Enlightenment Under the Stars/Chapter 2

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

Curse of the Sacred Words

3-1 Devout Lies

Mr. Inference	(A qualification assessment? That's hardly a phrase that inspires confidence.) (I silently observed the others, and as expected, none were willing to be the first to take the plunge.) (Perhaps it would be wise to listen to the opinions of these "true believers" before deciding.)
Speak to the Seer
Seer	A trial of truth? Is this some new divination technique Mr. Astrologer has devised? I should probably watch first; the key to this celestial divination practice may very well lie in these subtle details.
Speak to Lady of Dawn
Lady of Dawn	On the other hand, I don't have a strong desire to ask, like the others, so I don't much care whether I go first or last. The best course of action is to let nature take its course, wouldn't you agree?
Speak to the Dispossessed Worker
Dispossessed Worker	Ugh, I'd never even heard of a "trial of truth" before the ritual... I hate it when things get so complicated. Then again, if this ritual eases my financial troubles, it's a small price to pay. Anyway, I plan to observe the others first. It's the most prudent choice, I'd say.
Speak to the Sheriff
Sheriff	A trial of truth? I only came here to find a remedy for my gammy leg—I've certainly got nothing to hide. But for those with ulterior motives, this trial may give them pause or even make them want to avoid it entirely. I beg your pardon. As a sheriff, suspicion is second nature to me. But I trust that you've all come here with sincere intention.
Speak to the Boxer
Boxer	It's a boxer's rule of survival, innit? Strike first, and seize the opportunity. No one ever wins by letting fear or hesitation take the lead. I've been slugging it out in the underground rings for years now, and I'm fed up with having to win respect through my knuckles. If no one else is brave enough to take the first trial, I'll step up.
Mr. Inference	(Amidst the silent of exchange of glances, a figure, frail and unexpected, stepped forward.)
Astrology Student	I... I'd like to try.
Astrologer	There is no cause for concern. Place your hand upon the Stone of Truth and answer the two following questions.
Astrology Student	A-Alright...
Astrologer	What is it that brings you here to partake in this sacred divination ritual? What is your deepest desire?
Astrology Student	I... I've come to ask for the celestial divine's blessings, hoping that... through the gift of wisdom, I may succeed in my future studies.
Astrologer	I'm sorry, but you have failed the trial. I fear you shall not partake in tonight's divination ritual.
Astrology Student	What...?
Astrologer	The Stone of Truth has turned red, revealing that you have just uttered a falsehood before the celestial divine.
Astrology Student	But... how could that be?
Astrologer	Miss Penelope Herschel... judging by the documents you've provided, it seems you have little to no knowledge of astrology, nor do you seem particularly enthusiastic about it. Perhaps you found your way here out of mere curiosity, but at the heart of you, you're reluctant to accept a force that cannot be measured by scientific standards. Astronomy and astrology share a common origin, but despite their thin divide, the distinction between them is profound. The celestial divine does not impose its will upon anyone You still have the freedom to choose, but regrettably, that freedom is not yours for today.
Mr. Inference	(The girl hung her head in vexation, and after a brief pause, she finally loosened her clenched fist, as though relieved.)
Astrology Student	I... I did lie just now. I don't believe in the "celestial divine" or any of this astrology nonsense—not one bit. I feigned interest in all of this to come here, but in truth, I only sought the chance to meet you... and deliver these to you.
Mr. Inference	(As she spoke, Herschel produced a thick wad of aged envelopes from her bag and extended them to Duval.)
Astrologer	These are...
Astrology Student	These letters were collected for you by your colleagues after you left the university... mostly invitations from newspapers and journals, along with a few personal letters. Everyone is eager for you to return, but... it's not as though anyone is trying to force you. You have the freedom to choose too.
Mr. Inference	(A flicker of emotion crossed the Astrologer's cold face. He looked down and flipped through the old letters.)
Astrologer	Are these all the letters?
Astrology Student	Yes... I've brought every singe one.
Mr. Inference	(I keenly noticed the Astrologer's movements slowing as he sifted through the letters, eventually gathering them into a stack and tucking them away.)
