Inspector Craddock of the Yard, former Coldstream Guardsman

 

Colonel Nicholas Hollingsworth

 

Newspaper article

 

Newspaper article

 

Session IV: Under Suspicious Circumstances

Reginald and Marion returned from Kent in the countryside after spending a week decompressing from the investigation regarding the Windebanks, Dr Granger and the events of the Java Coffee Company.

Spending time away from the busy streets of London doing them both some good in reassuring one another that they had done the right thing in the end, having seen no reports regarding plague or infection in the newspapers that reached them.

Reginald insisted Marion learn to partake in the activities of gentlemen, horseback riding, quail shooting and walking the grounds. Spending time becoming acclimated to using the “Bulldog” pistol he had acquired from Dr Granger, the firearm doing little to help Marion feel safer from the recurring nightmares he was experiencing, featuring the giant, three eyed being.

Returning to the city, Reginald followed up with Jane from the Norris Hotel regarding the whereabouts of Susan Windebank. Having regained much of her memory, Susan had returned to her family home, now also supported by her brother who had taken charge of her. Also checking on the family of the cabman Jarvis, Reginald was relieved to see that his family was living a stable life, having relocated from the city to a more rural setting.

Marion’s return to work was somewhat mixed in terms of his status, being impressed with Marion’s research and identification of the “Blue Death”, Dr Spencer promoted Marion within the morgue, however this soon turned into even longer hours, Marion spending more nights in the well loved armchair in the corner of his office than his own home.

Weeks had passed with both Marion and Reginald checking their own eyes in the mirror, searching for any signs of infection regarding the Blue Fungus. As the weeks turned to months, both were relieved as they showed no signs of infection.

Spending longer hours in his office, Reginald decided to start writing his personal memoirs regarding what he described as an adventure on home soil. Doing his best to tell an honest and personal account of the investigation that began with the death of Albert Windebank.

Keeping in constant contact, Marion was soon a permanent plus one for Reginald at social events, the two of them meeting at the minimum once per week. Marion struggling from time to time in the social environment of the military clubs and events, his history with alcohol proving to be his main vice, deciding it best to keep his distance from any location where the flow was constant.

*

October arrived again in London, the drizzling rain almost never ending. Reginald’s train trip with Singh to Dover for the funeral of retired Sergeant Major Herbert Crouch, a fellow soldier who served under Reginald’s command. The few funeral goers were estranged family members, pallbearers and Toby Norton. Toby, known to Reginald from the Military club, a subordinate of Major Gower and employee, now Lord Gower post active service. Reginald and Toby stood together in the rain as the clergyman finished his service, Reginald noticing wreaths of flowers featuring the names of several high ranking officers, including Lord Gower.

Reginald offered his condolences to the sister present of Sergeant Major Crouch before retiring from the rain, followed by Singh and Toby. Locating a small tavern in town, Reginald, Singh and Toby sat in one of the unoccupied booths, Singhs present causing a pause from some patrons.

Reginald conveyed his fondness of Crouch to Toby who seemed to know little of the Sergeant Major, instead speaking of how he had been sent on Lord Gower’s behalf. As Toby continued to mutter loudly as he removed his soaked rain coat, Reginald was surprised to hear of the funeral of retired Corporal Orland Reynolds the previous week, another man from the same company.

Shocked at the news, Reginald addressed Toby directly on the issue, asking as to the cause of death, noting that Crouch’s death was suspicious given a man with such a stout profile possessing strength beyond a civilian was found dead by strangulation. According to the newspaper articles in the local paper regarding the murder, a tall figure was seen outside Crouch’s house on the evening of the murder of the 51 year old Crouch who coached the local rugby team.

Toby patted down his pockets, pulling from his waistcoat a newspaper article regarding the death of Reynolds dated the previous week. The newspaper depicted a man falling from a train platform, being struck by an oncoming train, the incident being deemed misadventure. Reginald was perplexed by the news, neither man had died by undeniable natural causes, thinking to himself if there was something more sinister at work. After several cups of tea, Reginald and Singh took their leave from Toby who was halfway through a shepherd’s pie, Reginald sending Singh to the train station while he made the decision to call at the Dover mortuary for a more detailed report of what happened to Sergeant Major Crouch.

Knocking on the door to the morgue, the clerk who answered was not willing to assist Reginald without direct, written consent from either Lord Gower or the Dover Police. Reginald doing his best to enforce his military authority, the clerk persisted in his refusal without Lord Gower’s approval.

Frustrated, Reginald took his leave of the morgue, instead choosing to return to the train station where Singh was waiting.

*

Marion was always happy to attend his regular appointment with Reginald at his residence, this week having been interrupted by a trip to Dover, Marion was relieved the meeting was rescheduled for the following evening. Joining Reginald in his study, Marion sat in the large, brown leather armchair he had been used to occupying across from Reginald who was already on his second Brandy and third pipe full of tobacco.

Discussing the funeral as the two sat, Reginald drinking his regular whisky, Marion drinking his tea. Marion was concerned at the news as Reginald passed him the funeral notice and newspaper article. Reginald also recounted the death of the private who was killed by a train. Marion queried as to why Reginald was concerned about the two, seemingly unrelated deaths of former military personnel.

Looking for any kind of connection regarding the two, Marion offered Reginald some support, advising he could request a copy of the coroner’s report to inspect. Reginald breathed a  sigh of relief at Marion’s suggestion, moving the conversation towards what the two were planning to do in future. Reginald continued his playful banter regarding Marion’s marital status and that Susan Windebank was still available to him. Several whisky’s into the conversation, Reginald began referring Marion towards Jenny, the maid from the Norris Hotel, Susan Windebank and even the older lady running the women’s refuge in the dock district.

As the night grew old, Marion took his leave of Reginald, returning to his home for a brief night's sleep before being required at work by 6am. 

*

The coroner’s report from Dover was surprisingly empty, the only notes made by the coroner stating that whoever the attacker was, possessed inhuman strength. The report showing that bones had been crushed, shattered and broken, leaving bruising both pre and post mortem revealing fingerprints.

Marion called Reginald from the phone in the morgue, passing the information on as best he could without causing Reginald any panic.

Hanging up the phone, Marion took the report to Dr Spencer, asking if he had ever seen injuries that reflect the same damage. Dr Spencer reviewed the report, his only memories of similar injuries coming from instances where men have been crushed between pylons and timber logs.

Reginald hung up his phone from Marion, immediately dialling the number of the Dover police station, being put in touch with Inspector Walters who advised that the investigation was ongoing, reviewing witness statements from the neighbours.

Reginald’s frustration grew at the lack of news, requesting he be contacted as any developments unfolded.

Hanging up the phone harshly, Reginald returned to his study, doing his best to clear his mind as he looked at the pages of memoirs on his desk and where he was up to.

