With Elise's sketchbook in hand, Aiko, Ryo, and Hana felt a renewed sense of determination. The garden had provided a tangible connection to Elise, and they were more resolved than ever to find her. They sat on the bench in the hidden garden, carefully examining the sketches and notes.
"Look at this," Hana said, pointing to a page with detailed sketches of Montmartre's streets. "She's marked certain locations. These could be important."
Aiko nodded, tracing the lines with her finger. "There's something written here too. 'The key is where the artist's heart lies.' What could that mean?"
Ryo pondered for a moment. "Montmartre is known for its artists. Maybe it's related to a famous artist who lived here."
"Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, Renoir… they all spent time in Montmartre," Hana said. "But whose heart could she be referring to?"
Suddenly, Aiko remembered something. "Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec's studio! It's a well-known place here. Maybe that's where we need to go."
Excited by this lead, they left the garden and made their way to Toulouse-Lautrec's studio, now a small museum dedicated to his life and work. As they entered, the scent of oil paints and old wood filled the air, transporting them back in time.
The curator, a kind elderly woman named Madame Dupont, greeted them warmly. "Welcome. How can I help you today?"
Aiko explained their quest and showed her Elise's sketchbook. Madame Dupont's eyes softened with understanding. "Elise… I remember her well. She visited often, always inspired by the spirit of Montmartre. She spoke of finding a deeper connection here."
Ryo asked, "Do you know what she meant by 'where the artist's heart lies'?"
Madame Dupont thought for a moment. "There is a small, hidden room upstairs where Toulouse-Lautrec used to retreat when he needed inspiration. Few know about it. Maybe that's where you'll find your answers."
She led them up a narrow staircase to a door that was almost hidden behind a large painting. Opening it, she revealed a small, cozy room filled with sketches, paintings, and personal items of the artist. In the corner, they noticed a small, ornate box.
Hana opened the box, finding a collection of letters and a key. One letter, addressed to Luc, caught her eye. She read it aloud:
"Dear Luc,
If you're reading this, it means you've found my special place. I'm sorry for causing you worry, but I needed to find myself. This key unlocks a small studio I've rented near the Moulin Rouge. I've been working on something important there. Please come find me.
Love, Elise."
Tears welled up in Aiko's eyes. "She's been trying to connect with her art in a deeper way. We need to find her studio."
They thanked Madame Dupont and hurried to the address mentioned in the letter. The studio was located in a vibrant part of Montmartre, close to the iconic Moulin Rouge. The door, marked with the number 27, looked unassuming yet held the promise of reunion.
Ryo used the key to unlock the door, and they stepped inside. The studio was filled with canvases, sketches, and a distinct sense of Elise's presence. At a desk in the corner, a figure turned around.
"Elise!" Hana exclaimed, rushing forward.
Elise stood up, her eyes widening with surprise and relief. "Hana! Aiko! Ryo! How did you find me?"
They embraced, tears flowing freely. "We found your sketchbook and followed the clues," Aiko explained. "Luc has been worried sick about you."
Elise nodded, her eyes shining with gratitude. "I've been working on a project that means so much to me, but I didn't realize how much time had passed. I'm sorry for causing so much worry."
Ryo smiled. "We're just glad you're safe. Let's go back and see Luc. He'll be overjoyed to see you."
With Elise's sketchbook and newfound resolve, they left the studio together, their hearts lightened by the reunion. The adventure had not only led them to rediscover Montmartre's magic but also brought them closer to one another, strengthening the bonds of friendship and love.