Inspector James Barrington
Inspector Barrington is a weathered and seasoned policeman,
usually dressed in a slightly shabby suit. He is a methodical
man and plays by the book. He has been investigating the Series of “Egyptian murders” for nearly a year,
since the disappearance of his predecessor
on the case (Inspector Munden).
Dependent on what the investigators
share with Barrington, his role in the
campaign is flexible. While he is an
unlikely replacement player character,
he could be a useful ally. If he witnesses
or hears about the investigators engaging
in dubious activities, he may warn them
that “excessive zeal” could put them in his
firing line. Certainly, if necessary, Barrington
isn’t beyond having the investigators picked up and
formally warned; especially those who are foreigners acting
like “cowboys,” who Barrington threatens with expulsion
from England if their antics don’t calm down.
If irrefutable evidence is presented in regard to the spate
of murders, Barrington acts and employs the full force of
the police, which may mean their heavy-handed tactics
destroy valuable information pertinent to the investigators
and their research. Once in police custody, key cult members
are essentially out of reach of the investigators’ questions,
so the players are best advised to think carefully before
turning everything over to the authorities.
Edward Gavigan is another matter. With compelling
evidence, Barrington may attempt to hold him for
questioning but Gavigan’s public standing and his solicitor,
who utilizes all the legal tricks he knows, mean that most
accusations are thrown out. Despite being unable to connect
Gavigan to the murders, Zahra Shafik may not fare so
well. Her position in society means that strong evidence
may get her sentenced and locked up—if the investigators
don’t end up in her clutches first!
Inspector Barrington is something of a wildcard to
be used as the Keeper desires to chastise or help the
investigators. Remember, though, that Barrington’s key
motivation is to solve the murders; anything else is
secondary to accomplishing that. His investigation works
in parallel with that of the investigators, which can either
operate in the background or lead him to crossing their path.
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