. Did they give you a new name, or am I calling you Beilschmidt?"
sighs. "Italian is not my forte...I'm supposed to go by Ludwig Schmidt. Not very original but the police rarely are."
doesn't think that's original in the slightest. "Try and follow. I'll let you know the important things afterwards. You can call it a verbal report if you want to."
nods. "I'll see what I can pick up on."
pulls up at an older looking church, where a few cars are already parked around the back. "We're here."
quirks a brow but doesn't say anything as he unbuckles and gets out and moves to open Lovino's door.
slips out, muttering his thanks, and heads for the side door that didn't get much use. "There's going to be a lot of talk about retaliation. I won't let it it get there. Not yet."
decides at this point it's better to keep his mouth shut. He already didn't look like he fit in...no
point in ostracising him because of his lack of Italian.
pauses at the door to look up at Ludwig. The man was a lost cause. this was the most un-Italian man he'd ever seen. "That's a good tactic. Staying completely silent will probably help." maybe.
wasn't so sure but he was just thankful that he looked nothing like a Russian. He steps in after Lovino and doesn't have to do much because
's presence alone was intimidating. When they enter further Ludwig keeps by Romano's side, not too far and not too close.
Sticks close, leading him through the back hallways and into a decently sized room, his men already there. He takes his seat at the head of the table and waits.
|Everyone is staring blatantly at Ludwig, but Lovino ignores it. "Was there progress in pushing back the Russians from our territory?" One of his men gives him an incredulous look.
|"Boss, the restaurant-" Lovino only holds up a hand to silence him. "Answer my question." He sees a few wary glances exchanged, before one speaks up.
` "We only managed to scare them off, they left before we could fire any bullets. We did find something..."
does notice the looks and he tries to ignore them as best as he can but these were technically all very dangerous men. If they knew that Lovino was working with the police and that he was a police officer...
well he wasn't sure how loyal these men were. He tries to get as much of the conversation as possible but unfortunately Italian wasn't really his forte. He does get that they are talking about the Russians but
other than that it just sounds like melodic and exaggerated talk.
Quirks an eyebrow at them when no information is forthcoming. "And?" More of them look at Ludwig and Lovino sighs. "Yes, he is trustworthy. We've lost a few men, and_
Ludwig is here to be our muscle and my new errand boy. He's trustworthy, and doesn't know any Italian. So he's safe. You could call him a dumb cow to his face and he wouldn't know it._
_now tell me what the fuck you found." He grits out, getting more annoyed at their silence. One of the men drops a thick envelope on the table, and Lovino immediately starts to go through it.
_it's all forged documents. Forged documents that very clearly did not come from them. Lovino let's out a string of curses under his breath, slamming his fist on
_table, the first real hint of anger he's given since arriving, and a few of the men jump at the noise.
Ludwig
is
observing since this is really all he can do. He does catch the word 'dumb' because it's close enough to many other languages for him to decipher...and when it's said what he assumes is a couple of sentences
after his name...he has an idea it might be about him. The anger should have had him reacting but he does keep his expression neutral. He was trying to come off as even more intimidating and unaffected than
usual. He knew he would be getting questions. The content from the envelop was quite telling.
can't fucking believe this. This is the reason his restaurant burned? Why people are dead? So fucking Ivan can go back on their deal and take over his market. _
what a fucking piece of shit, he was going to kill them. Kill them all. "Good. We know what they're doing now. Look for it. An eye for an eye, _
you see any front, any place they're doing this shit? Make sure there are no innocents, and torch it. Burn it to the ground. Find out_
who the fuck is leaking our secrets. Don't kill them. I want to see them personally. Be fucking
careful when you do this shit. Ivan is ruthless, he probably wants to pick us all off. No fucking dying allowed. Understand?"
_Lovino can see a few gazes dart to Ludwig when he mentions a leak, and slams his fist down again. "Stop. Fucking questioning me. You
questioning him, is questioning me. I vetted him, I brought him in. He's loyal. He doesn't have to be smart, just loyal."
side glances at Romano when it's clear they're talking about him again. He had heard something about fire and killing. He really did need to start learning Italian if he's going to be in this persona for a
while. It would probably help out too if he could tell Lovino what was being said when he wasn't around. Unfortunately, that would have to wait for a little later. Now, it was making sure Lovino remained safe.
