Inspector Sheamus Gaffney stepped off the narrow wooden bridge that led from the bustling streets of Damnoen Saduak to the floating markets of Thailand, the sweet smell of tropical fruits mingling with the scent of spicy street food. He had come seeking a brief respite from the chaos of his cases, a chance to explore the vibrantly colored boats and quaint stalls teeming with life. Instead, he felt a familiar sinking feeling in his gut when a vendor called out to him, recognizing the infamous detective. 'Look, it's Inspector Gaffney! I hope you didn't bring murder with you this time!' he joked, only to realize how true those words might soon prove to be. Not again, he thought with a weary shake of his head as he caught a glimpse of police lights reflecting off the water's surface. The victim, a prominent local fishmonger named Prajek Chayakan, was well-known and equally loathed around these parts. In his mid-40s, Prajek was a rotund man with a booming laugh that could be heard across the market. However, beneath the surface of his jovial demeanor lay a web of discontent; he had recently been embroiled in a bitter land dispute with rival merchants over a prime section of the market. Tales of his shady dealings and bribes were commonplace, suggesting he had enemies far and wide, making his unpopular nature a double-edged sword. Customers whispered about hidden backroom transactions, and it was believed he was receiving threats that could bring his empire crumbling down. Gaffney arrived at the scene just as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of gold and crimson over the lush green surroundings. Prajek lay face down, a striking image against the turquoise waters, surrounded by overturned crates of fish that spilled out across the narrow wooden planks. Distant murmurs filled the air, mingling with the sound of rippling water as fearful locals gathered, their eyes darting between the police and the vibrant stalls that now felt menacing. Onlookers whispered about the tension that had preceded the murder; Prajek had made enemies, and this was a vendetta wrapped in the colorful fabric of the everyday market life. Among the witnesses were six suspects, each harboring secrets as dark and deep as the waters surrounding them: 1. **Suriya Wong** - An ambitious 30-year-old chef who was eyeing Prajek's prized seafood supply chain for her new restaurant, she was often seen as too aggressive. Secret Motive: Jealousy over Prajek's success and status as the top merchant in town. 2. **Jirapat Niyom** - A middle-aged dockworker with a rough exterior, he had recently been laid off due to Prajek's shady hiring practices. He wore anger on his sleeve and moved with a limp that suggested he had seen better days. Secret Motive: Revenge against the man he blamed for ruining his life. 3. **Mewan Jiraphong** - The charming owner of a competing food stall, with a magnetic smile and smooth talk. She was rumored to have had a brief affair with Prajek, leading to bitterness when he rejected her advances. Secret Motive: Betrayal fueled by heartbreak. 4. **Rattana Phaengsri** - A shrewd business lawyer, she wore smart clothes and carried an air of sophistication that drew attention. She had been advising Prajek on his land disputes and had her own interests at stake.