Eventually, the venue was stuffed to the brim with people and the event started after an announcement that no phones were to be used. Matthew figured that was so what happened here wouldn't be leaked to those who hadn't come and defeat the whole purpose of turning it into a big deal. Or it was just for respect. He could be reading too much into it but he had to otherwise one day he'd be caught without his guard up.
Gilbert and Feliciano were sitting on chairs at the back of the stage along with some other officers that Matthew really didn't care about. Alfred's friends stood out as they weren't in police uniform and looked much more grim than the professional attitudes around them. Matthew had to assume that they hadn't seen Ludwig yet - an easy assessment to make when Matthew knew how far the two of them could lose control. Maybe Gilbert's Grandfather didn't want to risk Gilbert choosing to fight him on the stage in front of the public and derail the event. A pity, why didn't the Chief consider that would get a reaction from the Trail Killer all the same? Matthew would definitely find it entertaining.
But they weren't the only ones on the stage that Matthew recognised. In fact, there was someone else that he shouldn't be surprised to see, but only surprised he didn't see him earlier.
Roderich was Gilbert's cousin and copped a lot of harassment from him. Well, it went both ways and Matthew didn't really like either of them. Had Matthew come across Roderich on the street, he would've definitely taken the opportunity. Roderich was self-righteous and stuck up, everyone else was below him and whenever Matthew was noticed by him he really wished he wasn't. Roderich had a talent for making people feel small.
But Matthew wouldn't allow that anymore, so he told himself that Roderich wasn't a threat. He found a little amusement in how even in a time like this, Gilbert and Roderich were refusing to look at each other with crossed arms and scowls.
Chief Beilschmidt was standing at the front of the stage, demanding attention with his strong presence as he monologued a very clinical-sounding welcome into a microphone.
The table centre of the stage was still empty.
After the Chief's introductory monologue, everyone turned to watch as six police officers carried a casket to the stage as Roderich stood and played the violin. Matthew risked a look at Gilbert and he could just tell by Gilbert's face that was fucking with him. The albino was gripping the edges of his seat so hard as if it tore him apart that he couldn't help carry his own brother at his funeral. Matthew was biting his cheek so hard to prevent his face from showing anything that it had to be bleeding. He continued to remind himself to keep his eyes where they belonged and not let them explore or linger, and to keep his face in line.
The show went on and various officers took to the stage to give eulogies, their delivery didn't sound anything like the chaos on the police radio the night Ludwig died. There was no emotion behind hardened faces as they recited words from pieces of paper that Matthew had to note had no creases. Matthew couldn't help but be sceptical because only a few members of the audience knew that whatever Gilbert and Feliciano said wouldn't be their own words.
But to their credit, the officers delivered their speeches well and Matthew could convince themselves they meant it, even if their delivery made it hardly feel personal. Though Matthew supposed as police officers, they've had plenty of experience tampering their own emotions to focus on upholding objective law. He knew from that night on the radio how much they cared.
Roderich took to the stage, his face leaving the impression that he was above this whole event and would rather not be there. It could be grief, but even so, Roderich usually held himself to higher standards than that. He spoke as usual like he was gracing everyone with his presence and they should be thankful for him being there, but as time went on Matthew realised that Roderich had respect for Ludwig and considered him an equal. Now Roderich was upset that his cousin was dead and Matthew could only hope that Roderich was aching because of it.
Still, it wasn't the most moving and it left Matthew questioning why the Chief had Roderich up there at all. If only because he was family? Or because Roderich's attitude of condensation would get a reaction?
But everything changed when Feliciano took to the stage. When Chief Beilschmidt announced him it took a moment for it to process before the boy jumped up and walked over to the imposing podium with tense speed.
Feliciano held himself together for longer than expected and even when the tears started he still managed to make most of his words heard, even if he had to stutter over them three or four times. It would've been hard to tell that Feliciano didn't write that speech himself, but the Chief did want them to put their own spin on it to make it personal and Matthew had to admit, Feliciano did a good job. Even if it really wasn't a conscious effort.
Matthew had to admit that seeing Feliciano on the stage made him feel something, something he supposed was the last of his empathy. He felt bad that Feliciano was so distressed now... and Matthew felt the long forgotten ache of being expected to help comfort him. But with time Feliciano would be fine. Everyone loved him and he'd always have the never-ending support and love of his friends. Besides, even if he felt bad for Feliciano, it didn't mean that Matthew felt bad about what he did. It was all too easy to remind himself that not only was it necessary to kill Ludwig, but he enjoyed it.
When Feliciano was done speaking he staggered backwards to collapse in his seat beside Gilbert, who immediately turned his attention to him. Even when Chief Beilschmidt called for him, Gilbert let a silence hang in the air as he attended to Feliciano before going to the podium. Matthew didn't miss the way Gilbert ignored his grandfather, his eyes lingering on his younger brother's casket before speaking.
