He saw the kid putting on gloves and preparing to open the chest. Using his tablet, he opened a video email conference line and put in the email address of Cynthia Petrakis. With a very strong Wi-Fi signal, he used his camera to record the kid of the group opening the chest and discovering the amulets inside.
* * *
Meanwhile in the Main Hall of the Metropolitan Museum, Madame Petrakis arrived on the scene with two museum guards behind her. She spotted the Detective Brenson, along with members of her security staff and other NYPD officers in a small group around a table and made her approached. The main hall was the scene of a chaos with the spectators coming in but the police and her guards got the area under control. People were being escorted out politely she observed and was thankful no one has been hurt.
"Detective Brenson," she spoke as she walked to the detective and stopped only two feet from him. "Can you give me an account of what the hell is going on in my museum?"
He turned to the museum owner with a stern look on his face, but saw an angry expression on the face of Madame Petrakis. Although she was beautiful, he knew he did not want to be on the side that would mean the other nature of this woman would be revealed. Most know Madame Petrakis as a kind, giving, firm individual. Very few people know of her darker side and that was not a pretty face to be seen.
"According to our police and your security staff, someone at the main door allowed the crowd inside. At first we thought you may have ordered the crowd inside to share in the event, but upon further observation, we noticed the people rushing in and becoming unruly," the detective reported.
The two security guards, Harris Browne and Michael Dale who were stationed front door approached Madame Petrakis. Harris spoke first. "We didn't want to put this over the radio but Lian Zhou Zhu ordered us to open the doors and then," his voice trailed off. Michael finished Harris' account of the crowd surge.
"Lian disappeared into the crowd. We know she has her radio and perhaps she and whomever she is with were able to avoid the security sweeps in the area," Michael reported, unable to meet Madame Petrakis' eyes. She took in a deep breath and let it out. Around her, order was being restored and the last of the people were leaving the museum. Even the caterers restored their food trays in preparation for the dessert course to be served once the invited guests would make their way back to the main hall.
"One misguided security guard does not make an incompetent bunch nor does it represent how we secure or museum," Madame Petrakis spoke in an emotionless tone. She said this in order to ease the tension of the other security guards around her. Cynthia got the notion that after tonight, she would be firing a great many people for this break in, but the first person she should fire is herself. Had she not ordered additional guards and ramped up surveillance, this break in would not have happened. No, she thought back to conversation with her staff. She decided not to have the Opening Gala event feel like an overly guarded fortress. A welcoming feeling she remembered saying; now she is starting to regret the decision.
"What about our security cameras? It should be an easy task of locating anyone else in the museum that should not belong." Cynthia asked.
The guards shared a look that did not convey good news. Johanna was the one to break the bad news to a not so happy Cynthia Petrakis. "Harker released a code 023. Our surveillance system has been disabled. We do not know how but again, it points to Lian's knowledge of the system. She or her cohorts may have bypassed the cameras."
Again, anger seeped into her being but she kept her composure. She was about to speak when from her purse she felt a buzzing. For a moment she ignored the conversations about the details of the break in as she checked her smartphone. An incoming video call came in from Jerimiah Clarke. Curious as to why he would be sending such a call at a time like this, she tapped the receive button and viewed the message. If Madame Petrakis eyes could open any wider, they would have fallen out of her eye sockets, highly unlikely however.
"Gentlemen," she said sternly. "If you want to get Lian, she is in my closed exhibit, along with her cohorts." Showing her video call to her security guards and to the police detectives, everyone's eyes widened and they sprang into action. William, the guard that escorted Madame Petrakis, immediately got on the radio.
"All guards, converge on the Level 2, Section 35 exhibit-"
"No don't!" three of the guards, Detective Brenson and even Madame Petrakis yelled at the same time.
"If Lian still has her radio, she would have heard the alert and would pass the information to the other thieves," Detective Brenson said in urgency. Detective Holmes directed police officers to block the exits. The other security guards, along with a few police officers ran up the stairs to the exhibit where a robbery was in progress. Hopefully they would be in time to intercept and capture them.
* * *
Lian picked up the radio and heard the guards being ordered to the exhibit they were currently occupied. Jerimiah, still behind the statue and also heard the call. He was thankful the video call got through and Madame Petrakis responded. These thieves would soon be caught and the museum crime spree would come to an end.
"Dammit!" Lian cursed as she listened to her radio. "We have to go now!"
Marco slammed down the lid of the chest and looked to three other men with a mix of worry and anger. "Ok, now we have to make a run for it. We have to avoid capture as well as the use of unnecessary violence. Lian, how do we get out of here?"
"We have to get to the third floor, into the service corridors and then into the basement. From there we can exit into the park garage and disappear into Central Park. The only problem is we have to cross to the west side of the museum," Lian stated as she readied herself to run.
"Why can't we use these corridors on the South side? We are closer are we not?" Samsone asked. The other men looked at Samsone and then to Lian for an answer.
Lian walked up to Samsone, face to face and held up her hand as she explained, closing her fingers as she did so. "Parking lot. People. Police. Caught!" The middle finger was the last finger left exposed.
Marco intervened. "Enough! Lian, lead the way. The rest of us will be behind you. If you are caught, you stay caught!" Everyone nodded and moved with speed into the hallway.
Two security guards spotted them leaving the exhibit and ran toward the group of criminals. "Hold it right there!" One of them shouted. The other guard was on his walkie-talkie to report their situation. He was not able to get in much of a report when Demetrius and Robert set upon the two guards and quickly knocked them to ground. They were not hurt to seriously, but stunned long enough for Marco and his gang to start their flight through the museum.
Lian led them running through the museum at a fast clip. The foot falls of guards and police were not far behind them. They made a mad dash across the second floor and past the lounge, attracting the attention of security guards Marvin and Winston. The first instinct was to pursue these people in the museum as Marvin was about to, but Winston held him back.
"No my friend, we stay here and look after the guests. We call it in," Winston said as he pointed to his partner's radio.
Nodding in agreement, Marvin used his radio and relayed the direction and actions of the intruders. The excitement alerted the guests to something going on and some rose from their seats to see. Winston politely blocked their path and ushered them back into their seats.
"Everyone, please. Whatever is going out there, the safest place for you to be is here. When the excitement has died down, we shall conclude our evening with some dessert."
The guests began to talk amongst themselves as the Channel 6 crew began readying their equipment for additional coverage of the Gala Event at the Metropolitan. The general feeling among the guests was this evening was anything but boring. Everyone shared a particular excitement; all save for Abraham Cromwell, who almost dropped his tea cup when the thieves ran past.
"Damn fools," he said to himself as he pulled out his smartphone and text Ja'Meela:
Cromwell: Bad news.
Ja'Meela: What?
Cromwell: The package will not be delivered tonight!
A long moment of silence attenuated before there was another response.
Ja'Meela: Understood.
Ja'Meela, disappointed and angry, turned the car over and peeled out her parking space so fast, she cut off two cars on the street. A third car skidded, lost control and slammed into a parked car. She did not care about accidents she caused. The fact the heist went south and she will not be benefiting from spoils made her upset. Worse, her benefactor will not be pleased about the night's failure.
