Shadow the Hedgehog

"It's a loft. Most of the stuff is moved out, wait, I think I see something off." ---- "Perhaps. I'm not sure if he ever uses it though."

"That could be it," aaid HRH Hope, looking around for a loft or basement door. Seeing the handle for a ladder in the ceiling, she got on a chair and pulled it down. ----- "Not something I'd like to experience."

The others came over. "I think you're right. There must have been some nasty fight over here," said Rouge. ----- "Now we've said that we're going to get stuck no doubt "

"No, I get the feeling things have been going on for much longer. It just affected this house recently. Can you see signs of forced entry?" ---- "Lucky for us the traffic is going the opposite way."

"Months I imagine." ---- "True. But only driving one requires less filling."

Hope stepped inside. The front room was mostly barren, marks on the walls where paintings had been. ---- "I know. But this way I save on fuel," he joked.

"A worrying way to put it. Shall we try this one first?" asked Hope, pointing to a nearby deserted bungalow. --- "And having 2 is even better."

"This town feels awfully quiet. It's unsettling," said Rouge. ---- "A worthwhile investment indeed."

"Exactly. A good place to start." The group set off. --- "Handles these corners very well."

"I saw some older houses on the outskirts. Didn't look inhabited." ---- Crowley set back off down the mountain as fast as he could.

Once they were finished the others got up. ---- Crowley hopped in and started the engine.

The others nodded in agreement and started their meals, wanting to eat quickly so they could explore. ---- "Ah yes. I'll gladly drive back if you don't mind."

HRH Hope nodded to her with a smile as their food arrived. --- "I've never used my powers to transport a car before. A first time for anything I suppose."

"Very well. I guess that means 'Jill' and Rouge will be paired up," replied HRH Hope. ---- Crowley nodded. "Let's head back then."

"Agreed. Much safer that way." --- "If you wish."

"Agreed. Any preference on where to start?" asked Hope as Rouge came back. ---- "Not at all."

"Agreed. While it's still daylight too." ---- "It's fine."

"Ok. You Jill?" "I'll just getnshepherd's pie," replied Hope. "Likewise," said HRH Hope. Rouge nodded then headed over to order. ---- "Would you like to stay a bit at my apartment?"

Rouge passed a menu to Melody. "It's normal food, don't worry." ---- "So yes, I'm having a nice time."

"Seems too obvious. What are you having anyway?" asked Rouge. ---- "Of course, otherwise I wouldn't be here."

"Just stay calm and let's order our food. We just need to keep our cool," said Rouge, glad their corner table meant they weren't exposed. ----- "I'm glad to hear."

"Yeah, it does feel oddly quiet." ---- "What's funny?"

"I know. But best not to arouse suspicion," whispered Rouge. --- Crowley leaned back as well.

"So it would appear. It could be the time of year, this town is a little off the beaten track," said HRH Hope. ---- "Agreed."

Hope nodded, looking around the inn. ---- "Sadly you're right. It's several hours away."