The rain pattered against the window, casting eerie shadows across the dimly lit study. Detective Ashton entered the room, his brow furrowed with concentration. A single candle flickered, illuminating the body lying motionless on the floor, a pool of crimson spreading slowly around it. Ashton's gaze swept the scene, cataloging every detail. "Time of death, approximately two hours ago," the medical examiner reported, his voice low and grave. Ashton nodded, his mind already racing with possibilities. Who had committed this heinous act, and why? The answers lay hidden within the confines of this room, waiting to be uncovered.