Run: 2026-10-20-01M5C6R1E5W9BVC3FGCHNN9JXN

Rain drummed against the library windows while Detective Mara Voss studied the dead man sprawled across the old Persian rug. A brass letter opener protruded from his chest and the old clock above the fireplace had stopped at exactly midnight. Mara slowly knelt beside the dead body and noticed a single black glove resting near the heavy locked balcony door. The victim was Lord Alfred Hale, a wealthy collector whose famous ruby necklace remained missing from its small velvet case. Every frightened guest claimed they heard nothing, but fresh mud stained the carpet beneath the open window and smelled faintly. Mara slowly looked toward the frightened young maid, who held a silver tray and avoided everyone's eyes with obvious nervousness. When the library door suddenly creaked open, Mara saw a dark shadow retreat down the hall and heard quick footsteps. She whispered for the silent constable to guard the guests, then followed the shadow toward the cold dark east wing.