The mansion loomed in darkness. Wind howled through creaky shutters. Detective Sarah approached the front door. She knocked, but nobody answered. Slowly, she turned the brass knob. The door creaked open ominously. Shadows danced on the walls. A chandelier swayed slightly overhead. Sarah's flashlight illuminated the foyer. Something caught her trained detective eye. A trail of crimson droplets. They led towards the study. Sarah followed with cautious steps. The study door was ajar. She pushed it open slowly. A chilling sight awaited her. Lord Blackwood lay on the floor. His throat was slashed open. Blood pooled around his body. The murder weapon was missing. Sarah surveyed the grisly scene. This case would be challenging.