Kayla Indriani's mansion stood proudly on top of the city's most exclusive hill.
Arka stepped out of the taxi, straightening his jacket as he took in the sight before him. The main gate loomed ahead, flanked by two guards whose eyes missed nothing.
"Name?" one asked sharply.
"Arjuna Wijaya," Arka replied with practiced confidence.
The guard checked his list and nodded. "Go ahead, sir."
So far, so good.
The stone-paved path seemed to stretch forever, lined with gardens that probably cost more than most people's houses. Fountains sparkled under soft lights, the water dancing as if performing for the elite guests arriving in their luxury cars.
The mansion wasn't flashy—it didn't need to be. It screamed old money in its subtle elegance, a colonial masterpiece that made nouveau riche mansions look like children's toys.
A butler greeted him at the door with a respectful bow. "Mr. Arjuna Wijaya. Madam Kayla is expecting you."
Arka nodded, channeling all the confidence he'd rehearsed. I am Arjuna Wijaya. I belong here.
The chandelier above could probably pay off a small country's debt. The marble floor gleamed so brightly he could almost see his reflection. Paintings that belonged in museums hung casually on walls, like they were nothing special.
About twenty people stood in small clusters, sipping drinks that probably cost more than his monthly rent. He recognized faces from Arjuna's files—government big shots, business tycoons, foreign investors with deep pockets.
"Ah, Mr. Arjuna."
Kayla glided toward him in a deep maroon gown that seemed to announce I have power and I know it. Her smile didn't quite reach her eyes.
"I'm glad you could make it. There are some people you need to meet."
She led him to a group by the floor-to-ceiling window overlooking the glittering city below.
"Gentlemen, allow me to introduce Mr. Arjuna Wijaya, the visionary behind the new port proposal presented this morning."
Arka shook hands with each man as Kayla introduced them: a deputy trade minister looking bored but dangerous, the commissioner of the country's largest shipping company with a grip like iron, and—
Oh crap.
Secretary Hadiningrat, who'd sat front row at the morning's presentation.
"Mr. Arjuna," the Secretary nodded. "A most impressive presentation. I was just discussing it with our colleagues here."
Arka kept his face neutral despite his racing heart. "Thank you, Mr. Secretary. I hope our proposal met the government's expectations."
"Oh, it did far more than that," the shipping commissioner jumped in, swirling his amber drink. "Secretary Hadiningrat just told us about the five-year maintenance guarantee you offered. Bold move."
"Bold and smart," the deputy minister added. "Not many entrepreneurs think that far ahead."
Arka smiled diplomatically. "I believe true value lies in sustainability, not short-term profit."
"A business philosophy I happen to share," Kayla's voice carried a hint of something darker. "Perhaps that's why I see so much potential in working with you, Mr. Arjuna."
The conversation shifted to economic forecasts. Arka mostly listened, offering careful comments that revealed nothing.
His eyes fixed on Secretary Hadiningrat—the way he leaned slightly forward, right hand always ready for a handshake. Classic politician. Without thinking, Arka mirrored the posture, adjusting his stance to match.
"It's refreshing to meet a young businessman who truly understands the complexity of global markets," the shipping commissioner remarked after Arka shared insights he'd frantically memorized from Arjuna's files.
Arka nodded exactly as the deputy minister had earlier—three short nods, half-smile. "Global business requires perspectives unhindered by national borders."
Mimic the powerful, become the powerful.
"Mr. Arjuna, always full of surprises," Kayla waved a waiter over. "Speaking of surprises, I wonder—what's everyone's take on Damar Group's rumored plan to acquire several small mines in the southern islands?"
Secretary Hadiningrat's brow furrowed. "An acquisition? I hadn't heard anything."
"Of course not," Kayla laughed softly. "This information hasn't gone public yet. Mr. Damar is very skilled at keeping his cards close until the last moment."
