The forest was dark and silent, with all predators concealed in their caves and burrows. Only one owl watched with wide eyes, trailing a cloak of death that draped elegantly behind it as it entered the well-lit mansion nestled in the center of the clearing.
The mansion exuded an air of old glamour, adorned with luxurious finishes and lush carpets. Yet, for those who observed more keenly, the signs of its slow decay were evident. The once-proud and opulent building crumbled, much like the status of its inhabitants, who desperately clung to their elevated positions with new rugs laid over old, worn floors.
The shadows here held secrets, secrets painted in shades of deep ebony and subtle midnight blues. Moonlight, a pale specter, cast its ethereal glow upon the ancient stones, revealing only fragments of the architectural grandeur that had long succumbed to the ravages of time. The air was thick with the intoxicating fragrance of aged roses, their blooms hiding beneath a canopy of obsidian leaves.
A tall, elderly man, his temples graced with streaks of grey, leaned in to share his thoughts with a younger version of himself. "A ball presents a remarkable opportunity to forge connections," he murmured.
"Yes, father," the young man responded, his tone nervous as his gaze scanned the crowd. "If only Count Ambrosio would grace our evening."
"Yes, it was a smart move to invite him. He is the best friend and confidant of our Lord. Gaining his friendship would be a tremendous step forward. Otherwise, all this would be in vain, and you might find yourself compelled to seek a wealthy wife to secure your meager future."
"I am well aware, father. Nonetheless, I have also appointed myself to the ball at the Thorny Rose Academy. There are plenty of sheep—some wealthy merchants pose as givers."
The older man grimaced, his fangs bared. "To marry a merchant's daughter would be a disgrace."
"The house is in ruin, and you still cling to notions of nobility," retorted the younger man, turning away and walking toward the dimly lit garden.
YOU ARE READING
SHADOW
ParanormalEvery night, as the moon cast its ethereal glow upon her room, Sha felt an intense sensation that someone was watching her from the depths of the darkness. It was a tantalizing mix of trepidation and curiosity, like a delicate dance between desire a...