Astrologer	While these letters hold no bearing for me anymore... I am grateful for the trouble you've gone to.
Mr. Inference	(The Astrologer nodded briefly in acknowledgement toward the young student, and then his expression shifted back to its usual serene indifference.) (It was obvious he had no intention of replying to the letters, and his demeanor seemed to suggest that something lay hidden beneath the surface.) (The young student soon realized this, her demeanor sinking with disappointment as she made her way back.) (One by one, the others followed suit, participating in the trial. Despite their differing goals, each of them succeeded.) Mr. Poet stepped forward next. As he placed his hand upon the stone, I observed a slight flash of nervousness color his face.
Bard	I desire... the blessing of the celestial divine, that I may be cured of this wretched affliction of scales that plague my body.
Mr. Inference	(As the Stone of Truth took on a faint, indistinct red hue, his trembling voice paused momentarily, then became firmer with resolve.)
Bard	I have come here also to meet someone... a friend and mentor who is incredibly important to me. That is the reason I stand before you.
Mr. Inference	(The Stone of Truth lingered at the brink of turning red, and I couldn't help but wonder what its judgment would be this time.) (The Astrologer observed the fragile, melancholic young man before him, wavering in silence for a few moments before speaking, his face returning to its usual composed state.)
Astrologer	The celestial divine has acknowledged your sincerity. You are now free to retire. Here is the key to your room.
Mr. Inference	(I had only now realized that, of all the people present, I was left alone with the overly modest Mr. Mélodis.) (He wore a barely noticeable smile at the corner of his mouth, lazily fiddling with his paying cards, showing no hurry to approach.) (It was clear to me why.) (He was waiting, watching to see what artful fabrication I, this false devotee, would recite before the Stone of Truth.) (For him, there was no spectacle more entertaining or thrilling than this.) (Under the scrutiny of all, I stepped forward steadily and paused before the round, elevated stone.)
Astrologer	Now, before the celestial divine, state your reason for being here and your deepest desire. The Stone of Truth shall judge your devotion.
Speak Your Mind		Give Another Answer
Mr. Inference	I am here to search for clues in a serial murder case, with the intention of identifying the culprit before I leave. (As soon as the words left my mouth, I felt the atmosphere around me turn eerie and still.) (From a distance, Mélodis arched an eyebrow and glanced at me, evidently taken aback by my candor.) (Ignoring his stare, I looked briefly at the unchanged Stone of Truth, then causally took the key and made my way back.)	Mr. Inference	I have come here to unravel a mystery from the past, hoping to receive some enlightenment from the celestial divine in uncovering the truth. (The coarse, round stone in my palm seemed to shimmer with a color so faint it was barely detectable.) (With a silent breath of relief, I regained my composure, turned to retrieve the key, and walked back to my place.) (From afar, I noticed D.M.'s gaze, carrying a knowing smile tinged with mystery as if he had uncovered a truth he had no intention of exposing.)
D.M.	What an intriguing... and mysterious test. It seems I am the final subject this evening.
Mr. Inference	(With a refined gesture, D.M. smoothed his attire before slowly walking over to the Stone of Truth and placing his hand on it.)
D.M.	I humbly ask the celestial divine, in their eternal grace, to bestow upon me infinite wealth and everlasting youth... Praise the celestial divine.
Mr. Inference	(The Astrologer frowned, turning his attention toward the nonchalant noble youth, his expression tinged with disdain.)
Astrologer	Infinity is too vague and insubstantial a notion. Without limits and boundaries, genuine fulfillment can never be attained. Mr. Mélodis, I implore you to express a more detailed and tangible goal to the celestial divine. With unwavering faith, I believe your wish will come true.
D.M.	My wish will come true?
Mr. Inference	(With a mischievous chuckle, D.M. glanced at the round stone on the wall, his fingers grazing its surface as he gently touched it.)
D.M.	Then I humbly ask the celestial divine to enlighten me with clues... to help me find the sinner who has betrayed Mélodis.
