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Morian Police Station. Morian District. Melbury City. Melbury State. Central Republic.
11:40 AM.
—Arisa!–
—Hey, the Chief is back!–
—Ari! Welcome back!–
Once Detective Salieri Montenegro Neiruk and Agent Arisa Montessori Romanov stepped down from Salieri's vehicle, they headed inside the Morian Police Station. Upon crossing the threshold, some uniformed officers, seeing a certain blonde-haired woman, approached her, greeting her in a friendly manner, though with a certain compassion in their gazes.
—Hey, hey! –Arisa returns the greeting with an enthusiastic smile, while joyfully heading toward them–
Behind her, Salieri watched with some curiosity the bond the other uniformed officers had with the blonde-haired woman, as some even surrounded her and began to talk to her. This, added to her position as Chief Secretary, told her that this woman was not only someone important but also that she hid many things. Because of this, she could now see Sariel's resolve in insisting on bringing her.
—Detective Montenegro –Then, Salieri hears a voice calling her. Turning to her right, she looks at the uniformed woman with dark purple hair, fair skin, ten centimeters shorter than her and of the same age, who had previously walked beside her and answered her questions, looking at her with neutrality with her mysterious dark gold eyes–
—Ah, Sergeant Nemeia –Salieri quickly recognizes her, as normally this officer was the first to come out to greet her and inform her of everything the few times she showed her face at the Station. So much so that they even considered her Salieri's personal secretary– Did anyone enter the Interrogation Room?–
—Nemeia shakes her head– No. No one has entered to disturb Sariel –Her soft tone when saying the black-haired man's name inside the room seems curious to her, as even her features had softened–
—Good. Once Agent Montessori frees herself up, we'll head over there –Salieri responds– In the meantime, tell me how things stand with the press–
—Understood –Nemeia, who was holding a tablet with her right hand, raises it, so she can answer the questions of her Provisional Commander–
At the same time, Arisa, a few meters away and surrounded by her colleagues, was trying to calm them down, as they were not only happy to see her but also anxious to know about what had happened at the crime scene; up to this moment, since the first call came in past 5 in the morning, those dispatched from this station had not returned.
—Did Officer Montenegro really…? –A young female officer pauses in her question, her 23-year-old face showing pain–
—It must be false. Sehwerts, those Mehr-Wissen, don't die that easily. They are literally the elite of those humans whose capabilities were bestowed by divine entities! The pinnacle compared to the other 14 types of Mehr-Wissen! –Exclaims a man in his characteristic blue uniform, his 35-year-old face weathered by experience–
—It's true! Those Mehr-Wissen are tough nuts to crack! I remember my Father said that, when he was a child, he saw a Sehwert face a pack of 15 A-Rank Wesion all by himself and he didn't get a single scratch! –Exclaims another female officer, her 32-year-old body shaking with anger– He wasn't even slightly affected by the corruption of those monstrous things!–
—Officer Montenegro has 25 years of experience! –Shouts another male officer of about 28 years old– Even though he didn't achieve Transcendence like some Sehwert, he is still someone powerful, even from the moment he awakened as a Mehr-Wissen at age 25!–
—Yes! Officer Montenegro cannot die so easily! He has faced even Gods, and for him to come and die because of that guy who was sent to the Special Block and who looks so weak, is nonsense! –Claims another female officer of about 42 years old– He isn't even like us, the Surnaturel, so it makes no sense!–
Arisa, seeing how they were growing agitated, how their eyes had begun to glow—a sign that they were about to reveal their true supernatural forms, their Wesnaf forms—quickly tries to calm them down. But before that, she snaps her fingers, blocking the hearing of the rest of the room to avoid alerting them, as well as preventing the potential leakage of Wesnaf forms, like the bristling canine tail on some, nails turning into claws on others, or fur beginning to appear on others.
—Listen, listen! –Her voice rises so the others can hear her– Keep quiet! Remember there are humans here! If you try anything funny, the Veil Security Forces are going to punish you! You don't want to end up in prison after the Vesefo processes you for showing yourselves before humans, right? –She adds. Arisa knows that they, as Surnaturel, as supernatural beings of different types, if they break this fundamental law, will not end up well off before the police that regulates crimes committed by Surnaturel: the Veil Security Forces, Vesefo for short–
Seeing that they were beginning to calm down—but not as much as they should—Arisa decides to use a soothing agent. She inhales air through her mouth, closes her eyes, and after a few seconds, exhales. Upon doing this, a sudden scent of vanilla begins to make itself present. A scent that calms both body and spirit.
—Fine –She opens her eyes and looks at the group surrounding her with seriousness– Now that we are all calm, let me tell you that yes. Unfortunately, the third victim was Officer Leon Montenegro Solís –A sigh escapes the blonde-haired woman– However, it's not what you think regarding the boy you brought in as the prime suspect–
—Impossible! –The same 35-year-old man interrupts Arisa– Jal and Tom, the ones who brought him in about 4 hours ago, told us that he had said he was a demon!–
—Yes! I heard it perfectly from Jal, that tribal boar of the Varkmes race! –Exclaims another woman in a blue uniform, around 29 years old– He said that suspect had mentioned he was a demon. Even Jal, that giraffe of the Kamesto race, confirmed it. And you know well that he, even though he is mute, never lies! That's why we sent him to the Special Block and deployed the Delta Team –This same woman points at her defiantly–
—He even laughed! –Adds another male officer, 28 years old– That only proved he really was a demon, even though he later tried to say he wasn't when he saw things were going to go badly for him!–
—Arisa, after listening to them, does not explode or shout. She simply sighs with resignation– Have you stopped to think that the man was joking when he told you that?–
Upon asking the question, all those who were previously reproaching Arisa freeze. They truly hadn't taken it into account. In Surnaturel Society, demons are not only feared but also hated, as many in the past—in ancient times—used to lump both demons and Conscious Corruptions, the precursors of the Surnaturel, into the same bag. Every comparison to those beings—plagues born from pain, despair, and death, who only seek their own satisfaction—made them explode with rage.
—Listen, everyone –Arisa looks at them with seriousness once more– The man you have surely treated badly did nothing wrong. He is not Officer Montenegro's killer, nor is he a demon–
—How do we know that's true?! –Exclaims Julia, the 23-year-old agent from before–
Instantly, everyone turns to look at her. Their eyes and glares practically telling her, "are you stupid or were you just born that way?".
