Rain lashed against the windows of the manor house. A low groan echoed from the library, drawing attention. The detective, a woman with piercing blue eyes, entered. A hush fell over the room, thick with tension. She surveyed the scene: a crackling fire, overturned chairs, and a cryptic note. The air smelled of oak and a hint of something far less pleasant. A figure lay sprawled on the rug, beneath the light of the firelight. He was a man, clothes rumpled, a faint glisten on his outstretched hand. The detective crouched, examining the loyal and faithful hound at his side.