Wilfred
Sunday, 8:45 PM. 

The scene is in utmost disarray at the now disheveled Marcellus Mancini Inn, once a humble, reliable establishment belonging to the Caritas district, with many prying eyes observing as bystanders below yellow tape and opposing forces in what has been a four day-long stalemate. The weather was *Still* Rancid, drowsy and freezing cold, buckets pouring out of an ugly, gray sky, the atmosphere maintaining a palpable hostility that showed no signs of relenting until the looming verdict was issued. A jarringly disharmonious sight in the otherwise enlightened city of Caeli Noctis, typically unified by God's will, and yet, it was *God* Who very well caused this, at least as far as some people were concerned.

It was fairly basic tug of war in nature; the mortal fate of perceivably kindhearted Ms. Mancini, the widow of Mr. Mancini, rested on the hinges of a multi-murder accusation, thus beckoning those who believed her guilty, and those who did not, to come forward and stake their claims through action. The latter belief was led by their offspring, Roberta Mancini, and a band of protestors she had gathered situated around the Inn itself for several years— even withstanding harsh weather conditions that persisted at this very moment— in a bid not only to prevent its destruction, issued by the Vicariate, but to stay what they believe is an unlawful execution lacking sufficient evidence in favor of baseless accusation. The church alleges Ms. Mancini to the killer of five members of the brotherhood, believes her to be a Covenantor as the justification for her ability to dispose of powerful magicians in such a way, and sentences her to death via Mano Benedetta, scheduled for Monday at noon. Time was running out, and the inevitable remained unchanged.

What did that look like now, exactly? In front of the Inn that had grown visibly filthy and decrepit in a matter of short days— plausibly a by-product of the church's statement that it was 'infected' from the inside by 'demonic forces', hence a desire to destroy it— sat about 8 individuals in collective unison, most of which who wore yellow ponchos as to combat the downpour. Written in red marker on these ponchos was an Italian phrase: *'La Chiesa ha mentito'*, translating into English simply as, 'The Church Lied'. They refused to move from the cobblestone steps of the inn, but were not violent, nor especially loud, albeit the latter was something they did do at times. Upon focused inspection, many of them looked sickly and weary, or had uncertain expressions on their face, including but not limited to Roberta herself. Her poncho was a dark red, and the marker she used was black, having wrote *'Diavola'* On it alongside the initial phrase as to embrace the demonization from others, a drastically far cry from praying to the lord the other day. Some had thrown things at them, and were even trying to do so within the immediate moment, tossing bottles and such, but others had tried to help or joined temporarily, only to leave— the original number of protestors was *25*, now dwindled to less then half. Without opening their mouths, they exchanged glares with the several policemen a few feet across from them who were specifically instructed to not use physical force by superiors, namely due to the fact that beyond the barricade tape stood a critical, hectic crowd. These people were *Not* Quiet, and shouted an array of Italian insults and verbal deformities at the officers, some who called them cowards for bending to the knees of the church, and others who claimed them heretics for not ridding of the supplementers of evil surrounding the motel. A small amount church members and magicians also stood by to ensure nothing came out of order, host to especially nasty glares at those protesting. A rabid, uproarious scene indeed, as the intensity of the rain grew alongside hostile chatter. Bringing an umbrella would be wise.

_ _
It would be simple and quick to demolish the small, wilting Inn, whether using magic or machinery, but if her mother was going to die, Roberta would at least defend the legacy of hers and her fathers by using her body, and others, as a shield— it wasn't the consolation prize she hoped for, frankly. One could argue that protesting wasn't actually helping at all, and some believed her to be a dramatic coward unwilling to discover the truth herself, or, maybe, that she didn't *Want* To. Incidentally, so long as documentation was filled prior, private investigations and freelancers who sought after whatever benefit, be it correcting injustice, the truth, or the *Cash* Reward offered by the combined pool of those fighting for the Inn, could be allowed in by police. They were, perhaps, the only real hope of preventing the woman's death, or at the very least finding conclusive evidence as to give real closure to the situation. Yet, the dangers of consequences were vaguely advertised, as several of those seeking the following within the Inn itself had *Not* Returned. Something sinister was afoot, and the mana that emanated from the presumably unvacated Inn was. . . *Strange.* One thing was for sure, and that was the fact that Inn had more to it then meets the eye. The lights were still at what was the reception area, as observable through its dirtied windows, which didn't make sense, because the electricity was cut off a while ago.
George
Athena having heard about this drama all the way in Sanctum mesa thought this would be not only a good way to get money, but also something to do since the business was still slow unfortunately. She would have invited William to join in on the investigation when she first heard about it, not only because more eyes looking would be handy but also because you never know who you can trust. In preparation she brought some of her detective tools like a lockpicking kit and black gloves which she was currently wearing and remembered to bring some personal items like her phone, wireless earbuds, Wallet with her ID and her apartment keys... She doesn't want to have to lockpick her way into her own apartment again. She was wearing her usual outfit but instead of a Navy blue turtleneck she was wearing a white button up shirt and red tie. As much as she didn't care for the rain, she was quite cold... Maybe she should have brought a umbrella. Arriving at the Inn she would definitely notice the multiple figures in ponchos with writing on them, though she would have no idea what the writing says. She had also heard about the execution, as she walks she would maneuver around the figures, making her way towards the police and thinks to herself

```
Poor gal, being sentenced to death without trial. That's the problem with the justice system and the world in general, they just believe the first thing they hear with no proof or evidence. I have to get to the bottom of this, for their sake... Or for the town's sake.
```

She has already decided that she would not be playing around with this, there was at least one life at on the line after all. Once she gets to the policemen, she would pull out her phone and pull up the documentation which would hopefully allow her inside the Inn, She would also pull out her wallet unfolding it showing her Freelance detective ID saying

```
"I'm here to investigate the premises. Would one of you allow me to enter the building, here's my documentation and proof of identification."
```