—Ah… –An embarrassed smile from the girl sketches across her youthful face– True. You can not only see the past, but thanks to your special condition, the future as well…–
—Arisa shakes her head– The future not just yet. Remember I need 12 tails to manage to see beyond the present. I barely have 10 of the 15 total that all the different fox races have –She responds serenely– But I can see the past, thanks to my ability «Vista Passa». And because of this very reason, I can tell you that you have been misinterpreting the person locked up in the Special Block. While he is not a human, or the other three types of humans, like Enial Users, which is what humans capable of using any of the 5 Primordial Energies are called, the Kehrseite, who are common humans who know about the supernatural world, or any of the 15 types of Mehr-Wissen, I can assure you that he is not a demon. He doesn't have the color of a demonic soul. What he said was a joke. In bad taste because he didn't consider the context, yes, but a joke nonetheless. And that's why he laughed–
At that moment, her gaze directs past her colleagues, observing Salieri walking toward them, probably because she had grown tired of waiting for her and wanted to return as quickly as possible to Sariel.
—Fine. Right now that person needs me, so I will accompany Detective Montenegro to see him –Arisa says immediately– Don't go too far. I still have to tell you more about what I saw of him with my vision of the past. I'm sure you're going to be surprised, and you're also going to regret the treatment you gave to that poor boy, heh, heh–
Snap. Arisa snaps her fingers again, deactivating the barrier that prevented the others from hearing. After that, she makes a gesture with her arms to clear the nearby people. Something they do upon seeing Salieri approach.
—It seems you get along very well with the people here, Agent Montessori –Salieri, with a smile, greets her with a tilt of her head–
—Being the Chief Secretary makes everyone love you, Detective –Arisa responds with a playful tone–
—Have you finished talking? Let's go to Sariel now; he's probably already crying to see us –Salieri turns around and walks toward the hallways leading to the Interrogation Room–
—Sure, sure. Let's go see your boyfriend, heh, heh –Arisa increases the playful tone in her voice and even lets out a light chuckle–
—Silence –Salieri reprimands her after a few seconds, rolling her eyes but without erasing her smile–
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___________ >> Interrogation Room >> ___________
Clack. The sound of the interrogation room door being unlocked is heard. Agent Montessori and I enter the room to speak with Sariel—with this man who claims to be of an incalculable age and to have gone through so much.
However, upon entering, both of us are left stunned. The agent because of the fact that Sariel was completely chained up, barely able to move without the chains rattling. In my case, it was because he had actually fallen asleep.
I thought that what he told me before I left, about "catching some shut-eye" while waiting for my arrival, was just a joke and that he would simply wait patiently here, awake but restless. However, now, seeing him with his hands resting on the metallic table and his head upon them, while his eyes remain closed and his breathing stays calm, I can't say anything.
I can only look at him there, sleeping peacefully, as if there were no major problems to deal with, as if he didn't really care that people treated him poorly, or even without paying attention to the discomfort of being completely tied up and having to use slight force just to get comfortable on the table.
—Haa… –I sigh. A long sigh of resignation. I knew it when I listened to his highly fantastical narratives, that this man was an enigma– We better wake him up –I say, as I approach him to proceed to wake him up in the gentlest way I can think of–
—Wait –However, as I take a step forward, the agent places herself in front of me, stopping me– Can you show me your hands?–
—My hands?–
When she nods, I do too. I extend both hands, wrapped in black faux-leather gloves, toward her. Then, the agent, using her own hands, begins to inspect mine carefully, from top to bottom, slowly.
—Oh –After a few seconds, she points to the lower part of my middle finger– Here in this part. They are torn–
—Eh?...–
Looking closer, I notice that there was indeed a tiny opening of about 5 millimeters. So small that at first glance it wouldn't be seen, but due to my problem, it would be enough to be triggered and give me a lot of trouble.
—I hadn't realized these gloves were torn. But now that I notice, I've used them several times already. I suppose at some point they tore –I say, after turning my gaze back to Agent Montessori– Luckily, I have another pack in my truck with more of these, so it's not that big of a deal. However, it's not timely to go right now, since that implies taking a few more minutes, and it's almost noon and we haven't made much progress–
—Fine. In that case, I will take care of waking Sariel up –The blonde-haired woman responds, her lips sketching a calm smile– After all, we don't want both of you to end up electrocuted by touching his skin, right?–
—I smile and sigh. It truly seems that everyone in this country, the Central Republic, knows about my strange illness or affliction that I've had since the moment I opened my eyes to this world. That very same one that has prevented me from touching men, forcing me to have to use gloves and special clothing to avoid side effects like electric shocks, retching, or in prolonged contact, vomiting or fainting– Go ahead. Wake him up –I tell the woman in front of me, making a gesture with my right hand, as if inviting her through– I'll change my gloves later –Fortunately, I didn't touch Sariel. I wouldn't like to hurt him… Although, despite having known him for just over an hour, I am very sure he would even love that. Dirty pervert, hmph–
Finally, Agent Montessori walks toward Sariel. She leans over him, and subsequently, brings her right hand to Sariel's cheek, scratching gently at it.
—Hmm –A small groan from him is heard. It was like seeing someone annoyed because they were being woken up and didn't want to be–
The agent, with a sweet smile sketched across her lips, continues doing the same, even adding her second hand to pinch his right cheek. Sariel's response was the same "Hmm" of slight annoyance from before.
—Wake up~ –The woman in front of me says after a few seconds, her voice honeyed, like that of a mother waking up a child who doesn't want to get up–
Thus, after a few more seconds, Sariel slowly opens his eyes, waking up gently from his previous state of rest. His lost, vulnerable gaze makes my heart strangely begin to beat rapidly. And even, at that moment, a vision that did not belong to me begins to surface in my mind.
A vision of a man sleeping on the lap of a woman whom I couldn't see clearly—as it seemed I was in her skin, since I only saw long white arms and a few golden strands that gleamed thanks to the filtered sunlight—beneath a lush tree whose silver leaves fell all around us. This man was waking up in the exact same manner as Sariel at this moment. However, there was something curious about this person. He had just the same current appearance as the man in front of me. With the difference that his eyes were red as blood, instead of blue like the ones I see right now in Sariel, but equally captivating.
A vision that, of course, leaves me stunned for a moment, as it wasn't the first time I've had this kind of vision. They used to appear when I needed them most, when my life became most difficult and I wanted to give up, acting as a soothing balm. Sweet visions that calmed my troubled emotions. However, they only did so in the form of dreams that sometimes faded, unlike these moments, where it simply hit me all at once while wide awake.
—What's wrong? –Sariel asks, before yawning–
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After hearing a soft voice near my ear, and catching a rich, sweet scent of vanilla with my nose, I opened my eyes and looked around, observing only a white room. However, it was not empty. Aside from me, there were also two completely incredible beauties.
Then, I remembered that I was inside an interrogation room, waiting for one of the two beauties in the place—the one with wavy silver-white hair, beautiful scarlet eyes, fair skin, and a gorgeous figure—to return after having left.
