Enlightenment Under the Stars/Chapter 1

Prologue	Chapter 1	Chapter 2	Chapter 3	Chapter 4	Epilogue
Stone of Truth			Investigation Notes

Tower of the Dark Tempest

2-1 Cranial Divinations

Mr. Inference	(The site of the divination ceremony was a shadowy and ancient tower, situated several dozen miles from Wightlow.) (In the center of the hall, an antique gramophone is tarnished in brass hummed soft, calming melodies from it's needle's point.) (A few early arrivals, in pairs or small groups, passed the time with light-hearted conversation and games.)
Speak to the Seer
Seer	Each soul, bound to the universe in its entirety, is steered by the starry heavens from the moment of its first breath, the stars above already pointing the way. And the Astrolabe is a boundless tome of life, holding within it the secrets of one's gifts, selfhood, and the path that lies ahead.
Student-like Young Woman	The Astrolabe? I cannot recall the professors ever mentioning a scholarly instrument of this sort... Is it perhaps akin to a sailor's compass, relying on the forces of magnetism for direction?
Graceful Lady	Well, they're not the same at all... The Astrolabe is another term for a celestial chart, used by astrologers to map the skies above us. It is a planar diagram, drawn by astrologers who, based on the time of the sun's corona and its longitude and latitude, consult the chart to calculate and depict the positional relations of celestial bodies. Only with an accurate and detailed Astrolabe can astrologers conduct their readings and prognostications.
Student-like Young Woman	Longitude and latitude... A celestial chart, you say? It all seems rather complicated, doesn't it?
Seer	Complicated? Hardly. These are but the basic, foundational steps in the process. Furthermore, astrologers must account for the many ways in which the different house systems impact the drawing and calculation of the Astrolabe. A single miscalculation, and all interpretations concerning one's life and fortune—even the most carefully crafted prophecies—would become naught but folly.
Student-like Young Woman	The complexity of Astrology is truly remarkable. Quite a revelation, indeed...
Graceful Lady	Indeed, it is. A truly skilled astrologer must possess not only rare genius but also unrelenting diligence and a well-rounded erudition. For example, Mr. Astrologer was an assistant professor in mathematics and philosophy long before he began his pursuit of astronomy. And the art of cranial divinations is, in truth, his greatest achievement, born from the fusion of astronomy, astrology, psychology, and anatomy.
Student-like Young Woman	As expected of Duval... I mean... Mr. Astrologer. I've heard him praised by many respected figures; he was once a revered spiritual mentor who guided many to astronomy. However, with time... even today, some remain puzzled and dismayed by his abrupt departure from academia.
Mr. Inference	(I could not help but notice the hint of sorrow that crept upon the young lady's features, bringing their conversation to an almost imperceptible halt.) (They then noticed my presence, a stranger. I approached and offered a polite greeting.) A pleasant evening to you, ladies. I hope I'm not interrupting anything.
Graceful Lady	Why, not at all. We are pleased to have a new friend join us in this casual exchange of words.
Mr. Inference	(I've long since noticed the lady before me. Her extensive knowledge in the conversation earlier deeply impressed me.)
Head There was a serene elegance to her bearing, accompanied by a subtly captivating, androgynous allure. Clothing The radiating design pressed a certain mysterious quality, as if it were linked to some secret aspect of astrology. Left Hand Her cloak's sumptuous fabric and elegant tailoring were of the highest order, radiating the dignified air of ancient nobility. Mask The golden mask she held resembled a theatrical prop, perhaps a subtle reflection of her personal style.
Graceful Lady	There is something about you... If I am not mistaken, are you a private detective?
Mr. Inference	Quite so. In fact, others have taken to calling me "Inference."
Astrology Student	Delighted to make your acquaintance, Mr. Inference. I am Penny Herschel, currently studying in the Astronomy Department at Wightlow University.
Seer	Dessalines, the Seer.
Mr. Inference	A pleasure to meet both of you and, of course, this individual also...
Novia Aurore	How remiss of me—I almost failed to introduce myself. I am Novia Aurore of Mayotte.