Marion continued to socialise with Reginald on a regular basis at the Army and Navy Club, as the guest of Reginald, he was restricted to the public dining area, as he was not a military man, he was not permitted to enter the members area.

As a slow week passed, Marion and Reginald sat against the rear wall of the dining hall within the Army and Navy Club, much to their surprise, Major Gower, recently knighted, took a seat at a table a short distance away, surrounded by his entourage. After seeing Lord Gower was seated and comfortable, Reginald rose from his meal, drink in hand and approached the former Major.

The two conversed casually as Lord Gower recognised Reginald far easier than any man present without rank. Reginald spoke of his attendance to the Funeral of Sergeant Major Crouch, some moments passing before Gower recalled the faint memory of the man.

Reginald continued regarding the circumstances of the death, Gower listening and doing his best to understand Reginald’s concern. Advising that the medical report described the assailant as inhumanly strong, the crushing and compounding of bones, Reginald querying if Gower had seen or heard of anyone who could possibly possess such strength.

Gower shook his head, speaking of no one matching the description given or in possession of such brute force. Reginald continued regarding the train death of Private Reynolds, Gower dismissing the death as possibly drunken behaviour ending in death.

Reginald shifted the conversation in the direction of Colonel Hollingsworth, asking if Gower had seen him recently. Gower shook his head, advising he had not seen Hollingsworth in over a week, his absence being noticed in military circles. Pushing for information on Hollingsworth, Reginald enquired about the lodgings of Hollingsworth, Gower vaguely remembering the address being located in Hampstead.

As he spoke to words of the location, Gower’s memory was jogged into the conversations he had been having with his wife, telling Reginald that the two of them had to arrange dinner for their wives to discuss the upcoming charity events that were marked for returning soldiers and servicemen. Gower extended an invitation to Reginald to attend his home the following evening to address their calendars for when they can arrange their wives to meet for lunch. Gower taking his leave from Reginald and returning to his entourage, Reginald nodded and returned to finish his meal, Marion’s plate already empty. Marion enquired as to the conversation with Gower, being informed that they would attend his residence the following evening. Finishing their meals, making their way to the exit, Reginald gave a nod to the somewhat ancient gentleman who seemed to be permanently fixed to the same chair every time he entered the club. Barney Albright, one of the best marksmen of his time, now known as the drunk old soul full of war stories that may or may not have happened. Marion and Reginald parted ways for the evening, both returning to their homes to rest.

*

Continuing his work at the Morgue, Marion looked over the reports of deaths and their causes, looking for anything similar to the recent deaths of Reynolds and Crouch. Frustrated that no recent murders shared any of the signs of abnormality he had become accustomed to when working with Reginald, Marion closed the cabinet of reports, returning to his office to work so as not to end up too far behind on his regular duties. As evening approached, a thick fog hung in the air of London and surrounds, Reginald striding towards the train station, the short journey taking them north towards Gower’s residential area in Belgrave Square. Exiting the train, Singh, Reginald strode down the dimly lit street, the street lights emitting more of a glow than clear lighting as the fog surrounded them like misty curtains. The building on either side of the two men, all large, brick buildings that were well  maintained, all surrounded by tall fences, the ornamental pointed tips instantly recognisable to deter potential intruders.

Turning a corner and finding themselves only a block away from the home of Lord Gower, the two men froze as the sound of an harrowing and ear piercing scream blazed through the air, only to be cut short with a loud thud. Reginald was first to move, striding forward with Singh trailing him. Pointing to a side street as the source of the scream, Reginald stood at its entryway, a look of horror and shock on his face.

Approaching a tall fence, atop the spiked fence line, a body hung, impaled on the spines. Three spikes pieced the man’s body, his right shoulder, abdomen and left thigh all pieced. The sound of a police whistle woke the three from their stunned state, Reginald moving closer to the body only to see the face of Lord Gower, barely alive, staring back at him, blood flowing freely from his mouth and nose.

Reginald came to Lord Gower’s side as he sent Singh away to locate the police and seek their aid. Through the blood and pain, Gower did his best to speak, Reginald supporting the weight of his head as his earthly time was almost up. “Abadan, Abadan, it's real, alive.”

Gower’s body shivered for a moment before his muscles relaxed, his head falling loose in the hands of Reginald, his final exhale expelling blood and the faint sound of gurgling in his chest.

Stepping back from Major Gower’s body, his hands covered in blood, Reginald turned to the sight of two police constables, blowing their whistles entering the alley, Singh pointing and directing them.

The shocking sight caught the police off guard as they immediately began demanding answers to questions in shaky yet violent tones. Reginald met the oncoming verbal assault with a stout retort, giving every piece of information known to him about who they were, why they were here and what they had heard and witnessed.

One constable departed the alley, blowing his whistle for more attention, calling to any other police in the area to converge. As more and more police arrived on the scene, Reginald and Singh were not permitted to leave the scene, the blood on Reginald’s hands still visible in the lamp light, even after expending both of their handkerchiefs in an attempt to remove it.

The sound of a Hansom Cab approached the alley, pulling up short at the police line, exiting the cab, a tall man moved to the closest police officer who in turn pointed at Reginald and Singh. The man strode towards Reginald, passing by the body of Gower that was currently being removed from the fence by five police constables.

Addressing the two and introducing himself as Inspector Craddock of Scotland Yard, his harsh tone commanding attention, quite the opposite of the previous inspector Jones who spoke with a somewhat quiet demeanour.

The inspector began his questions, Reginald taking the lead in responding, explaining the meeting that had been arranged between himself and Lord Gower. Craddock’s questions were broad in nature, writing down the details in his notebook, the situation that brought them to the alley.

Craddock dismissed the two after collecting the information of Reginald who asked Craddock if he was acquainted with Inspector Jones. Craddock frowned and made mention that there were many inspectors named Jones, turning on his heel and moving towards the body of Major Gower. Reginald and Singh departed the alley, hailing a Hansom Cab and heading back towards the city.

Once home, Reginald immediately dialled the number of the London Morgue, to his relief, the phone was answered by Marion who was still busily completing his reports for the day. Reginald could barely contain himself, recounting the events of the train trip, the death of Lord Gower and the Inspector who had questioned him. Marion was shocked at the news, Lord Gower was a prominent figure within the community and his death would cause much attention from the police and newspapers alike. Reginald continued, repeating the final words of Lord Gower, “Abadan, its real, alive”.

Reginald continued his theory that all of the murders of the military personnel were related, recalling the way in which Lord Gower had been killed, the distance from the nearest rooftop to the fence, too far for a man to jump, he would have to be thrown.

Ending the call, Marion began to prepare the Morgue for an incoming body, ordering the two remaining clerks to make space while he picked up the phone once more, advising Dr Spencer of the recent murder of a Lord and that he should be the attending physician.

