DISPATCH FROM THE CITY
Something's always happening in Noir City. Most people keep walking. Investigators notice. Make your choice. See what happens.
The Early Arrival
You weren’t supposed to arrive until midnight, but you made better time than expected.
It’s been a long day. All you want is a shower and a bed.
The motel office is empty when you walk in.
A sign on the counter reads: NO VACANCY.
You already have a reservation.
You wait a few minutes and call out. No answer.
Behind the counter is an old wooden key rack.
Every hook is empty except one: ROOM 12.
A reservation tag hangs from the key with your name on it.
You wait another minute. Still nobody.
Your key is right there.
WHAT DO YOU DO?
You quickly step behind the counter and take the key.
Room 12 is upstairs.
You unlock the door.
You gasp.
A body is lying on the floor.
Someone is kneeling beside it.
They look up at you.
Then at the clock.
“You’re a bit early.”
They stand.
“But I can check you in now.”
You decide to wait.
A few minutes later, the attendant comes into the office.
There are reddish spatters on their shirt and one hand.
“Were you doing some painting?”
The attendant looks down at the stains.
“No. Just doing a little housekeeping.”
They hand you the key to Room 12.
You go upstairs and unlock the door.
All you want now is a shower.
You take your toiletry bag into the bathroom.
Beside the sink is a bloody handprint.
Then you hear the attendant behind you.
“You’ll like it here.”
“You may never leave.”