—Oh my, did I happen to wake up in Astel's Celestial Palace, where the Gods gather? Or why am I seeing two beautiful goddesses of a beauty that would make this world explode? –I ask with a playful tone and a mischievous smile, while my eyes move from left to right to look at the two women in front of me–
—Beauty number one, the one with scarlet eyes, rolls her eyes and takes a step forward– This was the woman you were talking about, right?–
Detective Montenegro raises her left hand and points her fingers toward the woman beside her. My gaze focuses on her. She is tall, imposing, and her bearing is that of a tactical queen. She wears a black leather police jacket, made of a material that seems designed for action but fits her figure like a second skin. The metal zippers and flap closures give her a modern and rebellious touch, while on her right chest, her police badge shines with a burnished silver and blue details, a reminder of her authority.
Her platinum blonde hair is a cascade of seductive silk, meticulously gathered in a low, long ponytail, combed to perfection, which falls over her right shoulder. A few loose strands frame her face with a softness that invites me to touch them. Her complexion is of flawless porcelain, complemented by intense, direct blue-green eyes that look at me with a mix of professionalism and subtle curiosity.
Beneath the leather jacket, the stiff collar of a black uniform shirt peeks through—buttoned to the top—and a sharp black silk tie. The tactical belt cinching her waist is made of high-resistance black nylon, loaded with neat service equipment: a holster with a semiautomatic pistol on the right side and a double magazine pouch on the left. The black uniform pants, matching the shirt, are straight and tucked into thick, black leather tactical combat boots with high laces and deep lugged soles, ready for any terrain.
—We meet again –A mischievous smile sketches across my face as I look at the blonde-haired woman– My Angel of Salvation–
—The woman in front of me shows a slight blush on her cheeks and even a bit on her earlobes, while a sweet smile forms on her crimson lips– I see you're good with words, eh? –Her tone of voice when speaking is elegant, but it doesn't hide her amusement– Even for someone who finds himself in this… state–
Her blue-green eyes scan me from top to bottom, and with every centimeter they travel her smile widens, until it reaches a point where it begins to contort into a completely undisguised look of amusement, which is promptly covered by her fair hand with long, well-kept fingers.
—Come on, don't mock me –My mischievous smile transforms into one of resignation–
—What did you do to end up like this? –She asks, her voice trembling as she tries not to laugh–
—I made a joke to the two uniformed officers who brought me here about being a demon –I respond with a tired voice, like someone who knows they committed a stupidity and is now paying for the consequences–
—Pff–
Finally, the laughter the girl was trying to suppress manages to find its way out upon hearing my words. For a few seconds, her soft laughter—loud but without becoming shrill, and also loaded with amusement—is heard throughout this small white space. A beautiful laugh. Too bad I couldn't enjoy it properly as I blushed with embarrassment.
—We Surnaturel deeply hate demons. How is it that you didn't know? –After about fifteen seconds, she finally looks at my face, while trying once more not to laugh anymore–
—I didn't consider the bigger picture when making those kinds of jokes. I simply thought it would be funny –I respond with resignation– And well, because of that, I ended up this way–
The woman shakes her head, clearly resigned by my way of being as well. But I can't help it. I love making jokes. Only this time, it seems I overdid it. Before, it might not have mattered much, but now, having lost 99.9% of my power and barely possessing the strength of 10 ordinary humans, well, there isn't much to do except wait for them to find clues that I am innocent… or for someone, like my Angel of Salvation, to come save me, heh.
—By the way, why don't we introduce ourselves? –I ask so the previous topic can be avoided, keeping my embarrassment from increasing any further–
—Agent Arisa, Chief Secretary of this police station –The woman extends her right hand toward my left hand– Full name, Arisa Montessori Romanov. Arisa as my birth name, while my two last names were given to me by my Adoptive Father, since my original last names are no longer used by me due to certain family problems long ago –She responds without a trace of disappointment in her gaze at her words– And, believe it or not, my real age is 30 years old. I am neither older than I look nor younger. If I look this young, it's because, as a woman, I like to use beauty products to look pretty and young, eh–
—Sariel –I respond with enthusiasm, shaking her hand. Those kinds of products definitely work for her, eh. What a soft little hand. And yes, the fact that she is 30 years old is real. It's not a joke or an invention. The Surnaturel, though they age slower, can only do so if they reach an advanced stage in their abilities. Even so, that doesn't mean they don't die or are immortal like me, but simply that they age slower than humans. In this case, she seems not to have reached what is necessary to age slower yet.– I have last names, but due to various family directives, I cannot say them. Only those closest to me know them, and even then, they cannot mention them either–
Afterward, now it's my turn to look her up and down, searching for any trace in her that could tell me what kind of Surnaturel she was. After all, the Surnaturel are not a minority race. According to the census conducted by that idiot Lan a year ago, on this planet, Astel, there were approximately 5 billion Surnaturel. 1 billion fewer than humans. This translates into countless Wesnaf forms, not just those that look like anthropomorphized animals, or "furries" as they are known nowadays.
All scattered across the earthly plane designated for them: the Altern, and also scattered here in the Aynu, the earthly plane designated for humans (though of course, here in the Aynu they have to hide under their Seige form and suppress the use of their abilities, contrary to the Altern, where they can show themselves and use their powers without risk of being arrested after being seen by humans).
—I am a Fuchsgenheit –Upon seeing my gaze, the Agent seemed to have intuited what I was looking for in her– Our race is characterized by having soft golden fur and blue-green eyes, with a general maximum of 15 tails. Although well, the latter is universal in all fox races. Furthermore, specifically we Fuchsgenheit can only see the past, hence the genheit, which comes from "Vergangenheit". However, I was born with a peculiarity that not only allows me to see the past up to a year before, but also the future, up to a year after. But of course, only if I reach 12 tails and undergo exhaustive training, because if I try as soon as I reach 12 tails, at most I could only see a few seconds. In addition to our main ability, we Fuchsgenheit can also use the Primordial Energy called Mana. More specifically, White Mana, which allows us to use abilities similar to Divine Power. Some of us are innate healers, or fighters who use this kind of power.–
—Ohhh. That explains your blue-green eyes and your blonde hair. Normally the Seige forms of the Surnaturel, which is what their human forms are called, retain some characteristics of their real and true forms, the Wesnaf –I say with enthusiasm. It's basically a way of telling other Surnaturel that I know she is one of them, instead of having to reveal her real form here in the Aynu, the human plane, and having to face the intervention and punishment of the Veil Security Forces. After all, the secret of the supernatural world must be kept from humans– And now I also understand why you decided to intervene for me –I add, with a smile of gratitude–
—Indeed –The Agent Montessori looks at me with a new playful smile– I saw what you did, how you fought alongside Officer Montenegro, and what happened afterward. Because of this, despite not knowing you at all before this morning, I knew you weren't his killer, as I could see what occurred between 3 and a little past 5 in the morning –Then, her gaze directs toward the Detective– Fortunately, Detective Montenegro accepted my request; otherwise, it would have been more difficult to help you, heh, heh–
Truly my Saving Angel. I will definitely be enormously grateful to her for the rest of my life. If one day I manage to unlock my powers—as they are blocked due to the poison injected into me last night, on the 29th of Filloni—I will give her a good payment for this favor.