While Feliciano looked like he was seconds away from collapsing while giving his eulogy, Gilbert looked like he was seconds away from going feral. SThe sadness was very evident in him, but grief wasn't all sadness. Anger was just brimming under the surface and causing him to spit every curse word he uttered as he gripped the podium for strength.
Outside, Matthew performed all the necessary body language. He shuffled in his seat and pulled faces like he was feeling his 'friends' grief and tapering it for the sake of being strong. But inside, Matthew was fixated on every word. The thrill was very much still alive.
The funeral didn't go longer than an hour, but it felt like it had only been ten minutes before Chief Beilschmidt was thanking everyone for coming and promising to avoid tragedies like this in the future. Matthew didn't think that was a promise he was going to keep. How could he? Once again, the Chief was practically challenging him.
The crowd quickly rose in volume as people stood to either mingle or leave. Alfred made a comment about wishing there was food set up like all the other funerals and Antonio pointed out those were privately hosted by family so Alfred should just settle for whatever drinks were available. Alfred lamented that the drinks probably weren't alcoholic before quickly switching his tune to say it was for the best while Antonio chuckled nervously.
Matthew was only half tuning into whatever they were saying, as he was still focused on the stage. Just because the funeral was officially over didn't mean the show was over. Chief Beilschmidt was preventing Gilbert and Feliciano from leaving the stage - if only because of social convention. Neither of them could walk away as the Chief of Police spoke to them, presumably about their performances. Roderich was there too, albeit more willingly and from his glances towards Gilbert, no doubt he had something to say about Gilbert's delivery.
Without warning Matthew was roughly grabbed from behind and pulled into someone. His heart stuttered to a stop.
"Hey everyone! Long time no see! Fancy meeting you here!"
The obnoxious voice booming with volume in his ear came from an equally obnoxious person. Mathias wasn't someone Matthew was friends with yet here he was with an arm tight around his and Alfred's neck. Alfred was the only one unbothered by this, apparently fine with huffing the thickly sprayed-on deodorant coming from his friend. If Matthew wasn't in such a good mood from the funeral he'd be bothered by Mathias' appearance, the other was just Gilbert 2.0 in terms of humour and tolerability. But Matthew liked his chances of fading into the background... once he got out of Mathias' headlock.
He didn't have to do anything, Mathias let go on his own and Matthew was already forgotten. Good. He didn't want to be roped into a conversation with Mathias, that would be a drain. Mathias liked to act like he was so grandiose and really made Matthew feel like Mathias was living in a different reality. Yet Alfred and all their friends seemed to love it.
"Hey dude!" Alfred hugged back. "I didn't know you were coming. Where's everyone else? They came, right?"
"Yeah, but they got lost in the crowd I guess," Mathias shrugged without looking back. "Did you notice how sensitive everyone was when Feli was talking? I don't get why so many people were crying or shitting themselves when the boss cop was acting so serious. No one here knew Ludwig but us so I don't know why they care so much."
"I didn't notice anyone's reactions," Antonio confessed. "I was paying too much attention..."
Matthew had noticed it. He could feel it in the air, feel the energy of people as they had watched. There was fear, sadness and hope. There were tense emotions in nearly every face, though that could just be confirmation bias considering they were at a funeral.
"Yeah me too," Alfred added. "Was there really that many people reacting? I guess the Chief's emotional manipulation paid off..."
"What do you mean?" Mathias asked, his smile never faltering.
"He thinks that the Trail Killer's here somewhere so he wanted Gil and Feli to say some shit to try and get a reaction out of him," Alfred explained.
"I don't think you should say that so loud..." Antonio muttered warningly as he glanced around. Kiku was still staring blankly at the stage but Matthew imagined he'd agree with Antonio.
"What? It's already over so the guy would've reacted, right?" Alfred's face changed. "Ohhh, he's meant to respond after or something? Shit, I'll shut up then."
"Holy shit! You think he's actually here?!" Mathias seemed too excited at the idea and scanned the room with wide eyes. It was like his brain never filtered anything and never saw the problem with anything he did. "You think the Trail Killer's in this room with us?"
"Fuckin' probably," Alfred said darkly as he glanced around with narrowed eyes. "Apparently, he's an attention whore and gets off from all this shit."
"The Chief thinks so," Antonio added quietly. "I just hope they've learnt something because of this."
"If they haven't, they're useless," Alfred retorted. "But they better have otherwise Gil and Feli did this shit for nothing."
"Speak of the devil!" Antonio announced as Gilbert appeared, hunched over and clearly on edge. "You did a good job, amigo. Ludwig would be proud."
Gilbert's mouth twisted upon hearing that. It didn't twist up or down, just twisted, like he didn't know how or what to feel or felt too much. Given what he did to himself and his own living space, it was probably too much.
"Hang on, where's Feli?" Alfred glanced back at the stage. Chief Beilschmidt was still up there and talking to Feliciano, who was upset but at least it didn't seem like the Chief was the cause. The man had a hand placed on Feliciano's shoulder so it looked like he was trying to be comforting.