Mr. Inference	(A sinner? Could the person D.M. spoke of be involved in the serial murder case?) (I maintained a calm demeanor as I observed him, silently trying to determine how much truth his words held.) (As I stood there, I could hear the others whispering among themselves, their interest in the identity of the "betrayer" palpable.)
Astrologer	The celestial divine, Mr. Mélodis, has their own arrangement of all things
Mr. Inference	(The Astrologer handed the final key to D.M., the cold piece of iron exchanging hands with a faint metallic jingle.
Astrologer	The trial is over. Kindly head back to your rooms to rest, and I will inform you when the ritual preparations are complete. Before you do retire to your rooms, kindly make sure that you gather your personal belongings, to avoid any loss or damage.
Bard	Mr. Astrologist, might I set this phonograph here? I understand you have a fondness for music, and this is a a small token I prepared as a gift on our first encounter...
Astrologer	My apologies, but I do not accept gifts from guests. I would appreciate it if you would take it with you when you leave. Naturally, if no one else objects, it may remain in the hall for the time being, available for the entertainment and use of all present. For, as we know, the right music can ease the mind and summon pleasant reflections, both of which serve the purpose of meditation and enlightenment.
Mr. Inference	(Upon hearing the Astrologer's words, I noticed the Poet, usually so melancholic in demeanor, displayed an expression of delight.)
Bard	Th-thank you! I was worried you might now like it...
Astrologer	I confess, I don't particularly care for it.
Mr. Inference	(The Astrologer's brow creased ever so slightly, yet a shadowy, indistinct warmth flickered in his otherwise indifferent eyes.)
Astrologer	It's just that... an old friend of mine had a particular fondness for it, and over time, I've learned to appreciate and enjoy this music myself. In any event, I wish you all a joyful night.
Mr. Inference	(As the Astrologer made his way upstairs, the guest began to gather their belongings and head toward their rooms.) (The Sheriff was the first to ascend, followed quickly by the Boxer and the Clerk, who were engaged in light-hearted conversation.) (Lady Dessalines, the Seer, with her proud and solitary disposition, trailed behind the Goodwins at a respectful distance. Finally, D.M., with an air of aristocratic elegance, made his way up the stairs.) (As I prepared to ascend the stairs, I caught sight of the Poet, struggling alone with two oversized suitcases.) Mr. Poet, may I offer you a hand?
Bard	Thank you for your kind offer, Mr. Inference. My luggage is far too heavy to carry up to the seventh floor. If only one of the guests on the lower floors would be willing to exchange rooms, it would be a great help.
Mr. Inference	Perhaps you might seek the counsel of Miss Herschel, the young lady with an interest in astronomy? As I recall, she holds the key to one of the rooms above—on the second floor, if I'm not mistaken.
Astrology Student	I must admit, the floor of my own quarters had not yet crossed my mind. But how did you discern such a thing in a nick of time?
Mr. Inference	It was a simple deduction, based upon the careful observation of the others. No great feat, I assure you.
Astrology Student	I must commend you on your impressive memory, Mr. Inference. But, if I may, might we exchange rooms? It would undoubtedly prove more convenient for you.
Bard	Thank you most sincerely, Miss Herschel.

3-2 The Amnesiac

Mr. Inference	(After aiding the Poet in transporting his belongings to the second-floor room, I made my way to my own quarters, located on the fifth floor.) (The space was compact, tidy, and well-maintained, though for from expansive—no more than ten square meters, offering a quiet, solitary place for contemplation.) (The muted light from the wall lamp cast its glow over half the chamber, while through the narrow window, the faintest glimmer of peaceful stars could be seen, as if watching over the room.) (Despite the simplest renovations and decorative touches, the lingering presence of its past as a cell could still be discerned.)
Mr. Inference	(The crumbling stone wall, weathered and worn, bore the weight of an old lamp, whose faint light barely dispelled the gloom around it.) (On the wall, aside from the notches made by prisoners to mark the passing of time, there was also some unclear, cryptic writings and obscure mathematical formulas.) (It is hard to believe that someone who had once occupied this cell has been a person of such remarkable erudition and wisdom.)
