December 31, 1997, Brussels.
Conti stood in the corridor of the European Union Council Building, watching the New Year's fireworks outside the window.
In the distance, the bells of Saint Michael's Cathedral were ringing.
His phone rang.
It was Sanchez.
"Happy New Year, Minister."
Conti said nothing.
"I have some good news." Sanchez's voice was calm. "We've located the new ship of 'Black Mamba.' It's a small fishing boat, registered in Liberia, and left the Guinea Gulf three days ago, heading toward the Mediterranean."
Conti's fingers tightened.
"What about the cargo?"
"There should be around five tons on board. The destination could be Greece or Southern Italy. We're still tracking it."
Conti was silent for a few seconds.
"Can we catch it?"
"We can. But you'll need to move yourselves. We'll only provide the coordinates."
Conti hung up the phone.