She is excited for this adventure that awaits her, way better then binging anime waiting for something... Anything to happen like she normally does when not doing anything. Plus it'll keep her detective skills sharp and her brain sharper.
Tina
Walking through the streets and the crowd clearly not being bothered by the rain, he accompanies Athena with her investigation into the Inn. William is wearing his usual outfit but with a few slight modifications, he's wearing M43 combat boots rather than his original pair that he arrived in, brown jeans and a black vest over his white shirt, he is still wearing a brown gunfighter coat and his signature hat. Due to his recent experience with the people of Unity and their abilities, William decided to find and bring new equipment along with his old one's. He is now carrying a M3 combat knife in his sheath, a small medkit on the back of his belt, a wallet that holds his new ID, given to him by Athena, and what Athena called a "Flip phone", the newest object that William has on his person is what seems to be a Star Model BM pistol inside a shoulder holster hidden under his coat along with his 1917 Smith on his right hip. As the rain continues to fall and drip off the brim of his hat, William thinks to himself about the case and if he's ready to continue being a detective, he's gotten more accustomed to the modern world as well as his new companions being Starbi and Athena, he still chooses to keep his distance towards them both. Adjusting the rifle sling on his shoulder he walks up with Athena pulling out his new ID stating, "I'm here to accompany this lady and aid in her investigation of the premises, we have another person joining us in our investigation, they go by the name Starbi." He says in a tone of professionalism.

Turning his attention to the man who just arrived on the bike and glancing at the axe on his back, William takes a moment to hear the man speak and say his name being "Shiro". He took ahold of the man's hand and shook it while saying, "My name is Rojas former detective of the Pinkerton Agency, currently employed by that woman there." He motions towards Athena as he finishes his sentence and removing his hand. He reaches into his pocket and pulls out his pack of cigarettes and places one on his lips, "If you don't mind but I would like a smoke." He says as he takes his Trench Lighter out of his pocket and lights the butt of his cigarette, taking a small puff and shifting his body to look back at the Inn and his boss.
Jennifer
Within the gloomy blues of the Caritas, was a light, a yellow light of sugary naivete. That came from the ever-joyful Starborn Starbi! Who was just walking with glee in the chilly rain, as if he didn't care about getting drenched with water whatsoever. While unbeknownst to Starbi, he had eyes on him, not out of malice, but more so confusion, annoyed expression, or *Disgust* For his positive behavior, just like in most cases, he wasn't really aware, as his eyes were closed while walking gleefully, with music playing in his wireless earbuds. As he hummed and mumbled the lyrics of the song playing in his ears, which were in a different language.

```"I feel that I'll only end up losing in my life.
Obsessed with win-or-lose nonsense,
I smash common sense in a minute flat
And say goodbye to the future."```

This was a place that didn't seem as joyful as the Sanctum Mesa, which was a place that Starbi had been most during his time in the UNITY timeline. It's a new place, a new town with different people, but even so, nothing can ever get under Starbi's skin, this place is no exception either, it's as if he was in the festival all over again, except the whole fish hunt, but well- that's life! It was an ideology Starbi would look up to sometimes, that things change in the quickest of moments. While it could lead to trouble, it can't be all that bad!
** **

For one, he met William, someone he met at the festival. Starbi saw William as a cool guy, he seemed a bit... Distant a few times, but Starbi knew that William was a good person! Heh. He also invited Starbi to be here, Starbi couldn't exactly remember what it was exactly, but he didn't mind! As long as he could bring a smile to someone's face, that's all that mattered to him, to bring a smile to someone's face.
`let's hope that he can.`

It was then that after some more walking, following along with humming, small singing, and the cynical stares of the locals of Caritas. Starbi then opened his eyes to look where he was going, noticing that from afar, Starbi could see a few people, noting that there were... William and Athena! And someone new, that was great! Joyful Aura began to take effect, casting a sense of joy within the gloomy area, had any of the three Starbi saw paid close attention, they could've felt a sudden yet weak sense of joy. Starbi's expression had a greater smile than before while walking through the area. It meant that it was someone Starbi could make smile. Although... Starbi did feel a sense of understanding of who... Or what that person is. 

The feeling went away quickly, Starbi, now without his earbuds to blast music into his ears and tucked carefully on his personage, was now running to where the three were with a smile on his face, he was eager to talk to anyone really, whether they're someone Starbi knows or not.

"Hey! William!! Athena!!!" 
The Starborn called out with glee in his voice, as he then began waving to the three as he ran, Joyful Aura's radius moving with Starbi, as well as the effect of it increasing as he ran. He then stopped in his tracks.
"Hiya!!!" He exclaimed as he greeted the three with a friendly and energetic wave, following along with a bright smile on his face, Joyful Aura still present in regards of the surroundings, Starbi was ready for an experience he won't forget.
George
Athena remained unperturbed by the approaching motorcycle, her attention seemingly elsewhere until the moment of interaction. Upon being addressed and questioned about her identity, Athena pivoted gracefully, her demeanor poised yet approachable. After William introduced himself, Athena accepted the handshake, saying in a calm tone:

```
"The name's Athena, Freelance Detective. A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Shiro."
```

Letting go after introducing herself, her arm falls to her side where she tucks her hand into a pocket of her trench coat. She would then look towards William and continue to say in a curious manner:

```
"You invited Starbi? ...Cool, i wan-."

```

And as if on cue, Athena hears Starbi shout a greeting towards her and William. Athena turns towards Starbi and waves her hand side to side using her free hand. Fingers outstretched, a genuine expression of joy evident on her features. She was happy to see a friend and another face she deemed trustworthy for this investigation, not to mention Starbi's Joyful Aura. Once Starbi reaches them, Athena would say in a gleeful and energetic voice:

```
"Heya Starbi, Long time no see!. How have you been buddy?"
```

While awaiting a response from Starbi, She thinks to herself:

```
There are more trustworthy eyes on this investigation. Starbi is a kid and might not be skilled in detective work or investigations like me and William. Plus, who knows what we will see in there? It could be gruesome for a kid. ...I should probably learn more about Shiro as well. You can't trust most people these days, not even the police.
```

Returning her focus to Shiro, Athena maintained her composed yet inquisitive demeanor, prompting further conversation with an air of genuine interest.

```
"Since I've shared my occupation, I'm intrigued to learn more about yours and your intentions here."
```

She pauses for a few seconds, looking up at the raining sky. She looks back down towards Shiro, still looking up due to the significant height difference:

```
"So Shiro, Care to enlighten us?"
```
Daisy
The white-haired woman crossed the muddied cobbles, her body shrouded in an impermeable cold.
As she passes through the heavy downfall, the rain does not touch her skin. 
Droplets of water burst into vapor before freezing into a delicate, snowy mist as they pass into her presence, fading into obscurity as they dissipate silently upon the form of her body.
Her eyes are alight with a subtle glimmer, piercing the thickness of the grey overcast atmosphere in their singular, light-blue hue.

