"The second issue we need to address is the ongoing conflicts with rival gangs, which have significantly disrupted our operations," Fred declared. "This has resulted in a manpower shortage in several areas. Penn and I have decided to revise the revenue-sharing model. We're increasing the business share from 10% to 15%, allowing you more funds to recruit additional members."

  A murmur of approval spread among the leaders. A 5% increase might not sound like much, but it represented a substantial boost in income.

  "And thirdly," Fred continued, raising a final finger, "the split from your independent operations will be adjusted from a 40-60 ratio to 30-70 in favor of the gang."

  The leaders couldn't hide their delight at the news.

  The Austrian gang's daily operations included underground gambling, loan sharking, smuggling, control over nightlife venues, and a substantial stake in the drug trade dominated by the Spanish. Beyond these, members engaged in other illicit ventures—everything from theft, robbery, and kidnapping to arms dealing and black market activities. Essentially, they had a hand in nearly every illegal enterprise imaginable. With the additional 10% share, it was undoubtedly good news.

  Fred concluded, "Given the current tensions, we must strengthen our ranks and ensure more profits for everyone. That means recruiting more members. Our power is vital to surviving these turbulent times."

  On the way back, Ryder drove while Hardy sat in the back, lost in thought. He saw the chaos among the gangs as a golden opportunity—a chance for expansion and growth.

  As they cruised through the lively streets, lined with towering buildings, Los Angeles in the 1940s was already a thriving metropolis, bustling with its ports, oil fields, and booming population, not to mention the world-famous Hollywood. To Hardy, the city was an untapped goldmine.

  Back at Bill's residence, Hardy gathered his closest associates in the living room.

  "Henry, Matthew, Neil, Leo—after a week of investigation, what have you uncovered?" Hardy asked.

  Henry exchanged glances with the others. "I'll start. Matthew and I scouted the Irish territory. They hold a lot of power there, and the locals are clearly intimidated by them. They're involved in multiple illegal businesses—drug trafficking, gambling, smuggling, loan sharking, debt collection, theft, extortion, protection rackets, arms trafficking, human trafficking, and more."

  "The Irish have over 300 core members, plus even more associates. They're a serious force. Due to time constraints, Matthew and I could only get close to a few of their businesses—bars, nightclubs, and a couple of casinos."

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  "Did you find anything about the gang disputes?" Hardy asked.

  "Yes," Henry confirmed.

  "As for the Spanish gang, we gathered some intel there too. A few days ago, Dani, their leader, and his advisor visited the Irish's Hoffman Bar and met with their boss, Hemi Weiss."

  Hardy's interest sharpened. The timing Henry mentioned lined up with when he'd taken out Cook. Since then, tensions had escalated in the Austrian gang's territory. It was becoming clear the Spaniards were stirring up trouble, sending provocateurs like Big Ivan to disrupt places like the Bunny Bar.

  Turning to Neil and Leo, Hardy asked, "What did you find out about the Spaniards?"

  Neil responded quickly. "Their main operations revolve around cocaine distribution, underground casinos, illegal boxing, and loan sharking. Their drug trade is the biggest in Los Angeles—bigger than the Irish or the Mexicans."

  "We also confirmed what Henry said. Dani has been meeting with Irish and Mexican leaders. His advisor's been in talks with Russian and Polish contacts. They even reached out to the French, but the French seem to be avoiding any involvement."

  Hardy's suspicions solidified: the recent gang clashes were likely fueled by the Spaniards. He knew this turmoil traced back to his own actions—specifically, killing Cook. That single event had set off a chain reaction, pushing the Spaniards to align with other gangs against the Austrians. But Hardy doubted Dani was after revenge for Cook—it was more about seizing new opportunities for profit.

  Having organized his thoughts, Hardy addressed his team. "Brothers, we're in a tight spot financially. It's time for a big move."

  The room buzzed with anticipation. They all felt the financial strain.

  Liquor deliveries to local bars were only bringing in about $1,000 a week—not nearly enough to cover their expenses. Neil's wife was still in the hospital, with medical bills piling up. Hardy had already pawned his gold watch to help cover the costs, but more bills loomed.

  Richard needed a prosthetic eye, and his medication wasn't cheap. Matthew, still out on bail, was dealing with an unresolved case that would likely require a hefty settlement.

  Everyone had their own financial burdens, and Hardy's mention of a big move had them on edge with excitement.

  "Are we hitting a bank or an armored truck?" Matthew asked eagerly.

  In their world, a "big job" usually meant robbing a bank or a cash transport.

  "No," Hardy shook his head. "We're not robbing a bank or an armored truck."

  "Bank security is too tight, and their vaults are nearly impossible to crack. As for armored trucks, they rarely carry more than $20,000 to $30,000. That's a decent haul, especially for 1945, but not worth the risk. The authorities would come down hard on us."

  "So, what's the plan?" someone asked.

  A grin spread across Hardy's face. "We're going to rob the Spaniards."

  "An armored truck might hold a limited sum, but the Spanish casinos and loan shark operations are flush with cash—far more than any armored truck. Plus, their security is nowhere near as tight as a bank vault or a cash truck."

  Given the growing animosity between them, Hardy knew this was the perfect time to strike the Spaniards. In a world where criminals preyed on criminals, the authorities would likely turn a blind eye.

  Hardy looked to his team, issuing orders: "Richard, Henry, Matthew, Neil, Leo, Kerry—you're all unknown faces. Find out exactly where the Spaniards keep their cash. I want precise details. Once we have that, we'll plan the job."

  "Got it!" they responded in unison, their voices brimming with excitement.

  Robbing rival gangsters didn't scare them. In fact, it thrilled them.