—Ahem –At that moment, a light cough is heard in front of us. As the Agent and I look toward that spot, we see the Detective on the other side of the metallic table– I don't understand what you two are talking about, but that doesn't matter right now –She looks at me– I already brought the person you wanted. So, can we start now?–
—All right. All right –I shrug my shoulders. There will be time later to talk more with Agent Montessori about secrets that only she and I know–
I avert my gaze from the Detective to look at Agent Montessori beside me. Upon looking back at me, she moves away from my side and places herself next to the Detective.
—Well. You see, Agent Montessori. Detective Montenegro found a strange-looking greatsword at the crime scene. I assume you saw it too –I begin with the request toward her–
—The Agent nods her head– A greatsword with a silver blade, purple runes and lines, and a hilt that ends in a W-shaped finish, with black tips and spikes, and a Baroque-style design–
—Exactly. That's the one –In a few words, she described that weapon the Detective showed me on her phone– And since you know about it, Agent, let's not waste any more time on explanations –I make a gesture with my hand, pointing at the Detective– Here, our esteemed and beautiful Detective Montenegro wants to know more about it, because even though the weapon's wielder, Lumen, the Bearer of Hellfire, is dead, there could still be other suspects involved in her Father's murder case, like the other two from the Infernal Triad: Aren, the Fallen Seraph, and Zakech, the Dark Knight of Blood. However, she will first need to know its context to be able to establish the points in her investigation –Seeing the Agent nod her head, I continue– However, unfortunately, I don't remember much about this due to certain events of the past. For that very reason, I gave her an alternative to visit an Antiquarian, Historian, or History Buff, as one of them could help her with the weapon's context –Then, I let out a sigh– Sadly, neither of us knows anyone with a similar profile in this city. Both the Detective and I are more from the Capital, even though the Detective was born here in Melbury–
A light chuckle from the Detective is heard. Good to know I'm not the only one with this problem, heh, heh. And I also know she is laughing because, although she was born in this state, she doesn't have External contacts to help her here. Bravo, Detective, heh.
—So, because of this, it occurred to me that you, Agent Montessori, might know someone who can help us. Not only because you are a law enforcement officer practicing in this city, but also because of… you know –No need to say it out loud, right?–
—I understand –The Agent nods her head– And yes. You're in luck. I know a very good… intimate friend… who can help with this–
I raise an eyebrow upon hearing not only the pauses she made on "intimate friend" but also the blush on her earlobes. It seems that in her case, "intimate" is also something very literal, hwe, hwe.
—However, this friend has her own rules when it comes to inspecting something. I am very sure she has information about the weapon that might interest Detective Montenegro, but also, since I know her perfectly, I know she won't settle for simply seeing it in images. She needs to… use her fingers… to perform her analysis…–
Ho, ho. Look at that. Look at how her cheeks ignite with heat, ha, ha. It seems that "intimate friend" of hers has used her fingers a lot on Agent Montessori to analyze her, ha, ha, ha.
—But how could we even do that? –The Detective interrupts, oblivious to the double meaning of the Agent's comment– I asked a rather muscular officer who was at the crime scene to move it, but despite using all his strength, he couldn't even budge it a single millimeter–
—Hmm –The Agent, after calming down from her blush, places her right hand beneath her chin to think– We could use the "Lightener"–
—What is that? –The Detective makes a gesture of surprise–
—It's a heavy-duty device developed by ZeriX Military Factory, a company owned by His Majesty Emperor Lan. It consists of two bionic gloves weighing half a kilo each, as they are more metallic than anything else. When put on, they allow you to carry weight ranging from one ton up to 50, depending on the version. It's not even necessary to use both. A single one is enough, although of course, the capacity is cut in half. With them, we could transport the weapon to my friend's antique shop –Agent Montessori responds–
—And where can we find something like that? I've never heard of something called a "Lightener" before –The Detective says, following a sigh–
—I suppose it's because you've never dabbled in physical labor, as these are typically used by laborers hired by Lan Companies in the construction of buildings. It's a basic piece of equipment that allows them to stop relying on large, heavy, and expensive machinery. However, due to its load capacity and construction materials, as well as its integrated software, the cost of this item is similar to that of a crane, so not many companies have one in their ranks –The Agent responds while pointing beneath us– Fortunately, we have Officer Montenegro. If I remember correctly, he bought several, because we often receive heavy supplies, more than what the other agents could carry, so the employees use them sometimes. There are three versions. The Lite version, which allows you to carry up to one ton. The Medium version, which allows you to carry up to 20 Tons, and the Max version, whose limit is 50 tons. We don't know how much that sword actually weighs, but with the Max version, it should be enough to be able to carry that weapon –The Agent's hand moves slightly, but without ceasing to point downward– All three versions are in the Underground Weapons Storehouse, gathering dust with other weapons or devices –After that, she looks at the Detective– You, as the Provisional Commander, can easily access the Storehouse, so there are no problems with that–
Just like Agent Montessori, the Detective also places her fist under her chin to begin thinking. At the same time, she moves her foot slightly, as if it were a tic. After about ten seconds, she finally comes out of her trance of thought and sighs. A sigh I identify as resignation.
—No, I'm sorry. But let's think of something else –She responds with a shake of her head– Removing a weapon from a crime scene isn't exactly just doing it and that's it, you know? It requires permits and, above all, a lot of paperwork–
—Don't you want answers? –I intervene, showing a mocking smile– You could have them right now, but it seems you don't want to –Then, something occurs to me. So, I look at the Agent with a look of pity– How sad, Agent. I brought you here, someone who is surely very busy, for nothing–
—The Agent quickly catches the intention in my expression, sketches a mischievous smile, and a second later also lets out a sigh of fake sadness– It's a pity to have wasted my time. If I had known this was going to happen, I would have never agreed to come–
—I hope you don't hate me for this, Agent. Making you waste your time must not be nice –My voice turns pitiful–
—I'm costly, but I think I've begun to do so –The Agent shakes her head, following the same theatrical pattern– In fact, I will even order the others to lock you up longer for doing this to a law enforcement officer–
—R-really? –My tone becomes even more pitiful, as if it truly affected me. Let's see if with this the other police woman falls, heh, heh–
—All right! I'll do it! –A shout of exasperation from the Detective is heard. One that makes me smile inside– Happy?–
The Agent and I, after seeing the Detective in her exasperated state, look at each other and then sketch a smile of complicity. Finally, we both bump our fists, as if saying "done," or as if we had won a war.
