The rain lashed against the windows, a relentless assault on the isolated manor house. Inside, a fire crackled merrily in the grand hearth, casting flickering shadows on the opulent walls. A piercing scream shattered the cozy ambiance, echoing through the vast, echoing halls. Lord Ashworth lay sprawled on the Persian rug, his lifeless eyes staring accusingly at the ornate ceiling. A silver letter opener, stained crimson, protruded from his chest, a chilling testament to the violence. Inspector Davies, a grizzled veteran of countless investigations, surveyed the scene with a stoic gaze.