"I can't stand it," Gilbert grumbled, his voice regressing in quality and he rubbed his throat while pulling a face of discomfort.
"You're strong, you'll be alright," Mathias said and slapped a hand on the albino's back. "How have you been anyway?"
Gilbert kept shaking his head.
"I can't stand being near Opa." He muttered, then chuckled. "He smells like a gross old man."
Alfred and Mathias laughed but Antonio frowned.
"Roderich's being an fucking unawesome asshole, like fucking usual," Gilbert continued. "I can't even say anything to him or Opa's going to have a problem, like fucking usual."
Antonio grabbed onto Gilbert's tense shoulders.
"Are you okay amigo-?"
Gilbert pushed his hands off and hardened his jaw.
"Yeah. I'm fine. I just need some water," He dictated as he took a step back, and then another before pausing with a constipated look. Gilbert tried clearing his throat but when he spoke his voice was no clearer. "Opa said we can see him after this..."
That caught Kiku's attention, who had been more quiet than usual since arriving.
"That would be nice. I would like to say a proper goodbye."
"Yeah, we can promise him that the Trail fucker will get caught his way and pay legally, y'know?" Alfred said, trying to appeal to Gilbert and cheer him up. It didn't work, Gilbert looked just as drained.
"Hey, me and Ludwig weren't really that close," Mathias asked as he leaned on the back of the chair heavily, "but do you mind if I tag along to see him?"
Mathias jerked when someone tapped him from behind, grabbing everyone's attention as he turned to see his friends had caught up with him.
"Howdy y'all," Alfred greeted with a wave, which Tino returned with a small smile.
"We came for support. I'm sorry for your loss everyone," Tino consoled and Berwald made a deep noise of agreement.
Gilbert just jerked his head away, clearly feeling like words would never fix anything and Matthew didn't miss the way his hands flexed. It seemed that Gilbert was doing everything he could not to 'Hulk out' and potentially ruin his chances at seeing his brother.
"Thank you very much," Kiku responded with downcast eyes.
"It sucks that Ludwig died, he was such a good cop-" Mathias squeaked when Lukas pinched him.
Matthew wasn't close with anyone, but he had far less exposure to this friend group than others. Even so, he still had opinions on them all. He liked Tino, who had never given him a reason to dislike or be wary of him. He was cheerful to all indiscriminately. Matthew didn't mind Lukas, even if he did remind him of Arthur a bit. Probably because they were friends and Matthew had seen Lukas at Arthur's funeral. Mathias had been there then and Matthew could recall Mathias asking about how Arthur had died and if he could see him. Lukas had pinched him then too.
Emil was between Tino and Lukas. Matthew didn't have a problem with him at all because he really just kept to himself. Then there was Berwald. Before Matthew started this descent, he didn't care for him because Berwald was never rude and his intimidation was never as harassing as Ivan's. He simply minded his own business and Matthew never felt torn up around him. But now, Berwald reminded him of Ludwig and maybe Matthew was paranoid but he couldn't help but imagine what thoughts Berwald was hiding. Was he as perceptive as Ludwig? Matthew liked that he was reserved but that meant no one knew what he was thinking.
"I'm going to get water," Gilbert grunted before storming off and Alfred cringed as he ran a hand through his hair. Mathias rubbed where Lukas had pinched before rounding on his friend.
"What?! Ludwig was a good cop! Well, maybe not good enough because somehow he got- ouch"
Lukas pinched him again and this time Tino jabbed him in the side as Berwald gave him a look of disappointment.
"Okay! Sorry." Mathias mumbled in annoyance. "I just can't believe he didn't see it coming."
"No one did," Antonio stated.
"Hey, Kiku?" Alfred was shaking his unresponsive friend. "You good? Oh, fucking hell."
"What's wrong with him?" Mathias asked.
"I dunno, grief and shit." Alfred sighed. "I dunno what to do about it cus at least when Feli cries I can give him a tissue and when Gil wants to punch stuff I can give him my hands but I think Kiku's kinda broken... if that's not too mean to say?"
"I know you're not trying to be mean," Tino said as he rested a hand on Kiku's shoulder, but his foggy eyes didn't move from the casket.
"Maybe take him to get some water too," Lukas suggested. "He might feel better if he's hydrated."
"I don't think hydration is going to help." Mathias got pinched for that comment. Again. Matthew felt happy whenever Mathias was scowling because he got what was coming to him.
"I'll take him," Antonio offered after a look was passed between Alfred. "I want to find Gil anyway."
"Yeah, be my guest," Alfred sounded tired and looked it too as he watched Antonio pull Kiku away. "Man, I knew this whole thing was a bad idea."
"It might help them feel better in the long run," Lukas said and Alfred shrugged a response before his face lit up. That was all the warning Matthew had as he realised Alfred had spotted someone else and more people joined the fray.