—By the Goddess with you two –The Detective grumbles with amusement, placing her hand on her temples– It seems you two have chemistry. You are even capable of manipulating together without even coordinating –She looks at the Agent with a tired smile– If your partner saw this, don't you think she might misinterpret it? She might even get angry–
—Agent Montessori lets out a light laugh and shakes her head– Nah. In fact, I'm sure that foolish cat would join us too. She also loves doing cheap, spontaneous drama, heh, heh–
After a sigh from the Detective, she takes out her phone again. Then, as usual, she unlocks it with her fingerprint—which seems to be recognized by her device despite wearing gloves—and begins to tap away on it. However, unlike before, she doesn't show it or extend it toward us; she just keeps writing what looks like a long paragraph.
—Done. I decided to skip the normal protocol established for these types of situations and inform Prosecutor Lafayette directly to obtain her permission –She says after about 15 seconds, looking back at us– There will still be paperwork, but it won't be as much. Furthermore, that will save us from having to wait hours or even days–
—How nice it is to have powerful contacts –I cross my arms and look at her condescendingly, though playfully–
—I fought for nearly 5 years among that sea full of corporate sharks and rivals for a reason –The Detective responds haughtily, yet playfully– It would be hypocritical of me not to use those earned contacts–
—A light, mocking chuckle comes out of my mouth– That's true.–
—While we wait for confirmation, Agent Montessori, tell me what I have to do to be able to get that thing out–
Looking at the Agent, I can notice that she also had her phone in hand, and furthermore, just like the Detective, she was writing something.
—Simply ask the Chief of this storehouse to give you the Lightener Max –She responds after a few seconds– I've already informed him that you will be going for the item–
—Blessed be technology –I sigh, making a theatrical gesture with my arms– I wish I had a phone too. Ah, wait. I do have one. But I left it on the other side of the world and now I can't go get it –My ironic and tired tone makes both women sketch a smile–
—The Detective and the Agent look at me without saying anything, but with a mocking gaze– A part of the paperwork will be handled by me when I return from my one-week vacation, so don't worry –Agent Montessori says–
—Vacation? –I ask with curiosity–
—Oh, yes. Officer Montenegro, before… you know, approved a one-week vacation for me. It starts today at 6 in the evening, so I won't be able to be with you until a week from now –She adds, with clear disappointment in her gaze– However, you can have my phone number in case you need anything. Just call me and I'll be there for you–
—What is it? –The Detective asks, with her phone and hand ready to take it down–
—010-530-8804 –The Agent calmly dictates each number– It's my work number. As I said, just send me a message through the common messaging app, which is free for those of us who use Centel, the cell company owned by Lan Companies, or the Zelix instant messaging app, which is also free but only with a data package. If not, you can also give me a call, either a regular one or a video call, and I will gladly assist you–
—Perfect. Mine is 000-825-0852 –The Detective responds, also patiently giving her phone number– It's my work number too. If you need anything as well, you can send a message or call me–
—Then, the gaze of both directs toward me– And yours? What is it? –They both ask, clearly with the intention of mocking me–
—I don't have one, you silly women! Didn't you hear what I just said? –I glare at them both. At these two women who seem to have united just to make this poor, millions-of-years-old man suffer–
—Pfff –As expected, the only thing I receive from them is their mocking laughter–
Ding. The sound of a notification, resembling the sound a popcorn kernel would make when popping, is heard from the Detective's phone after about 15 more seconds, interrupting the mockery against this poor man who can do nothing but endure their terrible humiliations… heh.
—Oh. The permission has been granted –Detective Montenegro informs, after looking at her cell phone. It truly was fast. As I said, the good thing about having contacts– Now all that's left is to go get that device, and then go to the place Agent Montessori says–
—The Agent nods her head– My friend has an antique shop in downtown Melbury City. It's about half an hour from here –Then, she looks back at her phone– It's 12:30. She usually takes her one-hour break at 2 in the afternoon, so we can arrive without any problems before she temporarily closes it–
—Perfect –The Detective nods her head–
After that, she looks at me.
—And you, Sariel, will return to your cell –This charming woman with scarlet eyes and silver-white hair tells me, her haughty smile returning to her–
—Eh~? –I ask, with clear disappointment–
—Even though both Agent Montessori and I know you are innocent, it's not the same for the others. Until we present the real evidence that you are not the killer, you won't be able to leave this place. When we leave this room, I will inform my people at the crime scene to gather it so you can go free, but it will take time –She tells me. After that, she walks toward the door–
—Ugh. But those mean people out there are going to treat me badly again. They already squeezed me tightly before and treated me ugly. I have no desire to feel that again –I make a pout of dissatisfaction, while showing how my wrists were turning purple from the tight grip of the shackles–
—Don't worry about that –The Detective responds, startled slightly as she looks toward this part of my arm. I could even see her pupils dilating– I've already reprimanded those subjects for having exercised so much force against you. Something like that shouldn't happen again. However… –Then, I notice how her gaze darkens– If it happens again, just tell me. I'll take care of it–
—Just when I was about to say something, Agent Montessori steps in front of me– Count on me for that too –She tells me– The reason they treat you like that is because of your little joke about saying you were a demon. That's why, as soon as I leave this room, I will tell them what really happened, with luxury of detail. With this, they will know they did wrong by treating you this way and will change their behavior –She then places one of her fingers over her lips mischievously– And who knows, you might even recruit new subordinates who feel bad for you with that charm of yours, hwe, hwe–
A sigh of gratitude toward these two women escapes my mouth. Who would have thought that I, the most powerful being in this world (or well, that's how it was before my powers were blocked to 99.9%), would end up being saved by two women—one almost 25 years old, and another 30—who, except for their appearance, would look completely ordinary from the outside. Probably the powerful Sariel of the past would laugh with disdain if I told him this, heh, heh.
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________________ >> 5 minutes >> _________________
—I hope you remember what I said, all right?–
—D-don't worry, Detective. We will use the utmost gentleness possible–
—Good. You wouldn't want to anger an Heiress, right?–
—Ugh…–
Once I finished speaking with Sariel regarding his treatment, I stepped outside the Interrogation Room, where the six members of the Delta Team who guarded the entrance were standing, probably ready in case "the terrible man" harmed me. This was to have them unchain Sariel from the chair and take him to his cell where he was before I had him called.
