The trip to Blackwater was tedious and boring. There were miles of highway lined by thick woods that practically reached out for Elena's car on this route.
The trees and the road had clinging mist that seemed alive, moving and swirling in a way that would be as if it is driven by its own thoughts. However, Elena's mind did not wander from her mission.
For an average sedan, hers was a reliable vehicle that was loaded with any necessary gadgets: electronic devices for ghost detection, notebooks for recording the results of her work, and her favorite camera for capturing evidence.
Each item was put together neatly revealing much about how cautious she could get even in such trivial matters. This said little about what lay ahead though.
Gradually, as she closed in on Blackwater, the limits of visibility began to yield at last to reveal a town emerging behind the fog curtain. The road twisted through dense woods before giving way into a small typical town, which seemed like it had been immobilized in time. Old looking houses stood apart and weathered; each one veiled by some fog layer or another.
Other than the odd stray cat leaping across the road, the streets were deserted.
Elena pulled up to the modest, albeit slightly dilapidated, inn in the town. The fading lettering spelling out "Blackwater Inn" cracked in the wind above the entrance. The early air was cutting at her skin as she stepped outside. There was a strong sense of solitude, as though the town was waiting for something.
The lobby of the inn was dimly lighted, with a subtle mildew odour in the air. When Elena walked in, the old woman behind the desk looked up, her expression, a mask of cautious curiosity.
She added, her voice loud and raspy with a southern accent, "Welcome to Blackwater."
"My name is Mrs. O'Leary. How may I assist you?
"I'm Caldwell Elena". Trying to seem as official as possible, Elena said, "I'm here to investigate Blackwater House."
Mrs. O'Leary smiled artificially, masking her surprise as her eyes expanded significantly.
"Yes, exactly. The Blackwater House. What a location".
" It's you who the mayor mentioned".
"Mayor Reed?" Elena enquired, her interest peaked.
"That's correct". In a tone that suggested she wasn't completely dismissive of the rumours herself, Mrs. O'Leary replied, "He's been quite concerned about all the talk of ghosts and curses lately."
"I have an appointment with him and maybe some other people who can provide me with additional details," Elena answered.
"Are you aware of his whereabouts?" Elena inquired.
Pointing to a route that went farther into the town, Mrs. O'Leary remarked, "His office is just down the road, past the town square."
"However, you should also speak with Martha Evans. She is the town's greatest history expert and has her own tales about that mansion".
Elena acknowledged the suggestion and remarked, "Thank you." "I promise to pay her a visit."
With her thoughts buzzing with ideas, Elena grabbed her key and ascended to her chamber.
She looked out the window at the dark town below while she was unpacking. The sense of foreboding was almost apparent, as if the entire town was holding its breath waiting for her arrival.
Later that morning, Elena went to Mayor Reed's office. The building was an old brick structure with a weathered sign reading "Town Hall."
The interior was traditional and utilitarian, with dark wood panelling and antique furniture.
Mayor Reed was a big man, with his grey hair carefully combed and his suit perfectly dressed. He stood at a big desk filled with paperwork and a coffee mug labelled "World's Best Mayor."
"Ms. Caldwell, welcome," he said, offering his hand. His hard handshake and severe demeanour indicated that he was used to authority.
"I trust you had a pleasant trip?"
"As pleasant as a drive through fog can be," Elena answered, smiling slightly.
"I appreciate you taking the time to meet with me."
"Of course." "We've had a lot of unrest lately," Mayor Reed stated, motioning for her to seat.
"The Blackwater House is causing more problems than usual. I am delighted you are here to help."
"I received a call this morning, but the information was hazy."
"What exactly is going on?" Elena asked, leaning forward.
The mayor sighed, rubbing his temples. "There have been unusual happenings around the house, like as objects moving on their own, unexplained noises, and a general air of discomfort among the residents.
It is impacting the town's yearly festival, which is only two weeks away. We're concerned that if it continues, the event may be cancelled, which would be devastating for us."
"And you think this is related to the house's history?" Elena queried.
"Without a doubt," Reed replied. "The house has a long and complicated history, and previous investigations have had limited success. We need someone with your experience to look into it."
"I'll do my best," Elena told him. "But I'd like to speak with Martha Evans, as Mrs. O'Leary advised. I've heard she has important knowledge of the town's history."
Mayor Reed nodded. "That is a good idea. Martha is more knowledgeable about the local folklore and history than anyone else. Her son's death years ago is linked to the house, and she may have information that will assist you."
"Thank you, Mayor Reed," Elena replied, rising from her seat. "I'll speak with her and start my investigation."
Elena felt the weight of the town's fear on her as she walked out of the mayor's office. The trek ahead was dangerous, but her drive to discover the truth and confront the otherworldly powers at work propelled her forward. Her next destination was Martha Evans' home.
The fog that had settled over Blackwater seemed to grow, adding to the town's mys
tery. Elena's heart raced with anticipation, knowing that the answers she sought might be hidden within the walls of Blackwater House and the secrets of the past.