Mr. Inference	(The desk and cabinet held old books, their contents ranging from astronomy to law, architecture, medicine, and other diverse fields.) (The contents of the nearby jars were dried up, though one could still make out what seemed to be biological specimens within.)
Mr. Inference	(A tall candlestick rested on the table, with a few bright white candles burning on it.) (Once the candles were lit, a distinct, faint fragrance filled the air and quickly spread throughout the room.)
Mr. Inference	(A reddish-brown model of Mars hung from the ceiling, with two small, earthy gray bodies orbiting it.)
Mr. Inference	(The narrow window appeared to be sealed shut, and despite all attempts, it could not be opened from within.)
Mr. Inference	(I had barely finished acquainting myself with the room when a gentle knocking sound came from the other side of the door.)
Elsa Goodwin	Good evening, Mr. Inference. I hope our sudden arrival has not disturbed you.
Mr. Inference	What brings you both here?
Elsa Goodwin	With the crowd downstairs earlier and time being so tight, we didn't have the chance to converse properly. Isaac, however, found this a most fitting moment to venture out for a walk.
Issac Goodwin	Elsa, this place... it carries... that same smell...
Elsa Goodwin	Yes... is appears so. Isaac, if the scent continues to trouble you, perhaps you might linger near the door for a spell. I'd like to converse with you for but a few moments, Mr. Inference. It will not take long.
Mr. Inference	(Isaac gave a curt nod and left the room, while Elsa, her expression filled with regret, offered her explanation.)
Elsa Goodwin	I do apologize. The sconces in our room are hopelessly dim, and it seems lighting the candelabra is the only remedy. My husband is rather susceptible to those aromatic candles. I did not expect that even after changing rooms, we would still be troubled by such a thing.
Mr. Inference	There is no cause for concern. Each person's constitution reacts differently to odors, a fact I dully comprehend.
Elsa Goodwin	Isaac, I must admit, is rather unlike most ordinary men, in all respects... especially with regard to his amnesia.
Mr. Inference	(In the face of such an uncommon affliction, I find myself filled with both intrigue and a measure of concern.) When, may I ask, did Mr. Goodwin begin to exhibit such symptoms? Dr. Goowdin turned her gaze to the door, sighing softly, her voice now tinged with a quieter, almost secretive tone.
Elsa Goodwin	The unfortunate truth is that no one can say when it first began, least of all himself. A benevolent coachman found him abandoned by the roadside, and by the time he reached the hospital, he had no recollection of anything whatsoever. In my efforts to help him rebuild his life, I also searched for any sign of his friends of family, but alas, my search yielded no results. In time, our feelings for one another grew, and we were wed. I then took up a position at a more peaceful children's hospital. I had naively believed that all would mend with time, yet I discovered that, periodically, the same dreadful nightmare continued to torment him.
Mr. Inference	A nightmare?
Elsa Goodwin	Yes... Every time he succumbed to that nightmare, his body would convulse in the most frantic manner. His face would become taut, and he would babble incomprehensibly. It was in that instant that I came to understand the true suffering caused by his amnesia. It was not simply the loss of memories, but a deeper, more insidious wound. Thus, I resolved to find a cure for him, by any means necessary, if only to spare him from the torment of those dreadful nightmares.
Issac Goodwin	Elsa...
Mr. Inference	(Isaac's quiet voice called from the other side of the door. For him, this brief moment of waiting in solitude may have stretched far beyond what he could endure.)
Elsa Goodwin	I must be on my way. I sincerely hope our visit has not been too much of an imposition on you.
Mr. Inference	(Once the Goodwins had taken their lave, I planned to retrieve my pipe and resume my musings on the case, yet to my astonishment, it has vanished.) (As I searched for my missing pipe, a series of deliberate knocks echoes from beyond the door once more.)
Lady of Dawn	Detective, it seems I have inadvertently disturbed your rest. My deepest apologies. Nevertheless, I have come to return a certain article to you.
Mr. Inference	(Reaching behind her, Lady Aurore retrieved a small, elegant pipe, and at once, I recognized it as my own.)