However, unlike before, I was not going to tolerate them shoving him every time he slowed down a millimeter, using their shotguns to hit his back with the muzzles, or speaking to him in a bad manner. Earlier in the morning, I tolerated it a bit because I thought poorly of him, and because I didn't know him, but after our time together in the Interrogation Room, I changed my mind. And even without that, I would call these officers out just the same, because at first glance, as I said before, Sariel seemed like someone innocent who didn't even dare to talk back.
—My, my, is Detective Montenegro, known by everyone in this country as aromantic and incapable of feeling romantic love, with a clinical certification of romantic-type alexithymia, using her family power to threaten some poor public employees? –Beside me, a mocking voice is heard– Is that little heart of yours finally beating for someone? –Yes. It's Agent Montessori, the very same one who is now pointing her finger at my chest in a playful manner– It's a miracle! Thank you, Creator Goddess Astel, for this little miracle!–
—Agent Montessori –I glare at her, but at the same time, I try to hide the blush that is beginning to form within me– You want to be punished too, right?–
—Oh, look at that! Sariel is being assaulted!–
Without a second thought, I direct my gaze with extreme speed toward where her finger points, inside the Interrogation Room. However, moments later, I realized that it had all been a trap, because what Agent Montessori said was not real. Sariel, fortunately, was not being assaulted; he was just rubbing his wrists.
—Sergeant Nemeia! –I exclaim–
Instantly, the woman from before—the one with dark gold eyes and dark purple hair—appears on my right side. It wasn't out of nowhere, as she was just a few centimeters away, waiting for me to come out. Her gaze and expression, as always, are marked by professional seriousness, with no other visible emotion.
—At your command, Commander –She says with her typical stoic tone and the tablet in her hands, ready for action–
—Wait, wait, Detective! I was just joking! –Agent Montessori exclaims with panic on her face– Please don't give me an administrative write-up!–
—I roll my eyes at her panic. I'm not that mean to do something like that just for a joke either– Sergeant, please ensure that Sariel arrives safe and sound at his cell. Also make sure he is well treated, both on his way there and when he is inside –I instruct the woman now in front of me. Simultaneously, I hear a sigh of relief from Agent Montessori–
—Sergeant Nemeia nods her head– Very well, Commander–
After that, Nemeia looks forward to see Sariel, who was coming toward us, as he had finally left the room escorted by other agents of the Delta Team. Then, to my surprise, she makes a peace sign to him. However, it's Sariel's expression that truly surprises me. His face first looks stunned, as if he couldn't believe what he is seeing, but then he sketches a joyful expression with a large smile, as if he were seeing something he hadn't seen in a long time. I could even notice how he wanted to extend his arms, but he contained himself.
In the case of the sergeant, her expression—for the first time since I met her 2 years ago—leaves behind its coldness and seriousness to soften completely. A smile even draws across her lips, but of the sweet kind, the kind you would give to a loved one.
—W-what, what is with them? –I swallow hard. Their entire interaction seemed so natural that I couldn't help but have strange feelings in my chest and even a small ache in my heart. By the time I realized it, I already had my fists slightly clenched–
—Detective –Then, I hear a male voice–
—Eh? What's the matter? –I ask, after snapping out of it–
Before I realized it, Sariel was already in front of me. It was probably when I lost myself for a moment.
—When you return, let me know. I want to ask you something before midnight strikes. It is very, very important –He tells me, his tone serious– And it's related to your Father, and also to the age you will turn in a few hours–
—I nod my head– After I return from where Agent Montessori is taking me, I will have you called so we can return to the Interrogation Room–
—Perfect. Then, may you have good discoveries –He says, making a parting gesture–
After that, he turns around and walks away with the rest of the Delta team, and above all, with that woman of dark gold eyes, with whom as soon as they made eye contact again, they began to speak as if they were old friends… or perhaps something more.
—Ho, ho, look at that, our Detective has competition, hwe, hwe –I hear Agent Montessori's mocking voice beside me again– Be careful, eh, or they might steal him from you–
—Silence –I grumble at her again while walking toward the exit– Let's go to that place already. Let's not waste any more time–
—Yes, ye~s–
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________________ >> Reception >> _________________
While Detective Salieri Montenegro Neiruk went toward the basement to get the item Agent Arisa Montessori Romanov had mentioned to her, Agent Montessori had gathered her colleagues once again. She even waited for the Delta Team to return, as they were the ones who needed to listen the most.
—Arisa, we're back –Says Marvin Castro, Leader of the Delta Team, 32 years old with a muscular body, a look of anger on his face–
—Heh heh, the big guy is mad –Teases Kara Marne, 28 years old, an athletic and muscular body, and second-in-command of the Delta Team–
—To be honest, you totally deserve it, dude –Adds Alex Kendel, 22 years old, also with an athletic body, and another member of this team– He was literally just trying to strike up a conversation with you, and all you did was be rude or use force–
—What? Are you a pro-demon now? –Marvin mocks coldly–
—He's probably not even a demon, don't bullshit me –Alex responds– I might be young, but I've also fought against demons. Furthermore, you know well that I have a friend who is a Cazden, one of those Mehr-Wissen whose specialty is hunting those things, so I know more about this than you guys. Normally, they get fed up after acting nice for a bit when they're ignored. Afterward, they show their true face and try everything to escape. But that guy back there hasn't shown anything like that at all, and he isn't even interested in leaving. He just wants to make friends. So don't come to me with that demon crap, because not even the Akrani Circles, specialized for demons, and the blessed handcuffs work on him–
—Why don't you just go and suck his dick then, dude, since you like him so much –With every word Alex speaks, Marvin's anger increases–
—What did you say, you fucking caveman?! You better go kiss those stupid muscles of yours and give the leadership to someone who actually knows how to use their brain!–
—Hey, cut it out, you two –Intervenes Lura Sitten, the tech expert of the group, 30 years old and also of an athletic bearing– Don't start again–
Arisa, seeing the confrontation between those who are supposed to be part of the containment and breach team against threats at the Morian station, simply sighs. After all, this was not the first time she had seen something like this. So, quickly, just like the previous time, she inhales air once more and then exhales it, turned into a pleasant scent of vanilla.
And, as expected, it ends up working. The spirits, which were heating up moments before, quickly cool down upon sensing the fresh scent, a product of an ability of Arisa's called «Soothing Aromatherapy», which allows, as its name indicates, deploying a soft and pleasant aroma to tranquilize.
