Roland had never seen the gray man before – which was kind of odd, since his family knew everyone in both Arkham Town and East Arkham, even the uni students. There was something odd about the stranger, too.

I’m a fine one to be judging normalcy, though, Roland thought wryly. He turned to pay the cashier, then looked back.

The man was right behind him. Roland took a step back, but before he could move any more, the stranger grabbed his arm and pulled him close.

“The rats are coming,” he hissed into Roland’s ear. “They’re in the sewers. Soon they’ll be in the walls. You can’t stop them coming.”

Roland pulled away. “What are you talking about?”

“Ask about the rats. Ask about the storm drains, and the missing women. Ask about the Bauers. And talk to your professor.“

With that, the man went hazy, and vanished. Roland blinked. At a touch on his shoulder, he spun.

His twin stared at him, one corner of his mouth curled in laughter. “Skittish, much?” Beowulf asked.

Roland glared. “I’ll tell you later. Do you remember where Professor O’Neill’s office is?”

“Sure. It’s in Granddad’s hall.”

“Come on.” Roland marched off. His brother ran to catch up.

“What’s the rush?”

“Rats,” the younger Archer twin replied, quickening his step.

He could hear squeaking coming from the sewer.