Furina, Please Let Me Steal Your Heart!

Back at home, Luna removed her mask.

"If only I could stay a little longer, but she'd definitely get angry."

She took out the eyepatch Chevreuse had worn, examining it carefully.

Chevreuse's Eyepatch

Description: This is the eyepatch Chevreuse always wears, made from high-quality materials with good breathability. Although she has many backup eyepatch, this one has been accompanying her for the longest time.

Treasure Rarity: D

Fixed Point Value: 150

What's the standard for something to be considered a treasure? Even a blindfold can be classified as one.

If age could make something a treasure, then wouldn't every part of Furina be valuable?

Perhaps she herself is the greatest treasure of Fontaine?

In terms of rarity, might she qualify for even higher ranks?

Luna sat on her bed, gently caressing the blindfold. Its smooth texture was indeed from top-notch material, and she could faintly detect a halo of delicate fragrance.

But focusing too much on the scent might just turn me into a pervert Phantom Thief.

She glanced at her point counter.

No change. This was to be expected; she hadn't issued any announcement letters.

Without posting an announcement letter, it didn't count as action—it wasn't considered proper Phantom Thief activity—and thus earned her no points.

However, she didn't really see it as a loss. What thief would issue a public notice about their covert "date"?

After all, announcement letters aren't love letters!

"Could I return the treasure and steal it again?" she pondered.

It was indeed a brilliant idea, but it felt too cheap.

Luna placed the eyepatch on her bedside and lay down.

The real prize lay here:

[Pearlescent Harpsichord]

Description: This harpsichord is one of ten special commemorative models crafted by a renowned instrument workshop. Its tone is exquisite, and the materials used barely consider cost—so much so that it has created a body that gleams like a pearl. The only drawback is that, like other harpsichords, it is incredibly delicate; perhaps one could say it's the epitome of harpsichord refinement. It cannot tolerate even a hint of dust.

Furina initially wanted to purchase this one, but because it was pink, she opted for another model instead.

"The Water Archon should shine in a refreshing blue—like me!" Furina declared.

This treasure currently resides in the home of noble Alkien.

Treasure Rarity: A

Base Points: 300

This information was gleaned from Chevreuse's investigation report.

Noble Alkien, on the surface, was a philanthropist who delighted in supporting young musicians with talent but lacking opportunities. Yet, according to the investigation, he appeared to be threatening and even humiliating those who were drawn to him. However, every individual denied these allegations, and without further evidence, the case remained stalled.

However, if she could allow the Special Task Force to thoroughly investigate his home, the results might be different.

And once she sends out the warning letter, they'll have justification to search his house.

"I'm getting quite famous now, aren't I?"

Officials of the Court of Justice will undoubtedly go to any length to capture her.

As long as the Phantom Thief remains free, it's an insult to them.

"It doesn't bother me much."

Nevertheless, with Alkien, a notorious suspect like him, drawing attention, it might attract the "Father's" notice.

At that point, it would turn into a three-way battle between the Phantom Thief, the Special Task Force, and the House of the Hearth.

Despite this, Luna has no choice but to continue.

"Steal a piano, huh...?"

Luna yawned. "It's better than stealing a statue, at least."

Come to think of it, she's already given the Jade Cup and Tears of a Maiden to Chevreuse.

The latter, Tears of a Maiden, Chevreuse probably won't return anytime soon, as she still needs it for her investigation.

But as for the former... What kind of explanation should she prepare?

The next day.

Luna rubbed her eyes, sitting in her chair and picking up a glass of warm milk.

Although she wasn't drinking milk to increase her assets, she did want her B- to become... a bit more perfect.

At least a B+!

Taking a glance at the newspaper:

"Phantom Thief is a Litterbug?!"

"Bwa-ha-ha!"

What kind of nonsense is this?

-

Phantom Thief is a Litterbug?!

According to our reporter, last night, while Captain Chevreuse of the Special Task Force was undergoing personal training, she serendipitously discovered the Jade Cup, which had been stolen by the Phantom Thief White Cat, on the beach.

Why would the Phantom Thief discard a treasure she had stolen? Miss Chevreuse shared her insight:

"She finds joy only in the process and outcome of stealing treasures. Perhaps the treasures themselves hold little value for her."

"The other treasures stolen by the Phantom Thief White Cat may also have been discarded in various places, much like garbage—though of course, I don't mean to disparage these treasures."

"Simply put, for her, treasure equals trash."

Chevreuse's expression remained impassive. "If you are reading this news, Phantom Thief White Cat, please be a responsible and moral person who doesn't litter indiscriminately."

"Of course, if you continue to casually abandon others' belongings, one more offense will be added to your record at your trial."

An accompanying illustration had been included:

Chevreuse pointing.jpg

In response to this, Mike, a five-star crime expert, commented: "She does indeed resemble a cat, losing interest once she's toyed with her prey and delivered the final blow... It's truly ruthless."

The Jade Cup had already been returned to its rightful owner, but the Franglet couple still refused any form of public appearance, claiming they had suffered severe mental trauma, bordering on depression.

"Phantom Thief White Cat, how will you compensate us!?" The Franglet couple attempted to press charges.

"You haven't even caught the person—what could you possibly charge?! Are you going to accuse the air?" An unnamed Melusine from the Palais Mermonia rejected their application for a trial.

This humble writer wholeheartedly urges all readers to refrain from littering. Be a civilized Fontainian—a clean one, as we strive for progress.

-

Luna glanced up with interest. "Is this a revenge ploy?"

True to her word, Chevreuse was indeed a sight to behold.

Why not capitalize on this and write a counterarticle for The Steam Bird? Luna mused. With my current fame, surely someone would be eager to publish my piece.

In fact, they'd probably be lining up for more such explosive material.

And I already know who to enlist—Charlotte, of course.

But that was for another time.

Luna folded the paper and muttered to herself, "Rehearsal at the troupe this morning, Chiori in the afternoon, and reconnaissance in the evening. Let's see... I'll release the notice three days from now."

days from now, your piano will be mine.

"Not half bad, actually," Luna mused. "My life's shaping up quite nicely."

Meanwhile, within the Palace of Mermonia...

Furina blinked, her gaze returning to the newspaper.

"The Phantom Thief White Cat might have lost all her treasures? Wait a second—"

She abruptly slammed her hand on the table, standing up.

"W-What about my portrait? Wasn't she my #1 fan?!"