Chapter 3

The group was led by Alexander’s little sister, Emma Wolfram, a very quiet yet smart girl. Ethan steps up, his claws in his pocket. “Are you an Earl as well?” he asks

“No, I am next in line though.”

“Hey I know an Earl! A bit young for that position. Last name is Phantomhive or something. I’ve never gotten the chance to meet him though…” Mumbles Griffin, who is struggling to keep up with the others.

Their Voices echoed through the emptiness, the sound bouncing off the walls.

As they walked through the long and dark hallway, they admired the dimly lit paintings and wallpaper, which was dark red with black accents. There were swirls printed on. The paintings were mostly of plants and animals, all with a certain abstract ascetic. “I see you are admiring the paintings. I take it you like them?” Erin snickers and walks up beside her, placing his hand on her shoulder. “Although they are nice, the only thing I’m admiring in this hallway is you.” Emma rolls her eyes and pushes him away with a scowl, then shoots him a look. Erin looks down at his feet, disappointed. Ethan pats him on the shoulder and laughs. “Don’t worry bud. You’ll find someone” He says in a joking fashion.

Oliva glances over at Erin and tries not to laugh by smothering her giggles with a cough. “Pardon me, Madam” she says to Emma.

Emma opens two large doors at the end of the dark hallway and lets them through, revealing a beautiful and sparkling dining room, set up with a long table and multiple chairs. As they step inside, they all gawk at the amazing sight. “This place is… amazing.” Says Griffin softly, catching up with them and ruffling his feathers.

Outside, the snow continues to fall quickly, building upon the ground. “Alexander thinks it would be best for you and the other guests to stay at the manor until the snow lets up.” says Emma, fixing her glasses. “Please, wait here for the other guests. You may find a seat or socialize. Please excuse my rudeness, but I must go find my brother to help him. Thank you.” She bows and leaves the room, the double doors slamming behind her.

“Looks a bit different from the last time I saw it. Much more… sparkly…” exclaims Ethan “Well I think it looks nice! But Emma’s right. This snow is far too thick to see through. And you would freeze to death if you stood out there for too long!” says Erin, Excitedly. Griffin, not knowing either Ethan nor Erin, Finds a seat near the end and covers his head with his wings, too shy to talk.

Erin breaks away from Ethan and leaves him standing near the doors. He looks towards them and reaches into his pocket. “Hey Erin, I’m gonna go find the restroom in this place.” he says as he slinks out of the room unnoticed. “All right Ethan!” says Erin, unaware that he has left.