```fix
"Mm... This is it?"```

Arlet passed upon the precipice of the premises formed around the inn, her palm lifted up and at an angle over her brow to shelter her eyes from the freezing precipitation, scanning transiently over the depressing condition of the estate. Her head tilted as her hand lowered to rest on the side of her hip as she now gazed lazily at the unsightly thing.

*```fix
"How ugly."```*

A wry smile emerged on her face as her gaze contemned the ugly inn and the ugly souls surrounding it. In a heavy breath, she released a silent sigh, passing forward as her gaze crossed swiftly from all the unpleasant and uninspiring things around her — the police and the protestors both — and toward the figures of those much more amusing: the likes of the small group now forming and meeting past the yellow tape and toward the entry of the inn. What had garnered her attention was the sparks of light found within the figures of increasing interest unensnared by the absurdity of the city and its faux trial; they each possessed a type of individuality that set them apart from the monotony surroundings, and each possessed a zest that tasted of the potential to meet her desire for excitement. Her grin persisted as she followed after the latest of the bunch, her footfalls freezing the impression of her steps in the thin coating of rainwater that glossed the city streets.
_ _

She came closer. Standing at 177cm, the light-blue-eyed, white-haired but youthly woman strode leisurely toward the blockade, where then she was stopped. She had neither paperwork nor identification, having come mostly by her passing desires, sparing little-to-no effort to actually attain permission, as had some of her peers.

```fix
"...Ah, me? I'm with them."
"It shouldn't be any trouble if I just passed through, right?"```

Still grinning, lightly, the woman grinned, extending her hand in a motion toward the group now formed and meeting outside the inn. Though as light and buoyant as her countenance appeared, there was an inlying weight that almost seemed to grant her statement a sense of force — one that was furthered by the sharpness of her glare.
Charlene
It seemed his inclination was correct as Athena and Rojas greeted him and they shook hands.

Seemed the lady was his boss, interesting.

He chuckled a bit at the remark about needing to smoke, and turned his gaze to meet the newcomer who eagerly bounced up to them, this "Starbi".

Seemed the two knew him. An energetic but childish being he seemed, Shiro could detect a faint aura of pleasentry around him, though it didn't do much to lift the mood, given... Well.

What was someone like that doing here?

He focused back onto Athena as she basically inquired into he himself more.

Intentions? Those were clear enough.

Occupation, though?

He didn't exactly have one of those, did he? Certainly not one thats easy enough to explain.

```
"Call me... A private investigator. Yes, that about fits. I believe another term, as you call it, would be "Private eye". No one sent me here, I just happened to hear of this and I have come to provide my help. Not in solving this case, mind you, that is your forte, but I shall still try if I can, but mainly I am here to deal with, as I made clear to the officers there, any magical entities who might be trying to frame the widow there. I require no reward. I am merely here to help."

```


Shiro would have still kept eye contact if not for overhearing the next newcomer.

And she seemed... Off.

He watched as she took in her surroundings and he could just feel the contempt she had for them; the people, the place, all of it.

That smile didn't seem friendly.

Cautiously, he spoke up to her.


