Death of Pan: Part Three (special preview)

“Very smart,” I remark. “You kept it well preserved from the crime scene. But I suspect it was clean anyways.” I keep my hand on the glove and let it fall away from the blade, which is indeed clean while being pitch black.

“I’ve seen weapons like this. They’re used for Deicide, created from the remains of an Ophiotaurus. A good friend of mine has a collection of these.” I take Ophelia’s clutch and compare sizes. “Where did you get it?”

Ophelia bristles and her mouth hangs open. “You can’t think I did this? Did you see the size of that man?” She points behind me. “I’m half his size, there is no way I could have taken him down!”

I wag my finger before her. “I’m not saying you committed the murder, I am simply asking you where you got this weapon.” I turn my body fully towards Ophelia and Sossy. “Besides, I’m no fool, I know what women are capable of. Just tell me where you found this blade, Ophelia. I know you won’t answer me when I ask you who you gave it to.”

Ophelia’s slim white fingers clench tight over her knees. Her eyes won’t look away from me, won’t barely blink. She just continues to stare at me as I’m sure her mind is rattled with panic inducing thoughts.

Sossy puts her hands over her sister’s then glares up at me. “Our brother gave it to us, and she gave that blade to me.” 

I nod my head to the side. “Ok then, who is your brother?”

Sossy stands up and faces me. “You should leave, Mr. Keres. Just walk away from here and forget everything you have seen. Please, just go away.”

I nod in agreement. “How do you know the victim, Sossy?”

Sossy shoves me and the blade falls to the ground. I stumble, losing my footing and hitting the wall behind me as Sossy charges at me. She grabs me, pushing me harder against the wall as her neck stretches out and her features become much more monstrous than before.