I’m alone walking down the halls of this dark house. Only the moonlight from the windows lights my path.

I know someone is following me.

“Who’s there?” I call into the dark.

A quiet, sly laugh answers me. I stiffen. “You already know who I am.” A voice speaks from the dark.

I try to back away. “No. Don’t go,” The voice purrs. “You have nowhere to run.”

“Who are you?”

Footsteps in the dark. Then slowly the light catches on someone walking into view. I took a step back. It was me: the same clothes, hair, everything. Except, it wasn’t. Something about the face was wrong. The way the light hit his skin gave him a sickly pallor. His eyes were off-center, with his left too far up his face and his right too far to the right.

“Quite the portrait, isn’t it?” The imposter smiles, showing rotted, grimy teeth. “Or were you expecting someone else?”

“I don’t what to expect here,” I admitted.

The imposter begins circling me like a vulture. “This manor is full of surprises, Marius. But most of all, the bird.”

“The Madame?”

The imposter scoffed. “Don’t give her the dignity of a name. She’s not even human. Humans deserve respect. Beasts do not.”

“What do you know about her?”

“I know she could peck out your eyes or brain you with that cane of hers. She could make a nest of your bones and cook you into a stew.” The imposter gasps, covering his mouth in mock surprise. “She could be lying about helping your family!”

“Why would she do that?” I protest. “She said she’d help them. She showed me the gold. She gave her word she would help them.”

“And you believed her? She has you imprisoned here for the theft of a brush!”

My expression darkens. “I’m here to pay back a debt. I’m not a prisoner.”

“You’re a fool is what you are!” The imposter suddenly spat. “You’re a fool for trusting she’ll keep her word! You’re a fool for trusting she’ll do anything but betray you! And you’re a fool for abandoning them!”

“What would you know about me?” I turn away from the imposter and walk down the hall.

“Everything, friend. I know everything about you.” He whispers.

Even though I am far away from him, his voice is still in my ears.

His voice was still in my ear when I woke up.

I rubbed my eyes and looked around. I was back in my room. Was that a dream? I thought as I looked around. Can I trust anything I’m seeing here?

I poked my head out of my room and scanned the halls. They were empty and yawning. The floating lights levitated overhead, lazily hanging in the air like listless jellyfish.

I guess I can look around, I thought, stepping into the halls. And if I get lost, one of the servants can lead me back to my room. I might as well get to know this place more intimately if I’ll be living here.

Left or right. My instincts told me to go left. I was left-handed, after all. So, I went left.

Upstairs was a series of bedrooms and one larger sitting room. What few were open were dark and seemed empty, but upon closer inspection, I could see servants idly tidying up around the space. Each turn of my head or blink caused them to change position. They made no sound as they did their duties.

I headed downstairs and came to another crossroads. Both directions from the staircase left or right, were marked by the floating lights I’d seen everywhere else in the manor. The ghost-lights, as I’d decided to name them, were the more curious things I’d seen here besides the servants. They resembled small pale candles. Instead of light coming from a flame on top, though, a halo of pale blue light radiated from the object itself. Their radiance gave the surroundings a certain melancholy, like watching the world through a veil of tears.

I headed down another hallway and stepped into a great ballroom with massive stained-glass windows. The glass depicted ravens in flight and blue roses blooming under a full moon. The actual moonlight struck the stained moon and sent a beam of pale light streaming into the ballroom. Alongside it sat the bright blue projections of the roses, orbiting the painted glass Moon. Other windows depicted strange pale figures with piercingly bright eyes. The figures were clad in long dark clothes which reminded me of dark plumage. Their immortalization in glass made them appear like dark saints of this forbidden cathedral. The moonlight outside passed through the glass and cast the floor in a great confluence of color.

Another window depicted that same crest of the raven and the rose, and that same Latin phrase.

I knew that phrase. In Somnis, Veritas. In dreams, truth. I figured it must’ve been a family crest. But what did dreams have to do with anything?

The ballroom was large enough for a hundred guests at least. But it was as silent and empty as a crypt. I wondered if anyone ever danced in here.

I entered the library. The fireplace was dark, so the entire room was lit by ghost-lights. I approached one of the bookcases and scanned through the volumes. I took out and leafed through a few books here and there before returning to their proper places. Many were old, yellowed pages, but just as many were new and in pristine condition. There were authors that I didn’t recognize: Arthur Miller, and Madeline L’Engle? They must’ve been from a country of which I was unfamiliar. The Madame was wealthy and a mystic of some kind. Maybe these were other magicians.