"You always seem to have the earliest scoop, Kayla," the deputy minister's smile didn't reach his eyes. "How do you know these things?"
"A wise investor keeps eyes and ears in all the right places," Kayla winked. "But what's more intriguing are the implications—how this will affect commodity prices in the next six months."
This isn't a party, Arka realized. It's a trading floor for secrets.
"If those mines fall under a single entity, supply can be controlled," Arka said, copying Kayla's pyramid hand gesture. "Commodity prices will likely spike."
Kayla's eyes lit up as she noticed his mirrored gesture—like a teacher watching a star pupil. "Exactly, Mr. Arjuna. And for those who invest before the news becomes public…"
"Huge returns," the commissioner cut in, eyes gleaming with greed. "Kayla, do you hold any shares in those mining firms?"
"Not directly," Kayla replied smoothly. "But perhaps it's time to consider."
Secretary Hadiningrat cleared his throat. "As a public official, I must remind you that trading on non-public information has legal consequences."
"Oh, we're just speculating, Mr. Secretary," Kayla laughed lightly. "And who mentioned stock trading? Maybe we're simply interested in... diversifying our long-term portfolios."
Everyone laughed—even the Secretary himself.
This is how they play the game, Arka thought. Hidden rooms, coded words, and everyone knowing exactly what's not being said.
"Forgive my boldness," Arka decided to push further. "But wouldn't a new port significantly boost the efficiency of mineral exports from the southern islands? Especially if managed by a company that understands the mining industry's specific needs?"
Every eye locked onto him, calculating and sharp.
Kayla's smile widened. "Mr. Arjuna, I truly enjoy the way you think. Yes, a port designed with the mining sector in mind would be an invaluable asset."
"And profitable," the shipping commissioner added. "Extremely profitable."
Secretary Hadiningrat seemed to weigh his words carefully. "Your proposal does highlight specialized capacity for mineral exports—something Damar Group has failed to emphasize."
"Damar is too focused on passenger transport and consumer goods," Arka noted, recalling details from Arjuna's files. "But the future of trade lies in raw commodities and minerals."
"Precisely. I noticed your plans include a dedicated terminal for minerals and metals," the Secretary nodded. "Very forward-thinking."
As the night progressed, Kayla introduced him to more power players—provincial governors, foreign investors, and tycoons who could buy and sell small countries.
With each handshake, Arka's understanding deepened. Between casual chats about golf and vacations, billion-dollar deals were being made with nothing more than subtle nods.
"Mr. Arjuna," a sharply dressed woman approached as he sipped his drink alone. "I hear you're looking to expand eastward?"
"That's correct," Arka replied cautiously.
"Devina Hartono," she extended her hand with a firm grip. "Stockbroker. I specialize in mining and energy."
"Ah, a sector that's been particularly exciting to follow," Arka commented, remembering the earlier conversation.
"More than just exciting," Devina's smile held secrets. "If you know where to place your investments." She sipped her drink slowly. "At my firm, we have a team of analysts who track stock movements based on unpublished government policies. Highly… effective."
"Sounds like a remarkable competitive edge," Arka noticed how she held her glass—two fingers beneath, thumb on top—a gesture of both elegance and control.
"It is. My clients usually see portfolio growth 40% above market average," Devina leaned closer. "I've just opened a major position in mineral processing companies. I have a very strong hunch new regulations are about to be announced."
Arka subtly copied her glass-holding technique. "An intriguing hunch. Perhaps we could discuss it further sometime?"
Devina raised an eyebrow, clearly noticing his imitation but looking impressed. "Certainly. I always look for clients who… learn quickly. The capital market is full of patterns to recognize and exploit—just like life, wouldn't you agree, Mr. Arjuna?"
"Anywhere there's a system, there are patterns to uncover," Arka nodded.
"I like the way you think," Devina pulled out a business card. "Come see me at my office next week. We can talk about some… exciting opportunities for your portfolio. Especially with that new port development you're spearheading."