"Oi! Jonesie!"
Only one person called Alfred by that nickname.
"My favourite cousin!" Alfred was smiling as he jumped up to catch the full-body bear hug that was being thrown at him. Arthur would be rolling in his grave at those words and Matthew found amusement in that.
"How's it going, mate?" Steve said as he slapped Alfred's back roughly.
"I'm okay somehow," Alfred chuckled with a shrug. "How you doing?"
"Ah, I've been better," Steve scratched his head, always carefree, even in a setting like this.
"I'm alright too," said another voice and then everyone noticed Zach lingering behind his older brother.
"Oh, and my other favourite cousin!" Alfred chuckled as he went to give Zach a hug, looking a little bit ashamed for only just noticing him. "How come you guys are here?"
"Well, we thought it'd be right cus we were friendly with Lud so figured we'd stop by and see everyone," Steve shrugged. "Haven't been up since that big bash we have after Arthur so figured it was time to stop by. All this serial killer stuff is crazy, ay?"
Matthew furrowed his eyebrows as he tried to think about what Steve was talking about when he referenced some event after Arthur, then grit his teeth when he realised why he didn't know what the hell Steve was on about. Once again, he was left out!
He breathed out and shook it off.
Matthew loitered as Alfred caught up with their cousins, which Matthew had to honestly say he wasn't that close to. Not that he was close with anyone, but growing up Matthew didn't get to spend as much time with his cousins as Alfred did and his brother didn't know how lucky he had it.
Steve and Zach weren't the last to join their group, Ivan appeared only a few minutes later with a smile on his face but the ever-present glint in his eye, causing a hesitating feeling of wariness. Everything that came out of his mouth could pass for small talk but the delivery always left apprehension. Matthew kept him within view. If he ended up doing something more as the Trail Killer, maybe he should look out for opportunities that would allow him to get some form of revenge on Ivan. After all, it had been a while since Matthew was so inspired to kill those who had personally deserved it.
It wasn't just Ivan he should keep an eye out for. Anyone here he didn't like was an opportunity.
"Well that was a pleasant and respectful funeral," Ivan commented and Kiku nodded in agreement.
"Dude, hey, I wasn't expecting to see you here," Alfred said, his jaw tensed. "We gotta talk later."
Ivan's smile grew wider and Matthew put that in the mental folder of 'things yet to happen, keet tabs'.
It took a while before the public slowly tricked out of the venue until it was just as empty when they arrived, but the police officers, press and reporters remained.
The officers had been mingling with the crowd after the official part of the funeral ended... but Matthew suspected those officers had been instructed to do so. Anyone who came up to them with questions or interest was a suspect. From Matthew's perspective, all the flaws in their attempts seemed all too obvious.
Matthew was still lingering by the large combined group, trying hard not to reminisce on old feelings of never belonging as he sat by a group but was never a part of the group. Everyone had returned to the row Alfred was occupying and catching up with each other while all Matthew cared to do was watch.
Honestly, he was just holding out for the opportunity to see Ludwig.
Still aware he could be under surveillance, Matthew appeared to be actively listening to whatever conversation was happening but would occasionally glance around to keep up with his surroundings. He caught the Chief standing off the side of the stage and talking to what was presumably a group of reporters. Matthew couldn't make out what they were saying or what the conversation was about, but no doubt was it something to do with the funeral or coming memorial. Chief Beilschmidt would've listened when Ludwig told him the serial killer was attention-driven, so the Chief was probably going to tightly control the media to try and control him. Matthew scanned the reporter's faces but didn't know what type of media company or publishing they belonged to. He figured if he encountered something suspicious that could be a problem he'd deal with it, but with so many reporters flocking the Chief of Police, at least Matthew had the heads up to be wary of the media.
The moment Chief Beilschmidt was finished speaking and dismissed the press, he turned heel and strode over to them with his usual stern look fixed in place.
Just as the man opened his mouth to speak, he was cut off.
"When can I see him?" Gilbert's raspy voice didn't undermine his demanding tone at all, but it did make him sound a little desperate. "I did what you wanted so let me see Lud."
To the Police Chief's credit, his mask of professionalism never slipped beyond an eye twitch.
"We can make our way over there momentarily and everyone will have an opportunity to pay respects and say goodbye," Chief Beilschmidt said as he stepped forward to stare Gilbert down. "Afterward, we'll take him to the cemetery so he can be put to rest."
"Oh," Gilbert seemed taken aback and cleared his throat. "So soon? As in, today? Now?"
"It's been a week Gil," Antonio said softly. "It was going to happen soon."
"Yeah you'll be alright, we're here for you," Alfred threw an arm over Gilbert's shoulders and gave him a confident smile.
"I'd appreciate it if only my grandson was present," Chief Beilschmidt stated. Not cruelly, but with finality that sent a shock through the others.