I passed a room with two rows of decorative armor. There were fifteen by my count. They were European in style, with cuirasses polished to a glimmering sheen, helmets with large colorful feathers poking from the top, and gauntlets with fingertips lined with gold. Various weapons lined a nearby weapon rack. They were arranged neatly and were polished to a mirror sheen like the armor. Axes, lances, and longswords lined the walls. There was a faint irony to it all: all kinds of blades that were deadly looking but used as decorative finery. I laughed to myself at the irony, at least what I saw of it.

I passed by a lounge with long flowing sheets of fabric trailing down from the ceiling and pillows scattered about. There was a small table with a large hookah which resembled a blooming flower. A strong smell of berries and smoke filled the air. I wondered if the servants were allowed to partake.

I passed by a few other rooms. They all held this same level of opulence and wealth. Yet it all felt so empty and cold and devoid of life.

On my way back to my room, I happened by a hallway which was not lit by the ghost-lights. It was a long stretch of darkness that seemed material, just stretching on and on in all directions. A featureless, endless tunnel of black, just here as if it were furniture or drapery. It was probably the fourth strangest thing I’d seen here. The only discernable object amidst the blackness was a simple door that appeared to be suspended in the void, far at the other end of the hallway.

What could be down there? I thought.

“That is the storage room.” A voice answered behind me. I turned around. A statue of a woman in maid garb stood before me. She pointed her feather duster at the hall.

“What’s in there?” I asked.

“Can’t tell you. If there’s one thing the Mistress values above all else, it’s her privacy.” The maid coughed and retracted her duster. “Ahem, where are my manners? Etienne, at your service.” She bowed.

I bowed in return. “What could your Madame have to hide?”

“The point is no one’s allowed in there. No questions asked.” Etienne reiterated sternly.

“Noted,” I said. “So… what exactly is this place?”

“Pardon?” Etienne asked.

“I mean, what is this place? What are you? Who is this Madame?” I asked. “I don’t mean to be rude. But this is all quite strange.” I gestured to the gloomy halls.

“Oh, you’re not the slightest bit rude!” Etienne laughed. “This place is not exactly welcoming, as you can see. But it wasn’t always this way, believe it or not.” Etienne spread her hands outward to the halls. “The sun shined and there were seasons once. All manner of guests would pass through these halls. There was laughter and life and light. But that all changed in an instant. Amazing how it happens, isn’t it? The next, we’re this.” Etienne sighed sadly and hung her head.

Stolen story; please report.

“Are you under a spell, then? Like a magic spell?” I waved my hands in an imitation of a magician’s flourish.

“It’s more of a curse.” Etienne’s voice suddenly became dark. “I’m not sure what could break it at this point.”

“A curse? But why? Who caused this, then?”

Etienne bit her lower lip. “It is not my place to speak on such matters. They are very personal to the Mistress.”

“You’re implying she has feelings to hurt.”

“Now listen, young man.” Etienne pointed declaratively at me. “Whatever you may think of her, the Mistress is not as she appears. There is a kind soul deep inside her.”

“She hasn’t convinced me so far.”

“You’ll see that I’m right. Mark my words.” Etienne asserted. “Not everyone is as they appear at first glance. You’d do well to remember that.”

“I know. My mother told me that too. I’m not sure I believe it right now.” I remarked glumly. The thought of Mother in the snow dragged my mood down.

“Give it time, cheri.” I felt a warm hand caress my cheek. “We’re all of two natures. Sometimes it takes a while for the better part to emerge.”

I managed a smile. “I’ll try to keep that in mind.”

“Now, is there any else you need?” Etienne asked.

I shook my head. “I think I’m alright for now.”

“In that case, I’ll take my leave.” Etienne blew a kiss and beamed. “Remember, we’re always around. And don’t go in the storage room!” There was a rush of air, and she was gone.

I gazed down the hall at the door. A curse? But why? This place used to be normal, she said. I had so many questions. And Etienne’s words about two natures. What could this Madame possibly be besides a heartless bird?

The words of my double from the dream echoed in my ears: You were a fool for abandoning them. I was no paragon either. What ground did I have to stand on about being decent? And if she knew how much I was already regretting my decision.

I sighed and walked away from the abyssal hallway.

I came to a slight glass door fogged up with ice. I tried wiping away the condensation to look outside, but it only fogged up again. Well, I might as well, I thought as I stepped outside.

It was an immense and beautiful garden. Rows of finely trimmed hedges covered in white tufts of snow lined the brick paths. Large statues stood proud against the night sky. High metal fences overgrown with thorny vines surrounded the perimeter. Ghost lights floated above, lighting the path.

