The Hollow House loomed in the mist, its dark windows watching. Inside, candlelight flickered against peeling wallpaper, shadows stretching unnaturally. At the foot of the grand staircase, Madame Mary stood motionless, her white gown drifting as if caught in an unseen current. Nearby, Mister Vale sat in silence, his pocket watch ticking though the hands never moved.

“Come in, dear ones,” Madame Mary murmured, her voice soft yet heavy. “You’re safe now.”

Somewhere down the hall, a locked door creaked open.