In Regard to Our Existence (Paranormal/Horror)

Part 4

<P class=MsoNormal>Here, as we navigated the largely overgrown and rarely trodden sidewalk leading unto the porch, I couldn't help but feel that the sagging walls of the home bore secrets of dark and disturbing tales. The tightly shuddered windows of the upper floor conveyed a certain uneasiness to me for no reason I had known. Every aspect of this expansive estate seemed shrouded with mystery and terrible intent. Though, no preconceived dread could prepare me for the hours that lie ahead.</P>

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<P class=MsoNormal>By the time my partner and I neared the front door, we had both become entirely enveloped by an oppressive fear. It was of no personal gain that we sought entry into this place, but of a morbid curiosity that we were compelled. I hadn't first decided to accompany Green. Had not my friend so earnestly desired my assistance and I been so considerably curious, I would have kept away from the dreaded house.</P>

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<P class=MsoNormal>It was then that Alexander outstretched a quivering hand to the large oaken door. The door swung open surprisingly easily; almost invitingly. I then evaluated the contents of the home behind much more diligent eyes than upon entering the first time.</P>

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<P class=MsoNormal>The entry hall was dark, and almost disturbingly so. We stumbled into the living room and drew back the curtains and light flooded in aggressively. Lying before me was a coating of dust and cobwebs several inches thick. The room's furnishings were battered and worn confirming the age of the old man. Clearly Mr. Hopkins hadn't spent the vast majority of his life here. As I moved from room to room I was deeply puzzled. Every room seemed entirely uninhabited. </P>

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<P class=MsoNormal>Not until my companion had made a curious discovery did this make sense to me. It was from a room in the back of the home that Green's excited voice called out, telling of his this discovery. As I neared the room, a strangely out of place odor assaulted me. It was terribly acrid and grew stronger as I passed into the room.</P>

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<P class=MsoNormal>A rug was hastily thrown in the corner, and to the eyes of the observant, large steel ring could be discerned. Beneath the decaying old rug was the door to the cellar. Standing there, just a few feet from the rug, it was made apparent that here was the source of the strange smell. </P>

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<P class=MsoNormal>Alexander Green stepped forward and threw open the wooden door. A mass of spiders spilled out from the open door and over his feet. If one hadn't seen the determined look on the man's face, it would be perceived that he merely didn't notice them. It was not in fact that he had not seen nor felt the arachnids that he so desperately feared; it was that it hadn't made the slightest difference to him. He had become entirely consumed with a lust for knowledge of this queer place.</P>