The next morning, Sebastian seemed unconcerned when Eliza recounted her experience.
"The manor has its quirks," he said, pouring her a cup of tea. "But I assure you, you're safe here."
Eliza wasn't convinced. Determined to uncover the truth, she began exploring the mansion. She discovered a locked door in the east wing, its wood scarred with deep gouges. A strange humming noise emanated from behind it.
"What's in there?" she asked Sebastian later.
His face darkened. "Some doors are best left unopened, Eliza. Promise me you won't go near it."
But Eliza couldn't let it go. That night, armed with a stolen key, she crept back to the door. The humming grew louder as she turned the key in the lock. The door creaked open to reveal a dimly lit room filled with books, strange symbols etched into the floor, and a mirror that pulsed with an unnatural light.
The mirror drew her in, its surface rippling like water. As she reached out, a pale hand shot out of the glass, grabbing her wrist. Eliza screamed, yanking her arm free. The hand retreated, but a voice echoed from the mirror.
"Free me," it whispered. "You're the only one who can."