image [https://i.imgur.com/EoyoEWc.jpeg]
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Deshya can't believe her eyes. The letter she's just read seems unreal, yet it's real. She holds it in her immobile hands, her wide eyes devouring it for as long as they can, as if thinking that any moment now, this letter will turn out to be a dream or a joke. Nevertheless, as she pinches her own cheek, she quickly realizes that she's wide awake. That she's not currently in bed, dreaming all because of the discussion she had with Maruno and Amora this afternoon.
That 'XIII' really invited her.
However, she slowly turns her head to the right, looking her father straight in the eye.
- This... This isn't a joke, is it?
If her father was just acting and messing with her, she thinks she might go so far as to cry about it. Despite this hesitant side of her, she doesn't see her father making such a joke, or why he would.
- It's real," confirms Gatito. The Lière police contacted us to discuss the letter.
Normally, 'XIII' sends his letters a little earlier, but this time it looks like he was later. The police don't know if there's a reason behind it or not.
Deshya smiles.
- From what I know, 'XIII' prepares everything so much that sometimes he has to abandon plans and so sometimes he sends his letters a day before, or even the same day, because he's certain of succeeding only then," she says.
Gatito sighs and crosses his arms.
- That's just what this police detective said…
- O-Oh! T-That's right, if I'm on an XIII investigation and it's in Lière, t-then…
Her eyes light up. Even without looking directly at her, what she feels takes up so much space in her heart that her energy radiates throughout the room. Her enthusiasm is such that her mouth can't close, a big smile on her face.
- Did he... did he really choose me?
- It looks like it's because big sister is solving a lot of cases and what happened at the hotel," says Korone.
- You're way more popular than you were at the beginning of the month, I must say," says Pera.
Deshya's mother is certainly happy about it, she just doesn't know how to feel about the letter. She can now understand why her husband arrived upset, since he doesn't want his daughter to be involved in such a dangerous affair either. XIII' is known as a maniac who only kills 'society's scum', sometimes having to resort to dangerous ways to escape or kill his victims. Pera isn't really interested in finding out more about such a man, but she knows him well, as do the majority of people on this world, no matter what continent they're on. Some describe him as 'Satan in the flesh', others as a 'living God'. Of course, Pera can only find such a person inhuman, trying to bang the hammer of justice herself instead of letting the police act.
- The ceremony starts tomorrow around 1.45pm, it seems..." Deshya thinks aloud, observing the back of the letter.
Hanging from the letter are details of where to go and a card given by the bride and groom, presumably stolen by 'XIII'. Gatito lets out a sound of displeasure.
- How dare he involve a 16-year-old girl in these murders, damn it....
Deshya turns to him again: she can understand him. She's only a teenager, clearly not yet an adult, so to be invited to what was probably going to be a murder scene... Deshya can only understand how her father feels. She'd like to jump up and down and ask him if she can go, but acting in this way is surely not optimal, nor correct when she thinks of how her parents feel; only, she really wants to go.
- I'd refuse to let you go, but…
Before Deshya can even find the words, her father speaks. Gatito sighs again, clearly annoyed.
- I think you'll have no choice but to go.
Deshya opens her eyes wide, but is more confused than anything else. Pera and Korone also show surprise on their faces, both thinking he would simply refuse without asking.
- Why?" asks Gatito's wife.
The dishes continue to cool, but nobody remembers them, really: all their attention is focused on this unexpected letter. Gatito grunts as he sits in his place, looking his daughter straight in the eye.
- I've never really been on an 'XIII' case myself, but any policeman knows what's going on with this nutcase. From what the Lière police have told us, Deshya seems to be the only detective invited by 'XIII'. Whether she goes or not, the Lière police are clearly going to be there, trying to catch 'XIII' before he commits his murders; at least prevent him from killing anyone," he explains.” Even if Deshya doesn't go, it doesn't change the fact that 'XIII' is going to do whatever it takes. I suppose Deshya knows that, but—
- ‘XIII’ will kill its victims come what may, even if the event is canceled.
Gatito nods and sighs, observing the empty plate in front of him.
- We could try to protect everyone with one or two policemen per person, but that would require far too many personnel, and we couldn't do it indefinitely. What's more, 'XIII' is the kind of man who can take on armed men single-handedly…
- How could he do that?" asks Korone.
Strangely enough, the granddaughter feels she knows a bit about XIII, even though she's never seen a single article about him on the Internet. In a vague way, she can see who he is, but she expects to learn more tonight or tomorrow: she's intrigued.
- I'm not sure, but from what I hear, he's agile like you wouldn't believe," replies Gatito.” I don't really know how strong he is, but I guess he must not be a professional boxer or anything…
However, with everything he'd heard and everything that's been said about XIII, it's hard not to believe that he's simply 'superhuman'. There are serial killers with more than fifty victims to their name, and they've been at it for years, if not decades, but none of them enjoy defying the police and detectives at every turn. On one occasion, he even went live a few minutes after his victim's murder!
- Eeeeh…
Korone is strangely intrigued by this man, but on the other hand, is it really so bizarre? A criminal like this is bound to attract anyone's attention, after all…
- Why shouldn't I have the choice to go, then?" asks Deshya, still not having her answer.
Gatito looks up at her, his boredom and anger palpable.
- Lière's chief of police is currently counting on you to help catch him," he explains.” Although I don't really know why he seemed to trust you so much, I can only believe that he thinks you could be an asset.
- But you're her father, can you still refuse?" asks Pera, shocked.