"What? Why?" Gilbert's hoarse voice strained with volume. "It's not awesome to exclude them like that, they loved Lud too you know-"
"I'm not depriving them of an opportunity to say goodbye now," Chief Beilschmidt declared, his patience clearly wearing thin from the circumstances.
"But what about Feli?!" Gilbert swung an arm towards Feliciano, who had a hand in his mouth and tears in his eyes. Again. "Feli's basically family-"
"Stop being argumentative." Chief Beilschmidt's voice held a finality that silenced the group. "I never wanted to bury my grandsons so respect my wishes that it will be a private matter between family. Anyone else will be welcome to visit after."
"It's okay Gil..." Feliciano spoke up, his voice desperately pleading for peace "It's okay, I understand."
Matthew could see the moment the light behind Gilbert's eye dimmed as he withdrew.
"Yeah, fine... It can be just us... I've been meaning to visit Mama and Papa for a while anyway." Gilbert's face was all twisted with grief and frustration, but he didn't dare go against his grandfather anymore.
That wasn't true for others in the group and Matthew could tell that Alfred was just barely holding himself back from planting his fist into the Police Chief's face.
Then the Chief turned around and led them to the stage so they could see the body. With his back turned, Alfred settled for sticking his finger up at the man and he wasn't the only one. But the only one who had a problem with it was Feliciano.
"Please don't, he's suffering too," Feliciano whined and pulled at Alfred's sleeve.
"So why's he being such a cunt about it?" Steve said and Alfred couldn't withhold his laughter with a snort. Their Australian cousin really had a habit of just saying it how it was and so it was a no-brainer that he was Alfred's favourite. Arthur was rattling in his grave.
Alfred slapped a hand over his mouth and Lukas pinched him too.
"Yeah yeah, I know," Alfred waved him off. "I'm going to be supportive, cut me some slack."
But between everyone muttering it was obvious that no one wanted to cut the Chief any slack. Matthew vindictively wished the Chief knew how much of an asshole everyone saw him as now. If the Chief wasn't careful, the public would see him as an asshole too. Matthew wondered if he could orchestrate that... before pushing the planning thoughts from his head. He wanted to live in the moment and enjoy seeing his latest victim.
Roderich was already waiting on the stage, which seemed bigger now they were on it. Gilbert looked torn between scowling at Roderich and staring at the casket, but no matter where his eyes flickered he couldn't bring himself to look at his Grandfather.
Matthew paid him no mind once he was close to the casket, instead impressed by the mountain of arranged flowers sitting on the lid, held together by an almost invisible thin mesh. There was a great metaphor there somewhere, he just knew it. Chief Beilschmidt instructed Gilbert to help lift them off and others rushed in to help. From Matthew's outside perspective, he found great amusement in the fact that anyone who jumped in to help all gravitated towards Gilbert's side, leaving the Chief to lift one end by himself.
The flowers were pushed off onto the ground behind the casket and only the smooth wood was between them and Ludwig. Matthew was excited but he had to remind himself not to show it. Be patient, it was only a matter of time before he saw his work. Meanwhile, he could tell everyone around him was nervous.
The silence was thick as Chief Beilschmidt went to lift the lid of the casket, there was only a breath of hesitation but Matthew still caught it. Whatever was inside was too much for even the most powerful and fearless uniform in the city. Everyone had a weakness.
Everyone was holding their breath as the Chief opened the casket and Matthew was hit by the question, did Ludwig even want this? He tried to imagine himself in Ludwig's shoes. Would he be embarrassed by being on display like this? Or touched that so many people had gathered to see him, presumably because they loved him. There was a large crowd here, all connected to each other and people that Ludwig did know.
Maybe it didn't matter, because he was dead. Who cares what the dead want. The Chief certainly didn't. Even the exclusive family burial ignored Ludwig's wishes as the Chief took control of everything.
Matthew had to wonder, did that make him dead? Did he die a long time ago? Because no one gave a shit about him and what he wanted. He learnt very early on in life that he didn't matter. So was he just dead to everyone?
He pushed those thoughts aside. He was too excited to let anything bring him down. With the casket lid propped up, Matthew moved in. It was hard to get close because suddenly everyone was swarming in, but Matthew persisted until he could look over someone's shoulder and get a clear view.
Ludwig was pale, more so than usual. He was dressed in a suit that made his skin look worse than it was. His skin was thin and powdery and his eyes were sunken, but his face was neutral like he could just be asleep. But from his waxy, unnatural composition, no one would ever think that.
There was a fabric covering on Ludwig's forehead and Matthew felt a small pang of disappointment. The only ones who knew about the mark were the killer and the police. Matthew wondered if the decision was a smart move... or if it was motivated by emotion. Was the Chief just hoping to ignore that it was carved there at all?
Matthew bit the inside of his lip as he stared at the Chief. The man had a stern expression but his eyes said it all when he stared down at his favourite grandson. Matthew imagined what his reaction would be if Matthew acknowledged the Trail Symbol carved into his grandson's forehead. He wouldn't do it, but he understood his brother's love for the dramatic as he imagined it. The reaction would certainly be explosive.
