The morning had been spent deciphering the pattern of murders, but the case took an urgent turn when Alexander Bluestone's phone rang.
Seated at his desk, he answered in his usual calm tone. "Bluestone."
A deep, slightly shaken voice came from the other end. "Alexander, it's Rover Livingstone."
The name immediately commanded attention. Rover Livingstone—a powerful millionaire, known for his vast business empire and deep connections across the United Kingdom. Unlike many in his position, Rover had always maintained a clean reputation, a rarity in the world of wealth and power. And most importantly, he was one of the few people Alexander actually trusted.
Alexander leaned back slightly. "What's the matter, Rover?"
A brief pause, then: "The Grim Reaper has threatened me. I received a letter this morning—no signature, no fingerprints, just a message."
Alexander's grip on the phone tightened. "Read it to me."
Rover exhaled, the slightest tremor in his voice. "'Your wealth cannot shield you. Your influence cannot save you. You die at midnight.'"
Silence filled the line for a moment.
Then, Alexander spoke, his tone unwavering. "I'm coming."
THE PLAN SETS IN MOTION
After ending the call, Alexander turned to his team. Roselia Dukeforth, Darmian Shakesforth, and Madison Oakwell were already watching him intently.
"Rover Livingstone has been marked by the Grim Reaper. Tonight at midnight."
Madison's green eyes darkened. "So, we finally have a target before the murder happens."
Darmian rubbed his chin. "And a wealthy one at that. He can afford the best security, yet the Reaper still went after him."
Roselia crossed her arms, her golden-brown eyes sharp. "So, what's the plan?"
Alexander exhaled slowly, already piecing the strategy together in his mind.
"We go to Rover's mansion. The police will already be stationed there, but they'll only serve as a temporary wall. Our real job is to analyze, predict, and counter. If the Reaper really intends to kill tonight, he's already watching."**
The three nodded, understanding the weight of the situation.
"Roselia, you and Darmian will cover the exterior—watch for any signs of movement. Madison, you'll coordinate with the police and make sure we control all entry points. I'll talk to Rover alone."
Roselia frowned slightly. "Why alone?"
Alexander gave a faint smirk. "Because he'll tell me things he wouldn't tell anyone else."
She held his gaze for a moment before sighing. "Fine."
The plan was set. The night would determine everything.
THE LIVINGSTONE MANSION – NIGHT
The Livingstone Mansion was a towering structure, standing against the dark sky like a monument of power. With its grand stone walls, intricate iron gates, and vast courtyards, it looked nearly impenetrable. But Alexander knew better. No place was truly safe when the Grim Reaper had chosen his victim.
Upon arrival, several police officers were already stationed outside, their expressions tense. Some saluted Alexander as he walked past, acknowledging his reputation.
Inside, the atmosphere was heavy. The chandeliers cast a dim golden glow over the lavish interior, but beneath all the wealth, there was fear.
Rover Livingstone stood near the fireplace in his study, a glass of whiskey in hand. His once-confident demeanor was laced with unease.
Alexander shut the door behind him. "Tell me everything you haven't told the police."
Rover let out a slow breath. "It's not just me, Alexander. The Reaper is targeting people tied to something bigger. And I think... I might know why."
Alexander's sapphire-blue eyes sharpened. "Go on."
Rover hesitated, then spoke lowly. "There's a hidden war happening, Alex. One of power, corruption, and control. I've stayed neutral, but neutrality is no longer an option. The Grim Reaper is eliminating people involved in this war."**
Alexander leaned in slightly. "And you?"
Rover's jaw tightened. "I hold secrets that could change the future of this country. And that's why I'm marked."
Silence stretched between them.
Then, slowly, a small smile curled at the corner of Alexander's lips.
Rover frowned. "What is it?"
Alexander didn't answer immediately. Instead, he straightened, adjusting his golden pocket watch before turning toward the door. "I'll ensure you survive the night. But make no mistake, Rover—this isn't just about you anymore."
And with that, he left the study.
OUTSIDE THE STUDY
As soon as Alexander stepped out, Roselia was waiting in the dimly lit hallway. Her sharp gaze immediately locked onto him.
"Why are you smiling?" she asked, her tone laced with suspicion.
Alexander merely walked past her, offering no reply.
She narrowed her eyes. "Alexander."
Still, he remained silent, that faint smirk lingering on his lips.
The hunt had just become far more interesting.