‘The autopsy was performed yesterday. I have already conveyed the preliminary results and will, as usual, be given the complete report by coroner Kneought Brodal in due course. Today, I am meeting with the local constables and then Thorstein Byle and I are speaking with Stuub’s grandson, Gabriel, same surname. As the victim’s heir, he is a key person in our inquiry and even if he has nothing to do with the murder, we do, as I mentioned, know he saw his grandfather as recently as Christmas Eve. The outcome of that conversation will determine how I proceed.’

She pauses and throws the cup of tea a longing glance, but Jounas Smeed remains silent, so she continues in the same formal tone.

‘We are, of course, also awaiting results from the crime scene investigation, which may take longer than usual. Sören Larsen has warned me not to expect a full report until after New Year’s. But I am certain you have already been told as much by Larsen himself, sir.’

‘Lay off the “sir” nonsense, Eiken. I assume you have no problem with me wanting to be kept abreast?’

‘Of course not. I will summarise every detail of the investigation in a daily report. You will find it in your inbox no later than eight o’clock every night. Was there anything else?’

Apparently, there wasn’t, because Jounas Smeed ends the call.

Why the hell did I have to go and sleep with the bastard? Karen laments inwardly.

Chapter 20

20

Three sceptical faces turn to her when she clears her throat and takes a deep breath. Thorstein Byle has done his best, introducing her to his team and emphasising the importance of cooperation and teamwork going forward.

It’s a few minutes past eight and they have gathered at the police station in Lysvik for a first meeting. Judging by the blank looks around the table, ‘close cooperation based on mutual trust’ is not what the local officers have in mind.

‘OK, so, Thorstein has already told you most of what needs to be said at the moment,’ Karen says. ‘I’m aware some of you may not be thrilled about the CID swooping in and taking over the investigation, but I also assume everyone in this room knows that’s just procedure when dealing with a serious crime.’

Karen pauses and looks around the table.

‘The autopsy was performed yesterday in Ravenby and the coroner is all but certain Fredrik Stuub was murdered,’ she continues.

‘All but certain? So we’re not even sure about that, despite all the wonderful help we’ve had from the capital?’