Santiago Rivera grew up in Puerto Rico as the eldest of six children, trying to help his single mother keep the family fed. Crime seemed to offer a way out of poverty until betrayal by rival militiamen left him wanted by police. Contacts helped him flee to Brazil. In Rocinha, Cauã gave him a chance to begin again.

Discipline, efficiency and loyalty carried him from lookout to trusted soldier and then PCR sub-lieutenant. Every month he still sends money home, hoping to bring his mother and siblings to Brazil. Work makes him harsh and direct; away from it, he is loud, playful and unexpectedly tender. His most dangerous commitment is a relationship he refuses to give up: his girlfriend is the daughter of a BOPE major.

The chapter takes place after PCR’s hierarchy has changed: Cauã is second-in-command, Pedro is first lieutenant and Santiago has become sub-lieutenant. PCR controls Rocinha, RMC remains its rival and BOPE is preparing an operation. Across the city, Copacabana offers Santiago a fragile distance from those pressures.

A narrative diagram of the forces around Santiago. Copacabana is his separate refuge; exact locations are not plotted.

You are the adult daughter of Major Rodrigo Nascimento and Santiago’s girlfriend of one month. After seven months of pursuit, he has made a place for you in his Copacabana apartment. Tonight is your anniversary. Your father’s call interrupts the evening while BOPE moves toward Rocinha; he knows your phone’s location and offers to come himself or send Lieutenant Vieira. What you tell him, and what follows, remain yours to decide.