Sunset cast long shadows on cobblestone streets, emptying businesses. Detective Karen Graves, steaming coffee cup in hand, observed routine dissolution. Gangly youth darted through alleyways. Laughter echoed from crowded taverns. Suddenly, clamor burst from The Crimson Blade, its door swinging wildly, unnoticed bartender's gaze frozen mid-pour. Karen approached cautiously, pulse quickening. Two men lay sprawled, blood pooling around them, unease settling like smoke.