Lady of Dawn	I presume this belongs to you? I found it by chance in the hall earlier, and now I return it to its rightful owner.
Mr. Inference	Many thanks, truly, I am indebted to you for bringing it to me in person. (Despite the lingering confusion as to when the pipe had been misplaced, I still extended my thanks with a semblance of courtesy.)
Lady of Dawn	It was no trouble at all, and I had, in truth, wished to have a word with you, Mr. Inference, about... the matter of the tenth floor.
Mr. Inference	(Before Lady Aurore could complete her sentence, the lamp in my room sputtered and died, leaving the room to be consumed by the darkened stillness of night.)
Lady of Dawn	What on earth is going on? Could it be a power failure?
Mr. Inference	Stay where you are and do not move—I'll step outside and see what has happened.
Try moving downstairs in the dark
(Stepping out cautiously, I found the hallway outside drowned in darkness, the only noise being the disarrayed steps and whispers echoing from the floors above and below.)
???	Hey! What is going on? Why has the power gone out?
???	What in the name is going... Ouch! Who just stepped on my shoe?
???	S-Sorry... I was trying to go downstairs to take a look around, but I couldn't see you there in all this darkness...
???	Oh! Good heavens! What in the world is this?
(At that precise moment, a shriek of fear echoed from the first floor of the tower. It sounded like Dr. Goodwin.) (The scream sent a chill through all of us on the floors above, and we hastened, stumbling in the blackness, toward the floor below.) (Through the swirling darkness and chaos, a sharp, rushing wind brushed past me, as if someone had fleetingly passed by.) (It struck me as little more than a transient illusion, and I gave it no further consideration.) (I quickened my steps toward the lower floor.) (When I arrived on the ground floor and followed Dr. Goodwin's gaze, a sudden jolt of surprise overcame me.)

3-3 Dark Fluorescence

Mr. Inference	(Under the waning firelight, two words began to glow with a ghastly, phosphorescent light upon the ancient wall where the Stone of Truth had been placed:) (L I A R D I E S) (Moments later, the power in the tower was restored. The oppressive darkness lifted, as the world gradually transitioned from shadows to light.) (The two fluorescent words that had been so painfully conspicuous in the darkness were now barely visible under the bright light.) (Though the glowing letters had vanished, the curse they carried remained, an insidious shadow in the minds of all who had seen them.) (I saw the Sheriff step out of the basement, as it had been he who, without hesitation, had gone to mend the electrical fault when it first occurred.)
Sheriff	Seems it was just a short-circuit caused by old wiring here, folks. Everything should be just fine now—I've replaced the old cables.
Dispossessed Worker	A short-circuit? Why would such a strange thing happen now of all times?
Astrology Student	This tower has stood for over a century, and compounded by years of decay, it is only reasonable to presume that the wiring has succumbed to the ravages of time.
Boxer	Well, that's where you're off—they renovated this place just three years ago.
Astrology Student	Three years is hardly a brief span of time. Also, one must consider the possibility that rats in the basement could have nibbled away at the wires.
Seer	Miss Herschel, I daresay, rats are hardly known to leave glowing marks on the walls.
Astrology Student	I-I'm aware of that... The writing on the wall must have been caused by... by...
Mr. Inference	(The girl's face drained of color, and she glanced uneasily at the wall ahead, trying in vain to piece together a logical explanation to challenge to the idea.) (Having been singled out as the only liar of the night, she was in dire need of a reason to disregard the words on the wall.) (After much deliberation, she finally turned to me, her eyes filled with quiet desperation.)
Astrology Student	Detective, what do you make of it?
Mr. Inference	(I silently surveyed the room, the guests murmuring softly, unwilling to disturb those who lay in wait within the shadows, scheming in silence.) (However, I could not bear the sight of this poor girl, her face etched with terror, falsely anticipating some impending calamity.) Miss Herschel, there's no need for such alarm. The writing on the wall might not be intended for you at all.
Astrology Student	But... But I'm the only one who lied, and everyone knows it... Even the celestial divine knows...