—All right, everyone. Listen carefully –Arisa's face turns serious. A seriousness that makes the uniformed officers surrounding her tremble– Just like Alex said. That man back there is not a demon. Honestly, I don't know what he truly is, because, first, the color of his soul does not resemble that of any Surnaturel, human, Mehr-Wissen, Demon, Infernal, Celestial, or even Divine being, and second, it's not like I can just look into the lives of others whenever I want. I can only do so if they give me permission. About him, I only know what I saw at the crime scene where Officer Montenegro passed away –Arisa's gaze sweeps across each of the 12 people surrounding her– And even though I have seen little of him, I can say, as I mentioned before, that not only is he not a demon, but he is an incredible person. Although his way of being might seem annoying to some, let me explain the reason why I assure you of this–
During the next few minutes, Arisa Montessori Romanov—a Fuchsgenheit, a Surnaturel of the species of golden-furred foxes capable of seeing back in time—narrates to all these people, to all these Surnaturel of different species, the fight between Officer Montenegro and Sariel against one of the Infernal Triad, the closest members of Luciel, the Regent of Gehenna, the infernal plane annexed to planet Astel that contains all the different hells: Lumen, known as the Bearer of Hellfire.
From the arrival of Sariel and Officer Montenegro at the Lanel Sports Center, armed with next-generation weaponry designed to fight supernatural beings, to stopping Lumen from using one of the heads of two fallen human officers, the subsequent confrontation and the incredible coordination between these two men, as if they looked like warriors trained to kill (something ironic because, in fact, it was so), and finally, Lumen's fall when the sunlight came out, where the first rays of the sun began to disintegrate the demon.
Even also the part where Lumen, using his last remaining strength, created a spear of shadows, launching it against Sariel, but being blocked by Leon Montenegro himself, who fell and ended his life in the arms of a Sariel who was desperately trying to save him, failing in this due to the 99.9% blockage of his powers.
The uniformed officers who listened attentively—and even some farther away, both agents and civil Surnaturel—began to show different reactions. From horror upon hearing how Lumen scraped the inside of the human officer's head with his claws, and sadness for his loss, to surprise and fanaticism over the coordinated combat between Sariel and Leon. Finally, reaching sadness and empathy over the death of their praised and beloved Officer Montenegro.
Thanks to Arisa's narration, everyone was able to realize that, indeed, they had done wrong. The black-haired man's joke had affected them so much that they hadn't even given him a chance to prove his innocence, condemning him immediately. Something that, ironically, went against their police oath.
And because of this, a deep sense of dejection and shame flooded them. Shame for not executing the presumption of innocence, and having violated codes in their oath. And above all, for having treated terribly badly a person who was not only innocent, but who had even now become a Hero.
—Marvin –After finishing her narration, Arisa brings her gaze to the Leader of the Delta Team– I suppose I don't need to tell you anything, right?–
Everyone's gaze directs toward Marvin, as if they were poisoned daggers. This usually proud man, feared for his physical strength—something normal, as he is a Visharwer, a Surnaturel based on a silverback gorilla, characterized by his physical strength, capable of shattering giant boulders with his bare fists when in full Wesnaf form—was now being looked at with dejection. After all, even they had seen the signs on the black-haired man, but due to Marvin's ferocity, they had decided to give up on trying to do anything.
—...–
Marvin, for a few seconds, clenches his fists so hard that they begin to turn white. Everyone waits for the resolution of the man who, at this moment, was debating in his mind between his ego and recognizing a truth he believed impossible.
—Haaa…–
And then, after another five seconds, something surprises and stuns the surrounding crowd. Marvin—the proud man, the Visharwer known for being stubborn—relaxes his fists, exhales the air he had held in, and lowers his head.
—I get it –He says, his words carrying a tone of absolute surrender– I'm… sorry –He adds. Words that make the crowd open their eyes even wider. Exalted gasps could even be heard–
—It's not to me or to us that you must apologize –However, Arisa shakes her head gently– We were not the ones harmed, so it makes no sense for you to say this in this place where the true victim is not present–
Marvin nods his head. In his eyes, the stubbornness from before had begun to dwindle like a cistern being emptied. At the same time, he begins to think of a way to apologize without it looking too humiliating for him.
—My, my, but look at that. The dumb big guy has finally apologized. By Our Patron Saints Luciel and Erste, is it perhaps the end of the world? –Then, while Marvin was deep in thought, Kara Marne's giggle and mocking voice are heard– Could this be a sign that Our Lady, Erste, will finally return from the Void and Our Lord Luciel will be happy after waiting for her for billions of years? Heh, heh~–
Marvin freezes at first before the mockery of the woman four years younger than him. A mockery he knew perfectly well, because she, Kara—an Imptar, a Race based on gazelles with white fur and skin—was characterized by always being ironic and mocking toward him. However, moments later, he furrows his brow, and in response, shoots back a glare of fury and impotence. He is even on the verge of opening his mouth to retort.
—Ugh, not you two again –Laura Sitten says from the side, now rubbing her brow– Just go find a hotel room to resolve that sexual tension already, for goodness' sake–
—Laura! –Kara exclaims, her face blushing after hearing such words, and even stomping her foot on the ground–
Instantly, a large collective laughter is heard. What had previously been a battle on the verge of erupting had now softened completely into a renewed camaraderie.
—Hmm?–
Then, after a few more seconds, Alex Kendel's ears twitch slightly. After a moment, he—an Atrechenz, a member of a brown-plumaged Owl Race, with great hearing and highly intelligent—captures the distant sound of three-centimeter heels approaching their position.
—Detective Montenegro is coming! –Alex exclaims, having identified the sound–
—Arisa, upon hearing him, shows no panic– All right, this meeting ends here! –She exclaims to the crowd that was beginning to leave– Remember what I told you!–
After that, the crowd disperses. All the uniformed officers who surrounded Arisa head back to their workstations, while the civil Surnaturel return to looking like ordinary people waiting for the paperwork they were doing before. In the case of the Delta Team, they head toward the Special Block, where Sariel is once again located.