Mr. Inference	(Though I had already harbored some curiosity regarding her identity, the mention of the surname Aurore still struck me with surprise.) (To my knowledge, the Aurore family is an esteemed lineage, granted a noble title for its distinguished service, with strong and lasting ties to the political establishment) (Mayotte's fame over the years can largely be attributed to two institutions: the Nightingale Royal Opera House and the renowned Aurore family.) Good evening, madam. Might I be so bold as to address you as Lady Aurore? (Upon hearing this, the esteemed lady smiled, delicately rotating the half-gilded mask in her hand, her expression one of modest elegance.)
Novia Aurore	In essence, were it not for the prestige of the Aurore family, I would be nothing more than an ordinary person, lost in the art of theatre. I would much rather be addressed as Novia, or, if you will, by my stage name, "Lady of Dawn."
Mr. Inference	A lady of the stage, I see. With the extensive knowledge you displayed just now, I had imagined astrology might be more of your field of expertise.
Novia Aurore	My knowledge of the mystical arts is limited, yet I find myself most intrigued by the cranial divination techniques Mr. Astrologer so deftly employs. But it was the mysterious tale of "Goatee" that most certainly drew me to this gathering.
Mr. Inference	"Goatee"?
Novia Aurore	Indeed. You may have heard that this tower was once a prison, infamous over a hundred years ago. It was known as the "Black Storm." The vilest criminals dwelled within its walls, and "Goatee" was the most despicable among them. They say he was the only prisoner ever to break free from these walls, yet how he managed to do so remains a mystery unsolved to this day. Years after his escape, a playwright created the satirical comedy The Night of the Black Storm, with him inspiring its central antagonist. Despite having seen and even performed this classic play countless times, every script explains how the escape was achieved. However, the enigma of this figure and his strange past continue to stir within me an insatiable curiosity.
Mr. Inference	So, your purpose in coming here is to unravel the mystery of how "Goatee" escaped?
Novia Aurore	Exactly. I came here hoping for a stroke of luck, but I never imagined running into a private detective like you, Mr. Inference. Might you be interested in unraveling this mystery with me? Naturally, I'll ensure you receive a fitting reward for your involvement.
Accept		Refuse
Mr. Inference	To be honest, the answer piques my interest more than the payment.	Mr. Inference	I'm afraid I have more urgent matters demanding my attention.
Novia Aurore	It appears I have underestimated the intrinsic depth of a detective's curiosity. Perhaps we can finally solved this hidden mystery that has persisted for a century—with your aid.	Novia Aurore	How regrettable. It seems the mystery is mine to solve alone.
Mr. Inference	(After exchanging a few more pleasantries with Lady Aurore and the others, my gaze shifts to the other side of the hall.) (At the far side, a group of men were seated, their faces concentrated as the huddled around a card table, playing some intriguing game.) (Clearly, this card game had reached its critical, deciding moment.)
Speak to the Serious Young Man
Serious Young Man	Come one now, Mr. Poet, no more dilly-dallying! It is your turn to flip.
Somber Young Man	F-Forgive me... I'll pick this one.
Mr. Inference	(With a hint of melancholy, the poet delicately flipped the card closest to him—precisely the one that had, moments ago, made up a pair.) (Noticing the tide of victory turn in favor of his adversary, the young man, wearing boxing gloves and a steely expression, instinctively clenched his fists.)
Sharp-witted Man	Things do not look good for Mr. Boxer... No, no! I can't let this stand! I must switch my bet! Allow me to make a change...
Brawny Man	Mr. Clerk, wasn't it agreed that there would be no turning back once a wager was made?
Mr. Inference	(The stout man in sheriff's attire sitting in the center placed a steady, forceful hand over the other's, exuding a quiet strength.) (With his refined but frail nature, the Poet edged out the Boxer by three points, much to the latter's chagrin.)
Sharp-witted Man	Oh, this is the end of me, penniless at last...
Brawny Man	Wealth is but a fleeting thing. It can be won back. A man ought not to sigh over such trivialities.
Dispossessed Worker	This is the last of the money I had left after my investments went sour! I was planning to recoup my losses, but it's all vanished! Alas, why does wealth always seem to slip through my fingers? How about another round? This time, I'll show you I can get the bet right.
Somber Young Man	Perhaps we should let this gentleman try his luck this round? He's a renowned detective, and I believe he'd be perfect for a game of wits like this.
