Barnes Howe

Barnes is a supporting character in Locals Only!.

## Personality

Barnes's character exudes an aura of mystery, wisdom, and determination. His limited speech and imposing physical presence make him a figure that commands attention and respect. The fact that he chooses his words carefully adds to his enigmatic quality, as listeners know that when he does speak, it's likely to hold significant meaning. He is one of Avery’s inner circle, and is a town garbage man. Since he works for the city, he acts as an insider Avery can trust. This role positions him to gather information and stay connected with the community, allowing him to contribute valuable insights to their cause. He was in the Air Force with Avery, but served four years longer. Six feet and five inches tall, and with a deep, gruff voice to accompany it, Barnes’ imposing air isn’t unlikely to dissuade people from approaching him. He is strong in his convictions and wants nothing but to see the organized crime purged from his beloved home. This he keeps secret, of course, as is the very nature of the PepperUpper Club. Consequently, to the unfamiliar he simply appears as an intimidating, dispassionate cur. If one were to sit down and initiate a conversation with the indomitable crow however, they would find that he is wise beyond his years, and has a large array of helpful advice to give. (Though much of it will seem vague at first. Barnes wants you to work for your conclusions and learn something.) It’s a shame that he seemingly only talks with three people consistently, none of which would be willing to accept guidance from anyone. Despite the infighting and squabbling over priorities within the group, Barnes still sticks by them, as to him they’re his best bet at liberating Povey.

## Biography

Barnes was born in 1917, and served in the Air Force at the nearby Fort Wagner for many years, including the duration of the Second World War, as well as the Korean War. He came from a lineage of war veterans, and his family always had a close tie with Avery’s. Much of Barnes’ upbringing is a mystery, as he is quiet, and has minimal interactions with others. This has led to rumors of him being everything from an ex-green beret, to a federal agent, though none of this is true.

## Appearance

Barnes is 6’3”, with sleek black plumage and yellow eyes. He wears a white and red ball cap, a light blue button-up shirt with the sleeves rolled up, red suspenders, beige cargo pants, and black rubber boots.

## Friends

* Avery Gilhooly
* Jesse Sanders
* John Whisenhunt
* Gary Tweed (deceased)

## Enemies

* Nancy Peligni
* Ronnie Dulaney
* Roger Lewis
* Chris Kranz
* Eloise Dulaney
* Fanny Killen
* Richard Dunhurst
* Charlie Offutt
* Mac Trevarthan
* Spencer McDovall
* Yusuf Berezovsky

## Skills and Abilities

Barnes is resourceful, intimidating, and forthright. He is physically strong, wise, and has a sharp wit, being able to solve problems quickly. He is also a good mediator, and is able to dispel internal arguments within the Pepperupper Club with ease.

## Weaknesses

Barnes may be part of the Pepperupper Club, but he operates on his own schedule. If a meeting or investigation doesn’t align with his own doings, he won’t be there. He leases a seemingly busy life, and isn’t always around, nor does he alert people ahead of time. His minimal speech and intimidating appearance contribute to this, as well as the rumors that surround him.

## Jobs

Barnes had been a scrap collector and garbage man both before and after his service in the Air Force, first working for Avery’s parent’s, and eventually, Avery himself, as well as being an employee of the city as a garbage man. This position allows him to act as an insider to gain information on local events before they become public knowledge.