Run: 2026-02-20-01KHYB5D0Y9227GCCYC79J2C5X

The old Victorian mansion loomed under the moon’s pale, watchful gaze as rain tapped rhythmically. A single candle flickered weakly on the grand staircase, casting eerie shadows along the polished wood. The butler stood motionless near the front door, his expression unreadable beneath the dim overhead light. A faint whisper echoed through the empty hallway, though no one remained to hear it clearly. The victim’s body lay sprawled across the marble floor, a single silver dagger still embedded. Detective Holloway adjusted his worn coat as he stepped inside, his boots splashing in puddles. The housekeeper’s trembling hands clutched a teacup, her face drained of all previous color. A locked study door stood ajar, its contents hidden behind a curtain of dusty silence. The scent of lavender and something metallic filled the air, clinging to the walls. A child’s laughter drifted from upstairs, though no children had been seen in years. The detective’s sharp eyes scanned the room, searching for clues no one else could notice. A single playing card lay face-up near the victim’s outstretched hand, its edges frayed. The butler’s voice cracked as he whispered, *"She never should have trusted him, sir."* A shadow moved at the window, though no breeze stirred the heavy curtains outside. The detective’s pulse quickened as he realized the truth might be far darker than expected.