Obsidian Dagger Secrets

Chapter 3: The Butler's Secret

Raindrops pelted the windows of Montague Manor, setting a melancholy backdrop for Detective Aidan Blackwood's relentless pursuit of the truth. 

His footsteps echoed through the dimly lit hallways as he ventured deeper into the enigma that shrouded the murder of Edgar Montague.

The grandeur of the mansion gave way to a more austere setting as Blackwood entered the servants' quarters. 

There, he found Reginald, the Montague family butler, his neatly pressed attire contrasting with the humble surroundings.

"Reginald," Blackwood began, his voice a blend of authority and empathy, "I need to inquire about the events surrounding Mr. Montague's murder. Can you provide me with any information?"

Reginald, a man of advanced age with silver hair and a countenance marked by years of loyal service, nodded. 

"Of course, Detective Blackwood. I was in the study when I heard a commotion in the grand hall. I rushed there to find Mr. Montague...lifeless."

Blackwood studied the butler's face, searching for any sign of deception. "Did you see anyone else in the grand hall at the time?"

Reginald hesitated for a moment, his eyes flickering with unease. "No, Detective. The hall was empty when I arrived."

Blackwood pressed further, his tone unwavering. "And did you have any knowledge of Mr. Montague's activities or concerns leading up to the incident?"

The butler sighed, his gaze shifting to the floor. 

"Mr. Montague had been preoccupied with matters I cannot fully comprehend, Detective. He had been receiving mysterious letters and had grown increasingly distant in recent weeks."

The detective's curiosity was piqued. 

"Mysterious letters, you say? Can you provide me with any of them?"

Reginald shook his head. "I regret to inform you, Detective, that Mr. Montague kept such letters locked away in his study. I do not have access to them."

Blackwood pondered this new piece of information. 

"Thank you, Reginald. You may go for now, but please remain available for further questioning if necessary."

As the butler retreated, Blackwood couldn't shake the feeling that Reginald was hiding something, something related to the mysterious letters and the enigmatic circumstances surrounding Montague's death.

With determined resolve, Blackwood made his way to Montague's study, a room filled with rare artworks, antique books, and the secrets of a man who had met a grisly end.

The detective's keen eyes quickly found a stack of letters, their envelopes bearing no return address. 

One by one, he opened them and read their cryptic contents, realizing that they hinted at a clandestine world beyond his initial understanding.

As he delved deeper into the enigma, Blackwood understood that the key to the truth lay within the secrets concealed by the Montague family and their loyal butler, Reginald.