In the quiet town of Meadowgrove, night fell swiftly. A piercing scream echoed through the silence. Lights flickered on, doors creaked open. Neighbors whispered, eyes darted nervously. At the old Thompson mansion, something was amiss. A body lay lifeless in the study. Blood stained the antique rug beneath. The victim clutched a cryptic note. Detective Hartley arrived, face etched with concern.