The Phantom Thief and The Detective

12 hours before. 8.00 a.m.

On a bright morning, the sounds of various vehicles filled the streets.

Among the tall buildings stood the Police Headquarters, a massive structure equipped with an auditorium capable of accommodating numerous investigators, detectives, and police officers.

At precisely 8 a.m., a special investigation conference concerning the infamous Phantom Thief L.L. commenced.

Seated in the auditorium were the investigators, each of whom would report their findings on the enigmatic thief.

"The crimes of Phantom Thief L.L., also known as Lunar Larcenist, have reached a total of 175 so far."

"Sixty-four of these incidents have occurred in various space colonies across several galaxies, including Andromeda, Canis Majoris, Xylopia, Quandarion, Vulcan, Argon, and Nyx, bringing the number of affected areas to at least 11."

"The total number of stolen jewels has now reached 184, with damages estimated at 69,232,000 federation credits."

"Moreover, L.L. delivered a new advance notice yesterday," stated the Superintendent of the Space Police HQ's 2nd Investigative Division from the central podium.

The announcement left all the investigators in shock.

A large monitor displayed an image of the calling card sent by L.L.

From the maiden of dusk to dawn, comes a revelation.
When the land in the dark is covered by a shining sky.
From the brightest multi-storied building,
I shall call upon you and gracefully accept the moon's tears.

The Magician of tricks and illusion
Phantom Thief L.L.

"The 'moon tears' in the notice refers to the most prized imperial gem owned by Princess Seraphina Luna Allstar. It dates back to the first dynasty of the Lunar Galactic Empire. Princess Seraphina intends to wear it during the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of peace between the Lunar Empire and our federation," continued the Superintendent.

Alfred T. Armstrong then provided more details about the gem.

"According to legends from the Lunar Empire, the gem is a gift from the moon goddess herself. It is said to symbolize the next monarchy and possesses mysterious powers capable of bringing miracles. However, the gem's true power and origin remain shrouded in mystery."

"The gem comes in various forms and colors, but it is always crafted into a necklace by the renowned jeweler known as the Lamperouge family."

"And now, for the riddle's contents... Inspector Gordon Laustsan will explain that" the Superintendent said as he passed the spotlight to Inspector Laustsan.

Inspector Laustsan took his place at the podium to explain L.L.'s calling card.

"Firstly: 'From the maiden of dusk to dawn, comes a revelation.' This refers to the beginning of the myth and legend of the moon tears, where the moon goddess bestows her revelation upon the first monarch on a full moon night by gifting her the moon tears. It indicates that the crime will take place during the night of a full moon," Inspector Laustsan explained.

"The moon on our home planet, the Lunar Galactic Empire, follows the same cycle as our moon on Earth. Hence, tonight is the only night of a full moon during commemorating the 10th anniversary of peace between the Lunar Empire and our federation," he continued.

"Next: 'When the land in the dark is covered by a shining sky.' This also refers to a legend where the first queen of the Lunar Empire prayed to the goddess because their home planet was facing famine and diseases. This may also signify how the Phantom Thief L.L. operates, as he often disrupts electricity during his heists. This could be a signal for the time of the crime, but the meaning of 'shining sky' remains unclear at present," he added.

"The last part: 'From the brightest multi-storied building, I shall call upon you and gracefully accept the moon tears.' This refers to City Hall, where the crime will take place, and signifies the location at which L.L. will reveal himself. In other words, 'During the full moon, I will make an appearance at the ballroom of City Hall to steal the Moon Tears.' That is its meaning!" Inspector Laustsan concluded with a definitive explanation.

After Inspector Laustsan provided his insights, the Superintendent regained control of the conference.

"This will be a joint operation between the First Squad, led by Mr. Armstrong, and the Second Squad, led by Mr. Laustsan. Our goal is to keep the necklace safe by any means necessary. Even if we fail to capture him, so long as the necklace…" The Superintendent paused, trying to hide his concern.

However, Inspector Laustsan swiftly took the microphone from him.

"We will not say something as naive as that! The gem is secondary! Listen, all of you! With our pride and dignity as police officers on the line, capturing that conceited sneak thief and locking him up in a cold, dark prison cell is the absolute... absolute number one priority!"

"Yeah!" cheered everyone in attendance, now more determined than ever to catch L.L.

The air in the auditorium was charged with determination and a sense of duty as the investigators prepared for the night's operation.

