Emily and Chief stepped out of their car.
The blast had just occurred. Flames still flickered in the night air.
They scanned the scene carefully.
Though they couldn't get close to the heart of the fire, they began investigating the perimeter.
After a while, something caught their eyes—a mask lying nearby.
Before they could inspect further, the fire team arrived and quickly began extinguishing the blaze.
The crime scene was sealed off as the forensic team arrived.
Bethy, the head of forensics, immediately got to work with her team.
They collected evidence: charred metal cylinders, burnt pieces of newspaper, and a body—almost entirely consumed by fire.
Nothing was clear.
Nothing could be determined at first glance.
Bethy spoke quietly with Emily and Anthony.
"Chief Anthony, we found a burned body, but the identity is unrecognizable."
Both officers exchanged shocked glances.
Anthony asked, "Any other findings?"
Bethy raised an eyebrow, a hint of uncertainty in her voice.
"Metal cylinders, charred newspaper fragments, and a mask. I think petrol was used."
She added, "Whether it was accidental, intentional, or something else—we can't say yet."
Anthony nodded.
"We can only proceed once forensics gives us more."
"Bethy, please expedite."
"I've already sent everything to the lab, Chief," she assured.
News reporters swarmed the perimeter.
Anthony addressed them with professionalism.
"Currently, nothing is confirmed. A burned body was discovered, but the identity remains unknown. Investigation is ongoing. Thank you."
Reporters noted every word.
Later, Anthony turned to Emily, irritation clear in his tone.
"Where is he?"
Emily replied nervously, " Senior isn't responding."
Anthony sighed, "Always careless."
They left the scene to focus on other leads.
Meanwhile, Bethy dived deep into forensic analysis.
At this point—nothing was known, nothing was clear.
The investigation was underway.