- Our station chief, who happens to be my boss, would like to know the outcome of such a... 'meeting' would be.
It shocked everyone. Gatito had been shocked to hear his boss confess that he would be interested in this and that there would be no danger to Deshya. Gatito can understand: XIII never hurts detectives, policemen or anyone who isn't his target. Sure, he can sedate or render unconscious people who can help him with his plans, but he's never used anyone as a hostage, let alone seriously injured anyone who isn't his victim. What's more—
- I won't be in danger, Dad!
Deshya smiles broadly.
- XIII doesn't hurt detectives, let alone children. Since he's clearly an adult, he never disguises himself as a child or teenager, since he can't change size either.
- Does he only dress up as people of the same size?" asks Korone, even though she thinks she already knows the answer.
This time it's Gatito who answers.
- No, he can dress up as someone smaller, but then he has to bend his knees. You'd think this would be directly noticeable, but it depends on the clothes he's wearing and whether or not there's a crowd.
- It's true that if there are a lot of people, then it's complicated to check that!" says Korone, suspecting this answer.
- …
Gatito turns his gaze to his red-haired daughter, noticing that despite all this, she keeps rereading the letter with a joyful expression. He knows very well that she's not a 'fanatic' of 'XIII' or that she thinks he's a 'good' man, or even a 'God' as some claim, but that she's just happy to have been recognized by a 'living legend'. To have been chosen by 'XIII' himself, the criminal with the most victims to his name.
- Even if I hate him…
Deshya blinks and looks at her father. He's just muttered a few words, but even with her more developed hearing, she hasn't understood what he's said. He's still got that angry look on his face, but she gets the impression he's feeling something else from that rage. It's not fear for his daughter's safety, but rather…
- Sadness?
She has no idea why he seems to feel such emotion, but asking him would probably be pointless. Besides, Korone speaks directly afterwards.
- So what will big sister have to do if she goes? asks the granddaughter.
- Usually, 'XIII' suggests that the police and detectives try to stop him before he commits his act, as it amuses him to see them try in vain, but most of the time, the police and detectives are just trying to figure out what 'XIII's' disguise is," explains Gatito.” He never kills his victims simply by poisoning them or sticking a knife in their body, but often uses tricks. Tricks, that is.
Gatito sighs again.
- This freak gets a kick out of watching detectives, police or otherwise, searching and searching while he watches them from his disguise. If they manage to find something fast enough, he simply listens to them, if not, he leaves before we can even find out what his false identity was," he explains.
- So, depending on the detective's performance, he may or may not invite them back. The majority of detectives in the 'Top 10 Best Detectives' are invited, but some others disappointed 'XIII', who didn't hesitate to criticize them on her Twatter, never having invited them again unless they improve," adds Deshya.
- He's... special.
They can only agree with Pera's words. Even if most people say that 'XIII's' aim is simply to rid this world of garbage, some still wonder if he's just interested in the adrenaline of knowing whether the police will manage to figure it out in time or not. Whether he'll finally be caught or not. Many theories exist on the internet: a bunch of them straight out of the wildest fantasies. Nobody really knows how 'XIII' thinks, especially as his identity remains unknown the world over, but one thing is certain: he has fun defying detectives and the police. He's happy when they understand quickly enough, pleased when they manage to deduce correctly even later, sad and disappointed when one of his tricks isn't solved. Maybe he's a psychopath who justifies his murders by only killing 'garbage', maybe he's a very sentimental man who wants to clean up this world in his own way: for now, no one could say for sure. What is certain is that he doesn't hesitate to kill.
- Still, I'm glad he considers me worthy of being the detective trying to stop him this time..." smiled Deshya as she folded the letter.
She then places it in front of her, clenching a fist as she shows a certain determination.
- But I don't want you to get it wrong, Dad. ‘XIII’ is still a criminal in any case, so I want to stop him. I know I probably won't be able to, but I want to try. I even want to stop him from killing anyone, figure out what his disguise is in time.
She knows it's borderline naive to think that way, but if she just tells herself she won't make it, then it's clearly going to be impossible. If she thinks she can do it, then she's allowing herself to be in a world where there's a chance, however small, that this should happen. Besides, if she's invited by such a criminal, then she wants to succeed in impressing him. For that, it's more a question of ego than anything else. Gatito can only sigh as she hears her daughter's naive determination and fills her plate with supper, then gets up to warm it.
- I know you won't necessarily be in danger, but seeing murders over and over again..." her father blurts out as he heads for the microwave.
- I'm almost used to it by now!" she admits.
- That's the problem!
Deshya tucks the letter into the torn envelope and smiles gently.
- Afterwards, it's true that it still affects me. Don't worry, crimes don't amuse me. I'm still human that way.
Gatito turns on the microwave and sets it to heat the dish for a minute. He turns and looks at his daughter with a half-open mouth, but quickly closes it. It's precisely one of his fears, that Deshya will one day see murder almost as a game. That she would no longer be affected by death. That she'll lose her human side. Gatito has heard people say that police officers no longer feel anything when they see corpses and crimes, but this is far from the truth. Police officers, doctors, surgeons... Even when they see the dead almost every day, they still feel disgust and sadness. Perhaps we can say that they get used to it, but that doesn't mean they're no longer affected by death.
It's naive to think like that.
