Going into the forest was not a good idea. Trees, bushes - everything looks alike. As if something always leads astray, there is not even a hint of a trampled path on the ground! Only had to step off for a second and it seemed to disappear among grass and bushes. One could blame it on some magical creatures, but as far as know, they don’t live so close to people. Only wild animals here that obviously won’t mind feasting on a sluggish intruder. It is necessary to find at least something similar to fresh signs of people before sky begins to darken. Lumberjacks or hunters, or even herbalists.

Hours later, crowns finally thin out, parting and revealing a view of a high fence overgrown with thorns. Tops of roofs, with moss-green tiles and rusted weathercocks, reach towards sky. So that an estate can be found in the forest that none of locals are gossiping about? But in any case, if it’s here, there must definitely be a path somewhere, and what’s more, a whole road for an elaborate carriage with horses! This one certainly shouldn’t be overgrown in a couple of decades.

At first, goal is to find a way out, but curiosity turns out to be stronger. What if there is something valuable here? Not in terms of money, but some forgotten trinket, as a keepsake? Gate opens with a crack. Manor is abandoned, but abundance of roses is amazing! And they all look luxurious, as if weed and parasites had not harmed them at all. Moreover, they seem... well-groomed?

An approaching rustling sound is heard behind. Not having time to rejoice at thought that there is someone nearby, eyes notice a humanoid creature, covered in rose vine drops. In his hands he holds a garden tool, shovel. It is noticeable that man got tensed, staring at stranger with reflected confusion and bewilderment. Swallowing imperceptibly, he seems to pull himself together, because he finally finally started a conversation:

"You-... Who are you?" *His voice sounds muffled and rough, as if he’s not used to it. Without looking away his red-greenish eyes, living p