As I walked amid the garden rows, I was fascinated and intimidated all at once. I’d already doubted my senses before. But seeing this place in all its dark beauty was something else entirely. I gently touched the leaves on the hedges, brushing off the snow. I could feel it, so it had to be real. It was all still too beautiful to believe.

A profound silence hung over this place. All I could hear was the crunch of snow under my feet as I explored. No birds or animals were scampering about. I wished Doux could’ve been with me. He could be anywhere in this cavernous place. Or dead. I hoped he was somewhere.

Massive statues of all kinds loomed overhead: Robed angels with gentle faces with small hands clasped in prayer; great beasts like lions and horses standing proud against the night. Several were of giant ravens not unlike the one in the town square. All the statues were carved from the same black stone. They could’ve been out here for centuries, but they showed no sign of decay or wear of any kind.

My wandering brought me to a small canopy at the center of the garden.

I froze when I saw who was seated on one of the benches.

Under the canopy sat the Madame. She was seated at a nearby bench. Her large form was cast in silhouette. She sat with her cane stuck firmly between her legs and both hands clasping the cane's head. The only discernable part of her was her eyes, bright amidst the dark. They slid to look at me.

“What do you want?” She rumbled.

“M-Madame—” I stammered. “I-I didn’t expect to see you here—”

“This is my house. I go where I wish.” She rose from her seat. Her towering form made me recede. “I ask again, what are you doing here?”

I swallowed. “I—um…”

“Well? Out with it!” Venom dripped from her words. Her eyes burned through me.

“I was just wandering.” I managed. “Taking in your estate.” I forced a smile. “It’s very beautiful in its… darkness.”

The Madame didn’t speak. She simply surveyed me, her eyes sliding up and down my form. She no doubt could see my fear plainly. I was never great at hiding my emotions anyway.

Her gaze hardened. “You think it’s beautiful.” She parroted disdainfully. “And what is so beautiful about it?” She took a step forward, slamming her cane with a loud crack.

“I—” I swallowed hard, backing away. “I passed by an armory not too long ago. It was very nice. Very deadly looking. The—the architecture of your estate is also impeccable. Whoever constructed this place had excellent taste. Or rather, I guess that would mean you constructed it—” My mouth went dry. I glanced behind and saw the railing of the canopy fast approaching. “And your garden—”

“What about the garden?” The Madame’s beak invaded my vision. I felt my back hit the railing. “Please, enlighten me.”

My hands met the railing as I braced myself against it. My stomach knotted itself several times over. She towered over me now. Her massive stature made her akin to one of the great statues in the garden. The Madame’s terrible eyes looked fit to pierce through me like cold daggers. I knew I had to choose my next words carefully, but my thundering heart told me that the consequences would be terrible regardless.

“Did I say or do something to upset you, Madame?” A voice smaller than a mouse’s squeak issued from my lips.

The Madame snorted. Her hot breath blasted my hair back. “You’re an idiot. There is nothing beautiful about this place.” She pulled away, and I peeled myself off the railing. I exhaled hard, realizing I had been holding my breath for far too long. “Look around. Do you think any of this is beautiful?” She threw out a hand to the gloomy garden.

I didn’t answer. I felt my face growing very warm.

“Oh, but that’s what you do, see the beauty in the world with your painter’s intuition? Dash it all, I say! You’re a fool!”

“I didn’t mean to do anything to upset you—” I attempted to defend myself.

“Don’t bother to explain yourself.” The Madame held out a hand to silence me. “You’ve ruined my night enough.” She huffed and strode away from the canopy and disappeared into the dark.

I was alone in the cold garden. The place seemed much colder now. My mind searched for a reason as to why the situation unfolded as it did. I wondered if there was something I could’ve said that would’ve prevented her outburst. Was I not kind enough? Was I too mean? I couldn’t figure out why.

Then I remembered the most important fact: The Madame wasn’t normal. She wasn’t even human. She was going to threaten or insult me regardless. As far as I knew, just breathing in the wrong way would make her upset with me. This was my fate, then. I would stay here and be berated by a monster for the rest of my days.

I looked out beyond the fence to the darkness of the forest. She mentioned that going out there meant never coming back. Between here and out there, I was beginning to wonder which was truly preferable.

I found my way back to my room and spent the rest of the day, or rather night, lounging around. I tried on some clothes, took another bath, then climbed into bed. Drowsiness overtook me, and I closed my eyes.

I’m at the canopy in the garden. Something lounges on the bench.

“Come closer. I won’t bite.” A serpentine voice coos from the darkness.

I roll my eyes. “You again.”

