Down by the River

Mumple wanted a second look at the body of "The Artist", so we returned with the permission of the Sheriff for another examination. He confirmed our initial thought that he likely died by "bad air" probably at the Devil's Rockpile. The Butcher's son also confessed to us (under duress from his father) that he had removed some items. In particular a brass key, although we didn't know what it might unlock.
 
Since we were talking with the Sheriff, he said that he wanted us to look into a recent report of some deaths by the river associated with the "Hell on Wheels" tent city working on the train bridge over the Osage River. Having no other particular lead at the moment, and still concerned that our missing Dr. York might be already deceased, we agreed to check into the matter. We were directed to speak with Capt. Fritz Samuelson.
 
In short: A few men went missing in the night, and the different factions of workers were all of various opinions as to what had happened. After speaking with one of the more reliable second-hand witnesses, and with the keen eyes of our scouts, we were able to find what appeared to be bear tracks. Unfortunately, Jimmy also found the mutilated remains of one of the victims when he lost his footing and fell into the chill water. It was apparent the victims were attacked by some kind of animal, but in a manner that seemed more demonic than natural.
 
Tracking the animal signs, we found even more confounding details and horrific remains of other victims. In addition to a bear, there seemed to be some other creature that came out of the river. We spent the better part of the day tracking up to find where the creature or creatures might have come.
 
Expecting to find some cursed cave, we instead found an old cabin seemingly abandoned. The house show signs of violence, and subsequent occupation but what we can surmise to be "The Artist". The presence of the personal things of three women, sketches of said women, and other strange signs all added to the mystery rather than shed light on any of it.