Receives mostly silence except for that one idiot that wouldn't stop asking about his restaurant. He wanted to lick those wounds in private, Christ."Don't worry about it. Don't take revenge for
Something like that. Do something fucking useful, and watch for the Russians trying to kill you, and for our business they're trying to steal. Guard the boats, visit our clients, do something useful."
Wanted to just... Leave. Christ, he still had to break the news to Feliciano. "Go home to your
families. I'll call you when I need you." He snatched up the envelope, and rose from the table, beckoning for Ludwig to follow him.
Once they were at the car, he gave him a look. "I'll drop you home. Your car is safe."
Ludwig
thinks
that's an awful idea. "You can drop me off at the next U-Bahn station or drive me to my car."
isn't going to drop him to his car, Ludwig's car was at his house. "U-Bahn station it is." he paused,
glancing over at him. "Do you know which parts of Germany to stay out of?" Ivan was unnecessarily territorial and now Ludwig was with him, so...
quirks a brow at the question. "I'll be fine...worry about yourself." He says because this was the truth. "He doesn't have a hit on me like he does on you."
Rolls his eyes. "As if the Russians could kill me. They have another thing coming."
decides to hold his tongue because Ludwig is certain that they could kill him if they really tried. "What time should I meet you tomorrow and where?"
Doesn't even fucking know. There's no more restaurant to go to. "Take a day off. I have... I'm taking a personal day. You don't need to be there for that. I can have your car delivered somewhere for you."
quirks a brow. "I doubt Ivan is going to take a personal day when it comes to your life." He says. "However, if you want to take the chance. When and where should I meet you when you are ready?"
Has... He has a lot of things to figure out, he wants to see what he could salvage from the restaurant. "I'll call you when I'm ready." Something he would probably drag out for a month or two.
would definitely not let him dragging it out for a month. He would be seeing Romano tomorrow because there was a lot of work both of them had to do. Also, his boss wouldn't be happy if he didn't see Romano
every day....no matter how much of a blessing that would be. "I'll see you in the morning. I'll bring you better coffee." He says simply when Romano has stopped at the U-Bahn station. He doesn't stick around
too long to hear the man's complaints and closes the door. He knew were Romano lived anyway.
Stares after him for a moment before driving off. That pig better bring him better coffee, he
didn't want that muddy bean water. For now... Christ it was practically morning. He might as well go see Feliciano and break the news about Nonno's restaurant.
doesn't sleep much but at least something was better than nothing. As promised he did make an effort to find Romano some good coffee and because he knew where Lovino's private residence was located it wasn't a
very difficult find. Ludwig does end up buzzing Lovino's apartment because as much as it was tempting to just break in (since he did have to play the part) he would prefer abiding by the rules.
Doesn't sleep at all. He calls his brother to tell him about the restaurant, and ends up talking for a long while. By the time he hangs up the phone,_
There's someone buzzing downstairs and he has a good mind to ignore it. But he pushes the intercom button, and snaps "What!" Instead.
wasn't surprised by the response. "Do you greet everyone that brings you coffee like this?" Ludwig asks. It was unfortunate that Romano couldn't see his expression.
'S eyes go wide at the mention of coffee, and he immediately buzzes the man up. He could definitely use some coffee right now.
Ludwig
is
pleased with the quick response and he enters making sure to take the stairs instead of the lift. He makes it to the top and then slows stops to knock on the door. He knew how these types were...they were
very suspicious. Romano was very suspicious of him.
Peeks through the eyehole, unlocking three out of the four mechanisms, "Are you alone? Is there anyone in the hallway with you?" He opened the door as much as the chain allowed.
waits but then nods when Romano has a bit of a view of him. "Alone and made sure no one was following." He shows
Romano the coffee so that he's forced into opening the door fully.
Shuts the door in his face, only for a moment until he can remove the chain. He opens the door, tugs
Ludwig inside and locks up again. "Why am I not surprised you found out where I live..." He goes for the coffee, a little sleep deprived.
doesn't seem to mind as the coffee is taken from him. "I've known where you lived for a while. It's in police files."
Ignores him for a moment, drinking from the coffee cup. Dio, that was so much better than yesterday.
