The grand gates of House Galanis swung open with a groaning creak, revealing a courtyard shrouded in a heavy, unnatural silence. The usual bustle of servants, guards, and daily activity was absent, replaced by an eerie emptiness that set Alaric's instincts on edge. Beside him, Lyra's sharp eyes scanned the deserted space, her expression tightening with unease as their carriages rolled into the courtyard.
"This doesn't feel right," Alaric murmured, his hand brushing the hilt of his blade.
Lyra nodded, her gaze fixed on the imposing mansion ahead. "Stay sharp. Something's wrong."
