VESPER

CHAPTER 1

June 2nd, 1990

Mavis Cavanaugh stood at the window of her cramped apartment in Charleston, West Virginia, watching the dark clouds rolling over the mountains. Despite the impending storm, her heart soared with anticipation. She had just received a letter along with a post card from her Aunt Agnes, who lived in the quaint and isolated village of Ravenfell, nestled deep within the rolling hills of Virginia. Aunt Agnes had been unwell, and Mavis knew it was her responsibility-her privilege-to care for her during this time.

Ravenfell was a place steeped in history, a hidden gem with roots tracing back to the Regency era. Mavis had spent countless hours reading about it: the elegant homes with their intricate facades, the stories of ballrooms glowing with candlelight, and the whispers of long-gone romances that lingered in the air. Now, she would have the opportunity to explore it all firsthand. There was magic in the air of Ravenfell, and Mavis yearned to uncover its secrets.

After packing her modest belongings-a few cherished books, a woolen shawl, and her grandmother's delicate china teacup-Mavis boarded the bluebell bus, her excitement bubbling over. The journey was long and winding, each mile pulling her closer to the village that echoed with tales of days gone by. Mavis envisioned herself walking the cobbled streets, perhaps twirling in the open air with a bonnet perched atop her head, just as the heroines of her beloved novels would have done. "At last I'll get to live like my favourite fictional characters!" She mused soaking in the scenery outside.

As the bus rumbled through the lush Virginia countryside, Mavis gazed out the window, watching the landscape shift from urban chaos to pastoral serenity. The mountains cradled the valleys, their summits shrouded in mist like the heavy velvet curtains that draped the grand parlors of regency homes. When the bus finally pulled into Ravenfell's small station, Mavis felt an electric thrill rush through her.

The village was charming and timeless. With its well-kept gardens and stately old homes, it felt like stepping into the pages of a storybook. Mavis inhaled deeply, the scent of blooming jasmine mingling with damp earth after the afternoon shower. She spotted her aunt waiting at the side of the road, her frail figure wrapped in a comfortable shawl. Despite the weariness in her eyes, Aunt Agnes's smile radiated warmth and love.

"Mavis, my dear!" she cried, opening her arms wide. Mavis rushed into the embrace. It felt like forever since she had felt such tenderness.

"It's so lovely to see you, Aunt Agnes," Mavis said, pulling back to study her aunt's face. Though frail, Aunt Agnes exuded a strength that stemmed from years of resilience. "I can't wait to hear all about Ravenfell and explore the place that convinced you not to come stay with me in the city."

As they walked toward her aunt's home, Mavis absorbed the details around her-quaint shops with colorful banners fluttering in the wind, the village square featuring a fountain dedicated to a forgotten hero, and older folks exchanging gossip on weathered benches. Each step brought her closer to discovering the history that had enchanted her for so long.

Once inside, Aunt Agnes brewed a pot of herbal tea, filling the kitchen with a soothing aroma. They settled at the weathered oak table, its surface marked with countless memories. "You'd be surprised at how much this village holds," Aunt Agnes said, her voice soft yet invigorated by the presence of her niece. "There are stories behind every door and echoes of laughter long past. Your city can't beat that charm !"

Mavis listened intently as Aunt Agnes shared tales of grand balls where the gentry mingled, the enchanting music that once filled the ballrooms, and the dramas that unfolded under the sparkling chandeliers. With every word, Mavis's imagination ignited, and she envisioned herself as a part of those glittering evenings, dancing amidst the regalia of that bygone era.