Mr. Inference	Have we met? (I found myself scrutinizing the young man more closely. There are peculiar scabs on his head and beck.)
Bard	My name is Assaf, a wandering bard of sorts. Beyond music and poetry, I have a passion for gathering stories about famous individuals. I've followed your work since the Golden Rose Theater case and have always hoped to write a biography about you. I never imagined I'd meet you here.
Sheriff	Ah, so this is the renowned detective. How delightful. I'm Sheriff Anderson, principal lawman of Wightlow. An honor to meet you. This here is Boxer K, a pugilist of the underground circuit, and alongside him is Mr. Frank Gaudy, a man of clerical duties. Seeing as we're now familiar with one another, detective, might I suggest you join us for a game of cards?
Mr. Inference	(I considered that a game of cards might serve as a suitable form of interaction, and thus, I accepted.)
Bard	Allow me to select a fitting melody for the occasion. Please, make yourselves comfortable in the meantime.
Mr. Inference	(Following Anderson's instructions, the remaining participants promptly rearranged the cards, and the game was ready to commence without delay.)

2-2 Victims

Mr. Inference	(As the game drew to its conclusion, the air lightened, and the participants, now more at ease, began conversing with a newfound familiarity.) (With the details of the serial murder case from The Wightlow Gazette lingering in my thoughts, I approached the Sheriff for further information.)
Speak to the Sheriff
Mr. Inference	Sheriff, I wonder if you've heard of the serial murder case mentioned in the papers as of late?
Sheriff	Of course, I presume this case has also piqued your interest, Detective?
Mr. Inference	Indeed. Using the fragments of the ring found on the deceased, I've managed to form a pattern. I would appreciate your help in confirming a few things, Sheriff.
Sheriff	This pattern and the inscription... Mélodis? As expected, it's just as I feared...
Mr. Inference	You don't seem particularly surprised by the identity of the victim, Sheriff?
Sheriff	I am ashamed to admit, Detective, that our investigation into this serial murder case has become rather stagnant. The only thing we have confirmed is the victim's identity. However, even this solitary, irrefutable clue has perplexed us for far longer than expected.
Mr. Inference	Could this pattern be the cause of your perplexity?
Sheriff	That's right, it is very much tied to Mélodis. Of the twenty-eight victims we've found, four are of the Mélodis family, while the rest are from other families. The coincidence struck us as odd, so we compiled a list from the surnames of the deceased, revealing nine different families.
Mr. Inference	And do these families have any connection to the Mélodis family?
Sheriff	We looked into their relations and found that these families all emerged as influential forces during the same period, hundreds of years ago. Yet, as their businesses grew, so did the competition—both in the open and in the shadows. For there can never be enough for a merchant Now, save for a few powerful families like Mélodis, the others have gradually lost their prominence. As for the relationships of these families... I doubt any genuine bonds remain beyond their business dealings.
Mr. Inference	Have you not come across any commonality between the victims at all?
Sheriff	Unfortunately, other than the similarities in the crime scenes and the manner of death, we have not discovered any more meaningful clues. The reason behind the victims' connections to these families remains unclear, with no one able to shed any light on it.
Mr. Inference	(From what Sheriff disclosed, Mélodis seems to be another victim in this baffling string of murders.) (This starkly contrasts the viewpoints and clues Mr. Benefactor provided me.) (As I pondered further, I realized that some points I had previously overlooked were gradually coming into sharper focus.) (Firstly, was it truly only Mélodis who could have crafted this concotion?) (Further, if Mélodis were the culprit, why would he narrow the scope of the potion's trial, even at the cost of his own kin?) (And as the head of the Mélodis family, why would he feel the need to oversee the potion experiment at this tower personally?) (And lastly, what is the hidden conflict between Mr. Benefactor and D.M.? What secret ties does he have with the potion experiment?) (As I pondered the serpentine pattern before me, a familiar, ornate voice drifted over from behind.)
???	Good evening, everyone. How wonderful to meet you all under the starlight. I am Desiré Mélodis.
Mr. Inference	(As I turned to look at the figure in the center of the crowd, our eyes met, and I saw the elegant curve of his lips rise.)