```
"Ah, another one. Greetings, I am Shiro... And you are?"

```
Tina
Turning his attention towards Starbi, a soft but small smile appears on his face. He throws his cigarette towards the floor to stomp out as he begins to speak, "How you doing, Stars? I'm happy you were able to join us. It's best to have all eyes on the case." William says as he hides his smile and hides his feelings as he's always done, admittedly he knows that Starbi isn't the best person to join in on the investigation given their childlike nature and skill in this kind of work, instead someone like Max would've been better due to his strength or his ability to fight and remind hidden in the shadows but William has his reasons on why he chose to have Starbi accompany on the case. He turns his head towards the new arrival of the white haired lady, feeling an off sense with the lady given her sharp glare and lack of credentials, he softly moves his right hand up till it touched the grip of his revolver but deciding not to draw, he instead shifts his revolver for a more comfortable reach while reaching into his satchel for a Hardtack biscuit, outstreching his hand towards Starbi, he opens his mouth to speak once again, "Here you go Stars, it's best to eat something now we don't know how long this will take. And officer, can you let that woman through? More people, the merrier." He says, looking back towards the lady and to Starbi, speaking in a low whisper for only Starbi to hear, "I don't like the look of these people. Stay close to me and Athena, and speak to them if you want, but don't disclose anything too much." He moves his arm up and pats Starbi on the shoulder, giving a smile towards his companion
Jennifer
"I'm okay!!!! I've been wandering around the place since the festival! Lots of places to explore and stuff!!!!" The starborn responded to both William and Athena.
"And of course!!! I'm glad I could come along. I'd love to help anyway I can!!" Starbi said with his signature smile. However, he paused for a moment as he noticed something about William. His smile, he hid it. A faint drop of doubt was struck in the back of the Starborn's mind, all this being in the span of 3 seconds.
...
He then looked to the people around. "This place seems a bit down, but I'm sure it can't be that bad!" Starbi spoke, turning his head to his two friends.
"I'm sure that we can at least bring a smile to this place!" Starbi assured with a smile, noticing William giving him a biscuit to eat. 
Before William began whispering to Starbi, these were apparently warnings for Starbi to just stick close, Starbi then took a look to the others beside Athena and William. Starbi thought for a moment. Starbi did trust William, but the people here couldn't be that bad, could they?
"Alright, you got it!!" Starbi exclaimed with a small nod.
"Thanks for the biscuit too!!" He thanked. He then turned to the person that was speaking to William and Athena before Starbi approached the three, as he then waved to him.
"Hiii!!! My name's Starbi, its nice to meet you!!" Starbi greeted with a bright smile on his face.
Wilfred
As each truth seeker and/or enforcer of justice arrived at the scene individually, one commonality persisted. Between the pleasantries they may or may not have exchanged with each other, the cautionary tape setup by Caritas's small police force, of which separated the crowd from the protestors, remained tightly guarded. From initial entry, Arlet would be permitted to join the *Group* Regardless of her lack of identification and plausible lie, as was Shiro and all else who did not follow the standard protocol of filling the appropriate documentation prior to their unannounced arrival, nor having proper legal jurisdiction— but upon attempts to gain access into the Inn itself, they would be greeted with the same uniform response from one officer in particular that made things complicated.

*"No more detectives. The inn is not open."*A strongly Italian accented man would restate multiple times, dressed in a gray policeman outfit that distinguishes his authority from the rest of nearby officers. Whenever someone would ask, he'd notably turn his glance briefly over to one of the onlooking magicians apart of the church brotherhood that so happened to be standing by— and when they exchanged a shake of the head, he'd repeat to any one of William, Athena, Starbi, Shiro and Arlet the same, almost robotic denial of entrance. The local PD was bending over backwards for the church's command on this particular matter, and it was not especially hard to notice for those believing themselves as detectives to pick upon; it was true that their influence transcended conventional authority within the city of Caeli Noctis specifically. Meanwhile, the gathering chants from the disgruntled crowd became slightly more directed at the group, accusing them of ungodliness on the account of presumably trying to disprove the word of the Vicariate, the bulk of which was in Italian and therefore likely incomprehensible to most of them. Still, it was evidently mean-spirited and direct.

The fact remained that this was extremely false-advertising; there was no issued warning that investigations were no longer to be conducted ahead of time. Naturally, such a thing was a smack in the face to anyone that had gone out of their way to show up here. Granted, it wasn't high on the list of the recent transgressions of the church, but did go to show their willingness to stunt any level of hope for an overturn of their decision. It was odd, though— what harm would allowing one more day of searching would do? The previous days had turned up nothing other then missing investigators with little to no evidence. Claiming it was a safety precaution was nonsensical because the waivers and documentation to be filled out clearly stated they held no responsibility for injuries or potential incidents, not that everyone was aware of that. In other words, they had no reason to care, nor did the police force by extension. Perhaps the lack of waiers signed was the reason for denied entry, then?

*"I'm sorry, but its too late. You must leave."* The man reiterated, remaining on his guard as to prevent an attempts at an unwarranted entrance. Under orders, it was his task to convey the notion that they were no longer accepting investigators— in fairness, a number had gone missing prior to today, thus making this not a completely unreasonable course of action. Fortunately for the group, however, a most prompt interruption came to pass.
Gregory
"Please—" A voice came from behind. "Marco, let them pass. Today is the last day." It was the soft, less accented, yet still foreign voice of the red hooded protestor, who unveiled her face as to look the officer directly in the eye upon patting him several times on the forearm. Roberta had made her way from the scene directly outside the Inn to the group being held by the policeman. Judging by the fact she called him what wasn't his last name, there was an indication that they personally knew each other to some level.

"Just for a bit." Her tone was a mix of firmness and desperation. She was about 5 foot 1 inches, much smaller and stubbier relative to the officer's near 6 foot frame, and had slightly tanned, freckled skin that was blemished and smothered with purposefully ruined dark makeup— it was actually what she had used to illustrate the wording on her poncho as opposed to marker, hence the darker coloration. Her eyes were an emerald green that glimmered with a combination of weariness and determination, and her hair was brown to the shoulder length. It almost looked like a child youthfully tugging at the arm of an older, much larger adult, and in fairness, she was only 19 a couple months ago. She put her hands together in a praying motion and bowed her head at the man's mercy.
Wilfred
"*. . ."* The gray eyes of Marco between his gray cap gave a look of twinged pity as he turned to look at her, scratching his dulling beard. Several of his fellow officers immediately stood on guard, but he waved them off. His glance returned back to his de facto superiors in the robed churchmen, then back at her, back at them, back at her. Eventually, he let out a long, reluctant sigh, and decided to give in. The truth was that he was a lot more sympathetic towards the cause of the protestors then his stance and commands indicated, but he had his orders— and yet, it was short and easy to convince him, despite the risks. What that said about the situation itself was left to interpretation.

*"Go."* He didn't so much as look at them in eye, but he walked over to where the yellow tape began, and unclipped a portion of it as to allow the group entry, nodding at Roberta. He would very likely be reprimanded for this, but it'd be on the account of the brotherhood, not his superiors. For now, he could pin the blame on his actual bosses before anyone figured it out— one of the robbed individuals from afar gave him an immediately perplexed, annoyed look that he pretended not to see. He had enough tenure to ensure that his job wasn't at complete risk of termination. Besides, it was for a good friend, and he may have very well contributed to the relative success of this protest within his able authority.
Gregory
Roberta whispered a relieved 'thank you', in her native language, and then turned her attention to the group of investigators of all sorts. "Ciao! I am Roberta— or Berta, please. Thank you all for coming today to help. . . My mother, on the final day. Do not be afraid to introduce yourselves." She iterated her previous point that this would indeed be the last day before the execution was put forward, but nonetheless continued under the assumption they knew who she was already. "Please, follow me to meet the others." The red robed young lady made a gesture that suggested they trail behind her for the time being as she practically marched back towards the front of the Inn; it could allow the group to more closely inspect the outside of the motel itself for some potentially revealing exterior details. On previous days, she wasn't nearly this forward towards those who came searching for the truth she so desperately hoped for, but the clock was ticking, and she figured a conversation at the very least would be wise to have. She wouldn't hold them for very long, though— with just 16 hours to go, that'd be awfully idiotic over her to do. That said, she was also considering doing something rash. 

"These are my people," Roberta signaled, having quickly returned to the Inn with the rest of he peers. A chunk of the nine protestors were pale, appeared sickly, or were outright asleep, although those relatively conscious did give measly, weak waves. It was interesting that she didn't stop long enough to introduce them by name nor give them general curtesy, but in any case, she went on— or, rather, wanted to, but couldn't really. Unfortunately, she had very little to give them. She stood on the front steps, and prepared to give an underwhelming speech, of sorts, trying to project her voice in a way that exceeded the loudness of the rain.

_ _
"Well. . . The inside is dangerous, as you know. . ." She started on this point in reference to the numerous disappearances, but hadn't much of an idea where to go next. It's not like she had a map or layout of the Inn on standby, nor knew enough about its interior to give them actually useful information. "I. . . Wish you good luck." Roberta also seemed distracted, in the sense that she kept making these side glances— as if anticipating someone else's arrival. "Any questions?" It's not like she could *Answer* Them, but it'd be rude not to say that, right? She felt good about having at least spoken to them collectively, albeit she had no interest in actually dwelling on the impending doom or sadness of her situation more then she had to do. They had jobs to do.

She hardly seemed like the antichrist that the newspapers made her out to be, let alone a particularly strong willed woman capable of making herself the posterchild of evil for the sake of a nearly lost cause. One could argue it was akin to a child throwing a tantrum that so happened to spiral out of control— that was exactly how the church felt about her, certainly. And yet, even so, the effort was valiant as it could be in light of circumstances.
Jennifer
The Starborn was then distracted after he tried to introduce himself to Shiro. Turning his head to see what he figured to be a policeman.

