The forest parted into an open clearing where the estate loomed ahead — an isolated structure surrounded by thick fog and tall black walls that glistened like obsidian under the moonlight. The Blue Rose crest gleamed faintly on their armor as Noah led the five-man team toward the entrance, boots sinking slightly into the wet soil.
"Stay close," Noah murmured, eyes narrowing as the air grew heavier with each step. His tone was calm, but everyone felt the unspoken tension clawing through the silence.
The gate creaked open on its own. No wind. No sound. Just that slow, dreadful sound of rusted metal.
They entered the courtyard — dead flowers, cracked statues, a dried fountain at the center. The place stank faintly of iron and rot. It wasn't just abandoned; it was violated.
