Moonlight seeped through ancient curtains. Blood pooled beneath the vase. Footsteps echoed through the hall. Candle flames flickered in darkness. Silence weighed heavy on strangers. Sharp scent of gunpowder lingers. Detective crouched beside crimson pool. Mirror reflected silent accusation plainly. Someone whispered into empty air. Tension curled around human hearts. Night held its breath waiting. Murder announced its chilling arrival.