* * *
Detective Brenson, Detective Holmes, several police officers and security guards raced through the Metropolitan attempting to cut off the thieves as they fled across the museum. Two of the guards were in the lead as they deduced what would be Lian's escape route. Running up the stairs to the third floor, the pursuing group managed to station themselves in the back corridors of the museum as to cut off any possible escape. Lian, still in the lead, saw the guards ahead of them and turned down another service corridor, the area near the offices that run the museum. Escape was now becoming impossible. Marco knew this as well as he reached for his gun. He did not want to shoot it out in the museum but getting caught was not an option he relished.
"This way," Lian yelled as she made another sharp turn and attempted to double back and try an emergency exit. The men followed closely after her but to no avail. Metropolitan guards blocked off the emergency exit and the police were coming up behind them.
All five of them stopped. Their luck ran out as police officers were coming up behind them. Detective Brenson had his firearm drawn and approached the group cautiously. "All of you, get down on your knees, drop whatever you are carrying and place your hands on top of your head." He paused as more police officers flanked the left and right of him.
Detective Holmes also had his weapon drawn and pointed toward the suspects. "You will be placed under arrest, your rights read to you and then you all will be escorted out of the Metropolitan."
Lian, Marco, Samsone, Robert and Demetrius looked at each other and then at the officers holding handcuffs at the ready. All eyes were on Marco as he nodded and the group did as Detective Brenson ordered and got on their knees. Marco removed the .38 revolver pistol he had tucked in his pocket with two fingers and placed it on the marble floor. Five officers moved in with cuffs and began locking them on the wrists of the assailants. Once they were disarmed and the items removed from their person, Detective Holmes stepped forward in an official capacity.
"I will now read your Miranda rights," Detective Holmes said with no emotion as he removed a card from his pocket. "You have the right to remain silent when questioned. Anything you say or do may be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to consult an attorney before speaking to the police and to have an attorney present during questioning now or in the future. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you before any questioning, if you wish. If you decide to answer any questions now, without an attorney present, you will still have the right to stop answering at any time until you talk to an attorney. Knowing and understanding your rights as I have explained them to you, are you willing to answer my questions without an attorney present?"
Every one of the suspects shook their head in the negative. Marco looked at Samsone, who did not return his gaze, and simply shook his head in disgust. Lian looked as if she was about to cry. Not only did she betray her employer, but her coworkers with whom she has known for many years prior to being placed in the Metropolitan museum. The museums guards present on the third floor looked at her and were themselves disappointed. She heard a few of them whispering and the words traitor, thief, disappointment and low-life reached her ears as her head hung low. Detective Holmes noticed the brown wig Lian was wearing and removed it. She did not flinch or protest as Holmes tossed it to an officer holding the bag Demetrius was carrying.
When everyone was cuffed, Detective Holmes asked, "Can we take these suspects out a back way, since they were heading in that direction?"
"No," Detective Brenson protested with a hand raised. "Take them right out the front door. I want to assure Madame Petrakis that we caught those persons who disrupted tonight's affairs and to show the public the NYPD will not tolerate this behavior." Silence entered the hallway as everyone was a bit stunned at Detective Brenson's proposal.
"We have no problem with that," Johanna spoke for the other guards present. "In fact, it will be our pleasure to escort you out with the detainees." All of the other guards agreed and with no other word spoken on the fact, Detective Brenson and Holmes led the way back downstairs to the main hall where a police van will be arriving shortly to take the criminals to the nearest precinct for booking and processing. The museum guards followed alongside and behind the entourage down into the main hall.
* * *
"I apologize for temporarily imprisoning all of you in this plush video lounge. I wanted to ensure the safety of all of my guests while my security and the New York Police Department rounded up some unruly visitors and some persons who wish to undo all that we have accomplished in the reopening of the Metropolitan Museum," Madame Petrakis spoke to her guests who were in awe of this evening's excitement. "I thank you for cooperating and being calm this evening. I know it is later than we planned to conclude our Gala, but please join me downstairs for dessert. Coffee, tea and water are not enough to end an evening such as this."
The guests showed their approval with a quiet applause. Abraham Cromwell tried very hard not to let his anger show. He put on a false smile and clapped along with the other guests. Cromwell did not relish the conversation he will have later on the night with Ja'Meela. Not that he feared her, but it will be annoying at best. For he had plans for those documents the thieves should have secured. Time will tell if he will be able to get his hands on them before Ja'Meela.
"I think this yet another scoop of a story here. An attempted robbery during the Reopening Gala? I think this would be a great opportunity to get a juicy interview with the madam herself. What do you think guys?" Estelle asked eagerly.
Samantha and Raphael looked at her with stern looks. To them, Estelle seemed to be growing weary of an evening that was devoid of action or at the very least, news worthy events. The disruption in the evening's affairs would definitely make a good news story in light of what should have been a dull museum opening, in Estelle's opinion. Samantha could have sworn she smelled alcohol on her breath. Estelle was starting to get impatient and obstinate; it was definitely time for her to retire for the evening. Before Samantha could say something, Raphael spoke up.
"Estelle, this story is a huge opportunity for all of us. If you keep on wanting to ruin the experience for us, you can walk home and sleep off your drunken stupor." Raphael spoke his piece and did not hesitate to confront the producer of the news team.
"Well pardon me for wanting something of a larger story for all of us," Estelle said in a huff.
You mean for yourself, Samantha thought. Estelle's jealousy was getting the better of her again as the producer relished returning to her investigative reporting that would be the talk of the town. She will find a way to get her big break and one day, write her own ticket to propel her from local news to the national syndicates. Samantha knew if she let her insecurities get the better of her, she will never get out from the shadows.
"How about we talk to the Police, get some information from them first, and then allow Madame Petrakis to make some remarks without any preconceived notions of getting the story," Samantha voiced her opinion. "We already got the story, so let's just ride this out for the evening. My bed is calling me and I am tired of putting it on hold."
Without another word, Samantha, Raphael and finally Estelle gathered up their equipment and with permission of Madame Petrakis, they left the lounge and headed outside to get some information from the police and then get a closing interview with Madame Petrakis. After they left, Madame Petrakis received a call on her phone from Jerimiah Clarke.
"Mr. Clarke. I have to thank you for your assistance in stopping this theft. I don't know how to repay you."
"Well for starters, you can have one of your security guards come and escort me back to your little get together. I fear if I walk out, your people or the police may mistake me for the sixth criminal," Jerimiah requested as he sat at the base of the statue that harbored him from discovery. He wanted to come back at a later time to explore the items in this room more closely. For now, leaving from this exhibit suited him just fine.
Cynthia smiled. "Right away Mr. Clarke." She hung up the phone and asked Tom Tiege to escort Jerimiah from her private exhibit and bring him to the dessert area in the Main Hall.
"Everyone, please follow Mr. Winston downstairs for your nightcap and dessert of the evening. Thank you again for your patience." Madame Petrakis left Winston to escort the guests downstairs as she headed to rendezvous with Detective Brenson and his detail escorting the thieves out of the Metropolitan.
