Chapter 5 - The Hidden Cellar
Leaving the car idling in the driveway, Julian stepped into the cavernous foyer, the scent of damp earth and aged oak heavy in the air. Mia walked ahead with unnerving familiarity, leading Julian down a narrow service hallway toward a heavy oak door bound in rusted iron. Clara lingered by the main entrance, refusing to step any deeper into the mansion, her hands trembling uncontrollably. Julian took the silver key from Mia and inserted it into the ancient iron lock, turning it until a heavy, resonant click echoed through the corridor. The door creaked open to reveal a steep flight of stone stairs descending into pitch darkness. From deep below the floorboards, Julian heard the faint, distinct sound of a woman humming a lullaby.