He takes a moment to enjoy it, before he glances up at Ludwig. "Is there going to be a mole in your police force that can find that file, and then burn my apartment down while I sleep?"
shakes his head. "Only my superior and I have access to it. There are no other copies, no one knows it exits." He assures Lovino. "Now, we need to talk...and makes sure we're on the same page."
Doesn't really want to talk with him, but the asshole brought him coffee, so.. "Then talk."
sighs. "You are aware that I need to be by your side at all time for this to work. We need to figure out another arrangement where I can be close by at all times even at night. I would also like to begin deeper
investigation on Ivan and ways of pulling him closer so we can catch him. You told me that you would fill me in on the meeting yesterday which did not happen."
Wants to punch him in his face, he was so damned annoying! "What the fuck are you saying, you want to move in? No. No it's not happening._
_I can talk to you about the meeting tomorrow, today I have personal matters to attend to. Without you."
crosses his arms over.his chest. "Without me? that wasn't a part of the deal." He knew Lovino had said errand boy but he was more like the man's bodyguard. He clearly needed one.
Is pushing down his temper, but it was difficult. "Yes, without you. I don't need a fucking audience to watch me salvage the remains of my restaurant." He snaps, and hates himself for
_even mentioning that much about his personal business.
's expression softens lightly...lightly and probably not noticeable to Lovino. "I see. I won't be far in that case."
Is a little grateful that... He doesn't want his sympathy but he appreciates him backing off. "Thank you... If you need to be there, you can hang_
_around in the parking lot. I'll be fine, they aren't going to leave my corpse in the remains of my restaurant. That's no fun for them." Actually it did sound fun for them, a little.
thinks it would be a huge statement if they did. He would hang out in the parking lot. "I have a newspaper....I'll stay in the parking lot." At least this way he could keep an eye on Romano.
Is grateful, but won't say anything. "Good, let's go then." He walks out of his apartment, waiting for Ludwig to get out so he can lock up. "Are you actually going to follow me around all day?"
steps out and waits a few feet away from Romano. "Ja...that's my job now." He says with no humour in his tone. If he could do something else he certainly would.
Locks up, glancing over at him. That's the worst job ever... "They're paying you to follow me around?"
's lips thin. "No they're paying me to take care of you and while doing so investigate into catching Ivan."
Crinkles his nose. Take care of him... well either way that ruined his plan if he was planning on killing Ivan. He could always ditch Ludwig...
|"Right. Well, I can take care of myself." He headed down the hall towards the car, figuring he'd play nice a little. "Yesterday, I was made aware that Ivan is moving in on my business.
_which is why he's trying to take me out. Less competition."
quirks a brow it was clear he didn't believe that completely. "Considering you're still alive I would say that's not entirely false." -
follows Romano to his car. "I figured something of that nature was happening. We'll have to make quick work of apprehending him."
Glances at him as he slips inside. Right. Apprehending. "When I'm done, I'll draw you a map of all his places that I'm aware of. He's got a place by the docks that I highly suggest you look into."
actually smiles, a faint one but it's there. "I'll definitely have a look." He says as he slides into the passenger seat.
Pulls off, driving the directly to the restaurant, the first time he's not taken a round about route _
_to throw off anyone who might connect his residence to the restaurant. He furrows his brow a little at the smile, finding it...odd on his face. Whatever. _
Pulls up soon enough, taking a moment and not wanting to go see the torched remains of his restaurant.
doesn't say anything more from there as he lets Romano take his time. What he does do is get out of the car so that Romano could have his privacy. He goes off to investigate things but stays close enough that
he can keep an eye on Romano in case something were to happen.
Is silently thankful when Ludwig gives him some space. He takes a few more moments before slipping out and approaching the restaurant. Dio,_
_he would be surprised if there was anything to salvage. He heads inside anyways and everything is ash. He picks up a melted pot only to toss it aside. Fuck...
investigates a little more around the area. He keeps an eye out just in case someone was lingering around to get s hit on Romano.
Digs around for about an hour. The only thing he manages to salvage is the giant pot his Nonno gave him upon opening the restaurant -thank Dio-, a charred picture of their little family,
_and a couple of knives. Everything else is ash or worthless. "Oi, Beilschmidt!"
appears from the back and he crosses his arms over his chest. "Yes, Romano?"