However, Gatito is aware that some people no longer feel anything towards her. That some detectives are almost happy to have a case on hand, given that they can start deducing the culprit and either have fun or be able to earn money afterwards. Gatito has this very fear in him: that his own daughter will one day become like that. Clearly, she's far from that stage and he knows her well, but he can't remove that fear from his heart. On top of all that, he wants her to live as normal a teenage life as possible. Isn't she the one who wants to be a 'normal' girl? Would a 'normal' girl go as a detective on an 'XIII' case? In reality, Gatito is happy that she's not what's considered 'normal', but he still wants her to stay away from murder and affairs, especially in her teenage years. She still needs to build herself up, gain maturity and experience in life... However, Deshya is clearly smarter than average. It's almost impossible to deny her genius, so whatever happens, Gatito has to accept that her life has already taken a certain turn. She still manages to chat quietly with her friends, continues to act like a 'human' teenage girl, feels various emotions, can cry or be scared. She's still human, and more importantly, she's still his daughter.
So Gatito has to learn to trust him as much as possible without restricting his freedom.
- ... I'll let you go on two conditions.
At the same moment, the microwave rings behind him. He opens it and picks up his plate, returning to the table. Pera goes next, warming Korone's dish. Deshya listens attentively to his father; his fox ears point to the ceiling.
- First of all, I'm going with you. As a police inspector, I have the right. Although I've only been on XIII cases as a reinforcement or on the side, there's no reason why I shouldn't be accepted.
- But it's in Lière, will you really be able to?" asks Deshya.
- In any case, I'm still a policeman. I'll talk to my boss and the boss of the Lière station after dinner, but they're unlikely to refuse.
- I'd rather you came in any case, so okay!
Even if he doesn't show it, it makes Gatito happy.
- And secondly, you stay as respectful as possible there. I mean, it's a wedding. Sure, 'XIII' will probably ruin it by killing someone, but it's still. a. wedding.
- Who do you think I am?
- For the girl who had fun messing around with the Blushark family when she made her deduction?
- ... Well, okay, but that was something else! I'll be respectful!
Gatito nods before starting to eat. Korone rises from her chair.
- And I can—
- Not the place for an 8-year-old girl.
- Maaaw, but I—
- No.
- ... Okiiii…
Korone sits down disappointedly in her chair. Deshya chuckles, promising her little sister that she'll explain what happened there when she gets back. Korone thanks her with a big smile and just then, her plate comes back in front of her, offered from Pera's gentle hand.
- If we're going to Lière, then I'm going to meet "that famous police detective"~! I can't wait!
Even if it's a case of 'XIII', a fearsome and even appalling criminal, Deshya can only feel anticipation and joy. Even if she suspects she won't be able to stop 'XIII' herself, she hopes with all her heart she can prevent him from killing anyone. Find his disguise before he steals a life at a wedding. On a day that's going to be unique for both groom and bride.
She promises to do her best tomorrow.
CHAPTER 49
⎾Legendary Criminel VS Deshya: First Meeting ; Long Live The Bride and Groom⏌
The first day of October finally sees the light. After a long month of September, filled with the unexpected, drama and joy, the second month of autumn opens its arms to the whole world. The day has not yet dawned, but some people already are — like these two men chatting in an office lit by the light of a lamp hanging from the ceiling.
- Do the bride, groom and guests know?
The man asking the question is in his late forties, but you wouldn't know it by looking at his face. Standing in front of the other man's desk, he asks his question with both hands in the pockets of his fur sweater. It's very early in the morning, so the air outside is chilly. Plus, it's his usual style, one he sometimes uses even in summer. His medium-length hair is dyed gray and his green eyes are under long black lashes, his normally natural hair color. With thick eyebrows and a face that's strangely still quite young, without the slightest wrinkle, as well as decorations on his ears, this man could almost be misconstrued as a delinquent — but the truth is quite different.
- The bride and groom know. They trust the police, but they're not afraid for themselves, because they think they don't deserve to be targeted by 'XIII'," confesses the other man.
The one sitting down has a different physique. At least 10 years older, soon to be in his fifties, short black hair neatly combed over his head, the wrinkles don't hide the passage of time on his face. His physique is less imposing than that of the man in front of him, but his expression, his eyes and his air alone earn the respect of almost anyone facing him. He looks authoritative and cool, his bulging eyes show great experience in his work, and his clothes don't hide his taste in style. Sitting normally in his chair, he looks at the man in front of him with a laptop turned on to his left, although he's not touching it at the moment.
- However, they are asking for police protection. They've been planning this wedding for years and they don't want it to be ruined by this criminal," he continues.
- Understandable. Is the team going there aware of this?
- That goes without saying. Even without their request, we wouldn't have acted otherwise. Our men will attend the wedding and make sure no one acts strangely. Unfortunately, we're not allowed to check each person one by one to make sure it's not a disguise prepared by 'XIII', so we'll have to rely on his observation and that of Deshya Oveja, the detective who was called in by 'XIII' himself.
The office is rather large and decorated — trophies, medals and more — can be found on the wall opposite the window, all displayed on polished wooden shelves. Behind the seated man, paintings decorate the desk, along with childlike drawings of him. Although one might think that these are the work of his children, the lack of rings around his finger and the fact that he has never been married are enough to suggest that this is not the case.
- Calling a teenager... Are we really doing the right thing by letting her go to the crime scene?" asks the gray-haired man.
The other man slowly turns his head towards his laptop screen, still no smile on his square face.
- If she's called by 'XIII', it's because she must have caught his eye. I'm sure it's not just because of her heroic act in Teuhl, during the 'FEDER' hotel fire, but also because she started solving case after case during the month of September,” he explains.” It seems that even 'Minos Kiyon' is interested in her. It's not just anyone.
