As the door swung open, revealing Chief Melton John and his elite guards, the room was filled with tension. Lexus, James, Oriana, Prince Gunner, and Milky Cow stood united, their eyes locked on the advancing guards. The air crackled with anticipation, the moment of truth drawing near.
Chief Melton John's face contorted with fury as he scanned the room. "So, the thieves have found themselves a hostage," he sneered, his voice dripping with contempt. "Lexus Tristan, you've aligned yourself with criminals. Prepare to face the consequences."
Lexus maintained a calm demeanor, knowing that revealing the truth was essential. "Chief Melton, there is more to this than meets the eye. There's a hidden agenda, a deception that has been woven within the very fabric of this mansion."
The chief's eyes narrowed, his curiosity piqued. "Speak, officer. Enlighten us with your theories."
Lexus took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. "The curse, the dolls, and the AL-MACHINA—all of it is a carefully orchestrated ruse. A means to an end, designed to conceal a greater secret within the mansion's walls."
James, Oriana, Prince Gunner, and Milky Cow exchanged glances, their faces betraying a mix of surprise and apprehension. They had never expected Lexus to uncover the truth so accurately.
"Enough of your baseless claims, Tristan!" Chief Melton barked. "We have no time for your delusions. Seize them!"
But before the guards could move, a voice echoed through the hallway. "Hold!"
Everyone turned towards the source, their eyes widening in shock. It was Guard Robin Padaplin, the expert sniper who had encountered the demonic dolls earlier. His face was pale, his eyes filled with a mixture of fear and confusion.
"Chief Melton, you need to hear what Lexus has to say," Robin pleaded. "I saw things, things that defy explanation. There's more to this mansion than we ever knew."
The chief's stern expression wavered, curiosity replacing his rage. "Explain yourself, Padaplin."
Lexus seized the opportunity, recounting the events he had witnessed, the connections he had made, and the secrets hidden within the mansion's history. He revealed the true purpose of the AL-MACHINA and the manipulation that had ensnared both the thieves and the guards.
As Lexus spoke, doubt clouded Chief Melton's face. The pieces of the puzzle began to fall into place, and he realized the gravity of his mistake. He had been blind to the truth, consumed by his desire for revenge against the thieves.
Silence hung in the air as Lexus finished his account, his words lingering in the minds of all who listened. The chief's expression softened, a mix of regret and determination crossing his features.
"We have been played, all of us," Chief Melton admitted. "But it's not too late to make things right. We must join forces and uncover the true mastermind behind this deceit."
Lexus nodded, relieved to see Chief Melton's change of heart. Together, they formed an unlikely alliance—thieves and guards united by a common purpose: to expose the true darkness lurking within the mansion's walls.
As they prepared to face the unknown, shadows of betrayal loomed over them. Their journey would be fraught with danger, but the truth was within their grasp, waiting to be unveiled. The stage was set for a climactic showdown, where loyalties would be tested, alliances forged, and justice would finally prevail.
To be continued...