D.M.	It appears I'll be able to make new acquaintances and meet with old friend this fine night.
Mr. Inference	(Upon seeing me in the crowd, D.M. instantly began walking toward me, his familiar greeting tinged with curiosity and probing.)
D.M.	Mr. Inference, I trust all is well with you. Who could have foreseen such a meeting in this place... It seem that fate, in its curious way, has conspired to bring us together once more.
Mr. Inference	I must admit, I never anticipated that you would one day be drawn to the mysterious realm of astrology, Mr. Mélodis.
D.M.	My curiosities span many areas, though I must admit, I was concerned that this so-called divination ceremony might prove rather dull before I arrived... But having encountered you here, Mr. Inference, I am certain this evening will not be in vain.
Mr. Inference	(D.M. flashed me a knowing smile, and a fleeting, unreadable glimmer flickered in his gaze.)
D.M.	May the stars bestow their blessings upon us, granting us the fulfillment of our wishes this night.
Mr. Inference	(After offering me a graceful nod, he returned to the gathering, seamlessly conversing with the others.) (The entire scene unfolds with such ease and precision, leaving me to question the true nature of his intentions this evening.)
???	Mr. Inference?!
Mr. Inference	(At that moment, another familiar voice reached my ears, compelling me to turn, and to my astonishment, I came face-to-face with two more familiar faces.)
Elsa Goodwin	I can't believe it's really you! Isaac and I were convinced we were mistaken.
Mr. Inference	Isaac seemed ill at ease, merely offering a quiet nod to acknowledge my presence.) Dr. Goodwin, what a pleasant surprise to find both of you here. (While I had some theories as to why D.M. was there, the Goodwin couple's arrival was beyond my expectations.)
Elsa Goodwin	I've heard the Astrologer's method of cranial divination offers a cure for maladies of the mind. And so, of course, I brought my husband here, seeking a miracle amidst the hearsay.
Mr. Inference	Oh, Mr. Isaac...
Issac Goodwin	No, not Issac... Elsa mentioned that here, I go by the name "Tracing Light."
Elsa Goodwin	It's quite alright, Issac. Mr. Inference is a man of trust—there's no need to fear revealing personal matters in his presence. Forgive me, but "Everlasting Dream" and "Tracing Light" are merely aliases we adopt when dealing with strangers. Not everyone here is to be trusted, after all.
Mr. Inference	(The Goodwin's prudence took my by surprise, but I nodded in understanding.) So, you too have come for the rumored cranial divination?
Elsa Goodwin	Yes... we could find no other way... I believe you may have observed that my husband's faculties of speech and cognition differ from those of ordinary men. The cause lies in an illness he contracted some years back—an ailment that robbed him of his memory. I have sought every possible cure, but none have yielded significant results.
Mr. Inference	(Dr. Goodwin fell silent, yet the subtle melancholy in her gaze conveyed a deeper, unspoken sorrow.)
Issac Goodwin	Elsa... the person we've been looking for, he's arrived.

2-3 Trial of the Divine

Mr. Inference	(The world around us seemed to fall silent, and Isaac softly grasped Elsa's sleeve, silently urging her to turn.) (A figure of quiet elegance descended the stairs, his fire-hued astrological robe and the gleam of his crystal ball instantly capturing the attention of all present.)
Head His presence was cold, an enigmatic allure, an intangible barrier that kept him just out of reach. Shoulder Upon his shoulder, a graceful shadow lingered, akin to a sky of falling stars, its beauty so ethereal that it felt like a fleeting mirage. Chest A circular pendant rested on his chest, like an eye that could peer into the very fabric of fate and what was yet to be. Crystal Ball A crystal ball, its surface well-kept but showing signs of use, spoke to its importance and the care with which it had been preserved.
Mr. Inference	(With serene composure, the Astrologer halted before the assembly, uttering a prayer with a calm and sacred cadence.)
Astrologer	Starlight is the origin of all existence and the final refuge for the restless heart. May the divine wisdom of the celestial divine descend upon us tonight, enlightening our souls and guiding our journey.
Crowd	Praise be to the stars.