She reached the Main Hall in time to see Detective Brenson, her security people and the contingent of police officers escorting four men and one Asian woman to the main doors. Cynthia recognized the woman as one of her staff and she almost stepped into her path to confront her. Detective Brenson, instead guided Madame Petrakis over the side to speak to her privately.
"From what I am able to gather, they had some exhibit items on their person along with tools they discarded in a trash bin and weapons. Ancient Greek parchment writings were all they have taken. They were able to bypass the security locks on the display cases. I figure one of them or even Lian Zhou Zhu was casing the museum while it was under reconstruction. I will need the names of all the people involved with your staff and reconstruction."
"I can have all that information sent over to you in the morning if you wish," Madame Petrakis said. "Is there any need to question my staff or my guests?"
"No, but I would like to have a list of all your invited guests sent over to my office." Detective Brenson looked outside and he saw a police van pull up as well as spotting the Channel 6 News crew setting up for a report on the attempted burglary. He knew he would have to release a very guarded statement on the night's activities.
"I know, the statement for the press," she looked at Detective Brenson. "The good news is that the people from Channel 6 will not take any cheap shots. I would have to say it's a good choice I made inviting them to the Gala." Cynthia sighed and rubbed her forehead. Frustration was getting to her and she wished this evening was over and she could crawl into bed.
"Don't worry, aside from this incident, you have done a lot for the city and I don't think anyone could have handled this as well as you. All in all this is an evening to remember." Detective Brenson suppressed an urge to be familiar with Madame Petrakis by kissing her on the cheek. He was so attracted to her and he knew she liked him in some way. But now was not the time or the place for such activities. Instead he offered his hand and she extended her own and shook. "Well time to talk to the press and take the trash down to the station. Good night Madame Petrakis."
The detective turned and walked to the curb where the police van pulled up and the suspects were escorted inside. The Channel 6 news group also was there as Samantha was trying to get a statement from the people caught in the attempted robbery of the museum. It was useless as the four men and one woman climbed into the van without saying a word or even looking at the camera. As the door closed Detective Brenson approached Samantha and gave his accounting of the evening.
Cynthia Petrakis has stood nearby waiting her turn with the camera and interview, when the security guard Tom Tiege escorted Jerimiah Clarke out to meet her. On Tom's arm was a white shoal in which he draped over Madame Petrakis shoulders. "It is getting chilly out here Madame Petrakis. None of us wants you getting sick a day after your successful Reopening Gala," Tom said as stepped back and looked at his employer. For an instant she looked innocent and vulnerable, perhaps thinking of how this evening will affect the fund raising and the continued support of the newly reopened Metropolitan Museum of Art. But in that same instant, Cynthia Petrakis stood a bit taller and looked at Tom.
"Thank you Mr. Tiege," she smiled and focused on Jerimiah. "I am glad to see you are okay as well as Mr. Clarke. We owe you a great deal."
Jerimiah shook Madame Pretakis' hand and gripped it gently. "I am glad no one was seriously hurt or anything damaged. If anything, this should net you a few more million dollars from the investors. Culture and action at the Metropolitan Museum of Art! Only in New York!"
Cynthia smiled broadly. She knew he was fishing for something, a grant most likely! He did deserve it as well to be considered on another project she had in mind. She made a firm her decision. "Mr. Clarke, come by the museum tomorrow afternoon and we will discuss your reward in the form of an exploration/excavation grant."
Jerimiah's eyes widened and were filled with excitement. She continued, "But I think we should keep your involvement in this between us. In case the person or persons who paid these criminals to steal from the museum may take an unhealthy interest in you."
"Not to worry, I have a few world leaders and a tribal shaman looking for me," Jerimiah laughed but took her meaning seriously. The police van drove away to the precinct to process the suspects and as a result of the robbery, the police cleared the area around the museum. No one was allowed on the steps or on the surrounding blocks since the former security guard allowed all of those people in. Even the few remaining news crews were told to vacate the area and eventually went back to their respective stations. It was all quiet in front of the museum.
Detective Brenson concluded his interview and then entered an unmarked police car with Detective Holmes. Only the Police Command Van remained behind until the invited guests departed in their cars and left the museum. The additional police officers assigned to the museum detail returned to their duty stations, signed out and retired for the night.
Samantha spotted Madame Petrakis and walked over to her for a final interview. The philanthropist motioned Jerimiah to stand off camera as Cynthia stepped closer to Samantha.
"Madame Petrakis, we heard from the police about an attempted robbery during your opening night gala. Do you care to comment?" Samantha placed the microphone in front of Cynthia and waited for her statement.
"First, I wish to thank my security guards and the NYPD for apprehending the criminals responsible. To my knowledge, no one has been seriously hurt and I am hoping once the police are done with their investigation, justice will be properly served."
"Does the attempted robbery hinder your fundraising efforts?"
"I truly hope not. Because of a few persons who wish to steal something that is meant for all to see and share, it should neither deter anyone from supporting the museum and/or the Noble Petrakis Foundation. The public should also support and visit their museum, which will open at 8:00AM tomorrow morning," Cynthia said while pointing back to the museum.
Samantha smiled and stood closer to Madame Petrakis to finish up. "I for one will be visiting more often and I cannot thank you enough for allowing Channel 6 to cover the Reopening. Thank you Madame Petrakis." Shaking hands with the Cynthia, Samantha concluded her broadcast. "This is Samantha Reid from the newly reopened Metropolitan Museum of Art. Good night New York City."
"And we are done," Raphael said as he took down his camera and looked over to Estelle who wished the final interview was more controversial and impacting. Estelle stared at Samantha for few moments.
"Well that was a good night's work. Now we all should get a good night's sleep." Estelle looked past Samantha at Madame Petrakis and Jerimiah speaking to each other. "For some of us, may get a better night sleep than others."
The insinuation by Estelle prompted Samantha to make no harsh reply but simply stare at her producer walking unsteadily back to the news van. Raphael watched and simply said, "I will drive, and make sure all the equipment is packed away." Estelle didn't care what Raphael was saying. She only wanted to go home and sleep.
As they packed the equipment away and entered the van, Samantha approached Jerimiah and Cynthia. "A moment if you will," she said as she walked with Jerimiah away a few feet away. Cynthia smiled then spoke to Tom Tiege about the status of the museum.
"Listen," Samantha started. "Will you be coming back to my apartment later?"
"Yes," Jerimiah answered.
"Will you be long?"
"No, or I hope not." Samantha looked up at Jerimiah.
"You answered very easily, what is going on?" Samantha waited for an answer which Jerimiah was somewhat reluctant to respond.
"I was in the exhibit hall where the thieves were. I shot the video of them contemplating to take more than what they were contracted to steal. Don't ask me how, but they didn't see or hear me in the room as I safely recorded and sent the video to Cynthia. She thought it best, for safety reasons, not let my name be known publically until we can identify who was behind tonight's heist." Jerimiah gently pulled Samantha closer to his body. "I want to stay for the closing and desserts. Also, I want to see if she will allow me to examine some of the artifacts in the museum that caught the thieves' attention."
