The Shadows of Black Manor

ilence that filled the room. The only sound was the soft ticking of the grandfat

h breakfast dishes. She set the tray down in front of Emilia,

ns," Emilia said, smil

eadable. "You're welcome, Miss Grey," she said

There was something about the housekeeper's demeanor that seemed off, somet

kfast, Asher Blackwood entered the room. He was dressed in a crisp, white

he said, smiling at her.

thing about Asher's smile that seemed to unsettle her, someth

ite her. The portrait depicted a beautiful, young woman with long, curly hair and piercing, green eyes. She was

ait?" Emilia asked, her curios

regained his composure. "That is Elizabeth Blackwood," he sa

. "She's beautiful," she said, he

d. "Elizabeth Blackwood was a remarkable woman. She was a talented art

ation. There was something about Elizabeth Blackwood that seeme

zabeth Blackwood," Emilia said, her

d be delighted to tell you more," he said. "But first,

ment. She was eager to learn more about Elizabeth Blackwood, and she was eag

al chandeliers, and the beautifully, landscaped gardens. As they walked, Emilia couldn't help but feel a sense of awe

om that was tucked away in a quiet corner of the manor. The room

at Emilia. "I spend most of my time in h

ks on every subject imaginable, from art and history to science and philosophy.

pon a small, leather-bound book. The book w

milia asked, hol

d his composure. "That is Elizabeth Blackwood's diary," he said, hi

"May I read it?" she asked, her c

ent, before nodding his h