- But Tom, 'XIII' and Minos are—
- Don't call me 'Tom' when we're at work, Jogo! I'm your boss.
‘Tom Spidernest', age 49. A dark-haired man with brown eyes, boss of the Lière’s police.
‘Jogo Takenaka', 39 years old. A gray-haired, green eyed man, inspector of the Lière police force.
They're not alone in the police building, but this discussion can only be heard by the speakers themselves. It's not a secret conversation: Jogo just wanted to have a quick chat with Tom about what's going to happen this afternoon.
- We would have had to cancel the wedding anyway," admits Jogo.” Without criticizing little Deshya or our police, I doubt very much that it won't end up spoiled because of 'XIII'.
- Shinpei and I doubt that the reason 'XIII' sent his letters so late was precisely to prevent us from canceling the wedding. Even if canceling an event won't prevent him from killing his targets, it would have been better if they'd celebrated the big day some other time. This is not possible when we have the notice 24 hours in advance. What's more, the bride and groom wouldn't have agreed, given that they'd already postponed the date once due to a venue problem.
- Tsk.
Clearly, Jogo isn't happy about this: marriage is very important to him. Not only has 'XIII' called in a teenage girl as a detective, he's also going to ruin such a joyous and important event in the lives of men and women.
- Do we already have a list of potential victims?" asks Jogo.
- They have a total of 136 guests and they're going to a restaurant afterwards, so there's nothing to say that their target isn't a member of the staff there," he explains. We've tried to find out more about each guest and those who work at the restaurant, but no precise list is produced. We just don't have the time.
- Do we know how many victims he intends to commit?
- All we know is that it won't be just one victim, given the plural used. Otherwise, we know nothing.
Tom frowns at the man standing in front of him.
- Jogo, why all the questions? This is not your field. You're not going to take part in this demon hunt," Tom says, a touch of hostility in his voice.
Jogo shrugs gently.
- I'm interested in him, like most people, like any self respecting policeman," he replies with sincerity. We're going to have a teenage girl in this case... She'll probably rack her brains trying to figure it out, but it'll be futile.
- You don't believe in her chances?
- She's only a teenager, I repeat. I don't mind her being clever, but I'll only believe in her genius if she can figure out his tricks then. It amazes me that you believe in her so much.
- …
Tom doesn't respond to Jogo's 'mockery'. He prefers to keep a straight face and frown.
- Shouldn't you be preparing yourself for an investigation that's going to prove complicated? Perhaps instead of taking an unnecessary interest in 'XIII' and Deshya, you should be looking after your own areas?
Tom's tone was much more aggressive, as if announcing that if this discussion were to go any further, he intended to bite.
- This group has announced it's going to crack down tomorrow, right? So get ready, because failure—
- I know.
Jogo turns around and frowns in turn.
- We too have people who go on and on like 'XIII', like untouchables…
In a house, snuggled quietly in her sheets—
— Pera wakes up in a sweat, getting up with trembling eyes.
Hyperventilating and sweating, the redheaded woman stares into space. She knows full well what just happened... and she hates it. She hates it. She's clearly going to have a bad day from now on. Not only is she going to feel anxiety about her daughter going to meet a serial killer, but she's not going to be able to get those images out of her head for the day. Pera trembles and is about to cry, but a hand settles on her shoulder.
- I'm... here…
In a tired, half-asleep voice, her husband speaks to her. Pera slowly turns her gaze to the left, but in this darkness, she can only see a dark silhouette beside her. He's snuggled up in the comforter too, after all. Pera closes her eyes and takes a deep breath before nodding weakly.
- It's... R-Right.
- It's that nightmare again, isn't it...?
- ... Yes," Pera finally admits, having no reason to lie to him.
She goes to bed again, but doesn't know if she'll get back to sleep, especially as it's already nearly 6am. True, it's a Saturday and they can rest later, but she's planning to prepare a good breakfast to give her daughter strength and courage. She closes her eyes again, having managed not to let the tears fall, and prays that the images of that nightmare won't haunt her all day…
The sun is higher in the sky. In a beautifully decorated and colorful room, a woman with very long blond hair, hanging a little lower than her pelvis, happily observes herself in a large mirror, her face beaming with happiness and anticipation for the day ahead. Beautiful clothes on her body, white and pure like the snow of the finest winters, long and already dragging on the floor. A tender dress, which must have cost well over three hundred euros, and a soft crown of flowers on her hair. A beautiful woman with bright, clear green eyes, shining with her many feelings.
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- I can't wait~!
How could she not be: she's getting married today, after all.
- You're so beautiful, my Rosaline!
A woman stands behind her, styling her hair and checking that her clothes are perfect. With short black hair and eyes the same color as her best friend's, she's 11 centimeters taller than her without losing her cuteness. They look taller than they really are, thanks to their stiletto heels. Rosaline's smile is one that could rival the brilliance of the sun, and her eyes could burst into sweet tears of joy at any moment. However, she's holding them back for now and will let them run down her soft cheeks when the time comes. She has no idea how she'll stand the pressure as she walks the carpet towards her husband, where he'll be waiting to put the ring on her finger. Her family, her friends and her husband's friends will all be watching her during this big moment — no, they will be watching THEM. After all, they've already been married at the commune, but she wants to prove to God and everyone around her her bond of love by doing it in church too.
- I'm sure your husband will think you're beautiful!" said Kiara, her best friend, in a pleasant voice.
- I'm sure of it too!
No sooner had Kiara finished her sentence than a male voice rang out as the door opened. Rosaline recognized her immediately and tried to hide behind Kiara's body, who was stretching her arms to the maximum left and right, frowning.
