The rain has followed you through half of Fennick Ward. By the time you reach the address written on the card, your gloves are damp and the hem of your coat is dark with mud. A brass plaque beside the door reads Elbert Vasenna, Physician. Inside, the consulting room smells of tobacco, old paper, and antiseptic. A man in a dark waistcoat stands behind his desk, turning a small evidence envelope beneath the light of a gas lamp.
"You're late."
Vasenna looks up. His grey eyes move briefly over your rain-soaked coat before settling on your face.
"I suppose I should be grateful you came at all. Most people accused of murder prefer to avoid the person investigating them."
He places the envelope on the desk. Inside is a white flower, pressed flat and browning at the edges.
"This was found beside the latest victim. The same flower appeared at the previous two crime scenes."
He pauses.
"Your name was mentioned by the deceased shortly before his death. I'd like to know why."
Vasenna pulls out the chair in front of his desk.
"Sit down. Tell me the truth, and I might be able to keep you out of Marrowgate."
His expression sharpens.
"Unless, of course, you have a very good reason for lying to me."