“Why are you so surprised to see your Maer?” The imposter jumped to his feet and sauntered toward me. “I’m the closest friend you’ll ever have. I’m practically your third brother!”

“Maer?”

“Ever had an imaginary friend? That’s what I am.” The Maer smiles widely, his cheeks straining. “I’m here to keep you out of trouble.”

“I don’t know if I need that right now…”

“Nonsense.” The Maer’s voice was suddenly in my ear. I feel his hands clutch my shoulders. “Besides, who’s going to protect you from her?”

“There’s not much you can do for me there.”

“Oh, come now.” The Maer spins me around and shakes me hard. “That wretched bird’s words wound you at every turn! You’re just too nice to acknowledge it.” A smirk grows over his face. “You were always too nice.”

“Since when is being nice a problem?”

“Being nice cost you a job, you idiot!” The Maer hisses. “Being nice makes you abandon your family! Being nice means you care! Why did you think you did anything wrong just this past night? It was she who attacked you, remember? Why should you care about this creature at all? You’ve barely been here a day and she’s done nothing but insult you!” The Maer jabs a finger into my chest. “That’s why you can’t defend yourself from her! You’re weak! Do you understand? Weak!”

I blinked. I was in my room.

Someone knocked on my door. “Master Marius. The Mistress summons you for dinner.” It was Finley.

I didn’t think I would ever get used to the conditions here. I never knew what time it was supposed to be. I could close my eyes for a minute and wake up three days later. I wouldn’t know the difference. And every time I would dream of that thing...

“Master Marius?” Finley said again.

I registered the knocking and Finley’s voice. My mood immediately turned sour. Right. Her. Another meal of listening to her mock and berate me. I couldn’t wait for the inevitable moment when I said something that accidentally upset her, after which she’d leave in a huff as if I’d offended her honor. If this was to be my life, then I would have no part of it. I wasn’t weak. I knew I wasn’t. “I’m not coming to dinner.”

“The Mistress does not like to be kept waiting.”

“Then let her wait!” I exclaimed.

“Of course, young sir.”

I sank back into bed. If I could just go back to bed and not have to deal with her for the rest of the night…

A loud banging on the door made me jump out of bed. “You are to come when I summon you!” The Madame’s voice screeched at me. “When I make a request, I demand it be honored!”

“Well, I’m sorry to disappoint you, but I don’t feel like up to it tonight!” I fired back.

“You will come out when I request, or you will—” She fumed. “I’ll—"

“What’s wrong? That sharp tongue of yours going dull already?” I returned her venom.

“If you don’t come out, then you’re never getting another meal here! I’ll make you hunt for your food!”

“You know what?” I strode up to inches away from the door. “I’d prefer that than spend more time with you!”

An ear-splitting screech from behind the door made me recoil. “Fine!” The Madame banged on the door one last time so hard it shook.

My body was coiled like a spring as I listened for her cane clacking against the floor. The sound soon faded to silence. I peeked into the hall and glanced down both ends. She was gone. My heart was still beating fast from the exchange. I shut my door and sank to the ground, hands in my face. I couldn’t take any more of this.

What am I going to do? I thought to myself over and over.

Another knock at the door.

“I’m not eating with you!” I yelled at the door.

“Just me, young sir.” Finley’s voice replied.

I got up with a shock and opened the door. Finley stood with an apologetic smile and a tray of food in his hands. By his side stood Etienne.

“I’m so sorry,” I said, running my hands through my hair.

“The apology is ours,” Etienne said, nervously fumbling with her feather duster. “The Mistress’ temperament can be unpredictable.”

“As unpredictable as a typhoon.”

“Again, apologies.” Finley bowed his head. “The cook prepared this for you.” He removed the silver covering on the tray. “Roasted chicken, potatoes, and beans with a mousse as dessert.”

I graciously took the tray. “What will happen if she finds out?”

“She won’t be happy, but there’s little she could do to us.” Etienne asserted. “I care deeply for the Mistress, but it is difficult sometimes. She’s not in good spirits most days.”

“That was belligerent and infantile.” I grumbled. “She’s horrid.”

“If you only you knew, young sir,” Finley said quietly. “But I’m not the one to tell you that. It wouldn’t be my place.” He immediately adopted a cordial expression. “When you’re finished, just leave your plate outside. We will take care of the rest.”

“Thank you.” I nodded. I blinked and they were gone.

I brought the tray to a small table and set it down. As I gazed out the window into the night, the wheels in my head began turning. What exactly did my host have to hide?

I chewed on some potatoes as I watched the snowfall.

I would find out, one way or another.