In the dimly lit study, Professor Adler's body lay sprawled across antique Persian rugs, a crimson pool soaking into worn silk. A single candlestick toppled nearby, its melted wax shimmering under the flickering flame, casting eerie shadows on dusty, ancient books. Detective Morgan arrived silently, surveying the scene with keen eyes, noting the ornate dagger lodged in the victim’s back, blood still fresh. Outside the grand estate, heavy fog clung to the mansion, muffling footsteps and whispers of gossip from suspicious neighbors nearby. Inside, the air was thick with tension, secrets lurking behind polished furniture and antique portraits staring with silent judgment. A broken window latch suggested forced entry, yet nothing appeared stolen, and the room’s contents remained untouched and orderly. Morgan carefully examined the dagger, noticing strange symbols etched onto its hilt, hinting at an obscure, perhaps personal, motive. Footsteps echoed in the corridor, revealing several people, each with anxious expressions and motives concealed behind calm facades. How many lies had been told before tragedy struck, and who among these faces carried the truth buried within?