Fish of Oblivion
Guardian Angel Haruki
SkyeOfStars
redrootssss
Altered TundraJeremiah Dupree
So, this was it, Professor Dupree decided as the crowd finally thinned out. There was little he could do about the watchers who simply migrated to the other side of the road, but even they seemed to be thinning out. And he dared not acknowledge those who seemed capable of disappearing in the space of time it took to blink. He did not wish to end up as Dr. Atkins had. Dr. Steiner could proclaim the man's sanity all he wished, but it did not change the fact that he was blood-splattered now. The sick words and sick act still hung in the air heavy, wishing to pull others down to the ground too.
Instead, he would finally pick up his briefcase once more. It dripped blood twice and ceased. He hoped he had not ruined it, as callous as the thought seemed. A man was dead, people saw fit to gape instead of assist, and now he was more concerned over his suitcase than what drove the man to end his life. On the other hand, this would be cleaned up soon, earn an article in the paper, and then people would move on. Such was the nature of the people of Arkham, and it was probably to their benefit. Professor Dupree had done what he could and the papers were irreplaceable; if ruined, he would have to declare the assignment nullified.
He almost wished he just felt worse about moving on to daily concerns so quickly.
Dr. Steiner finally asked the man his identity - not an officer. That was a bit of a shame, but the man had been able to act in the capacity of one, and his assistance in finally dispersing the crowd was invaluable. His story was told, and Professor Dupree considered the name.
"Unfortunately, Mr. August, while you've been quite helpful, I can't say I can return the favor. I've never heard of this young lady you describe." The words tasted bitter in his mouth, but that was from years ago and he could be better than that, Professor Dupree was sure of it. It just took time. Even more time. An absurd amount of time. "I may be able to check the university's registry and see if I can find you her professors and room number." It might not be much better than his initial plan: as her uncle, and a veteran of the great world war (Jeremiah simply could not think of any other wars the man might have been in as of late), he would surely command respect and few would oppose his mission to find his niece. "If that plan suits you better, you are free to wait here with me - I intend to give a statement to the police as to what I witnessed. If not, however, the main office ought to still be open."