The Shadow in the mirror.

Chapter 1: The Invitation

Emma had never been one for adventure. She was content with her quiet life, spending most of her time reading books and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. But when she received an invitation to attend a party at the old mansion on the edge of town, she couldn't resist the allure of the unknown.

The invitation had come in a plain white envelope, with no return address or signature. Inside, there was a handwritten note that simply read:

"You are cordially invited to a party at the old mansion on the edge of town. Dress to impress, and come prepared for an evening of mystery and intrigue."

Emma had no idea who had sent the invitation, but something about it intrigued her. She had heard stories about the old mansion, about its dark and bloody history. Some said that it was cursed, that the ghosts of its former inhabitants still haunted the halls. But Emma didn't believe in ghosts or curses. She saw the invitation as an opportunity to do something different, something exciting.

So she spent the day getting ready, picking out a dress that she had never worn before and doing her hair and makeup just right. As she made her way to the mansion, she felt a thrill of anticipation run through her. She had no idea what to expect, but she was ready for anything.

When she arrived, she was struck by the grandeur of the mansion. It was old and imposing, with its walls made of dark stone and its windows boarded up. The front door was open, and Emma could see a faint light coming from inside.

She stepped inside, feeling a rush of cold air as she crossed the threshold. The interior of the mansion was even more impressive than the exterior. There were high ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and grand staircases that led to the upper levels.

As Emma made her way through the mansion, she couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. The place was empty, and she couldn't hear any music or laughter coming from the party. She began to wonder if she had made a mistake, if the invitation had been some kind of cruel prank.

But then she heard a voice, coming from one of the upstairs rooms. It was faint, but she could make out the sound of laughter and conversation. She followed the sound, climbing the stairs and turning down a long hallway.

At the end of the hallway, she found a door that was slightly ajar. She pushed it open and stepped inside, her heart pounding with anticipation.

Inside the room, she found a group of people gathered around a large table. They were dressed in elegant clothes, sipping champagne and chatting with one another. They looked up as Emma entered, and for a moment, she felt like an intruder.

But then one of the guests stood up and walked over to her, offering her a glass of champagne. "Welcome to the party," he said. "I'm glad you could make it."

Emma took the glass and smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. She had made it to the party, and now she was ready for whatever mysteries and intrigue awaited her.