FALL 1890. LONDON, ENGLAND
“Because he was a vampire, Mr. Keane," the bespectacled teen said, sitting down at a chair and crossing his legs. He wore a white doctor's coat. “Unfortunately, we did not have the opportunity to dissect him before the Brotherhood spirited him away. Regrettable. It would have greatly furthered my studies. It isn't often you run across an Ekon of such quality. Not likely to again in our lifetimes anyway, unless our suspicions are confirmed about the A.C. And even then--" he caught himself about to delve into another rambling monologue.
Mr. Keane looked over the desk at the medical student, “Then how did you do it?"
“There are many ways to kill a vampire, Mr. Keane. Jack the Ripper was no exception. However, it wasn't the Order that did the deed. If it had been, we'd have made sure to study the remains!" Ed threw his hands up as if the topic he was explaining was completely banal. He scoffed, “All things you'll learn in time. Now, we've arranged transport on a ship -- The Germanic -- leaving London to arrive in New York on All Hallows Eve -- appropriate, don't you think? I've always been an appreciator of irony. There you will find an address you can stay in until you find employment. Take the time to study the books there."
There was a pause. “Ed... you still act as though what you are asking me to do is utterly ordinary, but it is anything but. And all this from a mere student--"
“It is not what I ask you to do, but the Grand Master's. It is his wishes that I act upon, as it is he who is my teacher. Now, in the time between now and the date of your departure, I will endeavour to bestow upon you as much information as I possibly can. Remember, sir, that the Order selected you in particular for your specific set of skills and... nature. You could very well be back behind bars had we not."
“I understand. Where shall I begin?"
“We will begin tomorrow, at dusk. Meet me outside the old morgue."