Chapter 86 - Article

Still, one of the main reasons why he brought her out today was so she could relax. Ever since what happened, Setsura seldom leaves the house. She is doing all her work at home too. The incident must have really traumatized her, but all that hard work she put in to fit in with her colleges has gone to waste now. Still, Setsura has not brought up, it's almost as though she is not bothered by it. Being locked up in a house even if it is for one day is enough to drive someone crazy. If anybody survived, Akito already planned for them to see a doctor. The young woman from the Tistella family obediently went. Even somebody as tough as she must have gotten affected.

Akito has carefully watched over her mental state this entire time. But it appeared she was not affected. Maybe she is just good at acting. It was Setsuras first time killing a person, from her reaction in the gardens. Akito expected her to break down, but she didn't. She even comforted him.

The two of them picked out a table and ordered their food. While they waited, he picked up the newspaper that summarized the case for the general public. Since he has been keeping Setsura company, Akito has not seen the articles.

(Random abduction case, 120 victims - 119 dead, 1 Alive

We confirmed the remaining survivor to be the daughter of a wealthy owner of several companies. Natasha Tistella (19). According to her witness report, it was "A nightmare she never wants to go through again." From those words alone, one can only imagine what she went through. We express our greatest concerns on her emotional health and wellbeing. As the only heir of the Tistella family, it would have been a great loss if something happened to her.)

Akito sighed; he was half tempted not to read anymore. He knew the rest of the article would only go on to talk about the Tistella family. So much for consoling the victim's families. Then again, Akito understood this was necessary. The brutality of the case was far too much. If the public and the deceased family learn of what happened, there would be havoc. Touma most likely thought the same, and that's why he ordered the articles to focus on the Tistella family.

If it were any ordinary family, people would surely complain. But the Tistella family has done a lot for the people, despite being a mafia family. Naturally, some will express discontent. So it's somewhat surprising to see the survivor stroll around so easily. His gaze fell on the pair by the boats. Natasha was explaining something while Chauncey was writing notes.

"Of course, the only one who survives is the daughter of an elite person."

"What about our daughters? No mention at all."

"Look, they got a mention; they are included in the count."

"I demand a further explanation. If they are dead, why can't we see their bodies? We need to bury them."

Akito frowned, these people. For a moment, it sounded like they were concerned. However, they ruined it by saying the last lines. No, from the start, they were only thinking of their own selfish ego. By mentioning the elite, they were already digging their own graves. The first thing they mentioned was the elite, not their daughter. Clearly, he was not the only one thinking this.

"Those people.." Setsura mumbled.

This is the perfect time to test her, "What do you think?"

"They did not show any emotion other than anger; normal parents would at least shed a tear. It is normal to be angry, but their grudge is directed towards elite people. They should be angry at the police for failing to save their daughters.."

He raised his eyebrows, "Mm, good continue."

"The words they used, of course. It is highly likely that they expected this outcome. Which makes it sicker - they didn't think their daughters would survive because they aren't elite. So they were prepared for their deaths; this could explain the lack of tears.

Of course, the most obvious thing, by bringing this attention to public, they hope to cause havoc, a riot to break out. Next, they speak about the count. They are not talking about their daughters like they are human beings. To them, their daughters are one of many.

Pay attention to this part, though; normally, people would dismiss the count. This is their daughters they are talking about here, would you really pay attention to the number? It's normal to ask why their names aren't listed. These people expected a list - most likely so they could evoke people's sympathy. Maybe ask for money, too.."

She really is smart; she catches on quickly. Akito noticed when he tested her before how quickly she was able to grasp the key points. "Ask for money?"

Setsura nodded, "Normally when one sees a list. They'd search to see if there is anybody they know. If it is somebody they know, then they'd express their sympathy. The family of the deceased could use this chance to raise money. They could make up a story that their daughters were the ones earning the family income. Now they have nothing.. Honestly, that story may actually be the case for some people. But, you don't see them shamelessly begging."

A look of disgust appeared on Setsura's face. "So, there are people here who scheme and scam innocent people, with no shame, huh?"

"Is it like that in your time too?" Akito could not hide his curiosity. He has not asked her many questions about her time since she got here. He wanted to respect her privacy after all, but he is curious. Curious about the world she came from, the things she saw and learned.

How did she live there? What was she like?

Setsura laughed, "The amount of scheming is ridiculous. That's why you don't have to worry about me. This stuff happens all the time, and while that isn't a good thing. Because it does happen, though, it helps me gain experience how to deal with them."

"Experience, you don't need it. I'll protect you."

"While that's much-appreciated, sir. Eventually, I'll have to learn how to defend myself."

Akito chuckled, "Right, since you're so brave. Shall we have Victor teaches you how to wield that gun?"

"Is that okay? I was planning on secretly asking him...but since you're permitting it."

'Secretly asking?' This girl has become so brave in such a short amount of time. Then again, he supposes it's like her. Since she isn't unfamiliar using a gun. She should know the basics already; it ought to be okay to ask Victor to teach her further. "It's okay."

If she can defend herself, then he doesn't have to worry about Touma.