"How do you know about that? The tender hasn't been decided yet."
Devina laughed softly. "In my circles, Mr. Arjuna, information is the most valuable commodity. And I'm very, very good at acquiring it." She raised her glass. "To a profitable partnership."
As he turned away, Arka caught Kayla's voice from a small room nearby. Something in her tone made him stop.
"…make sure Damar doesn't get the tender," Kayla's voice had lost all its warmth. "I've invested too much in this plan to let it fail."
"But Madam, Damar Group's proposal is more competitive in terms of price," replied Secretary Hadiningrat.
"Price isn't everything, is it? Quality, sustainability, long-term vision—those matter more. And Arjuna Wijaya offers all of that."
"Of course, of course. But I still have superiors to answer to…"
"And your superiors have political ambitions that need funding," Kayla's voice turned to ice. "Don't pretend this is purely an administrative decision, Hadi. We both know how the system works."
Silence hung heavy before the Secretary responded. "Very well. I'll make sure the tender committee sees the strengths of Arjuna's proposal. But you'll need to keep your promise about… the campaign funds."
"As always, I keep my promises. The transfer will be made tomorrow afternoon through the usual channel. Now, we'd better get back before anyone starts asking questions."
Arka quickly moved away, pretending to admire a painting as Kayla and the Secretary exited.
"Ah, Mr. Arjuna," Kayla's smile returned instantly. "I hope you're enjoying the soirée."
"Very much," Arka replied smoothly. "Quite the illuminating conversations."
"I'm sure," Kayla's knowing smile sent a chill down his spine. "Come, there's someone else I'd like you to meet. He arrived a little late."
She led him toward an elderly man with a neat white beard. Though simply dressed, his presence commanded attention.
"Professor Mahendra," Kayla greeted him with unusual respect. "Allow me to introduce Mr. Arjuna Wijaya, the promising young entrepreneur I told you about."
The old man turned, his sharp eyes seeming to pierce straight through Arka's disguise.
"Mr. Arjuna," the professor extended a slender hand. "I've heard quite a lot about you."
"Professor Mahendra is a leading expert in archaeology and ancient history," Kayla explained. "He's also my personal advisor on several… special projects."
Special projects? Arka's internal alarm bells rang.
"It's an honor, Professor."
"I understand you have an interest in antiques and historical artifacts?" the professor asked with unsettling calmness.
Arka froze—he hadn't read anything about Arjuna having such interests. "Just a casual hobby," he answered carefully.
"More than a hobby, from what I've been told," the professor's smile didn't reach his eyes. "Kayla mentioned you possess several rare pieces from the Sriwijaya era?"
Arka glanced at Kayla, who smiled encouragingly. "Just a few minor relics—not particularly significant, historically speaking."
"Ah yes, the port," the professor nodded after some discussion. "Interesting that its location is near an old archaeological site. Did you know that area was once a major hub of trade and spiritual activity?"
"Is that so?" Arka tried to sound casually interested.
"Yes. Ancient history often offers us clues about who we truly are, Mr. Arjuna."
The professor's gaze felt like it was stripping away Arka's disguise layer by layer.
"Ah, it seems the Governor has arrived," Kayla interrupted, much to Arka's relief. "Come, Arjuna, I must introduce you."
The party continued late into the night. By eleven, guests began saying their goodbyes. Arka had networked with nearly every power player in the room, but exhaustion was setting in. Playing Arjuna all night had drained him completely.
"Mr. Arjuna," Kayla approached as he considered leaving. "Before you go, I'd like to show you something in my private library. It won't take long."
Curious despite his fatigue, Arka followed her down a long corridor. They entered a spacious room with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and a large desk scattered with documents.
"You must be wondering why I brought you here," Kayla said, closing the door with a soft click.
"I admit, I'm curious," Arka replied with a polite smile that masked his unease.