- Hey, th’husband! You can’t see what your wife looks like yet!" shouts Kiara.
The man places a hand in front of his mouth before turning around, letting out a surprised but also amused 'Oops'.
- I'd forgotten about that," he confesses. Sorry, darling.
- No problem.
Rosaline makes sure she doesn't look at her husband, 'Sam Strife', either: she wants the surprise when she arrives in the church. The woman wants her eyes to sparkle the very moment she lays eyes on him. After all, even though he's a very kind, friendly and gentle man, he rarely dresses with class, so she wants to enjoy the moment. Even at fancy restaurants, he can come in almost ordinary clothes. She doesn't blame him at all, since she doesn't care, but it's because it's rare that she wants to take advantage of it. Even if the husband doesn't enter t h e room, another woman does. With her medium-length chestnut hair and radiant brown eyes, the woman makes no secret of her 'powerful' side: one look is enough to understand that her strength surpasses that of 'average' men.
- I can, me, right?" she asks with a smile.
- Don't spoil anything for me, okay?" drops Sam with a smile.
- Don't worry, I won't tell you! Some guests have already arrived, so go and say hello!
- I'm off!
This authoritative woman needs no introduction to the two inside the room: 'Kelly Berbece', Sam's childhood best friend. A woman with a suave Ferouz accent and hair that never goes past the bottom of her shoulders, muscles in her arms and a bit of pec concealed by her fine clothes, she inspires respect and authority.
- You're so cute, Rosa'!" she says.
- Thank you…
Rosaline blushed: it's rare that Kelly compliments her. She's far from being a mean or even vulgar woman, but she's not the type to congratulate anyone or even flatter the people around her, friends or not. Admittedly, this is a very special day for her best friend and for Rosaline, who is also a dear friend to her, but she wasn't expecting a compliment from him…
- I can't believe my best buddy is finally getting married…
- You say that like he's 40, Kelly," smiles Kiara. We're all still in our twenties, even if we're closing in on thirty a little too fast for my taste.
- Except for me.
A new voice rang out, this time male. Kelly turns, squinting, and sees the man in the suit and tie standing in the corner of the doorway, his back to the doorframe. Although it's thin, he's holding on to it no matter what.
- Already in my thirties, fast approaching my 31st birthday," he says.
Kiara smiled as she looked at him.
- Isn't that our Rampo?
‘Rampo Cention'. Short, neatly coiffed blond hair and piercing blue eyes, slightly taller than the average man in this country, as well as a cow-ring jewel in his nose. His style could just as easily please as disgust people, although his expression and air are clearly due to his desire to pick up women; anyone can understand this by observing him. Kelly sighs when she sees him.
- Is this place one of the wonders of the world, with how everyone is coming here?" she asks.
- I just wanted to congratulate the bride before the ceremony started. You know I'll only be here for the aperitif and the restaurant, as I have to do something quick while you're getting married under your 'famous God'.
Kelly frowns.
- I know you're not religious, but—
- I didn't mean to be rude. I'm glad my buddy's best friend is getting married.
- Thank you," Rosaline says softly.
Is it because of the upcoming wedding or the presence of this man that she feels so awkward? She'd find it hard to say, but she thinks it's both that make her unable to speak more strongly.
- Well, then…
Wrinkling his eyes, Rampo gives a petty smile.
- I hope 'XIII' won't spoil your fun~!
- Rampo!
Kelly yells at her and before they can fight, Kiara comes between them and asks them to calm down.
- He's right, though…
Rosaline lets out these words before looking at herself in the mirror.
- I don't think my darling or I will be targeted. Besides, I trust the police to catch him in time.
Rosaline clenched both fists, a determined look on her face.
- Today is the happiest day of my entire life. I won't let a stupid criminal spoil my joy.
You can almost see Rosaline's emotions creating a wave of warmth around her, so happy and determined is she to have a wonderful day. She doesn't know why 'XIII' chose such a day to commit his crime, especially since she's certain that she and her husband have done nothing to deserve being considered 'society's trash'. Seeing that Rosaline is unperturbed by these words, Rampo lets out a "Tch" before turning around and leaving the room.
- Well, I hope for your sake that all goes well.
Kelly glares at him: Rampo's tone is so ironic that she feels insulted. Kiara asks him to calm down and then tells him she'll have a word with him: after all, Rampo is a friend of hers and the reason he's here.
- Print a fist on his face if you have to!" says Kelly, leaving the room in turn, but going to the other side of the corridor.
Kiara apologizes to Rosaline, who smiles.
- I can finish my hair by myself. Thank you all so much! Anyway, Dad's on his way.
Kiara smiles and closes the door behind her, running after Rampo. The latter has his hands in his pocket, a bored look on his face. Kiara arrives next to him and sighs.
- You really needed to talk to her like that?
Rampo squints.
- You don't give a shit, do you?
Kiara doesn't reply, watching Rampo's smile return to his face.
- When Rosaline and her hubby get a good night's sleep tonight drinking our 'specially prepared champagne', we'll be creating incriminating photos to ruin their perfect lives and earn money from them, so don't act like you don't give a shit about this chick, Kiiiara.
His smile has become a horrible, malicious one that makes the man look ugly. His eyes are crinkled with the toxicity of his heart and stare intently at the woman who opens her mouth—
— but ended up smiling broadly, a totally different look now on her face.
- Eeeh, but it's funny that she thinks I love her like that~!