—When will we have to keep hiding our world from Detective Montenegro? –Asks a female agent close to Arisa, one of the receptionists– I mean, her Father, Officer Montenegro, was a Sehwert. That alone should be enough to tell her about us. She probably even has the permit activated by default by the Vesefo–
—Oh, Mira. Too bad our world doesn't work that way –Arisa responds with a sigh of disappointment– Humans are the ones who have to come to us, not the other way around. If you try it, you already know that the Veil Security Forces, that International Police of our world, will come for us to punish us for revealing ourselves before them. The same applies to the Detective. We cannot just go and simply tell her, "hey, we are supernatural creatures. I am a fox. If you don't believe me, let me show you," and then shift back into my real form, the Wesnaf. Although it sounds simple, this is practically breaking a vital rule. And that translates into a guaranteed 15 years in prison–
—Yes, but from what I know, it is possible –Mira retorts– For example, a cousin of mine revealed her true wolf form to her husband, a human native of this human plane, the Aynu. Afterward, she told him about us, and finally took him to the Altern, our earthly plane, so he could get to know it and be informed. In other words, she turned him into a Kehrseite, which is the term used for humans who know about our world. He even turned out to be compatible with Mana!, so he became an Enial User, someone capable of using one of the 5 Primordial Energies. And let's not even talk about how the relationship between those two went afterward. Turns out that guy was a closet furry deep down. After the revelation, he wouldn't even let my cousin out of her room, and he ended up giving her two more kids–
—Well. That's because they had already been married for 10 years and had two children. Furthermore, even though all that had already happened, your cousin, Valeria, had to submit a request to the Vesefo, and only after they approved it could she do all that –Arisa responds, trying not to laugh at Mira's last comment– Obviously there are exceptions. However, also take into account Officer Montenegro's decision. He deliberately hid our supernatural world from her so she wouldn't have to go through the same dangers as him. After all, being a Sehwert is not easy. You are practically on the lookout for constant supernatural attacks of all kinds–
—Well, I really think it's nonsense –The receptionist responds with a resigned sigh– Besides, nothing tells us she won't become a Sehwert when she turns 25. While it's true that the Sehwert power is not inherited, but rather the power itself chooses its humans, she still has a lot of potential to be one. Just look at what her life has been like. Fights here, fights there. And the achievements she has obtained. That is more than enough for her to be chosen, because this power only likes strong humans, both physically and mentally –Then, the receptionist looks at Arisa with seriousness– Besides, don't you think it's a foolish thing on Officer Montenegro's part to hide something like that from her? It's like throwing her into a war zone completely naked–
—That's true –Arisa cannot refute anything against that logic, since she knew perfectly well that Mira was right– But don't worry anymore. She has me, she has my partner, and of course, she also has that boy. In fact, he will supply the original functions that my partner and I were supposed to have, which Officer Montenegro asked us to fulfill before passing away –A smile sketches across her lips– And furthermore, I am sure he will do it with flying colors–
—How do you know that? You can't see the future yet –The receptionist asks, rolling her eyes since she didn't believe this. She, like everyone in the Republic, knew about Detective Montenegro regarding romantic matters–
—Well, mainly I know it because of the chemistry those two have. They barely saw each other and you could already say that not only do they not want to be apart, but they could practically eat each other with their eyes, heh, heh. There is a potent tension between them, and that's despite them having been together for probably not even three hours –A chuckle escapes her lips– In addition, there is the fact that the man is practically like a walking aeonary library. He surely has millions of years of information stored in his memory, which will help a lot in case she becomes a Sehwert –Arisa then directs her gaze toward where Salieri was about to come from– But anyway, for now, what we have to do is make her begin to believe that there is something more than what is "human," that her scientific paradigm breaks so she can easily accept what is hidden from her ordinary eyes. With that, that boy will be able to do his thing, and in a way that feels natural, letting her be the one to ask for this information, instead of him being the one to give it to her. And if we add the ability to make that aromantic Detective blush with his flirting, well, that would help when it comes to learning–
—Wait! Detective Montenegro blushed because of flirting?! Isn't she supposed to have romantic-type alexithymia?! Is she already cured?! –Mira, the receptionist, startles upon hearing such words. Not only her, but also those nearby. All of them now had their mouths wide open in incredulity, even more than with Marvin–
—Oopsie~ –At that moment, Arisa reprimands herself in her mind for blurting something like that out. After after all, the romantic realm of Salieri Montenegro Neiruk was one of the most searched topics and the one they paid the most attention to– No. She hasn't been cured. Or well, not that much. However, if you had seen how she got when Nemeia smiled at Sariel, you would realize that she is in the process, heh, heh~ –Yes. In her mind now she was practically saying, "I've already said too much. What does it matter if I say more"–
—Woooh! –Several exclaim with genuine enthusiasm. Some had even taken out their cell phones to publish such a discovery on Lumos, the most used social network of both the Aynu and the Altern–
—I definitely have to post this –Of course, Mira, the gossip of the station, couldn't be left behind either– When that bastard Calix Rockefeller, her ex-Fiancé, sees this, he's surely going to die of rage, heh, heh~–
—Oh, Mira, what am I going to do with you –Arisa sighs. However, she also smiles with playful malice– But well, that's what that guy gets for cheating on the Detective. Although what he did is understandable, due to her not feeling absolutely anything for him, he could have chosen another way of termination instead of infidelity. Now let him suffer upon seeing her happy with another, hwe, hwe–
At that moment, the approaching sound of heels finally reveals their owner. From the back of the hallway connecting to the offices where civilians could not enter, a beautiful woman of nearly 25 years old appears, with wavy silver-white hair, scarlet eyes, an hourglass figure, fair skin, and standing one meter seventy tall. It is, as was to be expected, Salieri Montenegro Neiruk, the youngest and most successful Detective in the Homicides Unit of the National Police of the Central Republic.
Her gaze, serious as always, does not stop fixing upon her path, which is the exit of this hallway. In her hands, she carries a silver-colored metal briefcase, which, from what can be seen, is a bit heavy. Her hands firmly squeeze the briefcase's grip as she walks forward with the elegance an Heiress of an extremely wealthy and powerful Family would possess, striking the tips of the thin three-centimeter heels of her shoes against the marble floor.
—Detective Montenegro –Arisa makes a gesture to the woman who was already close to her– It seems you didn't have too much trouble getting the Lightener–
Salieri shakes her head. However, when she opens her mouth to convey her response, she suddenly feels something strange. Around her, people are looking at her with curiosity, surprise, and some even with happiness. Glances that she had never received from them before in all these years visiting this Station to see her Father. They had even replaced the looks of pity and condolence they had earlier.
—I am very glad for you, Detective –Says a nearby female voice–
—It was about time you finally knew this feeling –Adds a male voice–
—After suffering so much, it's about time life gives you happiness –Adds another female voice–
—If Officer Montenegro were still here, I am sure he would rejoice at this –Says a male voice–
Salieri furrows her brow in bewilderment. The words she was hearing were unusual to her. In fact, she didn't even understand them.
—What is everyone talking about? –She asks upon reaching Arisa–
—Nothing, nothing –Arisa, without Salieri noticing, glares at everyone. Afterward, she takes the briefcase with her right hand and begins to walk forward– Let's return to the crime scene, Detective, so we can take the weapon to my contact –She says with a rushed voice–
—Well… –Salieri, without understanding the reason for the nervousness of the woman who had already moved about 5 meters away, simply shrugs her shoulders and walks toward her. There was work to be done.–