The assassin unleashed his horse hidden under one of the trees and rode until the palace had long vanished behind him. 

The dense forest gradually gave way to a narrow mountain path, hidden beneath towering pines and thick mist. Few knew the trail existed. 

At the end of the path stood an ancient stone manor, abandoned to the world's eyes. The manor stood in complete silence. 

Its weathered stone walls had long been swallowed by creeping vines, hidden deep within the mountains where few dared to venture.

The assassin dismounted from his horse and climbed the worn stone steps. The massive doors opened before he could knock. 

Without a word,...