"I wanted to show you this," she picked up a folder and opened it. Inside were official-looking documents with government seals. "A draft of the partnership agreement for the new mineral terminal at the port. All permits in place—even before the tender is announced."
Arka's eyes widened as he examined the papers. "How is this even possible…?"
"Let's just say I have a very strong belief that your proposal will win," Kayla's smile held absolute certainty. "And I don't like wasting time."
"This contract… is extremely favorable," Arka noted, scanning the numbers.
"For both of us," Kayla corrected. "You get powerful investors and political backing. I get priority access to a state-of-the-art facility for my mining operations."
"And all this is arranged before the decision's made?"
"I'm not the type to wait around, Mr. Arjuna. I prefer to ensure decisions align with my interests." Her gaze locked onto his like a predator. "The question is—can I trust you with this partnership?"
"You doubt me?" Arka kept his voice steady despite his racing heart.
"Not exactly. But I've noticed some… shifts in your behavior lately. The Arjuna I knew was more conservative in his business dealings."
"Maybe that just means I'm evolving," he offered diplomatically.
"Or maybe…" Her unfinished sentence hung in the air like a threat. "In any case, this contract could be the start of a very profitable relationship, if you agree."
"I'm definitely interested. But I'll need time to review the details."
"Of course," Kayla nodded. "Just don't take too long. Opportunities like this don't come twice."
A sudden commotion outside interrupted them. Arka's heart dropped as he saw police vehicles pulling into the driveway.
"What's going on?" Kayla frowned, following his gaze.
Arka peeked through the curtains, sweat beading on his forehead. Officers were speaking with the guards, their expressions tense and serious.
One officer raised a megaphone, his voice echoing across the courtyard like a death knell.
"Attention all guests at the residence of Ms. Kayla Indriani. We are searching for a man claiming to be Mr. Arjuna Wijaya. The real Mr. Arjuna Wijaya was just found bound and gagged in the governor's office restroom. Please remain on the premises until the investigation is complete."
The blood drained from Arka's face. His muscles coiled, ready to spring.
Kayla stared at him—shock giving way to understanding.
"So that's why you seemed different," she whispered.
Without hesitation, Arka ran to the large window, grabbed a nearby chair, and hurled it through the glass. The crash echoed like a gunshot.
"What are you doing?!" Kayla shouted.
Ignoring her, Arka leapt through the broken window, narrowly avoiding the jagged shards. He landed in the garden below and sprinted toward the trees at the property's edge.
Voices shouted behind him. Footsteps thundered in pursuit.
His lungs burned, but adrenaline pushed him forward as he crashed through bushes and vaulted over a low fence.
Once far enough, he ducked behind a massive tree, gasping for breath. With shaking hands, he deactivated the ring, his features shifting back to his true form.
He flipped his fancy coat inside out, revealing a plain lining, and put it back on.
Just a normal guy out for a walk. Nothing suspicious here.
Arka emerged from hiding and strolled casually along the roadside.
A flashlight beam hit his face. Two officers approached, alert and ready.
"Excuse me, sir," one said. "Did you see anyone running through here? A man in a black suit?"
Arka put on his best surprised face. "Oh yes, Officer. I saw someone sprinting that way," he pointed in the opposite direction. "He jumped into a black car and took off at full speed."
The officers exchanged glances. One spoke into his radio, "Suspect may have fled in a black vehicle heading south."
"Thank you, sir," said the other. "Please go on about your evening."
Arka nodded. "Of course, Officers. Hope you catch him soon."
He held his breath until they disappeared from sight, then exhaled shakily. Heart still pounding, he hurried back toward his lodging.
Mom's going to kill me, he thought, guilt washing over him. Tonight had been far more dangerous than he'd anticipated.
"I'm home, Mom," he whispered to himself as the weight of what he'd done settled in his chest.
The game he'd entered was deadlier than he could have imagined.
And now... he had to be more careful than ever.