INSPECTOR FREDERICK ABBERLINE's Arc

Chapter 2 of 2

Abberline stepped off the raft and onto muddy ground. The witness lived somewhere in these narrow streets, but first he needed to learn the layout. He pulled out his notebook and sketched the turnings and dead ends. Every alley mattered now. A lantern hung on the wall of a brick building ahead, its glass panels glowing through the fog. The light marked what looked like a local station or watchhouse. Abberline walked closer and studied the entrance. If he was going to work in this district, he needed a place to review evidence and keep records safe. This building would serve that purpose. Inside, he found a small room with a desk and chair. Dust covered the surfaces, but the space was dry and secure. On the desk sat a book with gold lettering on the cover—a manual about forensic science. Abberline picked it up and flipped through the pages. New methods for examining blood, fibers, and trace evidence filled the chapters. He had heard about these techniques but never used them. This book would teach him how. He set it down and continued exploring. Behind the building, he found a metal box bolted to the wall. The ornate lock looked strong and weatherproof. Abberline tested the latch—it held firm. He would use this box to store evidence he collected during his investigation. No more carrying clues in his pockets or risking them in the fog. He had his base now, his tools, and his system. The witness could wait another hour. First, he needed to prepare himself properly. This time, he would do everything right.