"I know you think you are a detective where archaeology is concerned, but you are not a criminal investigator!" She placed her hand on his cheek. "Be careful and come home soon."
She kissed him on his lips briefly and then she entered the front seat of the news van. It drove off down Fifth Avenue and disappeared into the night time traffic of the city. Jerimiah walked back to Madame Petrakis and Tom Tiege.
"So, what is for dessert?" Jerimiah asked.
"Vanilla, chocolate and strawberry ice cream. We ran out of money for all of this and ice cream is all we can afford to serve." Cynthia grinned sheepishly and Tom chuckled. "Seriously, we have an array of desserts including ice cream for all pallets. But after dessert we will be asking everyone to leave as we do a damage assessment of the Metropolitan."
Jerimiah frowned. "I was hoping you would allow me to stay, maybe help you do the assessment. I also wanted to do some research on the items in the exhibit that were taken as well."
"Although I appreciate it, I will have to decline your request. I want to conclude this night and make sure the rest of museum is secure. Another time Mr. Clarke." Cynthia's voice was firm, even though she would have enjoyed having Jerimiah to do some investigative work, but it had been a long evening.
Tom Tiege escorted Madame Petrakis and Jerimiah Clarke back into the museum and into the main hall where all of the guests were sitting down and enjoying the dessert course of the evening. Jerimiah could not begin to count the different desserts being served. He did see ice cream of various flavors on several plates of the guests. He found an empty table and was severed Green Tea Tempura Ice Cream, complete with flambé. As everyone ate their desserts, all with smiles, Madame Petrakis used a wireless microphone to speak to the crowd.
"You haven't been the center of attention in years and now you relish it," the voice from her mind said.
"You have been quiet lately," she spoke back to it.
"Only to see how this evening would turn out. It had everything: Philanthropy, Art and Culture, Action and Adventure. All of that and a mystery to be solved later. It was better than prime time television," the voice said amused.
"I am glad you enjoyed the evening. Now on to the final business at hand." She cleared her throat and spoke to her guests.
"I want to thank all of you for attending this evening's gala. I am sure we all gave this old place a great send off, despite the attempted robbery that has taken place this evening. I want all of you to consider what I have proposed in supporting the Foundation and the museum. The cultural exploits of our human society must always be protected on all fronts for our future generations. Even from those who will try to steal artifacts for their own personal gains."
In response to her little speech, everyone filled the main hall with applause and cheers. Madame Petrakis took in the moment and reveled in it. She achieved a greater success on the evening than first anticipated. She also ensured the continued support of the Noble Petrakis Foundation, which was another goal for the evening.
"The accolades are well deserved, but I think is because of the dessert. They may be expecting more free treats for their donations," the voice chimed in her head.
Ignoring the voice, she continued. "I want to thank all of your for attending. Please drive home safely. Our security guards and the police will see to it you all get out of the lot safely. Good night and God bless."
Again she was met with applause. She made her way through the crowd with many people stopping to shake her hand and offering congratulations. Once through the crowd she headed to the main stairway and spoke with several of her guards.
"Make sure everyone leaves and do a thorough sweep of the museum. Also, find out how our security system was bypassed. There must be some device they left behind. We will analyze it before we hand it over to the police. I will be in my office, report to me when all has been completed." She did not wait for acknowledgement from the guards as she walked up the main stairs and then onto the fourth floor to her office. She needed quiet time to consider everything that had transpired in the evening.
From the Main Hall, Abraham Cromwell watched Madame Petrakis speak to her guards and then ascend the stairs like a queen would after she has retired for the evening. Presently, she was the queen and commanded so much respect that opposing her would not be a good idea. In fact, he would have to report to another woman and discuss the failures of this evening. Blame should not fall upon him; in fact, he provided all of the information necessary to pull off the heist without any hindrance. It was the men and woman hired to do the job that should get the blame. No matter, he stood up, collected his jacket and approached the guards at the front door.
"I wish to leave now," he flatly stated to the two guards in front of the door.
Harris Browne and Michael Dale, the two guards stationed at the front door with Lian Zhou Zhu, watched him with curiosity. Cromwell's posture expressed very little patience for being delayed or detained. With all that transpired in the evening, any further confrontations would not be looked on favorably.
"Of course sir," Harris said as he opened the door for Cromwell.
"You did not come with a vehicle? The way to the carport is over-"
"No I walked," Cromwell said as cutting off Michael. "Good night, gentlemen." Without another word, the old art restorer left abruptly out door and headed north to 82ND Street.
Five minutes later, the other guests began to rise and suggest they wanted to go to their cars. As busy as it was in the beginning of the evening, security began to coordinate the guests' departure in an orderly fashion. A few guards ran out and told the remaining police officers the guests were leaving and in accordance to the agreement for the evening, traffic would be slowed to allow the limousines and other cars to exit and merge with traffic. All of the guards in the museum focused on the front door, parking garage, and the main hall as to not let anyone wander through the Metropolitan.
Jerimiah waited a short while until he spotted the security guard Tom Tiege and approached. "Mr. Tiege. Do you mind if I run really quickly to the Petrakis Exhibit. I think I left my tablet in the room."
Tom shook his head. "I can't do that. We are about to close for the evening and no one is allowed into the museum." He kept one eye on the crowd and one on Jerimiah.
"I understand. However I don't retrieve it, a great deal of information I recorded from tonight, particularly dealing with the robbery, may be lost. I think Madame Petrakis and the police may need it for evidence." Jerimiah hoped he was making a compelling argument to be let back into the museum, despite the fact he had an ulterior motive.
Tom looked around to a few other guards and for him, they could make an allowance. "All right, you have five minutes. You leave by walking out or we will carry you, understood?"
Jerimiah hid his smile. "Yes, Mr. Tiege. I will not be long." He jogged off and headed straight for the exhibit.
From the main hall leading to the garage, the place was abuzz with chatter from the guests as they were making their way down into the garage and then home for most of them, others to hotels in the city. Returning to almost the scene of the crime, he stopped in front of the golem that hid him from the thieves. Jerimiah would make the same plea to the golem again.
"Listen, my friend. I know you hid me from the thieves allowing me to record and send the information to the authorities, in which case they were captured. But I seek your protection again for this evening to hide me from the guards of this museum while continue to study these objects. I will understand if you say no."
Looking inward to his feelings, Jerimiah felt a calming and even an inviting presence. A closer examination of this golem, as well as the others was definitely warranted. Of course he could ask Madame Petrakis for the time to examine them with no interruption from the public in the off hours, but his curiosity overrode his logic. Besides, he wanted to see those amulets again in the bronze chest.
The sounds from the main hall were dying down. All of the guests were nearly gone and soon the museum would only have the guards remain on patrol. Soon after, there would be no one inside. He wondered about his exit from the Metropolitan without tripping the alarms. He hoped he the strange power that shielded him from the thieves would grant him a safe passage of the museum. Jerimiah sat down behind the golem and waited. Hopefully, due to the evening's excitement and the departure of the guests, Tom Tiege and the other guards would forget about him and assume he left for the evening. Crossing his fingers, Jerimiah waited patiently for silence and stillness to claim the museum.