*

Dr Spencer entered the Morgue first, followed shortly after by the body of Lord Gower, accompanied by several police and Inspector Craddock. Marion had prepared the closest table for the body to be examined on, directing the police to lay the body on the table, Dr Spencer began to cut away what remained of the Lord’s clothing.

Marion and Dr Spencer both cleaned the body of Lord Gower, the ragged holes from where his body had been skewered through the fence were now much wider than they had started due to the several poor attempts of the police to remove him from the fence. Marion was watching closely, inspecting the body for any signs of bruising that seemed abnormal. Sure enough, bruising on the thigh, so deep that the bone within could be heard with movement, an audible crunching of broken and shattered bone, the bruising in the shape of a hand causing the damage. A second series of bruises appeared on the shoulder of Lord Gower, the same damage to bone within the skin.

Dr Spencer dictated his notes for Marion to write down, stating that this was not an act of suicide, but more an act of murder by an unknown assailant who, from the bruising, threw Lord Gower from an unknown location onto the fence.

Removing his apron, Dr Spencer turned to Marion, ordering him to finalise the report immediately and assign it to Scotland Yard for investigation. Inspector Craddock stepped forward, his notebook in hand, asking the question of Dr Spencer, who’s frustration with the simple nature of the questioning he ignored, stating that everything he wanted would be present in the report. Dr Spencer walked away towards the basin near his office, washing his hands and face, removing his surgical clothing before entering his office where a clerk had prepared a cup of tea.

Craddock turned to Marion, repeating his question about anything that may be out of the ordinary. Marion could think of nothing other than the strength required to commit such a brutal act. Craddock eyed Marion carefully before thanking him for his time, taking his leave of the Morgue.

Marion dialled the number of Reginald’s home on the telephone, Reginald immediately answering. Marion informed him of the bruising, possibly the same murderer of Crouch as the bruising and damage to bone was unmistakably similar. Arranging to meet the following day, Marion ended the call, covering the body of Lord Gower and wheeling his body to the refrigerator for temporary storage.

*

The next day started early, Marion entered the Morgue, his intention of copying the report from the autopsy of Lord Gower was simple enough to complete. Nothing had changed within the walls of the Morgue, everything exactly where Marion had left it. The morning newspaper stating the outrage at the murder of a prominent Lord, however the details were minimal regarding the incident, Inspector Craddock keeping a lid on anything related to the death of Lord Gower.

Marion thought to himself where he would have to go to investigate and research the name that Reginald had spoken to him, Abadan, an alien term to him.

Reginald rose from his bed in the late morning, making his way after breakfast to the Army and Navy Club, his inquisitive mind lodging a query and request for reports regarding Lord Gower’s movements in the Army.

Returning home, Reginald was handed a large envelope from Singh, the copy of the coroner’s report sent by Marion. Reviewing the document, Reginald immediately picked up the phone and dialled the Morgue.

Marion answered the phone and went through the details of the bruising and destruction of bone once again. Reginald continued spewing his conspiracy theories at Marion, believing the best course of action was to take everything he had seen, the medical report from Dover, Lord Gower’s autopsy report and the newspaper regarding Private Reynolds to Inspector Craddock. Believing that this would be a better way to show support for any investigation, Reginald would further reach out to Colonel Hollingsworth, Lord Gower’s former close friend and colleague in search of answers.

Hanging up the phone, Marion compiled the reports from Dover and the Morgue, everything he had on the current murders, placing them in his bag and leaving the Morgue towards Scotland Yard.

As Marion entered the building, he was immediately met by the desk clerk, enquiring as to his business at the Yard. Marion requested the direction to the office of Inspector Craddock, the clerk somewhat dubious, directed him to the second floor towards the back of the building. Thanking the clerk for his time, Marion made his way up the stairs and towards the rear, scanning the doors for any plaques with the name ‘Craddock’ on them. Finally reaching a modest office along the western wall, Marion knocked politely, Inspector Craddock permitting him entrance.

The two sat across the desk from each other, Marion passing the Coroner’s report of Lord Gower to Craddock. Looking through furrowed brows at the file and flicking through the notes, Craddock was interrupted by Marion who put forward a second file, the Dover examination of Sergeant Major Crouch. Marion explained the similarities in the cases, his polite tones showing his genuine and honest concern regarding the culprit. Craddock spoke in a manner that reminded Marion of Reginald, a military discipline and commanding presence. Asking how Marion came across the Dover report, the mention of Reginald being an acquaintance and the inquiry made on his behalf, Craddock smiled and raised his hand to silence Marion. 

Craddock went on to explain the seriousness of what he had done, requesting a report linked to an ongoing murder investigation, at the request of a retired Army Captain. As Marion explained the nature of how he and Reginald had first become acquaintances, going back through the first incident in Hyde Park Police Station, Craddock again cut Marion short, pulling another file from his desk drawer. Craddock made it clear that he was aware of a Dr Collins and Retired Captain Lockhart, the report he was reading, written by Inspector Jones. Craddock went on to read that Inspector Jones found their attempts at assisting to be no more than interference.

Marion paused, the sweat starting to form on his brow. Craddock stood and leaned over his desk, speaking calmly, he demanded Marion to remain outside any form of involvement in the case at hand.

Craddock advised he would be contacting Dr Spencer, advising that Marion take a short leave of absence in order to put distance between himself and any involvement. Craddock then pulled his own notebook from his pocket, beginning to ask Marion questions regarding his whereabouts on certain dates spanning the previous three weeks. Marion, not wishing to conceal anything, gave his whereabouts and names of clerks and associates who could verify his words.

Satisfied with Marion’s information, Craddock waved his hand dismissively, excusing Marion from his office. Marion rose to his feet, his hands shaking, gave a nod and quickly exited the office, making his way back to work.

*

 A knock at the door broke Reginalds concentration as he stared out from his breakfast room window, his Webley revolver in his lap. Singh entered, explaining two police constables were at the front door, requesting he accompany them to Scotland Yard as the Inspector requested his presence.

Reginald took his time in getting himself ready, putting his revolver away and dressing modestly returned to the foyer, entering the Hansom Cab that was waiting. Inspector Craddock sat in his chair, not moving as Reginald announced himself at the door, striding into the room abruptly and taking a seat opposite the inspector. Craddock offered Reginald a drink, sending one of the constables to fetch it. Craddock began his questions in a pleasant manner, asking what the association was between Lockhart and Dr Collins. Referring to Marion as a friend, Reginald was curious as to the nature of the questions moving forward. The conversation shifted towards Major Gower, the nature of their relationship and as to why he was at the scene of the crime.

Reginald retorted sternly, explaining that he was on his way to meet Lod Gower to discuss their wives and social gatherings.

