Condolences I patted her shoulder awkwardly. "He fought #well. You should be proud of him." "I suppose that's something. My poor boy." She sniffled. "How did he meet his end?" "Bravely, madam." No need to tell her I shot the traitor in the back. #vssmurderA

An Honorable Duel Two cowboys faced off in the dust-choked street. "Go on and fill yer hands with that shootin' #iron." "Naw, that ain't my intention. I'm just distractin' ya." "Huh?" Behind him, the saloon owner's shotgun boomed. Unpaid bar tabs were a killer. #vssmurderA

Optimism The hitman dragged Lou through a tidy backyard, past a series of tools. Did he plan to use the axe? That wouldn't be so bad. Not the #woodchipper! Or hedge clippers?! Phew. They'd passed the worst. The hitman dropped Lou and grabbed... a weed whacker. #vssmurderA

Trust The lawyer thrust out an accusing finger. "You had ample chance to #doctor your employer's nightcap!" "But I didn't," groaned the cook. "Exactly! And now he's signed that dratted will." #vssmurderA

Concerned colleague "He's not there? Oh." Hanging up, the rookie chewed his lip. The #detective hadn't been at the subway scene, and the riverside wasn't on his beat. And now, no sign of him at the latest bloodbath. He smiled. "Well, sir, nobody's on to you yet." #vssmurderA

Glossy #black feathers coated the bedroom, wet with blood, like the aftermath of a pillow fight that got out of hand. The window panes were broken. A man, absent eyes, lay amidst broken shards. He had committed a murder of crows, but a murder of crows struck back. #vssmurderA

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Efficiency Makeup done, she smacked her lips. "While you lament my untimely #demise, I stroll away with the jewels. Scarper before anyone cottons on." "I had a simpler idea," said the stylist. "Oh?" "Poisoned your lipstick. Saves splitting the loot." vssmurderA