The peaceful village of Millfield was jolted awake. A scream pierced the morning mist, chilling to the bone. All eyes turned to the mayor's grand estate on the hill. Mrs. Hartley emerged, her usually poised demeanor shattered. She gestured wildly, stammering incoherently. "Murder! It's... it's the mayor!" she cried. Villagers gasped, some fainting on the spot. Chief Inspector Quinn hastily adjusted his coat. He strode briskly up the hill, a sense of foreboding growing. At the entrance, he found Mrs. Hartley, more composed now. She led him to the study, where the body lay. Mayor dissolution, throat slit from ear to ear. Quill still clutched in hand, blood staining the page.