[Console] video;

[skeletonenigma]

[Video;]

[The magical disguise Skulduggery uses generates different features every time he uses it, with the result that no one will recognise his face when he turns the console on. The skin's a little waxy and he doesn't seem to blink, but apart from those minor details, he looks normal. Only his voice, smooth and Irish, is the same as it usually is. A little jarring for those who know him best as a living skeleton.

Because of that, a brief introduction seems appropriate.]

My name is Skulduggery Pleasant. I'm a freelance detective.

[The 'freelance' part is important, since the whole point of using video is to make it clear he doesn't work for the Snakes - or anyone else.]

I'd appreciate any information anyone might have on attempted thefts of the soul jewelry. This is a request extended to everyone in the city; I don't think the kedan are organising an attack on Foreigners any more than I think Foreigners are organising an attack on them, and I don't much care about whether a witness can shapeshift or not. Or a victim, for that matter.

[There's always the possibility kedan have been mugged in the same strange conflicting style, but are too scared to come forward.]

The network isn't secure, so if you'd be more comfortable talking face to face, I'm happy to arrange that. You can leave a message for me with Anton Shudder at the Midnight Hotel - he'll make sure I'm the only one who hears it.

Thank you for your help.

[And the feed clicks off. Most, if not all, of his responses to this post will be audio, and will be made from consoles in cafes around the city - leaving the Hotel console free for anyone else to use.]

~~


[Audio;]

[Sent directly to Midii's inbox.]

Anton's now running an informal census at the Hotel. I can't guarantee it'll find everyone, but it should give us a much better idea of how many Foreigners we have, and hopefully how spread out we are.



[Sent directly to Wan's inbox.]

Some of the students at the university are talking about water levels being higher than they'd expect. Have you noticed anything like that?

Comments

[irishthor]

I can't imagine ignoring a man made of bones, no.

[He'll give you that, Skul.]

I take it you can make yourself seem... more whole, yes?

[skeletonenigma]

Yes. It's a magical disguise I can wear for half an hour each day. Quite clever, isn't it?

[irishthor]

Clever, aye, but a short window of time to get things done.

[skeletonenigma]

I usually manage. Most of the people I deal with are either already aware I'm a skeleton, or otherwise accustomed to far stranger.

[irishthor]

Well, I suppose that makes things easier.

[Moving on a bit...]

These spats of thievery... I don't have any information, but I'm willing to help.

[skeletonenigma]

Thank you. If you see anything, or hear anything, or even happen to taste anything, would you let me know?

[irishthor]

...Taste anything?

[skeletonenigma]

I like to cover my bases.

[And that's another expression Shay wouldn't have heard before.]

You never know. Maybe the clue that breaks the case wide open is a peculiar taste. I like to keep my options open.

[irishthor]

Alright. I see the reason for that.

I shall let you know, Master Pleasant, should I come across anything.

[skeletonenigma]

I'm glad you do. Thank you.

[And the feed cuts off.]