Abby

IT was several hours before Joseph and Artie finished examining everything in Braden's quarters. Even Killer had scanned the entire room, taking note of everything.

Afterward, Joseph gathered everyone in the town square and stood on the East Bridge.

"Braden was killed sometime in the middle of the night." His tone was cold and unfeeling except for the tinge of anger that boiled beneath it. "Someone planted a knife in his chest. The knife is from Murphy's Tavern, but it was wiped clean of prints. His door was locked and his key was on him. We've taken fingerprints from everything in his quarters. We'll run a check on them during the supply run leaving tonight."

People stirred with erupting whispers at the news.

"Until we get this sorted out, please be cautious and keep an eye out for any suspicious behavior," he said. "We'll be questioning people the next few days."

People began talking among themselves, worried tones passing through the crowd.

Then Jesse spoke up. "Braden and I got even with Ian a couple of days ago." He sounded sorry, but his tone changed suddenly. "Now Braden's dead." He ran toward Ian, slamming into Lena's shoulder, nearly knocking her to the ground. Murph stepped into his path, and Reilly grabbed a hold of him as he tried to get around Murph.

"Now hold on!" A vein nearly popped from Joseph's forehead. "We don't know who did this, and we're not accusing anyone of it until we investigate and have solid proof. Go to the entrance tunnel and wait for the supply run to leave, Jesse. You're going with them."

Jesse jerked free of Murph and Reilly and stormed off into the East Passage.

"If anyone else gets the bright idea that they know who did this, you'd do well to keep it to yourself until you're brought in for questioning." Joseph sighed. "Now, get ready for the supply run or get to your quarters and get some sleep."

Several people stared at Ian, unsure and angry. He looked worried.

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