Astrologer	Good evening, I am Auburn Duval, an Astrologer. It is with great thanks that I welcome you all after enduring such a long journey to be here with me. Three years ago, while meditating under the starry sky, I was inspired by the celestial divine and developed the cranial divination method, a form of spiritual healing. The loss of my family led me into a dark abyss of grief, and for many nights, I found myself unable to sleep, with no solace to calm my troubled mind. As I lingered in hopelessness, the twinkling star above revealed to me the mysteries of life, and in that revelation, I found the solace I so desperately sought. With this greatest of blessings, I vowed to offer others the same solace, helping them rise from their suffering and embrace hope once more. For this purpose, I hosted one ceremony after another, hoping that everyone might experience the power of the heavens.
Elsa Goodwin	Mr. Astrologer... might I ask if this method of spiritual healing therapy is effective in cases of amnesia?
Astrologer	It is well recognized that the cells in our bodies have a tremendous capacity for self-repair, and I believe memory is no exception to this law. Healing begins with understanding the bond between the self and the universe where the senses and the soul communicate in unity. Perhaps, just as healing brings forth new flesh, those lost memories will return to the body when starlight is rekindled. To help you better attune to the starlight, I have purposefully reshaped this space into a place for celestial guidance, structured according to the alignment of the sun, the moon, and the stars. I believe the enlightenment rituals I intend to perform here may prove to be of great benefit in treating this gentleman's amnesia. If you cast your eyes upon the map of this tower, you will naturally come to understand the mystery it holds.
Mr. Inference	(From what I could tell, the tower comprised of ten floors. I myself had been on the first floor, likely the area designated for receiving guests.) (A terrace at the top of the tower looked like the one Astrologer used for stargazing and divination.)
Tower The tower, towering ten stories high, has a rooftop at its peak.
Mr. Inference	(On the left-hand side of the map, planetary symbols marked each floor, their order appearing to correspond with the layout of the celestial orbits.) (However, the tenth floor... bore no planetary symbol, a point which caught attention.)
Symbols Each floor is marked with a planetary symbol, save for the tenth floor, which bears none.
Astrologer	I believe each of you has identified the floor linked to your own star. The map's symbols represent eight celestial bodies in total. You are welcome to move about the floors and rooms marked with planetary symbols at your leisure. I would advise against approaching the unmarked tenth floor and the basement, which is not indicated on the map.
Dispossessed Worker	What is that? They certainly don't sound all that ominous...
Astrologer	The basement hold electrical systems and a clutter of discarded items, thus rendering it a site ripe with potential hazards. I must advise against exploring it. The tenth floor, in truth, is a forbidden zone... it is a place not to be approached.
Elsa Goodwin	Not to be approached? Mr. Astrologer, what secrets does this floor hold?
Astrologer	As you can see, each floor is guarded by a fated celestial body, but the planet governing the tenth floor is quite unusual. Decades ago, a certain astronomer, after much calculation, foretold the presence of an enigmatic Planet X beyond Neptune. The planet's movements remain mysterious, with no trace still uncovered, For this reason, it is often called the Planet of the Underworld. The orbit of this planet aligns with the tenth floor of the tower. Rumors say bizarre and inexplicable events have occurred here through the ages... For your own protection, I am compelled to keep this floor closed to all of you. I ask you all to temper your curiosity, for this nameless planet's power my affect tonight's ritual proceedings.
Lady of Dawn	Mr. Astrologer, the peculiar events you mentioned... are they related to an escaped criminal named "Goatee"?
Mr. Inference	(It appears the name caught him by surprise, as I saw a fleeting expression of both shock and reluctance cross the Astrologer's face.)
Astrologer	Indeed, it is common knowledge that this tower was once a prison, and the room on the tenth floor was where "Goatee" was incarcerated. When I came into possession of the tower, someone advised me not to inquire too much about this figure. Today, I pass along that same advice to all of you.
Mr. Inference	(With a brief but clear gesture, the Astrologer signaled for us to suppress our curiosity before guiding us to a wall in the hall.)
Astrologer	As is customary, before the enlightenment ceremony begins, I must ensure your devotion to the celestial divine. Blessed by the celestial divine, this stone is known as the Stone of Truth. Place your hand upon the stone and answer me. Only those tested by the celestial divine my continue with tonight's divination ceremony. So... who will be the first to face tonight's trial?