```"No more detectives. The Inn is not open.``` 

Starbi then looked at the gloomy policeman, sensing no shred of joy from him whatsoever. It was then that Starbi finally took notice of the yellow tape around the area, pausing for a few seconds before looking to as well finally notice the protestors, they seemed... Not so happy. Starbi's eyes focused on the protestors, in response he gave them a friendly wave with a polite smile in response to their unhappy shouts towards the group.
"Hello!" Starbi spoke with a naive smile on his face, in response to the protestors' words. However, his waving wavered for a moment, remembering William hiding his smile a few minutes ago. He was just in thought for a moment as he waved as a sort of automatic response. 

```"Go."```

It was then that woke from his thoughts, hearing the same policeman from before seemingly change his mind. The Starborn then sensed a feeling from the crowd, it wasn't... Exactly sad, it felt like the cooling joy of relief. It took Starbi a few seconds for him to find the source of that feeling, as if was something very contrasting to the harsh absence of joy around it. Finding a girl who was around 5'1" Speaking to the group.

"Hi hi, Berta!! My name's Starbi!!" Starbi spoke with his smile.
"These are my friends William and Athena!! We're here to help however we can!" He spoke for the two. Starbi tilted his head for a moment when Roberta requested the group followed her, which he did without a second thought regardless if the others followed or not, Joyful Aura keeping its presence over the environment of ice blue dread. As Starbi then gave a friendly wave to the people Roberta had introduced.
** **

```"Well... The inside is dangerous, as you know... I... Wish you good luck. Any questions?"``` 
Starbi shook his head with glee, giving Roberta a thumbs up. 
"All good from me!!" Starbi exclaimed with joy with a friendly thumbs up to Roberta.
"Me and my friends will do whatever we can, and in the end, I'm sure we can make this place smile!" Starbi assured with joy.
Charlene
*Whether the lady he was talking to introduced herself or not*, Shiro would follow as the group proceeded inwards, yet to be barred from further entry by an officer of the law. He seemed of higher rank and status and quite stoic. If they weren''t allowed entrance, then *Why* Were they called here? It didn't make any sense.

A young woman from the crowd came to their aid, telling the gentlemen to let them pass. They seemed to know one another which was... Interesting.

He stayed silent as she led them in and introduced herself.

So, she was the daughter of the accused widow? She certainly didn't *Seem* Like the widow herself, nor would someone so young have any good reason to be here, so it was believable. 

As she talked, however, Shiro detected an unease to her words as she kept looking frantically back and forth.

It was at this, and the prompting for further questions, that he at last spoke.


```
"Ah, yes, I've a question. 

Are you, perhaps, expecting someone else to interfere? You seem quite nervous, and it's not just about your mother, is it? I assure you, if anyone tries to interfere with this investigation, we'll deal with them if that is what you are concerned about.

"Also... Say, the power is supposed to be off in here, is it not? The area within seems lit still."

```
Daisy
Arlet's disposition changed a number of times as she scanned over the volunteer investigators scattered outside the yellow tape of the reported crimescene. Her carefree demeanor shrouded the subtle strength lying within her gaze, its light-blue glow trailing with an ephemeral light that faded soon after each flick of its motion. From the bright-eyed one to the firm one; from the steadfast one to the suspicious one; from the suspicious one to the ambitious; and from the ambitious to the officer and the woman and the two's small and telling interaction—each glance guided, clearly, with some intent to derive some sort of information — some sort of image — from those that surrounded her.

Her ear perked, and an oddly humorous expression rose to surface on her face. Where her eyes had once continuously wandered with each passing moment, they then — following William's whisper — rested on the form of the five-foot-eight man, that new, subtle, perceptive and ambiguous grin of hers still on her face. It let on that she knew something; perhaps that she had heard him, or perhaps not.

```fix
"My name," She closed her eyes, neutrality returning to her visage, "Is Arlet."```

She extended her right hand out and to her side, its elbow rested on the back of her left arm, which was folded just under her chest. Her words were quick and spoken matter-of-factly, yet Arlet offered a light and lively smile. 

```fix
"Just one question before we begin——" Her eyes opened, slightly asquint, as she lifted a finger to her side. "——We're all here to clear the name of the falsely-accused, correct?"
"To 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘢𝘬, so to speak."```
George
Athena hearing the words "No more detectives. The Inn is closed" Would have turned around.

```
"I have the documentation filled out and have proof of my identity, you have to allow me in."
```
Glaring at the officer, She retorted clearly a little angry at the policeman's statement.

"Go."

Upon hearing these words, Athena would have glanced at William, already cooking up a plan for if she can't get into the Inn. If it wasn't for Roberta allowing her and the group entry, Athena would have attempt to solve this case the difficult and illegal way.

Upon Roberta introducing herself and granting them access to the premises, Athena walks into the Inn pulling out her journal, She quickly flips to an empty page. Right after pulling out a pencil, spinning it in her hand. She lets the other's ask questions first, Then she looks at Berta with a look of calmness, determination and curiosity.

```
"I have a couple pf questions for you Berta, Where were the bodies discovered and What time were the bodies discovered?"