He saw the kid putting on gloves and preparing to open the chest. Using his tablet, he opened a video email conference line and put in the email address of Cynthia Petrakis. With a very strong Wi-Fi signal, he used his camera to record the kid of the group opening the chest and discovering the amulets inside.
* * *
Meanwhile in the Main Hall of the Metropolitan Museum, Madame Petrakis arrived on the scene with two museum guards behind her. She spotted the Detective Brenson, along with members of her security staff and other NYPD officers in a small group around a table and made her approached. The main hall was the scene of a chaos with the spectators coming in but the police and her guards got the area under control. People were being escorted out politely she observed and was thankful no one has been hurt.
"Detective Brenson," she spoke as she walked to the detective and stopped only two feet from him. "Can you give me an account of what the hell is going on in my museum?"
He turned to the museum owner with a stern look on his face, but saw an angry expression on the face of Madame Petrakis. Although she was beautiful, he knew he did not want to be on the side that would mean the other nature of this woman would be revealed. Most know Madame Petrakis as a kind, giving, firm individual. Very few people know of her darker side and that was not a pretty face to be seen.
"According to our police and your security staff, someone at the main door allowed the crowd inside. At first we thought you may have ordered the crowd inside to share in the event, but upon further observation, we noticed the people rushing in and becoming unruly," the detective reported.
The two security guards, Harris Browne and Michael Dale who were stationed front door approached Madame Petrakis. Harris spoke first. "We didn't want to put this over the radio but Lian Zhou Zhu ordered us to open the doors and then," his voice trailed off. Michael finished Harris' account of the crowd surge.
"Lian disappeared into the crowd. We know she has her radio and perhaps she and whomever she is with were able to avoid the security sweeps in the area," Michael reported, unable to meet Madame Petrakis' eyes. She took in a deep breath and let it out. Around her, order was being restored and the last of the people were leaving the museum. Even the caterers restored their food trays in preparation for the dessert course to be served once the invited guests would make their way back to the main hall.
"One misguided security guard does not make an incompetent bunch nor does it represent how we secure or museum," Madame Petrakis spoke in an emotionless tone. She said this in order to ease the tension of the other security guards around her. Cynthia got the notion that after tonight, she would be firing a great many people for this break in, but the first person she should fire is herself. Had she not ordered additional guards and ramped up surveillance, this break in would not have happened. No, she thought back to conversation with her staff. She decided not to have the Opening Gala event feel like an overly guarded fortress. A welcoming feeling she remembered saying; now she is starting to regret the decision.
"What about our security cameras? It should be an easy task of locating anyone else in the museum that should not belong." Cynthia asked.
The guards shared a look that did not convey good news. Johanna was the one to break the bad news to a not so happy Cynthia Petrakis. "Harker released a code 023. Our surveillance system has been disabled. We do not know how but again, it points to Lian's knowledge of the system. She or her cohorts may have bypassed the cameras."
Again, anger seeped into her being but she kept her composure. She was about to speak when from her purse she felt a buzzing. For a moment she ignored the conversations about the details of the break in as she checked her smartphone. An incoming video call came in from Jerimiah Clarke. Curious as to why he would be sending such a call at a time like this, she tapped the receive button and viewed the message. If Madame Petrakis eyes could open any wider, they would have fallen out of her eye sockets, highly unlikely however.
"Gentlemen," she said sternly. "If you want to get Lian, she is in my closed exhibit, along with her cohorts." Showing her video call to her security guards and to the police detectives, everyone's eyes widened and they sprang into action. William, the guard that escorted Madame Petrakis, immediately got on the radio.
"All guards, converge on the Level 2, Section 35 exhibit-"
"No don't!" three of the guards, Detective Brenson and even Madame Petrakis yelled at the same time.
"If Lian still has her radio, she would have heard the alert and would pass the information to the other thieves," Detective Brenson said in urgency. Detective Holmes directed police officers to block the exits. The other security guards, along with a few police officers ran up the stairs to the exhibit where a robbery was in progress. Hopefully they would be in time to intercept and capture them.
* * *
Lian picked up the radio and heard the guards being ordered to the exhibit they were currently occupied. Jerimiah, still behind the statue and also heard the call. He was thankful the video call got through and Madame Petrakis responded. These thieves would soon be caught and the museum crime spree would come to an end.
"Dammit!" Lian cursed as she listened to her radio. "We have to go now!"
Marco slammed down the lid of the chest and looked to three other men with a mix of worry and anger. "Ok, now we have to make a run for it. We have to avoid capture as well as the use of unnecessary violence. Lian, how do we get out of here?"
"We have to get to the third floor, into the service corridors and then into the basement. From there we can exit into the park garage and disappear into Central Park. The only problem is we have to cross to the west side of the museum," Lian stated as she readied herself to run.
"Why can't we use these corridors on the South side? We are closer are we not?" Samsone asked. The other men looked at Samsone and then to Lian for an answer.
Lian walked up to Samsone, face to face and held up her hand as she explained, closing her fingers as she did so. "Parking lot. People. Police. Caught!" The middle finger was the last finger left exposed.
Marco intervened. "Enough! Lian, lead the way. The rest of us will be behind you. If you are caught, you stay caught!" Everyone nodded and moved with speed into the hallway.
Two security guards spotted them leaving the exhibit and ran toward the group of criminals. "Hold it right there!" One of them shouted. The other guard was on his walkie-talkie to report their situation. He was not able to get in much of a report when Demetrius and Robert set upon the two guards and quickly knocked them to ground. They were not hurt to seriously, but stunned long enough for Marco and his gang to start their flight through the museum.
Lian led them running through the museum at a fast clip. The foot falls of guards and police were not far behind them. They made a mad dash across the second floor and past the lounge, attracting the attention of security guards Marvin and Winston. The first instinct was to pursue these people in the museum as Marvin was about to, but Winston held him back.
"No my friend, we stay here and look after the guests. We call it in," Winston said as he pointed to his partner's radio.
Nodding in agreement, Marvin used his radio and relayed the direction and actions of the intruders. The excitement alerted the guests to something going on and some rose from their seats to see. Winston politely blocked their path and ushered them back into their seats.
"Everyone, please. Whatever is going out there, the safest place for you to be is here. When the excitement has died down, we shall conclude our evening with some dessert."
The guests began to talk amongst themselves as the Channel 6 crew began readying their equipment for additional coverage of the Gala Event at the Metropolitan. The general feeling among the guests was this evening was anything but boring. Everyone shared a particular excitement; all save for Abraham Cromwell, who almost dropped his tea cup when the thieves ran past.
"Damn fools," he said to himself as he pulled out his smartphone and text Ja'Meela:
Cromwell: Bad news.
Ja'Meela: What?
Cromwell: The package will not be delivered tonight!
A long moment of silence attenuated before there was another response.
Ja'Meela: Understood.
Ja'Meela, disappointed and angry, turned the car over and peeled out her parking space so fast, she cut off two cars on the street. A third car skidded, lost control and slammed into a parked car. She did not care about accidents she caused. The fact the heist went south and she will not be benefiting from spoils made her upset. Worse, her benefactor will not be pleased about the night's failure.
