Into Blackwater Cove

The bus lets you off at the top of the hill, and Blackwater Cove spreads out below: a scatter of grey roofs, a stone breakwater, and — dominating the waterfront — a clock tower whose big iron face is visibly running backwards. Nobody in the cove will meet your eye about it.

The harbourmaster, Aldous Penrose, has not been seen in six days. The constable’s report is two lines long and says nothing. His office is still unlocked; the tavern by the docks is not.

What do you do?

• Search the harbourmaster’s office first
• Ask around at the dockside tavern first
• Decide this isn’t worth it and catch the last bus out