March 4th, 5:32 PM Eastern District time. As the sun's direct rays gradually moved northward toward the Tropic of Cancer, Paris remained bright and pleasant. Tourists flocked to the grand square before Notre-Dame de Paris, taking photos to commemorate their visit. Many willingly paid 8 euros for a belfry ticket, eager to climb over 400 steps to the Bell Tower and trace the footsteps of Quasimodo.
Kadell and his group, arriving from the Palace of Justice, blended into the crowd like average tourists and made their way toward the cathedral.
Security at Notre-Dame was fairly strict. Visitors were not allowed to bring in liquids. However, since bag checks were not required, Kadell and his team, carrying cello and violin cases, easily entered the cathedral.
"Found him."
Kadell's gaze instantly locked onto a diminutive figure sitting on a chapel bench. Hands clasped, facing the pulpit, the man was as small as a child, seemingly in prayer.