Glances at him for a moment, shifting the pot in his arm. "We're leaving. I have to go settle my insurance, and then..." Then.
"I have to go see the families of those three that died."
"I have to go see the families of those three that died."
nods at that. He unfortunately couldn't find anything new but at least working with Romano would give him some sort of advantage. "Do you want me to drive? I believe it's a little odd that you do." He brings
up. Usually, the mafia boss gets driven around and Ludwig is positive that he's a better driver in tight situations than Romano. "Then I can stay in the car as you do what you need to do."
Doesn't really trust people not to run him off a cliff. He always prefers to drive.
"Believe what you want, I'm driving
"Believe what you want, I'm driving
either way. You can sit in the car while you wait for me." He sets his things down in the back before
Slipping into the drivers seat. "You might want to start bringing along a book." Today would probably be the only day he'd make Ludwig wait around. But still.
sighs....Romano was such a distrusting person. It was already giving him a headache and they had hardly spoken today. He moves to get into the passenger as he buckles up. His exasperation clear on his face.
Couldn't give a fuck what was on his face. He pulls off the moment Ludwig slides in, not happy about having to deal with insurance bullshit. Today was not going to be a fun day in the slightest.
(( Should we time skip to the night? ))
Doesn't even want to think about anything right now. He flips on the radio without thinking
about it, and the look on his face is one of pure offense. They're giving away tickets to see...DJ Awesome. What a dick.
Ludwig
was
also listening to the radio but in his own car not to far from Romano's apartment. At the mention of DJ Awesome Ludwig can't help but let out a sigh. Gott...his brother was...he wasn't sure what words to
use at this moment but he's glad that no one can link them together. Ludwig's watching Romano's apartment because he has this suspicion that Ivan was going to attempt something again. He's sure Ivan would
attempt something until he succeeded in taking Romano out. He glances away momentarily to scroll through pictures of the burned restaurant and he misses a figure shrouded in black slip into Romano's building.
Hasn't been able to sleep properly since the restaurant burned down, but he's been claiming early nights to get
Beilschmidt off his ass. For now he's simply trying to make his body lull off. Sort of watching a horrible movie, and jotting
_down notes on a battle plan to take down Ivan. It's not really working that well...
takes a sip of his coffee as he watches the apartment. He hadn't been sleeping the best considering most nights he was found here. He did leave for a couple of hours when he felt as if the coast as clear. -
However, tonight....he had heard talk and he had been warned by one of his men who had an in with the Russian mafia. Ludwig was afraid something was going to happen. It didn't help that he had missed the man
Ludwig
was
currently skillfully breaking into Lovino's.
Was only just drifting off, when he heard four shots, and the door slam open only to get caught on the chain. He swore violently, running into the kitchen as he heard the chain give. Fucking Russians! _
Picked up a few knives from his block, rounding the corner and swore as he only managed to get him in the shoulder as the man knocked him to the ground, Lovino rolling_
_to avoid the other shots. Fuck!
| The gunshots startled Ludwig and he's out of the car in seconds. He busts the door open and he's taking the
stairs by two. Lovino's front door is already busted open and Ludwig immediately spots the Italian on the floor. The man on the other hand is
aiming his gun at Lovino but Ludwig acts quickly and he's tackled the man to the floor. They wrestle for a good five minutes exchanging blows and overturning furniture
but Ludwig comes on too and he manages to deal the Russian a black out blow. When Ludwig is certain the man is out for the counting
rolls off of him and sags against the overturned sofa. He's breathing heavily and he looks decently battered. -
"You okay...?" He asks through his pants. "I'll take him in for interrogation..."
Yelps at the shot and then Ludwig is there, and how the fuck did he get there? He doesn't know what to do while they're rolling around, busting up his furniture, but
_Beilschmidt seems like he has this, so Lovino looks down the hallway, and out the balcony to check if this assturd brought any friends. _
_He doesn't see anyone and by the time he glances back, there's a limp Russian -ha- on his floor, and his bodyguard looks like shit. _
_"I'm fine, just a few scratches, you look like fucking shit though." The bullet had only grazed his
shoulder, hardly deep enough to even require stitches. In his opinion, anyways. This potato asshole though... Had just saved him.
