From the journal of Head Engineer Paz Diaz
Our journey began late in the day with night fast approaching. The guests settled into their own spaces for what would be a long overnight trip. The American Johnny and his friend stayed in the back of the last car. The newly weds Javi and Catarina in the next car over. The good father in the car foremost to the front. Señora Martinez shared the middle car with Señor Fernandez and his daughter Isabel.
As I was leaving the engine room to walk down the line to check on the guests. Silhouetted by the flashes of passing lights. I saw two figures that appeared to be grappling. I rushed through the front two cars towards the middle car where I had seen the struggle. Upon opening the door I met eyes with Señor Fernandez who was coming in from the other door. We both looked immediately looked to the body of Señora Martinez now still on the floor of the train. As I walked over to inspect her body and check for a pulse I came to a frightening realization. Her eyes were wide open and blank checking her pulse I confirmed she was indeed deceased.
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"Señor Fernandez, did you do this?" I looked up to meet his tired gaze. "Did you see anyone enter this cabin?" His daughter was hidden behind him, visibly shaken. Even through the rumble of the car on the tracks she was trembling.
"It is okay, do not fret Mi corazón. Papa will figure out what happened." He said comforting his daughter. "I was out on the back of the car having a smoke, my daughter couldn't sleep so she accompanied me." He motioned to Señora Martinez's body. "I heard something from inside the car and when I entered all I saw was you." He paused and began searching his jacket for something. While this occured the other guests converged on the middle car from their various dwellings.
There was a shared gasp as all parties registered what had transpired.
"Everyone! Please! If I can have your attention." Señor Fernandez broke the quiet numbers. "My name is James Fernandez, I am a private investigator, and I regret to inform you there has been a murder."