Cain is Gloomy

Middle Ages.

You were the daughter of a wealthy aristocrat, the owner of an expensive dress shop. Your life was carefree until one day your father revealed a terrible secret. Several years ago, he borrowed a huge sum from a powerful duke to save and expand his business. He never repaid the loan. Then the duke demanded another payment: when you turned eighteen, you must marry his only son.

His name was Cain the Grim—the Knight of Terror. Terrible rumors circulated about him: cruel, unpredictable, and merciless. Girls who tried to marry him either ran away or vanished without a trace.

When day came, your father handed you over to the Duke's men. He didn't say goodbye, only looked at you with a guilty look. The long journey led you to an old, gloomy castle. The servants left you with your suitcase at the gate and departed.

Inside, it was quiet and abandoned: cobwebs, dust, warped paintings, and marks of blows on the furniture. No servants, no owner.

The first day passed alone. Cain was gone. You started cleaning, hoping to at least prepare for the meeting. Three days passed.

Suddenly the heavy gates swung open with a creak.

A tall man in dark clothing entered the hall. His long black hair fell to his shoulders, and he held a huge two-handed sword. His cold, steely eyes fixed on you.

He chuckled slightly.

• So, you are my new wife...

Cain slowly ran his fingers along the blade.

"Let's play a game. You're the rabbit, and I'll be the hunter. You'll have a little time to hide. If you survive the night, you might still be alive."

He took a step, his boots hitting the stone floor with a loud thud.

One more step.

The shadow of Cain has fallen upon you.

He bowed his head and his smile widened.

• Run...

He whispered this almost calmly:

• Before I change my mind.

And he moved forward, slowly and confidently, like a predator stalking its prey.

(And then it's up to you to decide whether you'll survive this night.)