And it wouldn't just be the Chief's reaction, it would be everyone else's too. Picturing it brought endless options for how things would go down in a ball of flames.
Matthew would never do it, the idea of pulling the trigger on himself and his career so carelessly felt so off-putting, and impossible as there was a giant mental block stopping him from sabotaging himself, but thinking about it was amusing when everyone was in such an emotional state.
Unsurprisingly, it was Feliciano who acted first upon seeing Ludwig. His impulse was as strong as his passion. He choked on a sob and when his knees buckled he caught himself on the edge of the casket.
"I miss you Lud," his whimpers were barely audible from where Matthew stood as they rose and fell in accordance with his sobbing. Matthew could only pick up on a few parts of what Feliciano said. "...say hi to Lovi for me and tell him I love him..."
Matthew could tell that Chief Beilschmidt was bothered by Feliciano leaning on the casket but was by no means going to say anything or move to stop him, instead just watching with pity in his eyes.
"And I love you too," Feliciano's voice broke with a hitch as his hands clambered to grab at Ludwig.
Matthew watched as for a moment, it really looked like Feliciano was about to climb into the casket and tether himself to Ludwig forever. But all he did was lean over to give Ludwig a hug and cry into his chest. The muffled noises rang out louder than any speech the Chief made.
After a couple of moments with no indication of stopping, Feliciano had to be gently pried away. Without taking his eyes off Ludwig, Feliciano let himself be held by Gilbert as he tried to choke out his sobs.
After a worried glance cast to Gilbert and Feliciano, Antonio awkwardly stepped up. With one hand clasped onto his forearm tightly, he didn't dare touch the casket or the man resting inside it.
"Don't worry amigo, I'll look after Gil. I know how much you worried for him so... Just don't worry anymore."
Then Alfred stepped forward, gripping onto the side of the casket with white knuckles.
"He's right, don't you worry. The Trail Killer will get caught and he'll pay."
Matthew had a feeling Alfred was choosing his words carefully with the Chief of Police hovering nearby, but the sentiment was all the same. Alfred was going to personally make sure the Trail Killer would get locked up and Matthew had to question how realistic Alfred really thought that was.
"Oh, and I'll be looking after everyone else too. Okay? Bye," Alfred scuttled away trying to hide how he was sniffling and pushed Kiku forward. "Your turn bro. Get that closure."
Kiku had no expression as he looked down and stared blankly. After a couple of moments, he bowed before stepping away with a lowered head.
"You were always so strong... it was admirable..." As Kiku spoke, his voice lowered in volume until he wasn't speaking at all. Whatever he said, it was in his head. Kiku was always a private person and Matthew supposed he could live without knowing what he said. He could take a guess anyway.
Ivan pushed forward after Kiku and with his hands tightly clasped behind his back, leaned over Ludwig.
"I know what it is like to lose sibling," he prefaced in a tone that sounded... sombre. "I may not like Gilbert, but he will not go unavenged."
Matthew withheld raising his eyebrows and staring right at the Chief because a statement like that right in front of the highest of law enforcement was likely too bold. But he heard a sigh and in his peripheral vision, he saw the Chief's head turn away. Probably choosing to ignore it because of grief.
Roderich didn't ignore it though, and a classic look of criticising distaste crossed his face.
Ivan stepped away looking content and Steve stepped up, cutting off Mathias who was about to jump in.
"You're a legend, ight?" Steve said reassuringly, "I'm sure you've done some good work that'll carry the team and she'll be right in the end. You're a real one mate so rest easy, we can crack open a cold one together in the next life once I get up there, ight?"
"Yeah what he said," Mathias chuckled as he stepped up close and leaned over to get a good look at Ludwig, inspecting every detail. Matthew wondered if he just didn't know what to say or had just never seen someone dead before. Mathias wasn't there for much longer before Lukas sighed and dragged him back.
"Don't impose," Lukas muttered as he swatted his friend, who wasn't too happy about being dragged away.
Lukas, Emil, Tino and Berwald didn't have anything to say and left space for anyone who did. Matthew noticed that Zach didn't go up either but still had a mournful look on his face.
When it looked like no one was going to step up, Matthew did, resting his hands lightly on the casket. He didn't say anything, just stared down with a contemplative face that would make anyone assume he was saying something silently. But in his mind, there was nothing to be said. His thoughts were still.
Matthew made sure not to stand for too long, so with a final mental goodbye he stepped back with the image of Ludwig's stillness burnt into his mind.
Besides, he'd be able to visit the grave another time. It wasn't goodbye forever. Maybe he could visit the other's graves too. He hadn't even said hello to Arthur since he said goodbye at the funeral.
After the majority left, Alfred took Feliciano from Gilbert and pulled him into a hug so his albino friend could talk to his brother. Matthew lingered by Alfred under the pretence that he was helping with Feliciano, but he was really listening to Gilbert.
