A grandfather clock chimed twice, breaking the eerie silence. Rain lashed against the windows, a relentless and mournful sound. Inspector Davies surveyed the study, his gaze lingering on the lifeless figure sprawled on the Persian rug. The victim, a distinguished gentleman in a velvet smoking jacket, lay still, a single crimson stain blooming on his chest. A silver letter opener, gleaming ominously, protruded from his heart.