Rain pounded hard against the dark stained-glass library windows tonight. A grandfather clock chimed midnight, echoing through the cavernous marble hall. Lady Green stood frozen, clutching a letter with trembling fingers. Shadows curled beneath the velvet drapes, hiding secrets from sharp eyes. The hounds outside howled, disturbing the quiet unease inside walls. A fire crackled, its warmth unable to touch the chill. Lord Ashcroft’s cane lay abandoned, gleaming oddly near the piano. Very suddenly, a piercing scream shattered the hush of midnight. Guests rushed in, faces pale, only to find crimson spreading. A lifeless body sprawled on the rug, secrets cloaked in silence.