Craddock pursued the line of questioning, wanting to know the details of any fellow servicemen that he associated with through the Army and Navy Club. Reginald rattled off several names of retired regimental officers and soldiers, including the names of Reynolds, Crouch, Hollingworth and Gower. Focussing on the mention of Reynolds, Reginald could not help but convey his belief that the train death was not an accident.

Craddock then pushed Reginald for reasons as to why he had come to that conclusion. Reginald again pushed back at the inspector, justifying his theory with past experiences assisting in investigations with Inspector Jones.

Craddock laughed at the insinuation, pulling the report from his drawer, stating that Reginald was able to be charged with interfering in police business and obstruction. Warning Reginald that he was not to get involved in the current investigation, informing Reginald that Jones was not as stern as other inspectors within Scotland Yard, however any interference with this case would see Reginald inside a cell.

Craddock shifted his focus to Colonel Hollingsworth, demanding to know when the last time Reginald and Hollingworth had seen each other. Reginald informing the Inspector that it had been some weeks since crossing paths.

Craddock dismissed Reginald from his office, advising him to be careful with how he was to proceed. Bumping into the constable who had fetched a scotch for the retired Captain, Reginald snatched it from him, gulping it down before passing the glass back to the constable as he continued towards the exit.

*

Reginald burst through the door of the Morgue, calling to Marion in anger. Marion appeared from his office, wiping his hands on his apron and walked briskly towards Lockhart. Reginald's anger and frustration was at boiling point, the Inspector having gotten deep enough under his skin to cause stress. Reginald recalled seeing a stack of files of the Inspector’s desk, one file for every serviceman who had passed away recently. Reginald feared that he was possibly being set up as a classic patsy for the string of murders, Marion however refuted the notion, explaining that Reginald needed to remain calm, most importantly, put distance between himself and the Inspector’s investigation.

Marion returned to his work having calmed Reginald’s nerves, going over the files again of Lord Gower and alike. Reginald left the Morgue, stopping briefly at the closest pub for another stiff drink before continuing home, electing not to catch a cab, but the walk would help settle his mind more adequately.

Dr Spencer entered the morgue in the mid afternoon, making a straight path to Marion, engaging him in conversation. Dr Spencer had a harsh look on his face, advising Marion to leave the premises. Marion asked as to why he was being dismissed for the day, Spencer replying that he had received a telephone call from Craddock at Scotland Yard. Dr Spencer then ran through the list of accusations made by Craddock, Requesting files from other mortuaries, involving himself in police matters, everything would have to be added to his file. Dr Spencer conveyed his disappointment having recently promoted Marion only to have to suspend him from work for an undisclosed amount of time without pay. Marion removed his apron, took his belongings from his office and walked out the front door of the morgue, his mind consumed with anger at how Reginald has cost him his job, his ability to rise in status and company.

The walk home was long and violent, Marion muttered to himself as he trudged along the footpath, a feral dog barked at him as he moved past the familiar side street where entrances to opium dens were frequent. Raising his foot, the dog's bark turned to a whimper as Marion let fly a swift kick, collecting the mutt on the side of the head.

Losing his sense of direction in his anger, Marion had originally planned to head home, instead looking up to find himself at the entrance to the Library. Walking into the lobby, Marion began searching for any reference possible to the mystery that plagued him, Abadan.

Reginald returned home to find another package had been delivered to his residence, this time from the Army and Navy club, copies of Regimental Reports he had requested in order to find Hollingsworth and who else may have been in the Regiment he belonged to that may be retired and living in the area. Scanning the reports, he found them to be nothing more than short statements of campaigns, little more than propaganda, not containing any lists of servicemen.

Throwing the papers in the wastebasket, Reginald walked back outside, heading to the Army and Navy Club in search of answers. As he looked around the Club, he addressed a group of regular patrons, asking as to the whereabouts of Colonel Hollingsworth and for anyone who had seen him recently to step forward.

After speaking with servicemen for the better part of an hour, Reginald knew only the most basic of facts. Colonel Hollingsworth lived in Kandahar House, located on a large estate near Hampstead, no one had seen Hollingsworth for many weeks, the rumours of illness and violent temper circulating as a possible cause for his withdrawal from the public eye. More rumours of how he had met his new, young wife after returning from active service, building Kandahar house, now with a young son, his time now spent living the family life.

Not knowing if there was any point in spending his afternoon at his favourite haunt, Reginald tried to contribute to the conversations of those around him. As his voice was being drowned out by others who chose to dominate the conversation, Reginald let out a slurry of angry attributes in the direction of those speaking over him. The club fell silent at the outburst, Reginald stating his anger at the current lack of military courtesy before straightening his jacket and marching to the exit.

Toby Norton retrieved Reginald’s coat from the coat room, apologetic that Reginald was leaving so soon. Reginald gave Toby a sideways glance, Toby being the only man present at two funerals, sent by Lord Gower to deliver flowers. Reginald spoke the work Abadan to Toby who’s reaction was not one of confusion. Toby shook his head quickly, looking at the floor and continuing to state his ignorance at the topic. Reginald’s eyes widened, grabbing Toby by the collar and forcing him to walk with Reginald towards the door. 

Dragging Toby around the corner of the Club, Reginald demanded to know what he knew, releasing his grip and looking Toby in the eye. Reginald lost the anger in his voice, Toby was used to being screamed at, speaking to Toby as a man with dignity, several minutes of denial before allowing Reginald any answers. Toby spoke through quivering lips, he was sworn to secrecy and silence by Colonel Hollingsworth. Toby explained he was a member of a team of men commanded by Hollingsworth, dispatched to a small village in Egypt where fanatical locals were causing trouble. Toby went on to explain that the group of soldiers dispatched left none alive, it was a massacre at the temple, complete and utter darkness in their souls for an hour as they murdered all within the walls.

Hollingsworth made every man take an oath of silence regarding the massacre as many did not conduct themselves in a military way and did not want to tarnish the name of the regiment. Taking relics from the site, Hollingsworth sold off all he could, splitting the funds between the members of the regiment who attended.

Toby spoke of a withered mummy that resided in a wooden sarcophagus, both taken by Hollingsworth. Toby was clearly frightened as he recalled the event, explaining he had been seeing shadows move in the streets and alleys of London as he conducted his daily business. He was growing paranoid with every day that passed.

Reginald demanded Toby leave the city, yet Toby refused, explaining that he was ready for whatever was coming for him. To Toby, Crouch and Reynolds were not prepared, yet he believed he could weather the oncoming storm.

Reginald gave Toby some coins before leaving the alley, hailing a cab and heading to the Morgue. Dr Spencer met Reginald at the front door, conveying that Marion was on leave and would not be at work for some time. Reginald shook his head, cursing the Inspector as he got back in the Hansom Cab.