Alfred didn't say anything as he shoved Feliciano into his chest and wrapped him tightly in a hug. Matthew didn't say anything either as he reached over to pat him on the back.
Gilbert cleared his throat a couple of times, a sound that cut through the peaceful silence.
"Hey Lud..." Gilbert's voice was already playing up, but not from being rough. Gilbert sniffled and kept talking. "I'm sorry I wasn't a better brother- wow, you're really gone, huh-?"
Gilbert gasped as his emotions kept coming. Matthew could tell that Alfred felt awkward from being there and witnessing it and Matthew hoped his brother wouldn't leave, or he would have to follow and miss the show.
"I'm sorry," Gilbert repeated a couple of times and Matthew wondered if he knew what he was saying.
"It'll be okay. I'll fix things and everything will be okay. I know I'm not awesome but I'll make you proud of me, bruder. Tut mir leid..."
The silence stretched on as Gilbert said nothing and choked back his tears.
Gilbert seemed reluctant to step away but after a few moments of shifting on the spot, he stepped back and walked away. Before Alfred could say anything, Gilbert grabbed for him, pulling them all off the stage.
Roderich sighed in a way that said 'finally' as he stepped up, clearly intent on saying his piece in privacy. Matthew tried to linger and strain to hear what was being said, but to no avail over the volume of his company and the growing distance from the stage. All he heard was the first few sentences, spoken clearly with dictation and respect.
Chief Beilschmidt was the last off the stage, having waited for everyone to say their piece before he did. He took his time saying something to Ludwig before closing the lid quietly and latching it for the last time.
Everyone was standing in the parking lot once again and no one spoke louder than a mutter. Those words died to a whisper when the Chief walked up to Feliciano and rested a hand on his rigid shoulder.
"You've done enough for today. I'm grateful for your cooperation and regretful for your loss. I hope you're able to rest."
"I hope I was helpful," Feliciano's voice wobbled as he spoke, fighting through his never-ending tears to be heard. "I'm sorry for you too. I hope you'll be alright."
"I will be." The Chief left no room for uncertainty. "When you're feeling better, please visit my grandson."
An abrupt and hoarse noise came from Gilbert as he suddenly butted in.
"How about this old man? It's so unawesome to exclude Feli like that and you know Lud would want him there," Gilbert's harsh voice was straining like he was holding himself back from yelling. "So if you don't let him come then you'll be burying Lud without me."
Gilbert's face was one of spiteful determination as he yanked Feliciano by the arm with an iron grip, refusing to let go and be separated.
"Gilbert, do you have to make a scene?" Roderich huffed. "You always have to strike out, don't you? Opa didn't say they could never come and see him, you know. They can visit his grave afterwards but if you loved Ludwig you would want to respect his wishes for a private burial.
"Oh, cus this whole thing was exactly what he would've wanted. Verpiss dich, you know exactly how much Ludwig loves Feli and you'd have to hate him to not want him there," Gilbert sneered at Roderich before rounding back on the Chief. "Think about it asshole. Cus if you don't let him come then when it's your turn to be buried, I won't be there either."
Everyone's eyes were either darting between the arguing family or firmly planted on the ground trying to avoid the conflict. Matthew of course, was watching with keen interest.
Chief Beilschmidt's irritated expression slowly faded into something unreadable as he glanced down at Feliciano, who wasn't denying his desire with pleading eyes. Cars driving in the distance and the faint sound of leaves being tossed about in the wind were the only sounds heard besides Feliciano's restrained breathing.
Matthew glanced at Alfred, who didn't even bother to hide his expression of discontent as he grit his teeth and clenched his fist, his eyes boring into the Chief.
The Chief nodded with a light exhale of breath, and suddenly the tension was released. Roderich just shook his head and glanced away, defeated and shoulders slumped in apparent agreement.
"Kiku wants to come too!" Feliciano blurted. The Chief didn't even react beyond nodding again, making Feliciano sag with relief before reaching for a dazed Kiku.
"No one else, I'd prefer this be a private event," Chief Beilschmidt ordered before addressing the whole group. "You're welcome to visit my grandson's grave afterwards, however, I hope you can understand and respect my wishes for a personal burial."
"I really can't," Alfred muttered. Lukas didn't pinch him that time.
"That's fine," Antonio said in a light voice. "Just please be kind to yourselves because you're all grieving."
Matthew could hear the thinly veiled real message of Antonio's worry that the Chief would cause Gilbert more upset. Alfred definitely felt the same from the way he was tensing and glancing between them.
Alfred pulled a face at the Chief as he walked up beside Gilbert and leaned in.
"I guess let me know when you want to be picked up," he muttered. Apparently not quiet enough.
"I can escort him home," The Chief stated as he turned to Alfred, who refused to break eye contact and stared back. Eventually, he sighed and turned his back to the Chief as he pulled Gilbert in for a hug.
