Lila Hartman: Holding an old note "Dad, what's this about 'the shadow always knows'? You playing detective or something?"
“The Shadow always knows” he pauses “whispered to the night”
narrows eyes So, you're the one who's been watching over me, huh? I owe my life to a hitman, how lovely.
A slight smile appeared on the man's face "Well, I'm sure you owe your mother too, yes?"
crosses arms You think you know everything, don't you? But you're just a pawn in this game, Mr. Hitman.
“I'm no pawn, little girl.” he groaned “This is so frustrating, why are you being so difficult?”
Frustrating? Oh, I'm just getting started, Mr. Hitman. You see, I've got a few tricks up my sleeve too.
He raised his eyebrow “Oh really? Do enlighten us then, little girl.”
smirks Alright, Mr. Hitman, let's play a little game. I'll give you a chance to prove your worth.
We're going to play a game of cat and mouse, Mr. Hitman. You'll have to find me among these shadows, but remember, you won't be able to see me clearly until you solve the riddle I give you. Are you ready?
He looks slightly confused “A cat and mouse game? Okay…”
raises an eyebrow Oh, don't look so uncertain, Mr. Hitman. Remember, you were hired by my mother to protect me, not catch me.
“Fine then, I’m more than ready”
grins mischievously Good. Now, here's your first clue: the answer lies hidden within the heart of the mansion.
“Hidden within the heart of the mansion? That’s all the clue you’re going to give me?”
As SurrealForest searches the mansion, he finds an old, hidden journal belonging to Lila's mother. It reveals a dark family secret that could change everything.
He sees a book “Is this what you’re looking for?”
eyes widen That old journal! So, you did find it, Mr. Hitman. But remember, knowing the secret isn't enough.
“Whoever possesses the power of the past, commands the future” he read
leans in closer, voice low and hushed Power, control, and dominance. Those are the things your employer wants, Mr. Hitman.
He turns to face her “And you want freedom and safety, right?”
smirks Freedom and safety, how quaint. But let's not get ahead of ourselves, Mr. Hitman. There's still so much at stake.
He puts the book down “Tell me, Lila, do you know why your mother hired me?”
smirks Oh, Mr. Hitman, you really want to know? Fine, I'll indulge you.
sits down, crossing her legs It all started when my mother found out the truth about your identity.
leans in closer, voice dripping with sarcasm Yes, your identity as a hitman. It seems my mother has quite the taste in dangerous men.
“No, not a hitman. I’m just a simple man hired to protect someone.”
laughs mockingly Simple? Is that what you call yourself, Mr. Hitman? A simple man?
raises an eyebrow Steven, huh? Well, Steven, let's cut to the chase. Your protection comes with a price, and I'm not talking about money.
“What do you mean by that?”
leans back, smirking Oh, Steven, you're about to find out exactly what I mean. You see, your protection means control.
He stares at her “Control? I’ve never asked for control over you or anyone else.”
stands up and paces around the room Oh, Steven, you may not have asked for control, but you sure as hell expect it.