Mr. Inference	(This terrified little unbeliever, once so sure of her own convictions, now found herself doubting them.) (Perhaps it would be wise to identify this miscreant at once, for the blackout tonight could very well have been orchestrated by them.)
Speak to Elsa Goodwin
Mr. Inference	Dr. Goodwin, pray tell, were you the first to uncover the writing upon the wall?
Elsa Goodwin	Indeed, once I left your room, my husband and I descended and returned to the third floor. To our astonishment, no sooner had we entered the room than the power cut out. We promptly stepped outside to investigate and found the surrounding area was equally dark. Recognizing the possibility of an electrical fault, Isaac and I made plans to descend into the basement and assess the situation. Upon reaching the ground floor, I saw those two horrifying words etched upon the wall. I couldn't restrain myself and let out a cry of terror. It was not long before you and the others arrived.
Mr. Inference	When you descended to the ground floor, did you confirm that there was no one to be seen there? (I had asked the most critical question. If it could be confirmed that someone was below, it would imply that this was no mere accident, but rather the result of human interference.)
Elsa Goodwin	Thought the situation in the hall was unclear at the time, theoretically, no one else should have been present.
Mr. Inference	What makes you so sure?
Elsa Goodwin	My husband and I were the first to arrive on the ground floor, and we remained there—we are, therefore, keenly aware of the precise time and order in which each person descended. I have thoroughly verified it, and without a doubt, everyone made their way downstairs only after the electricity had gone out.
Mr. Inference	Everyone, you say? Would you be so kind as to provide a detailed list?
Elsa Goodwin	I most certainly can.
Elsa Goodwin	The Boxer from the fourth floor was the first to arrive.
Elsa Goodwin	Followed closely by you and the two men from the sixth floor.
Elsa Goodwin	Two minutes later, Mr. Mélodis arrived, accompanied by the two frightened ladies.
Elsa Goodwin	Next came Miss Aurore, and finally, the Astrologer.
Elsa Goodwin	The last to arrive was Mr. Poet.
Mr. Inference	Mr. Poet was the nearest to the first floor, yet he was the last to arrive here?
Elsa Goodwin	This is true, but it would seem he harbors a fear of the dark. I could feel his pace was slow, almost as though he were taking one cautious step after another.
Mr. Inference	Are you suggesting that, when the lights went out, he remains in the confines of his own room?
Elsa Goodwin	Indeed. As we passed the second floor, we distinctly heard him in his room, asking what was happening outside.
Mr. Inference	Are you certain?
Elsa Goodwin	I see the source of your suspicion. His floor is indeed the most convenient for avoiding the gaze of others while making his way to the basement. However, Isaac and I went straight downstairs upon realizing the power had failed, so if he had returned to the second floor, we most certainly would have seen him. Moreover, we made a point of speaking with him as we descended, and there is no mistaking that we heard his voice.
Mr. Inference	I see.
Speak to the Bard
Mr. Inference	Mr. Poet, being so close to the first floor, did you happen to observe anything strange before or after the blackout?
Bard	After you escorted me back to my room, I occupied myself with reading. There was little to note, until the power went out quite suddenly. Soon after, I heard the Goodwins descending, and I asked them from within my room what had occurred outside. As Dr. Goodwin replied, the commotion outside intensified, and I distinctly heard her cry from the lower floor. It is true that I am afraid of the dark... thus, I refrained from leaving my room, and then I heard you and the others coming down the stairs. Roughly ten minutes later, and I made my way downstairs, where I discovered everyone in conversation about the peculiar symbols on the wall.
Mr. Inference	(When Mr. Poet spoke, I noticed his breath was somewhat labored, and his forehead bore a thin sheen of sweat.) I wonder, what has caused you to perspire? Is your second-floor room particularly warm?
Bard	(No, it's not that... It's just that I suffer from night blindness, and when the power went out, I became quite anxious in the dark, hence the perspiration...)
Mr. Inference	I see. In that case, if you stayed in your room, you must have heard the others descending the stairs, yes?
