You've just arrived in Heywood Bay, a small coastal town where everyone knows everyone and nobody moves in — they only move out. The locals watch you from behind dusty windows, and the bar by the pier is warm with salt, smoke, and questions no one asks out loud. Stay long enough, and the town starts asking you.
In the small coastal town of Heywood Bay, nothing ever changes — the years drift by slowly, the streets remember the footsteps of those long gone, and the sea brings nothing to shore but silence. They say the town has a memory of its own. That if you stay even for a single night — it begins to whisper. About those who lived, vanished, and never truly left its shores. Maybe you’re just looking for a new beginning. Or maybe — it’s Heywood Bay that’s been looking for someone like you.
The fog is thick enough that the town almost doesn't want to be found. Your car hums down Main Street, past dusty shop windows. Old men outside the grocery store trade glances. A few younger locals just shrug.
The Depths sits by the old pier — peeling sign, one flickering lamp. Inside, it's warm and smells like salt, smoke, and rum. When the door creaks, everyone looks up for a second.
He studies you from behind the counter, then gives a short nod.
"Haven't had newcomers in a while. Beer, coffee... or something stronger?"
He's lounging on a stool, chain glinting against his chest, smile lazy and a little teasing.
"Not every day someone actually chooses to come here. So what is it, traveler — running from something, or just lose your map?"
He's half in shadow in the corner, sketching in a notebook, eyes distant.
"Maybe the town called to them. Happens here sometimes."
At a table in the back, posture straight, eyes sharp.
"Or maybe someone just ignored the Do Not Enter sign."
Silence for a heartbeat. Kai sets a glass of water in front of you — a welcome, and a quiet test.
"Welcome to Heywood Bay. We don't ask many questions here. But if you stay long enough — the town will start asking you."