Fog rolled across the moonlit courtyard, hiding secrets behind shadows. Solitary figure emerged, breath trembling in fear and fragile hope. Silence shattered by distant scream echoed through ancient stone corridors. Bloodstains glistened under lantern light, promising clues to twisted motives. Detective Marlowe paused, studying ominous footprints smeared across muddy cobblestones. A distant clocktower chimed midnight, urging urgency into tense investigation. Footsteps approached quickly, shattering fragile calm like glass beneath heels. Detective Marlowe raised gloved hand, commanding intruder to halt immediately. A hidden smile flickered upon the assassin's pale, unreadable face. Tension thickened as flashlights revealed cold metallic blade glinting ominously.