The fate of Princess Seraphina's precious gem and the reputation of the police force hung in the balance.

As the conference concluded, Alfred and Mr. Laustsan gathered their respective teams to discuss their strategies.

Alfred's team focused on safeguarding the gem during the event, while Laustsan's team worked on predicting L.L.'s movements and preparing for a possible confrontation.

***

5.00 p.m.

The bustling city of New Luna was a hive of activity in preparation for the highly anticipated activation ceremony of Arc Reactor #1.

The streets were lined with excited citizens and intergalactic tourists who had gathered to witness the historic event.

Polished Knightmares patrolled the city, ensuring security and order.

The majestic City Hall, adorned with grand banners and holographic displays, was the venue for the momentous occasion.

Outside the hall, distinguished guests, dignitaries, and important figures from various planets were seated, eagerly awaiting the arrival of Princess Seraphina Lunar Allstar.

As the time for the ceremony approached, the sound of police sirens echoed through the streets.

Two police officers rode Knightmares, floating bikes commonly used by the United Galactic Federation's law enforcement.

They led a convoy of two black cars in the front and back, escorting a pristine white limousine carrying Princess Seraphina.

The media was in a frenzy as the limousine arrived at City Hall.

Reporters and camera drones swarmed around the vehicle, trying to catch a glimpse of the princess and capture every moment of the event.

"There it is! The limousine carrying Princess Seraphina Lunar Allstar, the First Princess and heir to the throne of the Lunar Galactic Empire, has just arrived. It's heading this way with its entourage as we speak," exclaimed a reporter, excitement evident in his voice.

"We're told that the princess herself will participate in the activation ceremony of the Arc Reactor #1 for the new prototype spacecraft, constructed as a sign of goodwill between U.G.F. and Lunar Galactic Empire," another reporter added, the news spreading like wildfire.

Back in the TV studio, a female moderator was hosting a talk show with three expert scientists.

They discussed the significance of Arc Reactor #1 and its potential impact on intergalactic travel and logistics.

"Research into uncharted areas is still ongoing," one of the scientists explained passionately.

"Once achieved, it will signal the birth of better and faster logistic industries across the universe. As humankind is still spread wide in many galaxies, outposts, and colonies, this technology from the Lunar Galactic Empire will prove an effective means to earn foreign capital and act as an ambassador of peace."

"With the new theories already proven, we should see them put into practice shortly after this ceremony," added another scientist, eyes gleaming with excitement.

Meanwhile, Princess Seraphina, adorned in an elegant gown, gracefully made her way to the stage outside City Hall.

Her regal poise and confidence radiated from her every move, captivating the entire audience.

The guests were mesmerized by her presence, and the air was filled with admiration and respect.

As the activation ceremony commenced, the atmosphere outside City Hall was electric.

The audience held their breath, eagerly anticipating the moment Arc Reactor #1 would come to life.

The prototype spacecraft, a testament to technological advancement, was placed on a platform at the center of the stage.

Alfred positioned strategically in the crowd and kept a watchful eye on the surroundings.

His sharp detective instincts were at the forefront, analyzing every movement and gesture in the vicinity.

He knew that with such a high-profile event, there might be potential risks, especially considering the elusive phantom thief, L.L., was still at large.

The minutes ticked by, and the tension was palpable. The media captured every moment, broadcasting the event live to millions of viewers across the galaxy.

The anticipation reached its peak as Princess Seraphina delivered her speech, expressing her hope for Arc Reactor #1 to form a bridge between mankind among the stars.

As the Princess spoke, Alfred remained vigilant, his eyes darting around, searching for any sign of suspicious activity.

He knew that one wrong move could disrupt the ceremony and endanger everyone present.

He can see the live stream on a giant screen outside a big building on his right.

But there's no need to focus on such broadcast.

Finally, the moment arrived.

The Arc Reactor #1 started to hum with energy, emitting a brilliant white light that illuminated the entire city hall.

The audience gasped in awe at the marvel before them.

Princess Seraphina's activation ceremony concluded on a high note, leaving everyone inspired and hopeful for the bright future that awaited the galaxy.

As the activation ceremony concluded, the city hall was abuzz with excitement and joy.

Princess Seraphina, beaming with pride, received warm applause from the audience.

She gracefully exited the stage and made her way toward Dalton T. Armstrong, the representative from the Galactic Federation.