```
She inquired

She would then look to Arlet keeping only the calmness in her tone.

```
"Nice to meet you Arlet and to answer your question, The reason i'm here is to protect the weak in a sense but to prove the "Falsely accused" Innocent is a bit of a stretch for we don't actually know if they are innocent and covering for someone who could be as guilty as anyone else is not how i roll. My goal is to find the killer, and whether that proves them innocent or guilty is not of my concern. This is justice, anyone can be at fault."
```

She then looks at both Starbi and William while awaiting a response from Berta and starts to think of a plan to hopefully make this case easier and find out more about these newcomers and more about the case.

```
Starbi has a knack for connecting with people from what I can tell at least. Perhaps I could assign them the task of gathering intel on these newcomers and getting as much info as possible out of Berta. But then again, that could expose them to potential danger if these individuals aren't as harmless as they seem. We could even do Good Cop and Bad Cop if need be, Starbi and William being perfect canidates for it while the rest of us investigate the crime scene. It's a plan alright, one that I'll need to discuss with William and Starbi later to make sure they are on board with it. On another note, this place more likely doesn't have cameras from the looks of it, otherwise the police would have probally solved it by now unless the killer of course is smart. I should take people's fingerprints and testimonies as well.

```

Athena puts the pencil atop her ear and uses her now free hand to look for something in her pockets

```
... Fuck, i forgot my fingerprint kit... And my magnifying glass, looks like i'll be doing this the hard way unless one of these people have something on them or Berta has some sort of Ink and Paper at least
```

Athena after searching scoffs as she takes the pencil back from atop her ear, looking back towards Berta. She asks.

```
"One more question actually. You don't happen to have some Ink and Paper laying around, Do you?"
```
Catherine
The incessant chanting of the fanatical crowd would for a moment be drowned out by the roaring of an engine, before the crowd simply begin shouting louder, as a car pulled up to the scene; a gleaming Aston Martin db2, a classic British sports car painted in black, a woman stepped out of the passenger seat and shoved her way through the crowd as the car pulled away, without waiting to be let through she would duck below the police tape and hold up her wallet for the stationed police officer to inspect; Licensed detective, Academie member and Royal Kensington Society operative.

```
[0;40;34m" Detective Ubersich. "
```
She was a short woman at only 5'2 and rather thin, but she moved with confidence and audacity typically reserved for those of more powerful builds, her mess of short blonde hair had been flattened by the rain, her skin was pale and freckled and she wore a long beige trench coat, her eyes were blue, unnaturally so almost glowing as she surveyed the small group, staring daggers through each of them, and in the centre of her forehead sat a third eyelid, closed shut.

```
[0;40;34m" ... "
```
Her expression was grim and disapproving, maybe it was the weather or maybe it was the company it was hard to tell.
Without a word she shut her eyes, and the third eye upon her forehead began to open, she blinked a few times and strained almost squinting, using true sight in Caeli Noctis was like staring at an eclipse, the northern lights and some form of rave lighting setup all at the same time.
Her eye began to survey the group, Athena was interesting, a soul bound in chains and an array of power, William went completely ignored, as her gaze past Shiro she squinted, his aura was blinding and hard to decipher, Starbi was similarly unfamiliar, and Arlet made the rest of them look mundane, she even managed to make Alexis smile, even if only for a few short seconds.

```
[0;40;34m" Could be worse. "
```
Abruptly her third eye shut, and her 2 regular eyes

Opened, without skipping a beat she brushed past everyone and headed straight for the front door, completely disregarding any attempts at communication or dilly dallying.
The team would suffice, but standing out in the rain would not be solving any mysteries.

```
[0;40;34m" Do you all enjoy the feeling of being soaking wet?"
```
She didn't even turn to address them as the door swung open seemingly on its own, she drew a bottle of unlabelled blue pills from her pocket and threw 2 of them back before entered the building.
Tina
Watching the arrival of new people, William watches closely how they all act and present themselves. He gives a small smile towards starbi as they go introduce themselves to the others, while he wouldn't admit it he likes being in company of Starbi, but quickly hides his smile once again reminding himself the objective of the case and the true reason why he invited Starbi to aid in the case. Walking into the building he hears Athena talk about "Protect the weak" Which gave him a sense of guilt, his hands tensed and his mind wandered toward the past, the faces of those who died flashing in his mind along with the begs and screams of the people hes watched get killed or killed himself, he without a word reached towards one of his cigarettes to clear his mind but decided not light it, instead placing it back into the pocket and balling his right hand into a fist and realising the tension, he then places his hand onto the grip of his revolver to use it as a place to relax his hand. "Starbi, come with me and check the surrounding area. If you see anything out of place, come to me or Athena." He said in a tone of voice that sounded more like a soldier giving orders rather than a friend, an idea to give Starbi a gun crossed his mind incase there was danger but he decided against it for now due to him being unsure if Starbi could handle it. The memories of his past still haunting his mind but showing no emotion on his face.
Jennifer
With all that was happening, Starbi was just simply being happy to himself, bobbing his head from side to side as everything went by, just stuck in his own little world as he just thinks about what makes him happy, memorised music playing in his head as well, his eyes closed, keeping his smile as others spoke to one another, or made it to the building.
*"Hmm Hmm Hmmm...~"* He hummed to himself, 

```"Do you all enjoy the feeling of being soaking wet?"```
Starbi opened his eyes, brought out of his whimsical trance of joy, to see that two new people had appeared in Starbi's awareness. One of them was the person who spoke regarding everyone staying in the rain, a neutral but curious expression on his face. He then looked to see a new friend with cool white hair, Starbi formed a smile on his face as he then waved at her out of kindness. To these two people that Starbi now noticed, they seemed nice, he had hoped to speak and be a friend to them.

The Starborn's focus wavered, as William called out his name in an... Odd tone. 

```"Come with me and check the surrounding area. If you see anything out of place, come to me or Athena."```
Starbi smiled as he responded with a nod, still taking note of William's sudden change of tone.
"...On it!! I'll stick by and do whatever you need me to do." Starbi assured, William was probably okay, he has his reasons, Starbi just had to put his trust in him.
David
_ _
Who was he? Why was he here? Two questions that many would spend their time carefully addressing, but not him, lest it be an absolute demand. All anyone needed to know was who he worked for— in due time, that would likely happen— and that was about it, albeit the aforementioned questions would tragically be forced to unveil themselves at some point for reasons out of his control. The man, in his black overcoat hung over a yellow dress shirt stood up, allowing his dark trousers to breathe and his Oxford formals to feel the cobblestones as he took a step forward, carelessly allowing the newspaper and pen to fall from his grasp. For someone who did not want to be where he was, he was impeccably dressed with attire that was evidently the furthest from cheapskate; granted, it was not a virtue that he sought to maintain so much as someone else did so on his behalf, which was yet another inquiry to be answered momentarily excluding his influence. Such is the way of life and its ways of digging out the details, a most graceful way of saying that people are *Annoying* And nosy, disguising their flaws as amicability. Typical.