They looked like two completely different people. Their expressions are horrifying, as if transformed into the kind of inhumanity that no living being should be capable of. The malice in them can be felt and even emanates from their bodies; standing close to them would be very unpleasant. Giggles resound from their dry throats, their irises losing their beautiful clarity to let a veil of darkness settle over them. No one can observe them from there, and so much the better. Who'd want to watch two monsters like them? Or rather—
- …
— two trashes.
Because on the other side of the corridor, a man is watching them with squinted eyes, his gray irises piercing the truth of their hearts. Though in reality…
‘XIII' already knew very well how Kiara and Rampo really are for a few weeks now.
The numerous discussions between guests create a convivial background noise. The families and friends of the bride and groom converse together, the church is slowly but surely filling up. It's nearly 3:30 p.m. and the sun is still shining happily in the sky, letting its rays illuminate this beautiful day. The groom, Sam Strife, is already inside the church with his mother, the priest preparing for the ceremony. A little further on, in the almost full parking lot, a parking lot quietly at the back of the lot. The car's engine stops and its front doors open. A girl steps into the parking lot and takes a good look at the church beyond the stone steps. A man stands next to her after closing the car, imitating his daughter before nodding.
- Let's go," said Gatito.
- Hm," Deshya replies simply.
Dressed in a red and black sweater with white stripes, the hood already on her head and black and orange shoes, the girl walks up to her father's side. She's wearing gray pants and has decided that for once, she's going to wear this sweater: she really likes it. The word 'FOX' is written on both pockets, and unlike her blue sweater, a pull-tab runs through the middle of the garment. Like any sweater she wears, the material on the fox ears of the garment is lighter and clearer, allowing her to hear well despite the garment over her ears. Admittedly, even without it, she could hear well, but since it adds style and is nothing but an advantage, her mother decides to always do it when she designs a sweater. The one she's wearing now is her mom's newest: it was barely made at the end of last school year. Although she doesn't wear it often, it's simply because she loves her other two sweaters so much, and not for any other reason. However, she had missed wearing this one, and finds it has a style that deserves to be worn only for certain occasions... like this one. Her first encounter with XIII, whether it's her last or not, deserves just such a sweater. She feels comfortable inside, and even if it's on the verge of being too big for her, having the sleeves continue down to her hands gives it a cute air she can't help but love. Deshya has always preferred to be considered 'cute' rather than 'beautiful', even though everyone tells her she's both. Well, there are some people who think her style is strange and that wearing a fox sweater makes her just plain weird, nothing more, but Deshya doesn't care what these people think. She climbs the stairs alongside her father, who is dressed in smart clothes.
- Is it really okay to go to a wedding in... an outfit like that?
Deshya asks as she pulls on part of her sweater, addressing her father. The latter replies without turning his gaze towards her, continuing to climb the remaining steps.
- We have no choice, and since we're staying in the background, no one will mind," he admits. The bride and groom, the priest and the police have already been told that you're coming and that you'll be wearing something like this, don't worry.
- Hm, okay…
She fully believes her father, but she can't talk any more than that: the stress of her first meeting with 'XIII' is blocking her throat. Not only is she afraid of not being 'smart' enough to figure out his costume before he even kills, but she's also afraid of disappointing him if she has to figure out the ruse used during the murder. After all, even Minos Kiyon — or Kira Miname, considered the best detective in the whole world — can't stop XIII's murders. When he has several targets in his sights, they may be able to prevent him from killing more than one or two people, but this is not always the case. What's more, if, after a murder, the police decide to send everyone home with close protection, 'XIII' will kill the rest of his victims when he can, so there's little point; such is the dangerousness of this serial killer. A man who seems to be able to do whatever he wants without knowing any limits, having no one in this world who can catch or stop him. It's sad to think, but when you consider that he's been at it all this time, making a mockery of the police, it's hard to be optimistic about him. Some people criticize the police for not being able to catch him, but Deshya knows that people who think like that are just idiots.
- …
Looking at the church, Deshya's first question was: why would 'XIII' kill during such an event? However, she quickly answered herself: he's a criminal. A serial killer. A murderer. Even if he only kills garbage, he's still a horrible man. Why should he care if someone marries? Why should he refuse to kill when there's a wedding going on? Deshya remembers very well that he once raged at birthday parties, even once at a cinema full of children: 'XIII' is a criminal. Deshya must never forget this fact, must never see such a person in a positive light. Maybe he's justifying his bloodlust behind the murder of 'waste', maybe he's really trying to be a vigilante, maybe he's just totally insane, maybe there's something even more incomprehensible in his head. However, even if he says all this to himself, it doesn't change the fact that he's still a murderer. Even if he comes to repent of his crimes, he will never be forgiven by the police or society. The death penalty was abolished on July 10, 1996 in Belium, so if 'XIII' i s finally caught, he'll simply rot in prison for the rest of his life. On the internet, some people are wondering whether 'XIII' won't somehow manage to get out of prison, given how he manages to elude the hands of the police and authorities, but the world government — yes, world — is already prepared for this with a cell that surpasses all others in terms of security. A place built for none other than the greatest criminal the world has ever known, 'XIII'. No one has ever seen this cell, nor knows anything about it, but Deshya understands very well why: if 'XIII' were to know what to expect if he was arrested, it would give him more chance to prepare. Perhaps this is an unnecessary thought if the cell really is the most 'secure in the whole world', but Deshya can only understand their desire to stay within the security zone. If 'XIII' is caught, but manages to escape afterwards, she can't imagine the ruckus it will create all over the world.
