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The moon hung low in the inky sky, its silvery radiance spilling over the sprawling estate like a luminous waterfall. Its ethereal glow danced upon the treetops and kissed the weathered stones of the ancient mansion, imbuing the scene with an otherworldly aura. Yet, despite its serene beauty, the night was far from tranquil.

Tension clung to the air like a heavy mist, pregnant with an unspoken anticipation that seemed to hum through the darkness. The rustling leaves and distant hoots of owls created a symphony of suspense, as if nature itself sensed the impending events. It was as if the very night held its breath, waiting for something to shatter its stillness.

In the heart of this enigmatic setting, Elara's heart raced in perfect rhythm with the palpable tension. Her hurried footsteps echoed through the dimly lit corridors, each footfall a desperate plea for escape. Her gown, once a symbol of her innocence, now clung to her like a tattered emblem of defiance. The flickering flames