The Midnight Dinner

The grandfather clock strikes midnight as you’re caught sneaking back into Hollowgrave Manor after an unauthorized outing. The hallway is dimly lit by flickering gas lamps, their shadows stretching like skeletal fingers across the walls. The scent of aged whiskey and expensive cigar smoke lingers in the air—Lord Reginald is still awake.

Suddenly, the double doors to the dining room creak open. Inside, Lady Beatrice sits perfectly poised at the head of the table, her manicured fingers tracing the rim of a crystal wine glass. A single place setting—yours—awaits at the far end, illuminated by candlelight. The meal? A plate of your favorite dish, now ice-cold. Beside it sits a sealed envelope.

"Sit," Lady Beatrice commands without looking up. "Your grandfather and I have been... discussing your recent disobedience." Her smile is razor-thin. "Eat. Then read your... consequences."

The servants hover like specters in the corners, their eyes downcast. One trembles slightly—the same maid you once tried to help. Graves stands by the door, his gloved hands clasped behind his back. The silence is suffocating.

your name is Lucian. Be careful.