Circus of Shadows: A Deadly Performance

Chapter 61: Unveiling the Ownership Deeds

Detective Black's footsteps echoed softly as she made her way through the vibrant circus grounds, her purpose clear amidst the buzzing activity. Despite the urgency, she prioritised patience, awaiting the forensic results that promised to shed light on the rucksack's contents, a key to unraveling the mysteries surrounding Ralph Ortiz's murder. With a practiced eye for detail, she acknowledged the necessity of a systematic approach to her inquiry.

Her first stop was to seek out Mrs. Rosa Lombardi, a seasoned figure within the circus and a pivot amidst the tumultuous events. As she approached Rosa's trailer, Detective Black was struck by the ardent energy pulsating within the circus's heart. Rosa, having taken the reins amidst the ongoing investigation, was a vital source of information.

Upon reaching the trailer, Detective Black was met by Rosa's warm and resolute presence. Mrs Lombardi's dedication to the circus was unmistakable, her sense of responsibility unwavering. Twice she had stepped up to take on the reins of the Carnival of Curiosity, both after horrendous tragedies.

"Was this a coincidence?" Detective Black pondered, "Or was this just a lady who's passion for the Carnival of Curiosity was too strong not to step in and help drive its resurgence once again?"

The two women engaged in a conversation that negotiated the timeline of the night in question. Detective Black probed Rosa's memory, seeking to ascertain if she was stationed at the ticket booth during the crucial moments before the show began. It was important as the details surrounding Mrs. Jean Bellingham's sighting of a mysterious figure outside the tent just before the commencement of the show were a priority in the investigation. Rosa could of witnessed the mystery person who was lurking outside and help further identify them.

Rosa's recollections unfolded in meticulous detail, painting a vivid picture of the events leading up to the start of the performance. However, the specific features of the elusive person during that critical window remained elusive. Nonetheless, Mrs Lombardi did mention that while she was busy emptying the tills and packing up the ticket booth did see someone's shadow disappear out of view alongside the tent but barely caught a glimpse of them.

Detective Black learned valuable insights, noting the intricacies of the circus's operations and the potential gaps in the eyewitness accounts.

"Hold on," Rosa blurted out, "that's right I did see beneath the bottom of their coat circus attire, so it must of been a performer."

Detective Black looked up sharply from her notebook, "You're certain of this, Mrs Lombardi? Anything else you can recall?" Connie Black enquired excited about this small important detail.

"No, I'm afraid not," Mrs Lombardi began "they were wearing a hat and long coat."

Detective Black sensed a shift in the air, the momentary calm disrupted by the weight of an impending discussion. She sought to approach the topic delicately, aware of the gravity of the subject at hand.

"Mrs. Lombardi," Detective Black began, her tone taking on a more somber note, "I understand this may be a sensitive matter, but I need to discuss the circus's ownership deeds."

Rosa's expression shifted, a fleeting cloud of apprehension flickering across her features before she composed herself. "Not this again," Rosa interjected with a tinge of frustration. "I thought you knew how I was cut out by Lorenzo, cruelly, in exchange for a payout to help raise Marco."

Detective Black nodded, acknowledging Rosa's frustration before gently persisting, "I do understand, Mrs. Lombardi. But I've come across some... interesting amendments in the deeds, ones that require further clarification. Would you mind sitting down? This might take a moment."

Rosa hesitated, her posture reflecting a mix of surprise and concern. "Of course," she replied, attempting to veil her emotions as she took a seat opposite Detective Black, trying to maintain a composed facade despite the swirling thoughts within.