*

Marion searched for hours regarding the word ‘Abadan’, religious texts, geographical reports, medical journals, anything he could possibly think of. His search proving fruitless, Marion stormed out of the Library as the sun disappeared beyond the horizon. Pushing through his front door, slamming it behind him. Marion paced his living space, walking to a bookcase and pulling a large wooden box from the shelf, placing it on his desk. Opening the box to reveal two bottles of Gin, one half empty, its label stained red with dried blood. Marion stared for a moment at the bottles before pulling the full bottle from the box, opening it and pouring himself a tumbler to the brim.

*

Reginald waited at the door as it creaked open to reveal a drunken Marion. Reginald shook his head, demanding Marion sober up and that he shall return the following day to collect him.

Marion slammed the door, leaving against it as he brought the now well drunk Gin bottle to his lips, mumbling to himself between gulps. 

Session III: Coffee and Calamity

As Marion and Reginald stood separate from the Inspector and police constables that were scouring the area around the body of Jarvis.

After discussing the situation, Marion addressed Dr Spencer who was also inspecting the body from a safe distance, advising that this area was clearly the epicentre of the outbreak, since both the cabman and previous deceased persons were within the area. Marion insisted that Dr Spencer request Inspector Jones order his men to search the area, not a small request given the size of the Albert Docks.

Reginald and Marion both watched Spencer engage Jones, after a few minutes of discussion, Jones shot a strange look at Marion before ordering his men to split into a grid search. Volunteering to join the search, Marion and Reginald followed the constables with Jones’s permission in searching the alleys and side streets that littered the area.

After 30 to 40 minutes of searching, Reginald spotted an alley with no access, a side street concealed behind stacked crates, timber, and all manner of material to block the road, stacked six feet tall. Pulling the crates aside, Reginald called to Marion and the surrounding constables as he revealed an unmanned Hansom Cab, the horse standing steady in the mud.

As the constables rushed towards the shouts coming from Reginald, both Reginald and Marion were clearing the debris from the alley’s access point. Moving past the cab and horse, Reginald could see a similar barricade at the far end, clearing the entrance for the police to access the site from the other end.

Marion moved cautiously towards the cab, looking for any signs of movement, Reginald moving back to the horse, stroking its head, and loosening its buckles to free it from the cab.

Two constables aided in lowering the cab’s restraints from the horse, allowing Reginald to walk the slightly distressed horse from the alley. Marion looked closely at the mud, doing his best to sight any sort of evidence as all around him constables filled the space, churning the ground under their feet.

Reginald returned to the Alley after handing the reins of the horse to the closest constable he could find once out of the alley, returning promptly to Marion’s side, following his lead, and inspecting the possible tracks in the mud. His gaze shifting to the walls of the alley, Reginald immediately called to Marion as he sighted a discarded hypodermic syringe half buried in mud. Marion carefully extracted the syringe, wrapping it in a handkerchief he pulled from the pocket of the closest constable, inspecting it briefly, Marion could see the familiar fungal formations within the empty syringe, however they seemed to be decaying rather than thriving. Marion’s mind raced, he began to suspect that this syringe was the primary delivery system for the people who were dying, and this discovery needed to get back to the morgue, placing it securely in his medical bag. Inspector Jones barked orders as he entered the alley, doing his best to clear the scene to not disturb the now destroyed crime scene.

Marion re-engaged Reginald once the syringe was secure, Reginald was pondering how to best track Dr Granger, thinking of the carriage company, the Geographical society, anywhere that may have a forwarding address. Marion could see Dr Spencer arrive in the alley, walking quickly towards him, Marion explained the discovery of the needle, handing it carefully to Spencer before returning to the muttering Reginald. Departing the alley, Marion and Reginald decided to hail a Hansom Cab, deciding to move on the University, following the trail of Granger, his letters addressed to the Vice Chancellor being their primary concern.

*

Entering the reception area of the Vice Chancellor of the University, Marion made the request of the clerk for an immediate appointment with the chancellor. After a short time, a large man with wholesome mutton chop sideburns and thick moustache emerged, believing that the men in front of him could explain the sudden departure of the respected faculty member who recently resigned.

After a brief back and forth between Reginald and the Vice Chancellor, it was clear Reginald was out of his depth, slinging accusations regarding Dr Granger across the room, Marion’s head dropping as his attempts to engage the Vice Chancellor calmly were dashed by the abrupt taunts of Reginald.

As the Vice Chancellor excused himself, asking the two men to leave, Marion and Reginald made their way back to the grounds of the University. Marion turned to Reginald who was very pleased with himself. Marion began arguing with Reginald based on his methods of questioning and how frustrating he was.

Climbing into the Hansom Cab, Reginald ordered the driver to take them to the London Carriage Company. Marion remained silent as Reginald continued to smile and laugh at his address of the Vice Chancellor.

As the two walked through the gates of the London Carriage Company, the groups of cab drivers huddled together drinking tea, Reginald called across the groups of men for anyone who had met with Jarvis the previous evening. A short man raised his hand a short distance from where Reginald stood, asking the man to accompany him away from the crowd, Reginald began asking questions of Jarvis and his behaviour the previous night, after speaking with the cab driver for a short while, Reginald was informed that Jarvis was in good health when he left him after dinner at approximately 10pm. As Reginald continued to probe for information, he asked if Jarvis had made any mention regarding previous customers, the cab driver knowing little of the topic.

Thanking the man for his time, Reginald offered the man a modest sum before signalling Marion to join him in the office. Reginald asked the clerk at the desk for the address of Jarvis and his family situation. The clerk spoke sadly on the topic, informing Reginald and Marion and Reginald that Jarvis was married with several children, sliding a piece of paper across the desk with an address written on it.

Leaving the cab company, Marion and Reginald took a brief lunch at the pub where Jarvis was a regular before taking a cab to the Norris Hotel across town, both men agreeing that finding Susan Windebank was the key to finding out further information.

Arriving at the hotel, the same employee who had addressed them and turned them away previously stood at the main desk. Again, the man reused them access to the hotel, Reginald waving his cane about in a vain effort to intimidate the employee.

After several attempts to convince the man to let them through by both Reginald and Marion, after arguments, bribe offers and threats, Reginald stormed out of the Norris hotel, followed by Marion who again felt the frustration of Reginald’s arrogance when speaking to anyone who could potentially help them in their investigation. Remembering from their conversation with Jenny when they were last looking into the Norris hotel, she had advised them that the back door was rarely locked. Moving to the back of the hotel via the side streets, Marion was first to test the door, to their relief, it was unlocked. Silently moving up the stairs, the two of them came to a stop at the door to room 104, where the Windebanks had been staying. The door to the room was locked, both men looking at each other sharing the hope that the other knew how to get through a locked door silently.