* * *
Detective Brenson, Detective Holmes, several police officers and security guards raced through the Metropolitan attempting to cut off the thieves as they fled across the museum. Two of the guards were in the lead as they deduced what would be Lian's escape route. Running up the stairs to the third floor, the pursuing group managed to station themselves in the back corridors of the museum as to cut off any possible escape. Lian, still in the lead, saw the guards ahead of them and turned down another service corridor, the area near the offices that run the museum. Escape was now becoming impossible. Marco knew this as well as he reached for his gun. He did not want to shoot it out in the museum but getting caught was not an option he relished.
"This way," Lian yelled as she made another sharp turn and attempted to double back and try an emergency exit. The men followed closely after her but to no avail. Metropolitan guards blocked off the emergency exit and the police were coming up behind them.
All five of them stopped. Their luck ran out as police officers were coming up behind them. Detective Brenson had his firearm drawn and approached the group cautiously. "All of you, get down on your knees, drop whatever you are carrying and place your hands on top of your head." He paused as more police officers flanked the left and right of him.
Detective Holmes also had his weapon drawn and pointed toward the suspects. "You will be placed under arrest, your rights read to you and then you all will be escorted out of the Metropolitan."
Lian, Marco, Samsone, Robert and Demetrius looked at each other and then at the officers holding handcuffs at the ready. All eyes were on Marco as he nodded and the group did as Detective Brenson ordered and got on their knees. Marco removed the .38 revolver pistol he had tucked in his pocket with two fingers and placed it on the marble floor. Five officers moved in with cuffs and began locking them on the wrists of the assailants. Once they were disarmed and the items removed from their person, Detective Holmes stepped forward in an official capacity.
"I will now read your Miranda rights," Detective Holmes said with no emotion as he removed a card from his pocket. "You have the right to remain silent when questioned. Anything you say or do may be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to consult an attorney before speaking to the police and to have an attorney present during questioning now or in the future. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you before any questioning, if you wish. If you decide to answer any questions now, without an attorney present, you will still have the right to stop answering at any time until you talk to an attorney. Knowing and understanding your rights as I have explained them to you, are you willing to answer my questions without an attorney present?"
Every one of the suspects shook their head in the negative. Marco looked at Samsone, who did not return his gaze, and simply shook his head in disgust. Lian looked as if she was about to cry. Not only did she betray her employer, but her coworkers with whom she has known for many years prior to being placed in the Metropolitan museum. The museums guards present on the third floor looked at her and were themselves disappointed. She heard a few of them whispering and the words traitor, thief, disappointment and low-life reached her ears as her head hung low. Detective Holmes noticed the brown wig Lian was wearing and removed it. She did not flinch or protest as Holmes tossed it to an officer holding the bag Demetrius was carrying.
When everyone was cuffed, Detective Holmes asked, "Can we take these suspects out a back way, since they were heading in that direction?"
"No," Detective Brenson protested with a hand raised. "Take them right out the front door. I want to assure Madame Petrakis that we caught those persons who disrupted tonight's affairs and to show the public the NYPD will not tolerate this behavior." Silence entered the hallway as everyone was a bit stunned at Detective Brenson's proposal.
"We have no problem with that," Johanna spoke for the other guards present. "In fact, it will be our pleasure to escort you out with the detainees." All of the other guards agreed and with no other word spoken on the fact, Detective Brenson and Holmes led the way back downstairs to the main hall where a police van will be arriving shortly to take the criminals to the nearest precinct for booking and processing. The museum guards followed alongside and behind the entourage down into the main hall.
* * *
"I apologize for temporarily imprisoning all of you in this plush video lounge. I wanted to ensure the safety of all of my guests while my security and the New York Police Department rounded up some unruly visitors and some persons who wish to undo all that we have accomplished in the reopening of the Metropolitan Museum," Madame Petrakis spoke to her guests who were in awe of this evening's excitement. "I thank you for cooperating and being calm this evening. I know it is later than we planned to conclude our Gala, but please join me downstairs for dessert. Coffee, tea and water are not enough to end an evening such as this."
The guests showed their approval with a quiet applause. Abraham Cromwell tried very hard not to let his anger show. He put on a false smile and clapped along with the other guests. Cromwell did not relish the conversation he will have later on the night with Ja'Meela. Not that he feared her, but it will be annoying at best. For he had plans for those documents the thieves should have secured. Time will tell if he will be able to get his hands on them before Ja'Meela.
"I think this yet another scoop of a story here. An attempted robbery during the Reopening Gala? I think this would be a great opportunity to get a juicy interview with the madam herself. What do you think guys?" Estelle asked eagerly.
Samantha and Raphael looked at her with stern looks. To them, Estelle seemed to be growing weary of an evening that was devoid of action or at the very least, news worthy events. The disruption in the evening's affairs would definitely make a good news story in light of what should have been a dull museum opening, in Estelle's opinion. Samantha could have sworn she smelled alcohol on her breath. Estelle was starting to get impatient and obstinate; it was definitely time for her to retire for the evening. Before Samantha could say something, Raphael spoke up.
"Estelle, this story is a huge opportunity for all of us. If you keep on wanting to ruin the experience for us, you can walk home and sleep off your drunken stupor." Raphael spoke his piece and did not hesitate to confront the producer of the news team.
"Well pardon me for wanting something of a larger story for all of us," Estelle said in a huff.
You mean for yourself, Samantha thought. Estelle's jealousy was getting the better of her again as the producer relished returning to her investigative reporting that would be the talk of the town. She will find a way to get her big break and one day, write her own ticket to propel her from local news to the national syndicates. Samantha knew if she let her insecurities get the better of her, she will never get out from the shadows.
"How about we talk to the Police, get some information from them first, and then allow Madame Petrakis to make some remarks without any preconceived notions of getting the story," Samantha voiced her opinion. "We already got the story, so let's just ride this out for the evening. My bed is calling me and I am tired of putting it on hold."
Without another word, Samantha, Raphael and finally Estelle gathered up their equipment and with permission of Madame Petrakis, they left the lounge and headed outside to get some information from the police and then get a closing interview with Madame Petrakis. After they left, Madame Petrakis received a call on her phone from Jerimiah Clarke.
"Mr. Clarke. I have to thank you for your assistance in stopping this theft. I don't know how to repay you."
"Well for starters, you can have one of your security guards come and escort me back to your little get together. I fear if I walk out, your people or the police may mistake me for the sixth criminal," Jerimiah requested as he sat at the base of the statue that harbored him from discovery. He wanted to come back at a later time to explore the items in this room more closely. For now, leaving from this exhibit suited him just fine.
Cynthia smiled. "Right away Mr. Clarke." She hung up the phone and asked Tom Tiege to escort Jerimiah from her private exhibit and bring him to the dessert area in the Main Hall.
"Everyone, please follow Mr. Winston downstairs for your nightcap and dessert of the evening. Thank you again for your patience." Madame Petrakis left Winston to escort the guests downstairs as she headed to rendezvous with Detective Brenson and his detail escorting the thieves out of the Metropolitan.
