The atmosphere in the observation room was oppressive.
Sarah rubbed her brow. "The two victims—a boy from Camden District and a nightclub girl from Soho District—had no overlap in age, gender, social class, or usual areas of activity. The places where they were found had decent foot traffic, but were relatively secluded corners."
"Random placement," Carlton said gravely. "This was not a personal vendetta. The killer did not select specific targets; he chose locations and timing. Young people gathered there and were active at night, making them prone to curiosity or the feeling that they had found a bargain. He placed deadly bait where it was most likely to be picked up."
He turned the laptop before him around, displaying detailed information on both victims. "Aidan Miller was introverted, enjoyed exploring, and often went to Camden Market to hunt for old goods. Lina Torres was socially active, worked in the service industry, and liked parties."
He raised two fingers. "They had only two things in common. First, they were both young. Second, they appeared in the wrong place at the right—or rather, wrong—time, and made the same choice: picking up that necklace."
Vincent, standing before the one-way glass, turned around. "It was not a crime of passion. Crimes of passion are usually messy and impulsive, but this killer showed cold-blooded planning and patience. Creating or purchasing cursed items required a great deal of time."
"Choosing the drop-off locations also required observation, and ensuring the items were found took a bit of luck. He had a remarkably precise grasp of human weakness. This was more like planting seeds, then quietly waiting for the harvest."
"Revenge against society?" Sarah shuddered. "Mr. Wayne, do wizards have people like that too?"
Vincent nodded bitterly. "Wizards are human too. We experience joy, anger, sorrow, and