After what felt like hours of procrastination within seconds, both men leaned with all of their strength on the door, rather than causing noise by ramming the door, to their relieve, the barely audible thud of the lock breaking free of the hinge allowing them to stumble into the room.

Wasting no time, the two men scoured the room, evidence that the room had been ransacked, going through suitcases, bookshelves, anywhere and everywhere that had been invaded previously, to their disappointment, nothing could be found. Marion searched the room for any signs of the blue fungus that had been prominent at every crime scene.

As both men came up empty in their search, Marion and Reginald departed the Norris Hotel, convinced that if there was ever anything to be found, it had been removed prior to their arrival.

Entering a Hansom Cab, the two men took their time in traversing the city, Marion able to look past Reginald’s abrupt nature while they went over their thoughts.

Running over the facts that Dr Granger for the cause without doubt, a man who has since fled the city after experimenting on the two homeless men, infected Jarvis and Mr Windebank, tracking him down would be the only way to end the investigation.

After the lengthy conversation, Reginald departed the Hansom Cab, strolling with purpose towards the address of Jarvis Creedy that he had obtained from the London Carriage Company. As he knocked on the door, the sounds of crying and distress were ever present.

Reginald handed Mrs Creedy a large sum of money as he spoke to her of his fondness for Jarvis, providing the costs of a funeral and an additional sum to keep them comfortable for some time.

Marion exited the Hansom Cab at the city Morgue, Dr Spencer had retired for the day, allowing Marion to look over his notes, read his findings and inspect all bodies in the drawers that had suffered from the fungal infection.

Sending a telegram to Seamus from the Morgue office, Marion requested any information regarding the whereabouts of Susan Windebank and Dr Granger. Within an hour, Seamus arrived at the side alley of the Morgue, taking from Marion a detailed description of both Granger and Susan before watching Seamus disappear in the distance.

Refusing to go home, Marion walked to the London Library, doing his best to research any references to “Blue Stone”, “Sumatran Blue Death” and former expeditions to Sumatra.

Losing hours in the Library, Marion finally decided to head home as the clock struck 11pm, collapsing into bed, still fully dressed, exhausted from the day’s discoveries. Standing in a large, cavernous room, lit dimly by torches, a familiar, large, rat featured figure standing at the far end of the room. The creature was covered in thick black fur, however across the fur, slimy tentacles seemed to sway like arms as its three-eyed, glowing gaze moved towards where Marion was standing.

Waking from this nightmare, his clothes drenched with sweat as he was glad to not have lost control of his bodily functions.

*

 

Sitting at his breakfast table, Reginald welcomed the smell of his breakfast that was being brought out from the kitchen. Reading through the morning newspaper, Reginald was relieved to find no mention of any new cases pertaining to the blue death.

Finishing the paper along with his hearty breakfast, Reginald took to the park across the way from his home, stretching his legs and pacing briskly to clear his head, at point thinking that walking the way he was would make his filled stomach ache.

Marion made his way to the Morgue early, having been woken from his tormented sleep before the sun had begun to show its slightest light. Sitting in his office, reading the morning newspaper in a strained attempt to look calm as he waited for any response from Seamus.

Finishing the newspaper and turning his attention back to the reports of Dr Spencer who was busying himself with paperwork regarding the case of Jarvis Creedy, one of the attendants advised Marion that he had a visitor.

Entering the side alley with Seamus, Marion was shocked to see another man standing against the wall, a scruffy looking man covered in grime. Seamus introduced the man as Burt, holding his hat in his hands, Burt explained that he had seen a woman wandering in the docks, she was aided into the woman’s charity building, the Mortar of the Lord, a women’s hospice.

Marion immediately returned to Dr Spencer, advising that he may have the location of Susan Windebank. Dr Spencer seemed perplexed at the sudden information, Spencer sent Marion on his way in search of Susan, not wanting to lose time in case the lead was false.

Before departing the morgue, Marion used the phone, the call reaching Singh at Reginald’s home. Reginald, who was busy with the children in the park, Singh advised, Marion would meet him at the ‘Mortar of the Lord’ women’s refuge located in the Albert Docks.

*

Marion was standing on a lonely corner in the Albert Docks, taking shelter from the pouring rain in an alcove of an abandoned shop front. Reginald exited his Hansom Cab, Marion running across the street to join him at the steps of the ‘Mortar of the Lord’. Marion explained how he had come across the information, Reginald seemed somewhat relieved to finally be able to draw some conclusions regarding Susan Windebank.

Knocking on the large wooden doors of the Hospice, a short, aged woman cracked the door, peering at the two men. Marion gave his credentials of being a doctor and the urgency or entry regarding the possible contagious nature of the case that brought them to their current location. The woman’s eyes were slowly widening as Marion continued with his detailed description of Susan. After considering what was being said, she slowly opened the door, watching the street behind the men as she explained that the streets were not safe in the area.

Marion and Reginald were both not impressed with the entryway of the Hospice, the smell of smoke in the air, mould, and mildew prominent. Marion followed the woman, clearly not a nun, yet a matron of sorts, guiding him to a small waiting area, offering tea. She explained that a woman matching the description given arrived recently, possibly who they were looking for.

Reginald and Marion sat quietly to not draw attention to themselves, no other man seemed to be within the walls of the hospice. The matron soon returned followed by a young woman who looked familiar to both Marion and Reginald. Sitting in a chair across from Reginald, the young woman seemed distant and vague in her actions and facial expressions. Reginald leaned towards her, explaining that the two of them were present at the behest of her husband. Susan repeated her name over and over, as if she had never heard it before, something had happened to cause such memory impairment, Marion looking on with deep concern.

Reginald continued his gentle questioning as not to overwhelm Susan’s obvious fragile state, Marion interjecting from time to time regarding her substantial loss of memory. After what seemed like an eternity, Susan projected loudly that she needed to see her husband, small snippets of the recent days returning to her. Reginald continued to do his best to reassure her that everything was going to be fine and that she would see her husband soon, choosing not to mention his passing on the floor of the Hyde Park police station and the condition he was in.

Susan’s memory continued to slowly return with the prompting of Marion and Reginald, she began to remember the wrong doings that had befallen her over the course of the expedition she and her husband were a part of. Her words wandered to her pursuit of her husband from the Norris Hotel to the university where she also remembered the face of the assailant who had caused her and her husband so much harm.

She recalled the foggy morning she followed Dr Granger from the entrance to his University building all the way to the Albert docks, keeping her distance as she watched him enter a building near the water. Everything became a blur as she recalled watching Granger disappear before being beaten and robbed by two familiar, dark skinned assailants she recalled from the expedition.

