The reopening of Last Slice Pizzeria drew nearly two dozen residents to Port Laveau on Tuesday evening. Witnesses say the event also served as an informal gathering for known affiliates of two competing criminal organizations. Operatives linked to separate factions exchanged pleasantries and held quiet conversations near the entrance.

Sheriff's Office sources note this marks the second consecutive evening that faction-affiliated individuals have used commercial establishments as meeting points. With the Syndicate's Smoke and Mirrors initiative tightening scrutiny of covert coordination, officials warn that civilian businesses risk becoming staging grounds.

A department spokesperson said business owners who allow their establishments to become meeting rooms for outside interests will face considerable costs.