Chapter 4: This is Where it Begins

Chapter 4- This is Where it Begins

Later on that night, the six of them decided to meet at the old willow tree, in front of the Mort manor. They were already there except for one.

Darcie glanced at her watch. It read 9:30. “Where’s Fen? She’s late!”

“Maybe she backed off?” Zea asked.

“There was a deal. She would come.” Cleo said.

As if by word, Fen showed up. She was catching for her breath.

“Sorry I took so long to get here. Long story.”

“Okay. Here’s the agreement. Since this house is far too big for us, we’ll explore it in two groups. I, Fen, and Keely are in one group while you Cleo and Scarlet are going with Darcie.”

“We’ll meet you guys at the top floor. C’mon, let’s go.” Darcie and the others sprinted to the back of the house.

“Okay. I sure hope you guys won’t stumble upon a ghost!” Zea scoffed.

“Let’s go.” Fenella said.

The Mort’s residence’ old gate stood high and sturdy through the cracked pavement. Its once white paint turned yellowish with some part dried and faded. It creaked as Fenella opened it imparting an awful cry. The trio then went through the grass that was left uncut through the years.

They proceeded to the brown door that remained well-built. Its intricate design showed it was constructed ages ago. There was a sculpted head of tiger in the middle, its mouth opened wide revealing a piece of metal ring. Fenella reached for the door and turned the knob. It didn’t budge.

“Let’s try getting in through the windows.” Zea instructed.

“I’ll look for a piece of wood to bash through it.” Fenella said.

The minute they turned their backs at the door, it suddenly opened with a creaking sound.

“H-how--?” Fenella uttered.

Zea gulped. “Okay, looks like we’re invited.”

Her friends dared not to speak. They went inside the building. It was dark and they couldn’t see anything.

“I’ll try the lights!” Zea said as she scanned the walls for any switches. She then found one, so she turned it on. Their eyes adjusted to the sudden brightness of the old room.

“Whoa. This house seriously needs a lot of cleaning.” Fenella examined.

They were standing through the grand entrance with a large space spared for any of the celebration. There were portraits lined in the walls covered with washed-out wallpapers. The chandeliers still possessed its majestic likeness as is hangs on the ceiling. There were pieces of odd-looking figurines placed on black wooden tables. At the center of the huge room was where the luxurious staircase located. Almost everything was covered with dust and cobwebs. Some floors were loose and may give up anytime.

“Whoa. Serious wealth.” Zea muttered under her breath.

The light flickered then went off leaving all of them in the darkness.

“What happened?” Fen freaked out.

“I think the lights not working anymore, considering how old this house is.” Zea explained. “But I have with me a flashlight.” She shone the small beam of light to the floor. “Keep close to me. This house may have holes in the floor.”

They followed Zea which led the way.