The next morning, the motel parking lot buzzed with activity as a small convoy of Bureau vehicles pulled in. Backup agents and researchers stepped out, their crisp suits and serious expressions a stark contrast to the worn-down atmosphere of Iron Hill. Among them was a tall, imposing woman with sharp features and piercing eyes. She strode toward the motel entrance with a confidence that demanded attention.
Trench, leaning against the railing outside his room with a cup of coffee in hand, straightened up as she approached. He recognized her instantly. "Marshall," he said, a mix of surprise and respect in his voice; they hadn't seen each other since Quantico months earlier.
"Trench," Helen Marshall replied with a curt nod. "Looks like you're still causing trouble."
He smirked. "Someone's gotta keep things interesting."
Roland emerged from the room behind Trench, his expression brightening slightly at the sight of her. "Marshall. Good to see you. You're the Ranger assigned to this mess?"
"Guess they figured you needed a babysitter," she quipped, her lips curving into a faint smile. "What's the situation?"
Roland gestured for her to follow him inside, where Lewis was already briefing the arriving researchers. "We've got a potential Altered World Event tied to a local TV show, Candle Cove. The details are messy, but we've got evidence—and a lot of unanswered questions."
Marshall listened intently, her sharp gaze flicking between Roland and Trench. "Sounds like we've got our work cut out for us. Let's get to it."
As the researchers set up their equipment in one of the motel rooms, Trench caught Marshall's eye. "Glad you're here," he said sincerely. "This case… it's different."
Marshall's expression softened, just a little. "Different's what we do, Trench. Let's figure this out before it gets worse."