Lightning flashed, briefly illuminating the grand old mansion atop the hill, its windows like eyes, dark and foreboding. Inside, the annual masquerade was in full swing, guests swirling in colorful gowns and sharp suits, hidden behind elaborate masks. In a secluded corner, a sharp gasp cut through the music; a body crumpled silently to the floor. A masked figure slipped through the crowd, unnoticed, leaving behind a bloodied dagger gleaming sinisterly under the chandelier's opulent light.