- You take care of yourself and try not to stand out too much, okay?
Her father asks her this question as he arrives at the small crowd of guests in front of the church. It's made up of a few members of both the bride and groom's families, as well as one or other of the men chatting away together. Deshya feels like an impostor here, because of her clothes and her lack of connection with the bride and groom. Deshya has no idea who they are, but she remains happy for them: the wedding is a magical moment in her eyes. Admittedly, she's heard many people say that it's precisely at marriage that men show their true nature or that it's the beginning of decline, but she wants to continue believing that this is only for the minority of people or women who choose their husbands badly. Nevertheless, Deshya is too young to say so with confidence, so she never gives her opinion out loud on marriage. The aesthetics please her immensely, however: she can't imagine how happy she'd be to see Tessa in a wedding outfit... even a masculine one, honestly. As Deshya enters the church, she can't help about not ignoring the many eyes on her: some judge her, others are surprised, still others are joyful or almost admiring. The reason is simple: not all the guests know that 'XIII' intends to act today. Some do, at which point they must realize that the girl in the fox sweater is the detective who was challenged by the legendary criminal. They may also know who she is from the "FEDER" hotel affair, since much has been said about her heroic deed. Even though she gained a lot of popularity that day and was often talked about, it calmed down during the week: people change subjects so quickly, it's amazing. Nevertheless, Deshya remains happy with all the messages she has received and continues to acquire. Deshya sits first in the right-hand row. Her father sits next to her, on her left, and observes the church. Rather large, with magnificent stained glass windows, it resembles the image one might have of the interior of a rather normal church, but far from banal. It's quite similar to the place where he and his wife were married a few years earlier, although it's bigger here. He can also see that the hall is ¾ full: with the guests outside, there's hardly any room left.
- It's a good thing the bride and groom agreed to let us come here for free," Deshya says softly, addressing her father.
After accepting the challenge from 'XIII' and discussing it with the Lière police, the station chief in Lière discussed it with the bride and groom, and they accepted. Naturally, they were happy to do so, especially as it seems that Rosaline likes Deshya and has known her since her affair with 'Minos Kiyon', as she is a big fan of his. Deshya can't wait to see what the bride looks like, especially as it seems her dress is one made especially for her. Thinking of Lière, Deshya looks back at her father to ask him the following question:
- It's true I didn't ask, but what's the Lière police force like?
A normal question: even though Deshya knew a lot about detectives, she'd never been too interested in the police in other places. Even before she started solving cases, since the beginning of September, she didn't even know exactly how it worked... Like the different areas, factions and sections, all that... The way the police are written in works of fiction is sometimes different, so Deshya has always had trouble telling the difference from reality. Gatito opens his mouth to reply.
- They're competent, but stricter than Tetazo's police force. That's not to say that Lière surpasses Tetazo, but it's an equally respectable police force with highly skilled detectives, inspectors, agents and members who take their work very seriously.
Deshya blinks before turning her gaze to the right, where a woman stands, a smile on her face. In fact, it was she who had just answered the teenager's question, not letting Deshya's father get a word in edgewise.
- Who... Who are you?" asks Deshya, surprised.
She's a woman with medium-length black hair, a fringe that stops just above her eyes so her view isn't spoiled. The same hair flows upwards or sideways at the end, with a rebellious streak running from the middle of her head. Her blue eyes are mesmerizing, embedded in a face that doesn't lie about the woman's age. She's clearly younger than Annie, but she must be Gatito's age. Deshya can see several earrings on both ears, the one on her lobe a different color than the others. Her clothes are turquoise, and the one on her torso is fastened with a single dark button a little lower than her breasts, which are hidden by a light-blue garment she's wearing underneath her other garment. A simple necklace with a pink heart pendant is attached to her neck, hanging down to the beginning of her ribcage. She is a beautiful, mature woman with a face as friendly as it is authoritative. She turns her gaze to Deshya, keeping her smile in place.
- Forgive my rudeness, I've intruded on your conversation without consent.
She apologizes by bowing her head, but doesn't really move her body. Deshya and Gatito look at her before the woman continues to speak.
- My name is 'Ei Anisato', nice to meet you. It's just a coincidence that we find ourselves next to each other, Deshya, but I'm glad.
- Do you know me?
- If she spoke that way about the Lière police, then…
Gatito thinks out loud and Ei quickly confirms his inner theory:
- I'm a police inspector in Lière. I deal with murders and arsons, but also with 'XIII' cases. That is, when he dares to tarnish our beautiful city with blood, or if another city needs reinforcements.
Deshya doesn't recognize her at a glance, but she totally believes her: when talking about an 'XIII' case, it's often the chosen detective or that police detective who speaks or is seen on TV, not the other police officers or detectives. However, Deshya asks herself the following question, which she decides to drop right away:
- You often work with 'Shinpei Kioru', then...!
A name she can only say with excitement and beaming eyes. Ei notices the enthusiasm of the girl in the fox sweater and chuckles heartily, an amused smile on her face.
- He's got a lot of fans, our Shinpei!" she says, amused. That's right, though. Our fields are the same and it's rare for him to be put on an investigation without me. He should be thanking me!
Her sentence is followed by an almost infectious, feminine laugh. Her eyes closed and a hand in front of her mouth, she seems to be letting her 'cute' side come out at the moment.
- O-Oooh! He's really here today, isn't he?” Deshya asks, stars in her eyes.