"Are you going to live?"
quirks a brow as he runs a hand through his hair. "Of course...why wouldn't I?" He answers as he heaves himself up. "You're bleeding." He points out.
Glances to his shoulder and shrugs. Whatever.
"Because you look beat to shit, that's why. Is anything broken? Concussion?" Not that he was worried, he just needed to know so he could yell at him later.
"Because you look beat to shit, that's why. Is anything broken? Concussion?" Not that he was worried, he just needed to know so he could yell at him later.
quirks a brow at the questions. "I thought you didn't care." He says softly. He was fine. He'd had worse fights before, he does go over to handcuff the man...just in case.
Scoffs. "I don't care. I just want to make sure you don't need a hospital, before I ask what the fuck you're doing here."
He got up, fishing the zip ties from the kitchen. "These first." It was easy to get out of cuffs, these were a little more difficult.
frowns. "Hardly in a hospital after that." He says as he watches Romano exiting and return. "Be my guest." He says allowing Romano Dynamic Short Url Service get by to do ehat he needs.
to*
ignore the dynamic short URL service thing.
Spares him a glance, before zip-tying the man's wrists together, and if it's much too tight? Lovino figures he deserves it anyways.
_
_
Is tempted to get another hit in, but... "You said we're interrogating him?"
watches him do this and he doesn't comment when they look just a little too tight. "Ja, genau." He says before he's heaving the man up and sitting him down on a chair. "Do you have extra rope? I'll tie him to
the chair and we can wake him up."
turns. Rope, rope.... he heads down the hall, coming back with a generous amount of rope. "I'm going to punch this asshole awake."
fastens the man to the chair making sure all his limps are tied so he can't get away or fight back. "Maybe try a less aggressive manner. You might just keep him knocked out."
Huffs. "Does that mean I can't put a knife in his leg? That would wake him him..."
Up*
Ludwig
gives
him an unimpressed look. "Nein. No knife in his leg." Gott...he knew Lovino was a mafia boss but he hoped they could find an in between that didn't give Ludwig an aneurysm.
only relents because Ludwig did save his life. "Fine. You wake him up then. No knives, no punching, just tickle the fucker awake then." maybe he could boil some water...
moves so he's square with the Russian mafioso. His brows knit together as he backhands the man very hard. He couldn't be completely by the police book...he was playing a role after all. -
waits until the man is completely awake before he's grabbing the man by the throat. "Why were you sent to kill Romano Vargas!?" He growls. The man barely reacts except for the knitting of his own
brows. It was to be expected that these wouldn't answer.
stares. He stares, as his face slowly goes red and he refuses to acknowledge he's a more than a little turned on right now. What the fuck.
|He doesn't quite expect the man to answer, Russians had oddly good pain tolerance. But pain broke everyone
eventually. "Oi," Russians also had too much pride.
"I hear a few of your men died today. Ivan sent your buddy Anatoly to my
"I hear a few of your men died today. Ivan sent your buddy Anatoly to my
restaurant, knowing he'd die. Now he sent you on a suicide mission? He's weeding out all the useless ones, looks like."
| The man looks fiery at Romano's words. "I'm best assassin." He grunts. "If large German was not here, you would be dead already." He nearly spits. Ludwig squeezes his throat a bit tighter which has
therm choking a bit.
smirks at the noise, very... very pleased with Ludwig's presence at the moment. "If he wasn't here, your blood would be sprayed all over my carpet. I suggest you talk, before my friend makes you."
| The Russian assassin glares at Romano and all he says is. "You will die...soon." And then he falls quiet and Ludwig is glancing at Romano with a quirked brow.
rolls his eyes, and goes to fetch a butcher knife from the kitchen. "So will you, if you don't speak up." He threatens, already dragging the blade along the man's neck.
| The man hardly looks afraid of death. However, he chooses to say nothing. Ludwig eyes the knife in Romano's hand as if trying to figure out how serious he is.
Has killed his fair share of people, but as much as the dead sends messages, they don't actually speak.__
|death may not be something he was afraid of, but pain was pain. "I know Ivan sent you. Why." He knew why. But better to play dumb, see what else they could get.
(Wait which one of us is playing the Russian dude?)