Circus of Shadows: A Deadly Performance

Chapter 4: Tangled Threads

Before Detective Connie Black had reached the entrance back into the circus tent, to continue her investigation she spotted two more circus performers struggling to manoeuvre a large cage. Two more potential suspects in their leaders ill-timed murder she considered.

Before Detective Black could introduce herself Victor Miguel the animal tamer snapped "We all know who you are," while the other impish performer was uncomfortably trying not to make eye contact with Connie. "We know what you want so you better get on with it." Victor continued.

Victor Miguel took Detective Black back to his trailer, where it was adorned with snake motifs and other animals. Known as a snake charmer, he was calm and collected yet oozed an assertive demeanour when speaking with Connie about the traumatic events that unfolded in the Big Top last night.

Connie questioned him about his whereabouts at the time of the murder. Victor claimed to be tending to his snakes that had just performed and required his full care and attention. He explained that he had no quarrel with Mr Ortiz, in fact he quite admired him and was fully content with his role within the circus.

"Snakes have always been my favourite companions," Victor Miguel said, his piercing eyes reflecting the slithering grace of the creatures around him. "I don't seek trouble, Detective. The Circus is my sanctuary, I was born to be here."

Detective Connie Black thanked Victor for his time and left unsure of the authenticity of the conversation she had just encountered with Mr Miguel. She headed across the trailer park to the one Victor had directed her to, to speak with the other performer.

The second suspect turned out to be the circus's popular clown, Gabriella Giggles. Gabi was a bubbly and energetic clown, who usually was full of life but as Connie approached her trailer she looked lonely and solemn. Gabriella's trailer was full with oversized shoes, colourful wigs, and a plethora of gag props. She had the reputation for practical jokes and was adored for her ability to make anyone laugh. Miss Giggles had been the clown at the Carnival of Curiosity for just under five years.

Gabriella chuckled nervously and sunk in her chair when questioned about the murder. "Detective, you know us clowns; we're here to spread joy and laughter, not harm. I was performing my act at the time, and most of the villagers in the audience can vouch for me."

While Gabriella's alibi seemed airtight, Connie couldn't help notice the hint of sadness remained in her eyes beneath the makeup. Clowns are well renown for their ability to mask their true emotions, but something in Gabi's demeanour had heightened her curiosity.

With the addition of Victor Miguel and Gabriella Giggles now added to the list of suspects, that included Madame Hattie, Marco the Magnificent and Bella the Brave, the mystery deepened. The circus was a place of amazing hidden talents, and each performer seemed to carry their own secrets. As Connie continued her investigation, she couldn't help but wonder if the answer to Mr Ralph Ortiz's murder lay behind the facade of laughter and enchantment of the world under the Big Top or if she needed to escape the circus and venture into town.