Gameplay 1b - Rats in the Woodwork

I'm sure we can find people to ask. We just might need to get creative about who we are and why we are asking?

"Can't we just say, 'Because we don't want to die a horribly grisly death'."

I doubt it. People are locked into their own way of thinking and add to that a strong wariness of strangers, coupled with a sprinkling of fear....

You spend some time quietly asking around and find few answers. As evening approaches, the streets quickly empty and as the sun sets, almost no one is about save in small huddled groups quickly making their way to there destination.

Did you want to find a place for the night or are you going to patrol for mischief?

"Well people seem to be getting off the streets so they're either not murdered or accused of being the murderer and browbeat into a confession. Lets find a place to lay low until the next incident I guess."

I think that sounds prudent Ataan. Where should we go then? Maybe a good place to pick up any news that might be floating about.

"A pub is typically an excellent locale for one to scoop out rumors, perhaps a particularly unsavory one which would still be operating with a crowd at a late hour."

I like that idea. To be honest, I could use a drink. And not water.

You find a pub, order food and drink. The quiet works on you like a shroud. A merchant, rethinking the trip home, slaps good coin for a room, and goes to it. You are alone in the tap room save for a nervous serving girl.

Outside, a fog drifts over the town. Not unusual for a harbour city, but oppressive nonetheless.

Ataan pulls out a chair by the group and looks at the girl, "You seem to be nervous we don't bite and this place is dead. Could you fill us in on what's what here Miss? If you please."

Gerald was parched and gulped down his drink, listening intently with friendly eyes for the nervous bar girl.

The wench tells you, "Oh these murders, and I hate to complain, don't think bad of me, I'm grateful that I haven't been gutted in the street. But no one out and about, means no custom, and another day or two and I'll be out on the street. Beggin or worse, if I want to survive. And with no money for rent, I'll be out there. With evil afoot."

"How terrible. Anywhere we should avoid in particular? I'd hate to be walking particularly endangering streets even with-" Cecily gestures to her companions. "-Such strong company."

"No. The town isn't that big, nowhere is safe."

"Maybe I'm wrong but I've heard all the victims were men of ill repute..."

"If that ill is sliced mighty thin, I suppose that is true, but hows one supposed to know? For certain?"

"Well men out late at night in various places... Aren't home sleeping or with loved ones I would wager... did you know any of the deceased?"

She knows one of the victims superficially. She recalls his face, but not much about him.