She reached the Main Hall in time to see Detective Brenson, her security people and the contingent of police officers escorting four men and one Asian woman to the main doors. Cynthia recognized the woman as one of her staff and she almost stepped into her path to confront her. Detective Brenson, instead guided Madame Petrakis over the side to speak to her privately.
"From what I am able to gather, they had some exhibit items on their person along with tools they discarded in a trash bin and weapons. Ancient Greek parchment writings were all they have taken. They were able to bypass the security locks on the display cases. I figure one of them or even Lian Zhou Zhu was casing the museum while it was under reconstruction. I will need the names of all the people involved with your staff and reconstruction."
"I can have all that information sent over to you in the morning if you wish," Madame Petrakis said. "Is there any need to question my staff or my guests?"
"No, but I would like to have a list of all your invited guests sent over to my office." Detective Brenson looked outside and he saw a police van pull up as well as spotting the Channel 6 News crew setting up for a report on the attempted burglary. He knew he would have to release a very guarded statement on the night's activities.
"I know, the statement for the press," she looked at Detective Brenson. "The good news is that the people from Channel 6 will not take any cheap shots. I would have to say it's a good choice I made inviting them to the Gala." Cynthia sighed and rubbed her forehead. Frustration was getting to her and she wished this evening was over and she could crawl into bed.
"Don't worry, aside from this incident, you have done a lot for the city and I don't think anyone could have handled this as well as you. All in all this is an evening to remember." Detective Brenson suppressed an urge to be familiar with Madame Petrakis by kissing her on the cheek. He was so attracted to her and he knew she liked him in some way. But now was not the time or the place for such activities. Instead he offered his hand and she extended her own and shook. "Well time to talk to the press and take the trash down to the station. Good night Madame Petrakis."
The detective turned and walked to the curb where the police van pulled up and the suspects were escorted inside. The Channel 6 news group also was there as Samantha was trying to get a statement from the people caught in the attempted robbery of the museum. It was useless as the four men and one woman climbed into the van without saying a word or even looking at the camera. As the door closed Detective Brenson approached Samantha and gave his accounting of the evening.
Cynthia Petrakis has stood nearby waiting her turn with the camera and interview, when the security guard Tom Tiege escorted Jerimiah Clarke out to meet her. On Tom's arm was a white shoal in which he draped over Madame Petrakis shoulders. "It is getting chilly out here Madame Petrakis. None of us wants you getting sick a day after your successful Reopening Gala," Tom said as stepped back and looked at his employer. For an instant she looked innocent and vulnerable, perhaps thinking of how this evening will affect the fund raising and the continued support of the newly reopened Metropolitan Museum of Art. But in that same instant, Cynthia Petrakis stood a bit taller and looked at Tom.
"Thank you Mr. Tiege," she smiled and focused on Jerimiah. "I am glad to see you are okay as well as Mr. Clarke. We owe you a great deal."
Jerimiah shook Madame Pretakis' hand and gripped it gently. "I am glad no one was seriously hurt or anything damaged. If anything, this should net you a few more million dollars from the investors. Culture and action at the Metropolitan Museum of Art! Only in New York!"
Cynthia smiled broadly. She knew he was fishing for something, a grant most likely! He did deserve it as well to be considered on another project she had in mind. She made a firm her decision. "Mr. Clarke, come by the museum tomorrow afternoon and we will discuss your reward in the form of an exploration/excavation grant."
Jerimiah's eyes widened and were filled with excitement. She continued, "But I think we should keep your involvement in this between us. In case the person or persons who paid these criminals to steal from the museum may take an unhealthy interest in you."
"Not to worry, I have a few world leaders and a tribal shaman looking for me," Jerimiah laughed but took her meaning seriously. The police van drove away to the precinct to process the suspects and as a result of the robbery, the police cleared the area around the museum. No one was allowed on the steps or on the surrounding blocks since the former security guard allowed all of those people in. Even the few remaining news crews were told to vacate the area and eventually went back to their respective stations. It was all quiet in front of the museum.
Detective Brenson concluded his interview and then entered an unmarked police car with Detective Holmes. Only the Police Command Van remained behind until the invited guests departed in their cars and left the museum. The additional police officers assigned to the museum detail returned to their duty stations, signed out and retired for the night.
Samantha spotted Madame Petrakis and walked over to her for a final interview. The philanthropist motioned Jerimiah to stand off camera as Cynthia stepped closer to Samantha.
"Madame Petrakis, we heard from the police about an attempted robbery during your opening night gala. Do you care to comment?" Samantha placed the microphone in front of Cynthia and waited for her statement.
"First, I wish to thank my security guards and the NYPD for apprehending the criminals responsible. To my knowledge, no one has been seriously hurt and I am hoping once the police are done with their investigation, justice will be properly served."
"Does the attempted robbery hinder your fundraising efforts?"
"I truly hope not. Because of a few persons who wish to steal something that is meant for all to see and share, it should neither deter anyone from supporting the museum and/or the Noble Petrakis Foundation. The public should also support and visit their museum, which will open at 8:00AM tomorrow morning," Cynthia said while pointing back to the museum.
Samantha smiled and stood closer to Madame Petrakis to finish up. "I for one will be visiting more often and I cannot thank you enough for allowing Channel 6 to cover the Reopening. Thank you Madame Petrakis." Shaking hands with the Cynthia, Samantha concluded her broadcast. "This is Samantha Reid from the newly reopened Metropolitan Museum of Art. Good night New York City."
"And we are done," Raphael said as he took down his camera and looked over to Estelle who wished the final interview was more controversial and impacting. Estelle stared at Samantha for few moments.
"Well that was a good night's work. Now we all should get a good night's sleep." Estelle looked past Samantha at Madame Petrakis and Jerimiah speaking to each other. "For some of us, may get a better night sleep than others."
The insinuation by Estelle prompted Samantha to make no harsh reply but simply stare at her producer walking unsteadily back to the news van. Raphael watched and simply said, "I will drive, and make sure all the equipment is packed away." Estelle didn't care what Raphael was saying. She only wanted to go home and sleep.
As they packed the equipment away and entered the van, Samantha approached Jerimiah and Cynthia. "A moment if you will," she said as she walked with Jerimiah away a few feet away. Cynthia smiled then spoke to Tom Tiege about the status of the museum.
"Listen," Samantha started. "Will you be coming back to my apartment later?"
"Yes," Jerimiah answered.
"Will you be long?"
"No, or I hope not." Samantha looked up at Jerimiah.
"You answered very easily, what is going on?" Samantha waited for an answer which Jerimiah was somewhat reluctant to respond.
"I was in the exhibit hall where the thieves were. I shot the video of them contemplating to take more than what they were contracted to steal. Don't ask me how, but they didn't see or hear me in the room as I safely recorded and sent the video to Cynthia. She thought it best, for safety reasons, not let my name be known publically until we can identify who was behind tonight's heist." Jerimiah gently pulled Samantha closer to his body. "I want to stay for the closing and desserts. Also, I want to see if she will allow me to examine some of the artifacts in the museum that caught the thieves' attention."