Doing their best to encourage her to continue her chain of thought, Reginald and Marion reassured her that she was safe. Susan continued to remember, the only words she recounted being “The Java Coffee Co”. Losing her focus, Susan’s mind wandered to memories of her husband and how she needed to attend to him and return to him. Standing abruptly and stating that she had to get ready for her visit to Alfred, Susan ran down the hallway to her room.

Reginald and Marion took their leave, exiting the building, Marion spotted a constable on the corner, calling him over to them. Reginald instructed the constable to contact his local station house, the constable taking out his notepad and writing down all of the information Reginald gave, the location of Susan Windebank and that Inspector Jones needed to be informed.

The Constable took off down the main road, allowing Reginald and Marion to freely continue their search of the surrounding area. Looking around at the groups of faces huddled together to stay out of the rain, Marion called out to the familiar sight of the man Seamus had introduced him to outside the Morgue. Marion ran over to Burt who was more than happy to answer, Reginald soon joined Marion near Burt, demanding to know the details of Burt’s credentials. Silenced by Marion, Reginald scoffed at the pair, Marion continuing to ask Burt if he knew the location of the Java Coffee Company. Burt made mention of a coffee place around the corner from where they were standing, leading them down a side street.

As the three men entered the dingey establishment, Marion ordered a coffee for Burt from one of the three young ladies who were working behind the simple bar. Asking if any of them knew the location of the Java Coffee Company, two of them shook their heads while the third mentioned a warehouse down by the docks that used to be of that name but had long since been abandoned. Marion paid for Burt’s coffee and gave the informative bar worker a generous tip before taking their leave. Marion and Reginald, now with Singh in tow, made their way through the easing rain towards the water in the direction given to them by the bar worker.

After a short time of walking through the unfamiliar and at moments, unfriendly streets, a large warehouse came into view, cutting through the fog, a faded “Java Coffee Co” banner visible against the dark brick.

Windows broke, wooden beams flaking and showing signs of rot, the warehouse had not been used in many months. The only sign of activity, a large access door used for deliveries, fresh tracks from deliveries revealed themselves as only hours old.

Marion, Reginald, and Singh all took different positions at different windows to do their best to peer inside, each man finding nothing visible other than dark shadows and the smell of rot and mould.

Reginald handed Marion his coat, Marion recoiling at the sight of Reginald who had his military issue Webley revolver slung at his side. Singh and Reginald heaved the front door of the building open, once open, Reginald took his coat back from Marion, giving him a nod as he noticed Marion motion to his revolver.

Singh entered the building first, taking a knee momentarily to take hold of a length of pipe that now brandished like a sword in his lead hand.

The three men spread out across the ground floor of the facility, its large, open interior taking some time to cover completely.

A staircase leading up and a separate staircase leaving down came into view at the far end of the facility. Reginald and Marion both moved towards the staircase leading up, leaving Singh on the first floor to watch their backs. As the two entered the second floor, a series of small offices opened up before them, the smell of animal droppings and the continual smell of wood rot filling their nostrils, Marion seeing nothing that showed any signs of movement, however taking hold of a lantern that lay next to the stairs, he was delighted to hear the sloshing of fluid inside..

Satisfied there was little to discover upstairs, the two returned to Singh, motioning that they needed to descend into the darkness of the second staircase.

Moving downward, there was no light to be found, Marion striking a match and igniting the lantern he had discovered upstairs. Pushing open a door at the base of the stairs, the three men recoiled slightly as the intense smell that they all felt took over them. Moving forward, a second door came into view, a dull orange glow emanating from beneath the door. Singh opened the door hesitantly, a damp heat came across them, freestanding gas heating lamps standing against the walls of the small room. Reginald unholstered his Webley as he was the last man to enter the room. Aside from the heaters giving off the glow of light, six large cages similar to the cages found in prisons were visible to Marion and Reginald. Each cage contained a bed, leather restraints and a bucket for waste. As the three looked at the cages with a mixture of horror and disgust, four of the cages were currently occupied, two of the beds contained fully restrained men, both heads shaved bald, being drip fed a pulsing blue liquid intravenously. The two other occupants seemed unconscious in their restraints. Reginald looked at Marion, signalling that he only had six bullets in his weapon.

Marion checked what looked to be a wardrobe, jumping back as three large rats emerged as soon as he opened the door. With nothing inside aside from a key hung on a hook, Marion shoved the key in his pocket before closing the wooden door with urgency. Reginald and Singh were watching the occupants of the cages closely, both men keenly observing the eyes of the two prisoners who were receiving intravenous fluids, looks of fear and awe deeply expressed across their faces.

Marion cleared his throat to get the attention of his compatriots as three doors remained unchecked at the far end of the room. Reginald moved past the wardrobe Marion had searched to the door that ran along the south wall, slowly pushing it open with the barrel of his pistol. Inside another gas lamp lit the space, the glinting of steel flickered in the dull gloom. A Steel surgical table accompanied by all manner of instruments littered the walls. The far wall contained two large refrigerators and a desk littered with notes, Marion entered once Reginald nodded that the room was empty, striding to the desk, Marion recognised the handwriting from Dr Granger’s office, not sure if he should admire or loathe the room they had found. The elaborate array of reflective mirrors and lights allowing a bright focal point from such a weak light source, Reginald looked troubled at the size of the refrigerators, contemplating how long it would take to fill such a space with everything before him.

Marion moved to the operating table where a naked corpse lay, Marion observing that the man had several organs missing and the embalming process only being half completed. The side wall of the room was lined with shelves, each containing a mass of glass vials and jars filled with an assortment of body parts ranging from feet to pieces of brain. In the centre of the shelving, a jar of blue ooze commanded attention, its pulsing and glowing form shifting constantly.

Exiting the room, Marion moved past Reginald who was waiting at the door, coming to a stop at the last door where Singh was waiting. Marion took a deep breath to clear his mind from the savagery he had seen in the operating room. Pulling the door open, a flurry of rats ran between his legs, speeding away from whatever was inside the space. The floor through the doorway appeared to move, an army of rats storming towards the door. Reginald and Singh watched several rats speed into the operating room, climbing towards the corpse on the table. Marion stood on a crate within reach, watching the rats that pushed through the door before he closed it scramble into the cages, clawing and biting at the men within, none of whom seemed to notice their bodies being devoured.

As the storm or rats moved beyond them, the way to the third door seemed to be clear for them to pass. Based on the direction, this door would take them back under the main work area of the facility upstairs. Marion pulled the door open gently once he felt Reginald and Singh close behind him, a loud crack filled the air as Marion fell backwards, a smoking bullet hole visible in his jacket sleeve, his left shoulder searing with pain.

Glancing inside the room before pulling Marion out of the doorway, the sight of faint torches giving almost no light in the large space.