Bard	Yes... Following the Goodwins' descent, the Boxer wasted no time in stepping out to survey the situation himself. Following that, it was you, Sheriff, and the Clerk, then Mr. Mélodis and the two ladies... And finally, it was Lady Aurore.
Mr. Inference	Very well, thank you for the information.
Speak to the Sheriff
Mr. Inference	Sheriff, may I inquire whether you discovered anything of interest while inspecting the circuits below?
Sheriff	Hmm... The basement was far darker than upstairs. Had I not had the candlestick to light my way, I doubt I would have found the path at all. Save for a broken wire, there was nothing of interest to be found, and, of course, no suspicious figures in sight.
Mr. Inference	(The Sheriff pulled a replacement wire from behind, and I noticed, just by the point of damage, a residue of warm, coagulated wax.)
Mr. Inference	(This hardened substance... could it be wax?) (Is it possible that the wire causing the short circuit wasn't worn out by age, but rather burned through by candle wax?) (As I scrutinized the wire, I couldn't help but noticed a faint, glowing residue on the Sheriff's hand.) Mr. Anderson, did you happen to rub your palm against something?
Sheriff	Ah, this? It likely came from handling the basement door. No wonder my palm was itching. Blast it... why won't this wretched stuff come off?
Mr. Inference	It appears to be a particularly sticky phosphorescent powder—one that is practically invisible under normal light. I suggest you spare yourself the trouble.
Sheriff	Very well... It seems I have no other choice.
Mr. Inference	(Following these exchanges, a vague suspicion began to take shape in my mind—two truths regarding the blackout tonight.) (Nevertheless, one crucial piece of evidence still eluded me—only then could I prove my theory.)
Mr. Inference	(The writing on the wall appeared to be a mixture of wax and some glowing substance, hardly visible under strong light.) (Though barely discernable, the odd shapes and impressions of the letters were clear—unnervingly so.) (It became evident: the blackout had not been a mere accident; rather, it had been carefully orchestrated to ensure all present would notice the markings on the wall.)
Mr. Inference	It appeared that someone had snapped off a piece of candle on the table... the missing section measuring roughly fifteen centimeters.) (Furthermore, the color matched exactly that found on the basement wire—this, it seemed, was the cause of the power failure.) (A candle of this size would need about twenty minutes to burn through the missing portion...) (Twenty minutes ago... around the time of the trial of truth concluded, and everyone made their way upstairs.) (Therefore, the last person to ascend the stairs tonight must be the one responsible for the blackout.)
Lady of Dawn
Seer Mr. Inference (The Astrologer descended the stairs shortly after the Goodwins, while I remained on the first floor.) Sheriff Mr. Inference (Sheriff, if I recall was the first to head upstairs.)
Mr. Inference	(Indeed, the last person to ascend the stairs at that time must have been the Lady of Dawn.) (The time had come to resume my interrupted conversation with this elegant yet shrewd lady in the corner.)
Speak to Lady of Dawn
Mr. Inference	Lady of Dawn, I believe you wished to speak with me before the lights went out. Might this be a good time to continue our discussion?
Lady of Dawn	Forgive me, Detective, but that particular matter has since grown somewhat unclear in my thoughts, and I fear it is no longer necessary to trouble you.
Mr. Inference	Pardon my boldness, but I suspect the topic you intended to raise earlier has something to do with the tenth floor? And the reason you no longer require my assistance is because you've already investigated the matter yourself, have you not?
Lady of Dawn	And what leads you to this conclusion, if I might ask?
Mr. Inference	The reasoning behind my supposition is simple: after the lights went out, you did not immediately descended to investigate. Instead, you only appeared after a delay. Indeed, the only location in this tower that could tempt you into the darkness is undoubtedly the tenth floor—home to the infamous cell tied to the "Goatee" legend.
Lady of Dawn	I must admit, the allure of that mysterious room did intrigue me, but I dare say, scrutinizing a lady's conduct may be deemed somewhat improper.
Mr. Inference	It is from this that my conclusion arises—that tonight's blackout was, in fact, a carefully crafted "ruse" which you yourself orchestrated.
