Rain slicked the cobblestones outside the silent, grand house. Candlelight flickered within, casting dancing shadows on the walls. The butler found him, a dark stain across his chest. A single ornate letter opener lay near his outstretched hand. Detective Mallory surveyed the scene, his gaze sharp and keen. The costly rug absorbed the crimson pool slowly. No forced entry suggested someone knew the victim intimately. Dust motes swirled in the dim, expectant air. A chilling draft whispered through the open drawing-room door. This would be a long night for the inspector.