"Seriously, let me know if you wanna be picked up and I will be there."
"Thanks, you're awesome," Gilbert returned the hug. "Thanks for being such an awesome friend."
"No shit," Alfred said like it was a no-brainer. Like it wasn't even optional. Matthew wondered if the same sentiment would be turned towards him... or if he was just an obligation. Alfred probably preferred to have Gilbert as a brother. He never wanted Matthew.
There wasn't much else to be said that couldn't be said with glances so no one spoke as the Chief left. Matthew watched as Gilbert left with his grandfather, face more constipated than Matthew had ever seen before. Gilbert kept his eyes on the ground as he got into a car with his grandfather which followed the hearse that Ludwig had been loaded into. It was only once the cars were out of sight that the tension of the group slowly bled out.
"Fuck, Gil really should've thanked me for not losing my shit cus I swear I was so fucking close. His Grandpa's such an asshole and someone really should tell him!"
"I know, but not while everyone's grieving," Antonio added with reluctant sympathy.
"Yeah I know that," Alfred sighed. "Come on, who else wanted to fight him? Raise your hand-" A few people did. "-See? Once enough time's passed we should corner him and call him a- Steve can I pretty please have the C-word pass?"
"You wanna call him a cunt? Go for it mate, he's a cunt!" Steve chuckled and lowered his hand. "Gil's lucky to have a friend like you."
"Yeah, no shit," Alfred exacted. "We should help him stand up to his abusive, son of a bitch Grandpa."
"Clearly he's got something up his ass," Mathias jested, "I wanted to see Ludwig get buried too."
Then the conversation just degraded into shitting on Chief Beilschmidt, which was highly amusing to Matthew. But after a few minutes, it became obvious that people wanted to go home. With Mathias' friends leaving he was obliged to go, but not before catching everyone's attention by cupping his hands around his mouth.
"It's been good to see everyone!" Mathias spoke over everyone. "We need to catch up again soon!"
Not surprisingly, everyone responded with agreement and then others started breaking off.
"I'll text you, okay?" Mathias pointed at Alfred as he walked backwards. "We need to catch up."
"Of course we will! See ya!" Alfred waved.
"I'm with old mate on this one. We've gotta huge drive home," Steve sighed and cracked his knuckles. "Come on Zee, time to go."
"Aww, really? You could sleep at mine if you'd like!" Alfred sounded disappointed and exaggerated a pout to match.
"I don't think we have room, amigo," Antonio corrected softly.
"It's alright," Steve waved off, "I didn't bring my swag and sleeping in the car would probably be breaking curfew anyway. Lud would be spewin'."
"Maybe some other time then?" Then Alfred lunged to pull Steve into a crushing hug, only to get crushed right back. "I'll text you cus we do need to catch up. Lemme know when you're free!"
"No worries mate, can do. Should be sometime soon!"
Zach didn't have much of a chance to say goodbye before he was forced to run after his brother... Matthew bit his lip as he watched him go. Something had itched his brain and when he saw Zach and Matthew couldn't help but think of 'Matthew'. He pushed it down because it really was irrelevant... but if he saw his cousins again then he'd consider lingering on his feelings then.
There was a brief moment where Alfred and Antonio debated how they would get Kiku's car home before realising their friend had taken the keys with him, so with a sigh, Alfred figured they could get it for him later.
"At least Kiku won't have to worry about it and can relax after whatever the fuck happens," Alfred muttered with finality. "Who knows how they're gonna feel after cus grandpa asshole."
Matthew supposed he'd better make Alfred realise he needed a ride home, otherwise his brother might forget about him. So he walked over and leaned on Alfred's car but as Matthew waited he realized that Ivan hadn't left yet... and was approaching Alfred. Matthew paused and listened in.
"Hey," Alfred's voice lowered just a smidge. "Not now, and I've gotta look after Kiku and Feli, prolly Gil too so that's my priority. So later, alright? Give it a couple of days cus I think I'm gonna be busy. Fuck, is this what stay-at-home parents feel like? I'm never gonna be one now."
Alfred muttered the last part. Ivan's face didn't change, but he chuckled.
"There is no rest for the wicked," Ivan said and Alfred pulled a 'not amused' face at the perceived jab, but Matthew could see other meanings beyond Alfred being the wicked one.
"I won't stop," Ivan continued, his voice a little more forceful and his smile a little deeper. "I suppose I will be leading the next meeting."
"Yeah I guess you will," Alfred said with a small sigh of resignation and a frown. Matthew imagined that Alfred would like to be out on the streets tonight and probably felt cagey from his lack of freedom. But as always, Alfred put his friends first. "Just stay safe out there. Do some recon so you have something to report back."
With that, the exchange was over when Alfred stepped back and the (non-existent) privacy was broken. He snapped some finger guns before Ivan walked off. With his friend's back turned Alfred flicked his keys and got into his car.