In any case, his name was Thomas, and he was here because he owed the district attorney of Mesa, otherwise known as his younger sibling, a debt that was to be cashed on this unspectacular entanglement. Why? Don't know, also don't care. He's something of an investigator, but not exactly a local one. He was at the bar because he was drinking, obviously.

_ _
He grabbed his black umbrella and his cap, tightening his fedora onto a bed of messy jet black hair like a screw and popping the weather device open that was for some reason also luxury branded, likewise to his wardrobe. The umbrella concealed his cold gaze, but he did attract some looks regardless. It didn't take long for him to reach the entry point of his destination, where an initial officer— of whom that white haired chick spoke with, to be precise— awaited approved confirmation preceding Marco, the latter obviously the guy in charge based on the ridiculous Kommandant hat he adorned. Mussolini would shed a tear.

The man was still ways away from the group itself, though, remaining out of clear sight for the moment. As much as he seemed distant, he was very much aware of what was happening, as well as needed context pertaining to the situation. That was the job, wasn't it? Preparation and what be related. Actually, he was *Supposed* To be here about three ago but. . . He forgot? Alcoholism will do that to you, but in his defense, it was the only way he could stick around here willingly, hence his presence at the tavern. Unfortunately, only good place to sleep in the district was subject to a murder investigation.
Gregory
An array of questions of which she couldn't answer in full confidence, let alone the clear lack of information. How humiliating it was . . And though between Starbi's infectious positivity, the staunchness of William and Athena, the concern of Shiro, and even the lack thereof from Alexis and Arlet, she was uncertain of what was to come. In 16 hours, her mother would die, and there wasn't even a crumb of evidence to oppose that verdict. For as strong and committed as she'd been, there was a moment of hopelessness, a feeling that what was to come was a forgone conclusion— imagine how her fellow protestors felt, sticking through sickness and agony for a cause the great Martyr hardly felt had legs. The truth was that Roberta, then and there, almost felt the urge to break down into tears, as some of the investigators sped past her irrelevant speech to the door. It was locked, and she had the keys.

As the rain soaked her brown locks, sliding past her emerald eyes and off her skin soaked with monstrously done make-up, she let off a deep sigh with clasped hands, and did her best to suffices the curiosity of others. *"Ah. . . Yes, I'm fine. . . Just, waiting for a man I've never met. And— to be certain, I could not tell you why that is. Sorry."* She weakly shrugged at Shrio, truly unsure as to why that was. Berta then turned to Arlet and her peculiarly worded question, but answered no less frankly. *". . .Yes, I suppose so. Protecting. . . The weaker, against the stronger that shouldn't be?"* She sort of rephrased the sentiment as to appeal to Arlet, albeit to some level did agree with the assessment. This was, in her eyes, an abuse of power, but at this point she cared more about saving her mother then taking down corruption. Calling her 'weak' wasn't something she welcomed. . . Yet, this was the situation, wasn't it?

_ _
*"That. . . You'll have to ask someone who is. . . As they say, in tune, with the case. Sorry."* Berta hardly knew the ins and outs of the Inn— hell, she'd only been in it whilst in business a handful of times, let alone knowing the natures of the murders or when they happened, nor why. Again, it was disheartening that she knew so little, but what could she do, other then advertise for someone to find out what she couldn't. . . Or, wouldn't? Are those to be considered different? 

*"Ah, right! The keys, allow me."* Berta interrupted those led by Alexis who attempted to waltz in immediately, reaching hastily into the deep pockets of her red poncho and eventually finding the keys— which she dropped, and then quickly picked up. *". . .Good luck, again!"* She swiveled around and shoved the key into the lock of the brown, unappealing doorframe, struggling for some moments before hearing the relieving sound of the unlock. The young woman stepped back, and bowed her head— but not long after something, or rather, *Someone* In the distance caught her eye, a shadow in the distance. It was, as described, the person she'd been waiting for. 

*". . .Excuse me., now"* Berta promptly hopped off the staircase with some urgency, walking past her fellow protestors and the number of freelancing investigators. With that out the way, those interested could alas enter the revealing light of the Inn with no more apparent delays. The time was now, and the clock was ticking on the race to correcting a potential injustice.
Jennifer
```". . .Good luck, again!"```
Starbi watched as Roberta made it to unlock the door to the Inn.

```"...Excuse me, now-"```
As she then walked down the stairs away from the group and back to the protestors.

"Don't worry, Berta! I'm sure we're going to be fine, we're here to help you whatever way we can, anything to make you and everyone here smile!" Starbi yelled out with joy in his voice, Joyful Aura looming over the area, maybe even affecting some of the protestors.

"Bye bye!!" Starbi yelled to her with a friendly wave of enthusiasm. As he then turned to the door of the Inn.
"Alright! I'm ready, here we go everyone!!" Starbi spoke with prideful joy in his tone, as he gleefully made his way through the door, albeit even rudely skipping someone who was currently going through the door.
David
*"Papers."*

Thomas silently obliged to the demands of the initial officer, reaching into his coat with his unoccupied hand and uncovering the apparent documentation required, handing it to the lowly officer. It was the same man that Arlet had convinced she was with the larger group of presumed investigators— he had noticed the total lack of pestering in their and other encounters upon short glance earlier, and put two and two together. An aversion to protocol? Sounds like his kind of party. A part of him wanted to make a fuss about it, but he also wanted to not be here as soon as possible.

*". . ."* The officer had a strange, somewhat bewildered expression, but it wasn't due to the filing. Rather, Tom had elevated the black umbrella slightly upwards as to suddenly reveal the distinct features of his face, jarringly so. He had pale skin, but a pair of dulled eyes, one a steel blue, and the other a sickly yellow almost akin to a repitle, or a serpent. There was also the obscure, red colored 'birthmark' on his right chin that shared striking resemblance to a story from the bible to those knowledgeable: The Mark of Cain. In general, there existed a strangely, deeply unpleasant sensation about the man to anyone who deemed themselves a believer of Christ , not to mention the innately begrudged expression he possessed and how out of place he looked. He gave Thomas a mistrustful stare as an instinctual response to his frigid gaze.

