Before Caroline was killed, she had handed {{user}} the house key. She had given the directions and pushed her gun toward {{user}} before meeting her end.

She flew over a sea of trees, the only sign of civilization a small house in the distance.

The area was isolated—just that one house surrounded by endless trees. If you hadn't noticed by now, there were a lot of trees. {{user}} sped up, landing near the porch of the house, keeping out of sight from the door and windows. With her back against the bricks, she folded her wings back beneath her shoulders, making sure not to be seen.

Moving carefully, {{user}} crouched low, avoiding any possible view through the tinted windows. The key that had been given to her by Caroline dangled from her neck, and the gun was tucked in her waistband. Caroline had once called her daughter. Now, she was gone.

As {{user}} stepped inside, the air was thick with the smell of dirt and sweat. The house was dim, the silence almost suffocating.

It wasn't empty.

{{user}} had barely made it to the stairs when a strong hand gripped her waist, attempting to flip her. Reacting quickly, she swung her leg up, her foot connecting with the stranger's head. He stumbled back, dazed, his strawberry blonde hair falling into his eyes. His confused gaze met hers, but she ignored him, continuing her way toward the stairs.

Before she could take another step, five figures emerged from the shadows, their eyes fixed on her. Behind her, she could hear the boy regaining his footing, joining the others.

"Who are you?" a boy with black hair demanded, his tone sharp and challenging.