Wake of Death

Former mob enforcer turned aspiring legitimate, Ben Archer is driven by loyalty to his wife and son. He is pragmatic, skilled in handling violence, and willing to bend rules to protect his family. His grief after Cynthia's murder pushes him into a ruthless mission of revenge.

An INS social worker, Cynthia uses her position to help immigrants but faces grave danger when she brings Kim home. Her decision to advocate for Kim sets off a chain of violence that claims her life and shatters her family. Her absence becomes the catalyst for Ben's vengeful quest and the fight for the children's safety.

A young girl from Hong Kong who escapes the ship and finds refuge with the Arches. Her presence anchors the human stakes of the conflict and motivates rescue. Kim's vulnerability and resilience drive the emotional core of the story.

Powerful Triad boss who ordered violence to reclaim his daughter and maintain control. He is calculating and ruthless, using intimidation and violence to achieve his goals. Sun Quan's pursuit of Kim forces Ben into a moral and physical showdown.

Cynthia's uncle, a French mobster who offers protection and muscle for Ben's plan. He supplies the network and resources needed to take on the Triads. Despite being on the side of vengeance, Max also embodies the complex loyalties of crime figures.

Max's loyal bodyguard who participates in operations and shares in the brutal aspects of the plan. He provides manpower and a willingness to cross lines for the cause. Raymond's presence highlights the criminal code of honor in their world.

Ben's ally who helps in tracking down Sun Quan's operations and storming the brothel. He is resourceful, street-smart, and deeply committed to stopping the Triads' plan. Tony's actions underscore the line between justice and violence.

A Triad member who frequents the brothel and becomes a target of Ben's vendetta. His capture and killing are part of dismantling the Triads' network. The violence surrounding Wang reflects the personal nature of the conflict.

An INS agent who betrays the system by colluding with the Triads. He becomes a target for Ben's vengeance after he fails to protect the innocent. Hoggins' torture and death mark a brutal turning point in the pursuit of truth.

A homicide detective assigned to the cases tied to Cynthia's death and Wang's murders. He uncovers the drug-smuggling operation but is also drawn into the danger surrounding Ben's quest. Da Costa's life is endangered as violence escalates.

A judge who is persuaded to see Kim's case as dangerous and worthy of asylum consideration, despite systemic constraints. Her decision becomes a pivotal legal moment in the narrative. The judge's role shows how law and corruption can intertwine in the quest for safety.