Singh ran across the room towards the gas heater giving off the main light source behind them as to lessen the visibility for the unknown shooter. Reginald aided Marion to his feet before ducking through the doorway, blindly firing a shot into the darkness. A second shot rang out from the darkness, the bright flash revealed to Reginald Granger’s face for an instant, his peripheral vision catching another sign of movement against the far wall. Granger’s voice echoed in the open space, demanding that the intruders leave and that he needed to be left in peace to finish his work, Reginald’s booming voice responded with his usual military depth, calling Granger all manner of insults he could think of. Reginald had found cover against one of six pylons that ran from basement to second floor of the building, thinking to himself that he had five shots left, Granger would only have four before needing to reload.

Singh dove through the doorway, a bullet slamming into the wooden door frame as he moved. Making his way to where he heard Reginald’s voice, Singh was intercepted by an unknown attacker, whose blade caught Singh across the arm, letting out a scowl of pain as he swung his steel bar furiously.

Marion tossed the lamp he was carrying into the room to give Reginald or Singh a better visual of their attackers. The lamp rolled to the floor, extinguishing itself within moments.

Reginald recoiled as he heard footsteps right next to his position and the sound of a blade slicing the air before slamming into the concrete pylon where Reginald’s head had just moved from. Swiping back with his cane at the shape in front of him, Reginald could make out the shape of sharpened teeth coming towards him.

Dodging a wild swing from his attacker once more, Reginald swung down with his brass-ended cane, his weight smashing into the skull of the being, Reginald feeling not only the impact but the breakthrough from skull to mush. The lifeless body slumped to the floor motionless as another gunshot filled the air, the sparks of the bullet breaking up on concrete close to where Singh was locked in hand to hand combat was unfolding.

Reginald kicked the large blade of the corpse at his feet towards the doorway Marion was currently standing behind, calling for his assistance. Stealing his nerves and doing the best to block out the pain of his shoulder, Marion ran into the room, picking up the blade with his right hand before slamming his body into the closest of the 6 pylons for cover.

Glancing around the pylon, Marion felt his blood run cold as he recognised the space they were standing in, the torch light revealing he had strayed into a nightmare. Following the pylons with his gaze, at the far end of the space, the large, rat-like creature was standing upright, its three glowing eyes moving around the room. Closing his eyes tight, ducking back behind the pylon, Marion began to vigorously tell himself that it was not real.

Singh had managed to connect with one of his powerful strikes, the parry of his adversary not strong enough to stop the steel bar from slamming into flesh. Singh grabbed the dark-skinned man round the throat, using his steel bar to slap the blade from his hand and begin pummelling the torso as the now disarmed man snapped wildly with sharpened teeth. Three mighty thuds against the ribs had rendered Singh’s attacker lifeless, the broken and shattered bones within its chest piercing its organs.

Reginald called to Marion who was frozen in place behind the pylon, unable to free Marion from whatever had caused his sudden shock, Reginald turned the corner, searching with his keen senses for Granger as he fired again in the direction he last saw him.

Granger returned fire, Reginald shocked at how close the two men were from one another, only one pylon separating them, Reginald heard the snap of the ricochet from Granger’s shot next to his face as he charged at Granger, firing again, this time hearing the thud of 455 calibre lead hit meat.

Granger screamed in pain as he was also closing on Reginald, his pistol falling to the floor as his forearm began to gush with blood from the hole that was now present. The scream of Granger seemed to shake Marion free from his trance, his eyes opening, looking to his left, he could faintly see Reginald running towards what looked like Granger. As Marion watched, his brain was showing him everything in what felt like slow motion, Marion turning his head to shield his eyes from where he had seen the creature of his nightmares and charged towards where he saw Granger.

Reginald having seen the pistol fall to the ground, swung hard with his cane, slamming it into Granger’s side, sending him to his knees.

Marion closed the distance between himself and where he watched Reginald knock Granger down, gripping the blade tightly as he rose it above his head to strike. Marion’s foot caught itself on the body of the man Reginald had broken the skull of, causing him to stumble forward, his eyes wide as felt himself falling directly towards Granger.

Reginald brought his cane strongly across Granger’s face, several teeth, his right eye and a fountain of blood all flying from his head with the mighty strike. Granger however did not move or fall, remaining on his knees to Reginald’s surprise. Looking down, Reginald noticed that as he had broken Granger’s face, he had in fact knocked him directly onto the oncoming blade of Marion who was lying next to Granger, his blade angled up, entering Granger from the hip and emerging from under his opposite arm. Reginald grabbed Marion by the collar and reefed him to his feet. Marion refused to look up, shielding his eyes from the far end of the room. Marion was babbling, demanding Reginald kill whatever was at the end of the room. Reginald turned his gaze towards what Marion was pointing towards, to his surprise, all Reginald could see was a small podium, a strange shaped object sitting atop it.

Singh approached the two men cautiously, Reginald promptly handed Marion to Singh who in turn ushered him towards the door where they had entered the room from. Turning his attention to whatever Marion had been pointing towards, Reginald approached the podium cautiously stopping only to pick up the pistol Granger had dropped on the ground, his revolver outstretched. Looking down at the podium that stood approximately three feet tall, a stone carving of what could only be described as a rat stood silently. The floor around where the statue stood was littered with small, light blue stones amongst a sea or circular writings and texts.

Reginald hunched, picking up one of the blue rocks, placing it in his pocket, returning to his feet, Reginald sneered at the statue before kicking it over and marching back towards Marion and Singh.

The three men stumbled out of the warehouse into the misty rain of the Albert docks, Reginald turned to Singh, commanding him to find the police. Singh cocked his head, advising against that as a course of action, having just murdered a professor. Marion, who had somewhat returned to his senses, also made mention of the four prisoners and corpse on the operating table below.

Reginald fell suddenly silent, unable to continue with his notion of police involvement as it was clear it would not be in his best interest.

Marion continued to ask Reginald questions regarding the events of the battle, shocked as Reginald told him of the statue and blue stones. Reginald handed Marion the blue stone he had placed in his pocket along with Granger’s revolver, advising him to keep it in case he needed it in future.

The curious trio slowly turned their backs on the Java Coffee Company building, deciding to tend their wounds before returning and deciding what to do regarding the prisoners and the corpse. As the three of them disappeared into the fog, the sound of police whistles filled the air of the Albert docks. As Reginald sat comfortably in the Hansom Cab, he could not shake the feeling that something was off. Turning to Singh, he was about to ask when it dawned on him. As Reginald approached the pedestal where he found the statue, the wooden floorboards underneath were wrong. The floor was concave, as if something heavy, something large had been sitting in the spot where Marion had been pointing. Not sure what to make of the notion in his mind, Reginald pulled his pipe from his inside pocket and began checking his pockets for his tobacco pouch.