"I'll add it to the interview questions once his lawyer arrives," the chief said."Though I'm not optimistic he'll answer much of anything."
They stood in silence for a moment, watching Martin through the glass.He hadn't moved, hadn't asked for water or a bathroom break.He just sat, waiting with the patience of someone who'd done time before.
"There's something else," the chief said, his tone shifting."I met with the tribal council this afternoon—the emergency meeting I mentioned to you.They discussed your request for full access to the genealogical files."
Kari turned to face him, hopeful."And?"
"They authorized limited access.You can review information about the three victims and their immediate families, but nothing more comprehensive.They're still concerned about exposing private data for families not directly connected to the investigation."The chief's expression was sympathetic."I argued for full access, but it's the best I could get."
It was something, at least.Better than being completely shut out."When can I access the files?"
"As soon as you're ready.They're on your laptop, which I'll return to you."The chief paused."They also asked me to remind you that any information from those files is to be kept strictly confidential."
"Of course."Kari's mind was already working through what the partial data might reveal.Maybe something in Patricia's or Robert's family histories would provide a motive.Or maybe Emma's lineage held a clue to why she'd been targeted.
But even as she thought it, something nagged at her.The ceremonial knowledge.The staging.The use of sacred sites.These weren't just murders—they were desecrations performed by someone who understood exactly what they were doing.
And if they were going to prove Martin had committed these murders, then they would need to understand the cultural aspects well enough to establish motive and method.
They needed someone with cultural expertise.
"We need David Lomatuway'ma's help," Kari said suddenly.
Both the chief and Polacca looked at her.
"David?"Polacca asked carefully."After we basically accused him yesterday morning?"
"He's the expert on ceremonial practices and traditional artifacts.If we're going to prove Martin committed these murders, David can help."Kari pulled out her phone.
"That's going to be an uncomfortable conversation," the chief observed.
"I know.But David said he wanted to help catch whoever was desecrating sacred sites.This is his chance."Kari looked at Martin through the glass one more time."And maybe David can tell us if someone with Martin's background could have pulled this off alone, or if we should be looking for an accomplice."
The thought was troubling—the possibility that Martin wasn't working alone, that someone with cultural knowledge had guided or assisted him.But it would explain the disconnect between Martin's criminal history and the sophistication of the murders.
Kari stepped out of the observation room and into the hallway, pulling up David's number.She took a breath, preparing for potential hostility, then called.
David answered on the second ring."Detective Blackhorse."
"David, I need to apologize for yesterday.I want you to know how much I appreciate your willingness to help despite how we approached you."
"It's fine, Detective."David's voice was measured."I understand you were following a lead.And I'm sorry I was so defensive.These murders have everyone on edge, myself included.I shouldn't have taken it personally."
The graciousness of his response made Kari feel even worse about having suspected him."We've identified a person of interest—a man whose DNA was found on the knife used in Emma's attack.But there are aspects of the case we don't fully understand, particularly the ceremonial staging at the murder scenes.Would you be willing to consult with us?Help us understand if this suspect could have had the knowledge to commit these crimes?"
There was a pause."Of course.Whatever I can do to help.When were you thinking?"
"Today, if possible.I know it's short notice, but we have the suspect in custody, and his lawyer will be here soon.The faster we can build our case, the better."
"I'm at home right now, actually.You're welcome to come by if that works for you."
"That would be perfect.We'll be there in twenty minutes."
Kari ended the call and returned to the observation room."David's on board.He's at home and willing to meet with us now."
"Both of you going?"the chief asked.
"Yes.Martin's not going anywhere, and he won't talk until his lawyer arrives anyway.We might as well use the time productively."Kari looked through the glass at their silent suspect."If David can help us understand whether Martin has the cultural knowledge to stage these murders, it'll strengthen our case significantly."
