━━ 𝕯etective.

Silence befell us for some beats. I try my damnedest to get a read on their intent; their face covering and flat expression making it night impossible. I will continue to believe they are very, very socially unaware. My shoulders forcibly relax. +

—?! Swat. This person is given an incredulous look.

"Detective van Stronghold. To be frank with you, I... Cannot say. I was walking normally before the scenery changed."

— ! From my leg holster, the sudden appearance of this man forced my reflexes to respond; barrel pointing at his chin. Utter confusion prevents my mouth from opening. +

. . . 𓂃

Sitting back down, the unlit cigar in my hand is placed between my teeth. “Too many empty variables allow for any possibility at the moment. We’ll need to find more clues.”

The thoughts continue to roll around in my skull. “A byproduct of a weapon, as you said. High tech. They possess a physical body, though. Not a ghost; no ghost would need to escape by opening a window.”

But have left it completely barren up until this point. Clearly, not by choice.” At some point during my recounting, I stood up and started pacing. “Theory one. Mother Greens knows something about this place. Some kind of family secret. But what of Grace’s husband?" +

The teacup in my hand is placed back down. “Sure, then.” I know bait when it is presented. I bite, anyway. “Let me lay down the facts. A body was eviscerated last night, and the victim’s clothes were left folded neatly adjacent from the crime scene." +

/gutzz/ replies & starter(?) incoming

> Has been forced out of her office to have a day to herself.

“I have a few. But,” Another cigar was retrieved from my coat pocket and rolled between my index and thumb. “I need to know who I'm talking to. I don't suspect malice, but that alone doesn't guarantee trust.” +

?

"You... are?"

gutzz.xn--6ii that was scary I almost lost max forever hooolyyyy. celebratory max post

gutzz.xn--6ii made another ground zero oc acct :] (willow)