- The bride is an acquaintance of his, so he's currently staying with her in case 'XIII' has decided to hide as her father or is in the vicinity," confesses Ei. He'll stay hidden for the duration of the ceremony, but you'll see him sooner or later. We don't know whether 'XIII' intends to act during the ceremony or during the restaurant, or even one and then the other…
Deshya had also thought about it, but she can't believe he'd kill first at the church and then at the restaurant: she's convinced it'll be during one moment or the other. But when? If he's going to disguise himself as someone during the ceremony, it must be a priest or one of the bride and groom, or even one of the people at the front. Simply killing with a pistol isn't his style, and in any case, here he'll be directly noticed. Although 'XIII' is a genius at escaping and could probably get away with even just standing up during the ceremony and shooting someone, he's not the kind of man to want to put on such a... 'boring' show. What's more, he must realize that, despite his uncommon ability to escape, there are limits to what he can and can't do. He can't disappear or teleport either, so a certain limit exists in this world.
He's only human, like the rest of them.
- Also, Deshya.
Ei speaks as she crosses her arms, noticing that soon the ceremony will begin: the last guests arrive in the church to take their seats.
- I know it may be too late, but you can always turn back and go home. You don't need to be here.
- I don't... need to be here..." Deshya repeats, astonished.
- You don't have to deal with a criminal like that. You can simply ignore his letter and enjoy your weekend.
The woman smiles calmly at the end of the sentence and looks at Deshya, her gaze lowered. Gatito looks at her too, wondering what she's going to say to that. Deshya slowly turns her gaze to Ei before squinting.
- But I refuse!
- What?
Ei blinks and Deshya keeps her gaze fixed on her.
- One of my favorite things that I, Deshya Oveja, love to do is to say 'no' to someone who thinks they're strong.
Deshya kept her pose, motionless, the two adults next to her having no idea what to say. Time passes with no response... before Deshya sits up normally again, scratching her cheek and blushing.
- I was able to say it, hihi…
- What are you talking about, Deshya..." sighed her father.
Deshya chuckles before shaking her head, turning to Ei and offering a more serious response.
- I'll face this challenge. Even if I can't stop him from killing anyone, even if I can't stop him, I want to prove to him that choosing me as his detective was a big mistake: because I'm not an opponent to be underestimated.
Ei can't hide her surprise. However, it is not only because what Deshya has just said is surprising, but…
- "I will face... this challenge...".
Ei repeats these words with shock and closes one eye, as if she's just suffered. Gatito asks her if she's all right and Ei smiles again, apologetically.
- Forgive me, the wound on my right thigh... Sometimes it hurts. Don't worry about it.
Deshya wants to ask her what she means by her wound, but her father taps her on the shoulder with his forefinger in front of her mouth, signaling that she must be quiet: the ceremony is about to begin. Deshya nods and remains calm, leaving this question in the corner of her mind, although it's likely she'll soon forget it. Deshya swallows loudly one last time, keeping her calm: at any moment, 'XIII' is acting during the ceremony…
... but fortunately for everyone, that doesn't happen.
To be honest, the ceremony even went perfectly. The bride couldn't contain her tears of joy at the end, which spilled over to her man when they put the rings on. Deshya felt their joy and is certain that they love each other wholeheartedly: how could they be the victims of 'XIII'? He's killed couples and even married people before, but now they seem to be in love made of honey and joy; a sweet man and a sweet woman. Deshya enjoyed the moment, being happy for them while keeping his guard up, but nothing strange happened. They all walked to the restaurant, which was close to a lake and 10 minutes from the church, and walked alongside her father. Ei joined Shinpei Kioru in greeting Gatito and Deshya, asking them to be careful anyway: 'XIII' is a criminal far from being like the others. The teenager promised to do her best, which pleased Ei. However, despite her excitement and self-confidence, Deshya can't help but fear what's about to happen. XIII' hasn't acted during the whole ceremony, which means he'll be on the rampage during the meal, if not before or after. In any case, the reason Ei is with this detective policeman is to prepare herself for what's to come. Deshya also needs to concentrate on finding out what 'XIII's' disguise is as quickly as possible, as she can't allow him to act.
- ‘XIII' isn't just anyone, is he?
Deshya knows this... and that's why she doubts her ability to stop her first murder. Of course, she wants to be confident, but Deshya is still quite 'new' in this field and, in the end, whatever she wants to think, she really is just a teenager with a more 'gifted' than average brain, surpassing that of many adults. However, that doesn't mean she can consider herself on the same level as other geniuses, like 'Ayumi Steel' or 'Minos Kiyon'. She still lacks maturity, experience and other things she herself doesn't know about. ‘XIII' kills his targets more than 99.6% of the time, and she could count on her fingers the number of times his disguise was spotted before he even started killing. He's a gifted serial killer, far too gifted, in fact. She's still unaware of who his victims will be, but she hopes with all her heart that they'll manage to stop him first, however unlikely that may be. Deshya knows full well that having this 'fear' inside her means that 'XIII' has already won part of the confrontation, but Deshya only sees this as 'respect' for her opponent; proof that she really does see him as someone gifted, powerful and above her level. She prefers to be realistic, without telling herself she's going to lose. Deshya will do anything to succeed, even if it means she has to figure out today how to 'XIII' to use her wiles. Gatito glances sharply at his daughter before sighing, watching ahead. He's sure that if his daughter succeeds in impressing 'XIII' today, there'll be no turning back to a normal life... In reality, Gatito thinks the line was crossed long ago... but there had still been a glimmer of hope.
From now on, he'll have to accept that his daughter has entered a complicated world. A world... of murder, business, insecurity…
A detective's world.