Wire with Wax Residue
Old Letters or Testimony Records Mr. Inference No, this is not the clue in question. (Perhaps I should reconsider...)
Mr. Inference	You waited until everyone had made their way upstairs, then discreetly snapped the candle from the table, lit it, and descended to the basement. Then, taking advantage of your visit to my room to return the pipe, you attempted to convince me to accompany you, using the blackout as an excuse to investigate the tenth floor together. The proof of your involvement in this "mishap" in the basement, I suspect, is now in your possession.
Lady of Dawn	Do you mean to imply that my hands are marked with the same fluorescent substance that stains the Sheriff's? I'm afraid I must disappoint you. You see, my hands, along with my gloves, bear no such marks.
Mr. Inference	(I cast my gaze back to the elegant lady, intent on uncovering the vital evidence she had so carefully concealed.)
Left Hand (A pristine pair of white silk gloves, the palms smooth and unmarked, free from any blemishes.) Right Hand (The gloves were adorned with fine embroidery, though the needlework seemed slightly irregular—suggesting something amiss.)
Mr. Inference	Lady of Dawn, I fear these gloves have already betrayed your deceit. After all, a lady of distinction would never conceal such exquisite and intricate embroidery beneath her gloves.
Lady of Dawn	Alas, it seems you've discovered my little secret. I had hoped to keep it hidden just a while longer.
Mr. Inference	(The Lady of Dawn, with an air of elegance, removed her gloves, and sure enough, the same fluorescent powder appeared on the inside.)
Lady of Dawn	It is as you've deduced, I confess—I was the one who left the candle in the basement, hoping to find an opportunity to slip away to the tenth floor. Yet, there is one point I must address—the blackout tonight was not the cause of my actions.
Mr. Inference	And what do you mean by that?
Lady of Dawn	After carefully calculating the candle's effect, I can say with certainty that the blackout occurred no less than two minutes earlier than I had planned. You must believe me when I say that my original plan, so meticulously crafted, allowed me enough time to persuade you with just the right rhetoric.
Mr. Inference	Are you suggesting, then, that tonight's blackout was the work of another? And the cryptic writing on the wall...
Lady of Dawn	Naturally, that had nothing to do with me. You see, my only intention was to persuade you to investigate the infamous, mysterious cell—there was no need to frighten the others with those cursed words.
Mr. Inference	The Lady of Dawn's words set my mind racing—the true culprit behind the blackout remained elusive. (But who could it be? And why leave behind such an unsettling curse? A truly peculiar mystery...)
Astrology Student	Mr. Astrologer, what are we to make of those strange writings on the wall? Could this... could this truly be a curse from the celestial divine... aimed at me?
Astrologer	I believe the Detective's words hold merit—perhaps the warning from the celestial divine was never meant for you. You have already confessed your deceit before the celestial divine, and I am certain that the most sacred of entities would not condemn one who sincerely repents. No doubt, another among us seeks to exploit the situation, attempting to deceive and outwit the celestial divine through their scheming. I believe this is the true reason the celestial divine issued such a warning from the depths of darkness.
Mr. Inference	The Astrologer's eyes swept over the gathered faces, a silent, piercing scrutiny that seemed to carry an unspoken authority.
Bard	Do you truly believe the celestial divine would... kill someone for lying? Has such a thing ever occurred before?
Astrologer	Never in past rituals has anyone so boldly angered the celestial divine. I cannot promise His wrath will not fall upon the deceitful. However, should this individual choose to repent before the Stone of Truth, I trust that the celestial divine will grant them an opportunity to atone. The ritual tonight will proceed as planned, but should anyone wish to leave out of fear, I shall respect their decision.
Mr. Inference	(I studied the faces around me in silence, searching for the faintest signs of panic, anxiety, or guilty satisfaction after some unspoken transgression...) (Regrettably, each person wore a flawless mask of earnest reverence, with no hint of unease.) (In the thick stillness of anticipation, the Astrologer sealed the tower's gates and other points of entry, declaring that the divination ritual would soon begin. I feared that the moments left for me to uncover the truth were rapidly dwindling.)