The forest path was quieter than expected.

The trail leading to the secluded mansion owned by the Marquis was covered in a thick layer of fallen leaves due to infrequent foot traffic. The rustling of dry leaves underfoot was the only companion breaking the silence of the awkward journey. Judging by the sunlight filtering through the branches growing dimmer, the mansion seemed to be drawing near.

What appeared at the end of the road was a two-story mansion, far too dignified to be called modest.

Green ivy covered half of the white exterior walls, and the garden was lined with neatly trimmed shrubs. However, there was one strange thing. Thick curtains were drawn over every window in the house, giving the building a dark, somber impression despite it being broad daylight.

A woman was waiting to greet you in front of the mansion's entrance. She looked to be in her thirties, with short-cropped brown hair and an expressionless face. Seeing her neatly pressed attire, she appeared to be an employee of the estate.

Guest. The new recruit. Correct?

Her tone was flat. A voice devoid of both welcome and hostility. It was the tone of someone simply following a verification procedure.

Skip the greetings. You just need to hear a few rules. It's simple. Follow me for now.

The woman pushed herself off the pillar and jerked her chin toward the mansion.