Harrowfrost, 17th Day of Frost's Breath, 4856 EoS
By Galek Tinkerbolt, Senior Correspondent
In a city already beleaguered by the relentless snowstorm that has gripped the Northern Continent for four long months, the shadow of a serial killer now looms over Harrowfrost. The most recent victim, local painter Renara Jull, was discovered yesterday at a scenic overlook in the city park, her lifeless body draped over her easel. This marks the eighth murder in a series that has sent chills through our already frostbitten city.
The murders began on the 21st day of Shadefall and have occurred with grim precision every eight days since. Each crime scene has been marked by brutality and a ritualistic element, suggesting the hand of a deeply disturbed individual or perhaps even a sinister cult at work. Here, we recount the horrifying timeline and details of each tragic event.
Murder 1: The First Warning
Joren Mire, a local blacksmith, was found on Shadefall 21st in a snow-covered clearing near the local market. His chest was opened and his heart removed, his blacksmith tools scattered around him as if dropped in haste. This initial murder sent shockwaves through the community, but none could have predicted the horror that was to follow.
Murder 2: The Scholar’s End
Elia Voss, a retired history professor, was discovered on Shadefall 29th seated on a bench in the public garden she frequented for her morning walks. Her chest was exposed and her heart missing, surrounded by open books and papers. This second murder suggested a pattern, but the city watch was unable to find any leads.
Murder 3: The Dancer’s Last Bow
Tamsin Greer, a renowned local dancer, was found on Gloomveil 7th positioned center stage at the amphitheater in the city park where she often performed. Her body was found with ritualistic symbols carved around it in a circle. The theatrical nature of this murder only added to the growing fear among citizens.
Murder 4: The Drifter’s Demise
An unknown male, appeared to be a vagrant, was found on Gloomveil 15th underneath the central bridge, a common shelter spot for the homeless. The body was partially covered by freshly fallen snow, indicating he had been there overnight. This victim’s identity remains unknown, adding an additional layer of tragedy.
Murder 5: The Maiden’s Tragedy
Lydia Hall, a young flower seller, was found on Gloomveil 23rd among the gravestones in the city’s old cemetery where she collected wildflowers. Her body was arranged in an angelic pose with her ribcage exposed. This murder was particularly poignant, as Lydia was well-known and loved in the community.
Murder 6: The Watchman’s Fall
Seret Marrow, a City Watch officer, was found on Gloomveil 31st slumped against the wall along the patrol path he was responsible for guarding. His patrol notes were scattered around him. The death of a city watch officer heightened the urgency of the investigation.
Murder 7: The Trader’s Terminus
Hollis Gern, a spice trader, was discovered on Frost's Breath 8th at the rear of his trading post, where he took inventory of deliveries. His body was displayed among sacks of spices as if guarding his wares. The scent of spices mixed with the stench of death made for a macabre scene.
Murder 8: The Artist’s Silence
Renara Jull, a local painter, was found on Frost's Breath 16th at a scenic overlook in the city park where she painted cityscapes. Her body was draped over her easel, her painting unfinished and scattered with her art supplies. Renara's death has struck a deep chord within the artistic community.
In response to this string of gruesome murders, Grand Warden Elira Thorne of the Frostwardens has reached out to several groups to hire capable individuals to aid in the investigation. This move comes as the City Watch struggles to manage the investigation amidst the ongoing snowstorm and the mounting fear among the populace. It is hoped that these reinforcements will bring new expertise and vigor to the pursuit of justice.
As the investigation into these heinous crimes continues, the Frostwardens are urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The people of Harrowfrost are living in a state of fear and suspicion, with each new murder intensifying the dread. The serial killer remains at large, and the motive behind these ritualistic killings is still shrouded in mystery.
In these dark times, the resilience and solidarity of Harrowfrost’s citizens will be put to the test. Let us hope that the light of justice will soon pierce through the shadows that have engulfed our city.
Note: Due to the ongoing investigation, certain details have been withheld to protect the integrity of the case. The City Watch continues to work tirelessly to bring the perpetrator to justice. In these dark times, the resilience and solidarity of Harrowfrost’s citizens will be put to the test. Let us hope that the light of justice will soon pierce through the shadows that have engulfed our city.
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