*"ID."*

_ _
``"Didn't ask any of them for ID."`` Papers was one thing, but identification? That was out of line.

*"And now I'm asking you."* Given a hard time on account of his bedeviled appearance, it seems. A religious public servant, then? Working for the police and willing to instill his beliefs on those he chooses? How dreadfully ceremonious, not that this hadn't happened to him before around here.

``"Right. I'm sure they're all as righteous and moronically holy as you are. Or just morons."`` He retorted sharply. In his defense, he now he had no choice but to make a remark despite trying to restrain himself for the sake of defending against. . . *Somewhat* Wrongful and untoward assumption. In any case, he quickly retrived his badge from the same corner of his coat where he stashed his papers, as if to suggest he anticipated this happening. 

**``Federal Agent of the United States``**
**``H. Thomas Brandt - American Intelligence Committee, Foreign Justice And Investigations Level One``**

*". . .American?"* Few law enforcement agencies offered better job security then the A.I.C., former known as the C.I.A. And F.B.I. Pre-2011 merger. It was about the only good thing about them as an organization in his opinion.

_ _
``"No, it's the United States next to Argentina. The one where all the Nazis went."`` In his sarcasm, he knew that he would no longer be bothered given his clarified level of jurisdiction. As to empower this point, when the officer had no choice but to allow him entry, he turned his badge around and carefully tucked it into one of the flannel pockets of the lowly policeman, lightly patting the man on the shoulder as he walked by, echoing lasting words. *``"Proteggi questo oggetto con la tua vita, sant'uomo."``* Italian was an incredulously boring language to him, but messing with people brought him amusement in any dialect regardless how mundane. 

When Thomas approached Macro and his absurd hat at the now unveiled line of yellow tape, the gray-eyed policeman would hardly acknowledge him; he was too fixated on watching his friend, Berta, give that mostly fruitless attempt of a speech. The nature of Marco's stare was questionable, but what was even more questionable was how utterly useless Berta's words were from what he could make out through the stomping rain.

Tom turned his attention to the Inn from afar, watching as each member of the group shuffled their ways in. Place looks like an absolute dump, but the lights we-
Gregory
*"Excuse me."*

A short woman in a red poncho tapped him on the right shoulder as to get his attention. She was, unlike with the previous group of investigations, not nearly as hospitable as one would expect. In fact, Berta looked a strange mix between complete relief and mild disappointment, for reasons previously stated. He was several days late. *"Agent Brandt?"*

*"I am sorry, but. . ."* Berta placed her hands against her brown locks, feeling the wetness against her palms. *"I spoke to your sister, the attorney. . . She said you would be here on Friday."* It was likely that he didn't see her march across from the Inn to where he stood behind the tape given her particular stature.
David
``"I showed up on the day of the Lord. Can't be more punctual then that."`` It was Sunday, wasn't it? What better way to show grace? He still hadn't looked at her, keeping his gaze focused on the Inn.
Gregory
*"I see."* She kept her tone steady as to not insinuate any revealing emotions on his remark. *"Well, I-"*
David
``"You boning wolf eyes?"`` He motioned his umbrella towards Marco. 'Boning', as in sexual intercourse.
Gregory
*"W- what? Boning? What—"*
David
``"Sex. It doesn't matter, I just figured I'd give you a chance to actually give some actual useful information instead of stating the obvious. Thanks for playing."`` He then walked past her, towards the Inn. Did he really believe that? . . .Yes. He did, and he was pretty sure. As he approached the disheveled building, however, the short woman in her red poncho followed.

``". . .Why are you still here?"``
Gregory
*". . ."*

*"You think. . . I've been useless, Sir?"* Her brief annoyance was replaced by the more pressing concern on her mind. It was crawling all over her skin, like bed bugs at the dusk of night.
David
``"Let me think. If you go away right now, I might change my answer."``
Gregory
She did not go away. Berta wanted to hear his answer on the matter, despite having just met him, as if it held some sort of authority.
David
``". . Ok. Yes. Can you leave now?"``
Gregory
*"What if I went in and. . .And I helped out? With the investigation? As they say— make a difference?"* Her conscious had begun to weigh on her, and with time only getting shorter, this was the apparent 'rash decision' she was considering. Risking her own life, but it'd be for a good cause, wouldn't it? Saving her moms life, she only had an obligation to think this way. But. . . She was just as scared as doing this as she was terrified of seeing her mother be executed. It wasn't all that simple.
David
By the time he arrived at the front door, she was still behind him, talking. Seriously? One joke, and her confidence was done in? Unless this was a gradual thing that he had finally. . . Tipped over, in a sense. Either way, it was an idiotic perspective, and he turned around as to reiterate that point in exasperation. His tone would be especially demeaning through a disgruntled sigh, namely to ensure she would stop. ``". . .The newspapers say you've spent four days looking like Nancy Reagan after a bad blowjob in commitment to this thing. You've wallowed in your own sorrow, convinced these morons to join you and lead a mutiny annoying enough to make the church get off their asses. Why change?"`` The initial reference would go over her head, obviously.

``"People do what they do for a reason, law of nature. This is my job, and I get called by the people who can't do it, like the scared daughters of mothers on death row who didn't go to police school. You, on the other hand, do what you do because this is all you're good for. Don't be an idiot."`` This was his opinion, although he also figured she would slow them down between her lack of experience and overt sentimentality. She'd impede the investigative process through her bias alone, not to mention general incompetence. It was baffling to think that her moral compass would incline her to get herself killed, still. People *Decided* To come here despite the advertised dangers and implications, and its not like she could've done anything herself. Like he said, no experience. She, in all sincerity, made the smart choice, and now she wanted to jeopardize it because of some strange principal. Pressure brings out the irrationality in people.
Gregory
*". . .But, do you think you can save her? Or. . . That they can?"* She acknowledged his point, but her mind wandered. Berta was also slightly taken aback at his face in similar fashion to the lowly officer that had his badge, struck by its details, but not nearly as dramatically. His vulgarity was bothersome, but the points he was making weren't invalid to her.
David
``"Execution is at 12 tomorrow. 16 hours. Odds say she's dead before your first sip of Espresso."`` He shrugged, bluntly stating the situation. She didn't seem to have anything else to add other then increased disappointment and a conflicted expression, and so, he went on in. Emotional consultation wasn't part of the job description.