[center]The best part about an eastern office was the infrequent dour days. Growing up in a muggy area, unfortunate weather was an unfortunate reality; which was why the posting on the eastern front was such a welcome change. Not just for the increased pay, stress, and prestige that came with the badge and jacket, but the more frequent brighter skies. Naturally, then, rain was on the agenda which put a damper on things even in addition to the posting. 

Hester Benoit had just gotten used to being a federal agent even, it seemed, in spite of it all. When she got the offer she jumped at the chance only to then realize she was less a part of national manhunts and more acting as a liaison for 'community outreach'. That was a fancy way of saying she was one of the agents carted around to cities to maybe offer insight on some cases that had gone yet unsolved. It wasn't exactly glamorous, it was like the law enforcement equivalent of peer review, but she figured it was sort of like paying dues. No one got to be the hot shot federal agent in their first year. Or their second.

She had to wonder why Seattle was chosen of all places. The rain was fine, but she wasn't a fan of the west coast...sensibilities. Hopefully it would be as simple as her other liaison trips. Offer advice. Meet the locals. Go back home in a week or two. 

On her way to the police station to check in with the local chief, her trip was given a detour. Like the shining star in the Birth Parable, Hester found herself guided by flashing lights and the call of sirens. Barely within the city limits an hour and already something was happening. Her car, the finest in affordability, pulled over next to the scene. 

"Terrific," she sighed in disbelief. So much for the easy first night. Way too many cars for a domestic disturbance or noise complaint. Hester stepped out of the car, announcing her presence with a slam of the door.