The moon was shadowed by the grey clouds, creating a sombre mood that resembled the air inside 'the great manor'. The town of Vincardine was fast asleep, still unaware of the misfortunate evening in the manor that had changed the history of the O'Dell family. Every door and window in the manor was closed like every night, but sleep had turned its back on the residents, leaving them to turn and toss restlessly in their beds. The only sounds that broke the silence were the occasional rustle of leaves and the distant hoot of an owl.
A shadow moved with calculated precision, his footsteps silent against the worn cobblestone path that led him through the overgrown garden. Shadows clung to the ancient oaks, masking his movements as he approached the imposing facade of the mansion. He wore dark clothing that blended seamlessly with the night, and a hood obscured his face in shadow.