"I know you think you are a detective where archaeology is concerned, but you are not a criminal investigator!" She placed her hand on his cheek. "Be careful and come home soon."
She kissed him on his lips briefly and then she entered the front seat of the news van. It drove off down Fifth Avenue and disappeared into the night time traffic of the city. Jerimiah walked back to Madame Petrakis and Tom Tiege.
"So, what is for dessert?" Jerimiah asked.
"Vanilla, chocolate and strawberry ice cream. We ran out of money for all of this and ice cream is all we can afford to serve." Cynthia grinned sheepishly and Tom chuckled. "Seriously, we have an array of desserts including ice cream for all pallets. But after dessert we will be asking everyone to leave as we do a damage assessment of the Metropolitan."
Jerimiah frowned. "I was hoping you would allow me to stay, maybe help you do the assessment. I also wanted to do some research on the items in the exhibit that were taken as well."
"Although I appreciate it, I will have to decline your request. I want to conclude this night and make sure the rest of museum is secure. Another time Mr. Clarke." Cynthia's voice was firm, even though she would have enjoyed having Jerimiah to do some investigative work, but it had been a long evening.
Tom Tiege escorted Madame Petrakis and Jerimiah Clarke back into the museum and into the main hall where all of the guests were sitting down and enjoying the dessert course of the evening. Jerimiah could not begin to count the different desserts being served. He did see ice cream of various flavors on several plates of the guests. He found an empty table and was severed Green Tea Tempura Ice Cream, complete with flambé. As everyone ate their desserts, all with smiles, Madame Petrakis used a wireless microphone to speak to the crowd.
"You haven't been the center of attention in years and now you relish it," the voice from her mind said.
"You have been quiet lately," she spoke back to it.
"Only to see how this evening would turn out. It had everything: Philanthropy, Art and Culture, Action and Adventure. All of that and a mystery to be solved later. It was better than prime time television," the voice said amused.
"I am glad you enjoyed the evening. Now on to the final business at hand." She cleared her throat and spoke to her guests.
"I want to thank all of you for attending this evening's gala. I am sure we all gave this old place a great send off, despite the attempted robbery that has taken place this evening. I want all of you to consider what I have proposed in supporting the Foundation and the museum. The cultural exploits of our human society must always be protected on all fronts for our future generations. Even from those who will try to steal artifacts for their own personal gains."
In response to her little speech, everyone filled the main hall with applause and cheers. Madame Petrakis took in the moment and reveled in it. She achieved a greater success on the evening than first anticipated. She also ensured the continued support of the Noble Petrakis Foundation, which was another goal for the evening.
"The accolades are well deserved, but I think is because of the dessert. They may be expecting more free treats for their donations," the voice chimed in her head.
Ignoring the voice, she continued. "I want to thank all of your for attending. Please drive home safely. Our security guards and the police will see to it you all get out of the lot safely. Good night and God bless."
Again she was met with applause. She made her way through the crowd with many people stopping to shake her hand and offering congratulations. Once through the crowd she headed to the main stairway and spoke with several of her guards.
"Make sure everyone leaves and do a thorough sweep of the museum. Also, find out how our security system was bypassed. There must be some device they left behind. We will analyze it before we hand it over to the police. I will be in my office, report to me when all has been completed." She did not wait for acknowledgement from the guards as she walked up the main stairs and then onto the fourth floor to her office. She needed quiet time to consider everything that had transpired in the evening.
From the Main Hall, Abraham Cromwell watched Madame Petrakis speak to her guards and then ascend the stairs like a queen would after she has retired for the evening. Presently, she was the queen and commanded so much respect that opposing her would not be a good idea. In fact, he would have to report to another woman and discuss the failures of this evening. Blame should not fall upon him; in fact, he provided all of the information necessary to pull off the heist without any hindrance. It was the men and woman hired to do the job that should get the blame. No matter, he stood up, collected his jacket and approached the guards at the front door.
"I wish to leave now," he flatly stated to the two guards in front of the door.
Harris Browne and Michael Dale, the two guards stationed at the front door with Lian Zhou Zhu, watched him with curiosity. Cromwell's posture expressed very little patience for being delayed or detained. With all that transpired in the evening, any further confrontations would not be looked on favorably.
"Of course sir," Harris said as he opened the door for Cromwell.
"You did not come with a vehicle? The way to the carport is over-"
"No I walked," Cromwell said as cutting off Michael. "Good night, gentlemen." Without another word, the old art restorer left abruptly out door and headed north to 82ND Street.
Five minutes later, the other guests began to rise and suggest they wanted to go to their cars. As busy as it was in the beginning of the evening, security began to coordinate the guests' departure in an orderly fashion. A few guards ran out and told the remaining police officers the guests were leaving and in accordance to the agreement for the evening, traffic would be slowed to allow the limousines and other cars to exit and merge with traffic. All of the guards in the museum focused on the front door, parking garage, and the main hall as to not let anyone wander through the Metropolitan.
Jerimiah waited a short while until he spotted the security guard Tom Tiege and approached. "Mr. Tiege. Do you mind if I run really quickly to the Petrakis Exhibit. I think I left my tablet in the room."
Tom shook his head. "I can't do that. We are about to close for the evening and no one is allowed into the museum." He kept one eye on the crowd and one on Jerimiah.
"I understand. However I don't retrieve it, a great deal of information I recorded from tonight, particularly dealing with the robbery, may be lost. I think Madame Petrakis and the police may need it for evidence." Jerimiah hoped he was making a compelling argument to be let back into the museum, despite the fact he had an ulterior motive.
Tom looked around to a few other guards and for him, they could make an allowance. "All right, you have five minutes. You leave by walking out or we will carry you, understood?"
Jerimiah hid his smile. "Yes, Mr. Tiege. I will not be long." He jogged off and headed straight for the exhibit.
From the main hall leading to the garage, the place was abuzz with chatter from the guests as they were making their way down into the garage and then home for most of them, others to hotels in the city. Returning to almost the scene of the crime, he stopped in front of the golem that hid him from the thieves. Jerimiah would make the same plea to the golem again.
"Listen, my friend. I know you hid me from the thieves allowing me to record and send the information to the authorities, in which case they were captured. But I seek your protection again for this evening to hide me from the guards of this museum while continue to study these objects. I will understand if you say no."
Looking inward to his feelings, Jerimiah felt a calming and even an inviting presence. A closer examination of this golem, as well as the others was definitely warranted. Of course he could ask Madame Petrakis for the time to examine them with no interruption from the public in the off hours, but his curiosity overrode his logic. Besides, he wanted to see those amulets again in the bronze chest.
The sounds from the main hall were dying down. All of the guests were nearly gone and soon the museum would only have the guards remain on patrol. Soon after, there would be no one inside. He wondered about his exit from the Metropolitan without tripping the alarms. He hoped he the strange power that shielded him from the thieves would grant him a safe passage of the museum. Jerimiah sat down behind the golem and waited. Hopefully, due to the evening's excitement and the departure of the guests, Tom Tiege and the other guards would forget about him and assume he left for the evening. Crossing his fingers, Jerimiah waited patiently for silence and stillness to claim the museum.
