The clock struck midnight, echoing through the grand, empty mansion. Shadows danced eerily on the walls, whispering secrets of the night. A chilling wind howled, rattling the ancient, creaky window panes. Detective Harper arrived, his coat flapping in the cold breeze. He surveyed the scene, noting every detail with practiced precision. The butler stood nearby, trembling, eyes wide with fear. Blood stained the carpet, leading to the lifeless body. Harper knelt down, examining the victim's cold, pale face. A single clue lay beside the corpse: a broken locket. The mystery deepened, and the hunt for truth began.