《Veil of Shadows》


 Chapter 1

    All men are not born equal. Some are born into squalor, some into wealth, and some are born to inherit the earth, while others are born to be disinherited by God.


    Eliyah Morewood walked through the busy main street, which remained a hive of activity. The cobblestone streets of the city buzzed with the ceaseless clamour of daily life. Horse-drawn carriages clattered by, their drivers shouting above the din, while vendors hawked their wares from cluttered stalls. The air was thick with the mingling scents of fresh bread, coal smoke, and the distinct, earthy smell of the nearby factories. Children darted between the legs of pedestrians, their laughter a sharp contrast to the grumbles of workers hurrying to their next shift.


    Eliyah lived close enough to the clinic to enjoy the occasional stroll, taking in the bustling atmosphere. Today, however, the weather was averse to her. The clouds hung low and oppressive, dark, and threatening. Soon enough, the sky opened up, unleashing a torrent of hard, cold rain. Thunder rumbled ominously in the distance, growing ever closer.


    Eliyah cursed under her breath and pulled her shawl tighter around her shoulders and hair, breaking into a run. She dashed through the slick streets, her shoes splashing through puddles, until she reached her destination: a small clinic that stood out starkly against the drab buildings surrounding it.


    The clinic was a modest structure, its brick walls clean and well-maintained despite the grime that seemed to cling to everything else in the city. A sign above the door read "Baskerville Women''s Clinic," named after its benefactor, a wealthy noble who enjoyed a life of luxury far removed from the harsh realities faced by the working class. It was one of the only clinics in the area that employed female Physicians, but its services were exclusively for women, a fact that drew both gratitude and resentment from the community.


    Inside, the clinic was a sanctuary from the chaos outside. The walls were painted a soothing pale green, and the air was filled with the scent of antiseptic mingled with lavender. A few wooden benches lined the waiting area, where women of all ages sat with their children, waiting for their turn to see the Physician. Shelves stocked with medical supplies and jars of herbal remedies lined one wall, accompanied by paintings benefactors had sent in.


    Eliyah shook off the rain and smiled warmly at the unfamiliar faces. As she moved towards the back, she greeted the head nurse, who was busy organizing patient records.


    "Rough morning, Ilya?" the nurse asked, glancing up with a sympathetic smile and handing over a hot cup of tea.


    "Just a bit," Ilya replied, her smile turning wry. "But nothing a hot cup of tea won''t fix."


    She hung up her dripping shawl before heading to her office. Despite having been working here for just over a month, she had already gotten used to the rhythm of the place. Taking out her large file full of patient data, she flipped through it, checking the patient timetable left on her desk. Many women sent calling cards before coming, which was encouraged to manage the flow of patients.


    Her first patient today was Everlyn Taylor, a young girl of only sixteen. Her mother had sent an urgent calling card last night and had paid handsomely for her case to be expedited. Ilya sighed and sat down; new patients were exhausting, requiring so much paperwork. She wondered why the girl hadn¡¯t gone to her family Physician since she seemed quite well-to-do.


    Dropping the file, Ilya headed outside, walking behind the reception to the hidden waiting room. ¡°Everlyn?¡± she called out.


    A young girl, sitting next to an older woman, stood up. Everlyn wore a modest, high-necked dress in a muted shade of blue, with a neatly tied bonnet perched atop her wavy brown hair. Her eyes, a striking shade of green, were calm despite the situation. In her hand was a beautiful set of sandalwood prayer beads, which she casually sifted through one bead at a time. The older woman, presumably her mother or governess, was dressed in a similar fashion. Her dark green dress was accented with lace at the cuffs and collar, and she wore a small hat adorned with a feather. Her demeanour was quite anxious and concerned, a stark contrast to the younger girl.


    "This way, please," Ilya said with a reassuring smile, leading them back to her office. The two women entered first, and Ilya closed the door behind them. She walked over to her seat, taking a quill pen in hand and preparing a pre-printed sheet of paper.


    ¡°Can I have your full name, please?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Everlyn Taylor,¡± the older woman answered immediately. Ilya noticed Everlyn frown and look down at her hands, obscuring her eyes from Ilya¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°Date of birth?¡± Ilya continued, and the older woman answered again.


    ¡°And what is your relationship to the patient?¡±


    ¡°I am her mother.¡±


    ¡°She is my stepmother,¡± Everlyn spoke up this time, correcting the woman. Mrs. Taylor seemed a bit embarrassed by her stepdaughter''s harsh words, but Ilya pretended not to notice.


    ¡°What brings you here, Lady Taylor?¡±


    Everlyn remained quiet, and Ilya waited patiently for a moment before realizing the young lady had no intention of speaking. Ilya turned to Mrs. Taylor, the look of confusion in her eyes obvious. Mrs. Taylor sighed and began to explain.


    ¡°I have reason to believe that Everlyn is pregnant.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I see¡­ How come?¡± Ilya spoke awkwardly. Despite dealing with pregnant women regularly, teen pregnancies weren¡¯t something she was familiar with.


    ¡°Her¡­ monthly course is late.¡±


    Ilya scribbled down Mrs. Taylor''s words on the piece of paper. ¡°When was the last time she had her¡­ monthly course?¡±


    ¡°About three months ago.¡±


    Nodding, Ilya continued to take notes. ¡°Any other symptoms?¡±


    ¡°Yes, she has been vomiting a lot these mornings. She originally tried to hide it from me, but how could I not notice? I have had three children!¡± Mrs. Taylor said, exasperated.


    ¡°I see. And Everlyn, this is quite a personal question, have you been¡­ in union with a man?¡± Ilya asked cautiously.


    ¡°I asked her the same question; she insists she has not been!¡± Mrs. Taylor exclaimed. ¡°At first, I thought she just did not understand what I meant, so I showed her my manuals, and she still insisted!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s strange.¡±


    ¡°Yes, it is!¡± Mrs. Taylor looked frustrated. It was obvious she had tried to get through to Everlyn, but nothing had worked. ¡°I brought her here to check with the Physician. If she is indeed pregnant, the child must go. I heard you are very good at your job, so I brought her here.¡±


    Ilya glanced again at Everlyn. She looked angry and was holding her belly protectively.


    ¡°Then I will examine her. Do you mind waiting in the private room, Mrs. Taylor?¡± she asked. Mrs. Taylor nodded, getting up and stepping out, leaving just the two of them alone. ¡°Everlyn, you want to keep the child, right? If you do not want to get rid of it, you need to tell me.¡±


    Everlyn finally glanced at her, her anger breaking down to sadness. ¡°I want to have this baby,¡± she whispered. Ilya couldn¡¯t help but sigh.


    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    ¡°Who is the father, Everlyn?¡± Ilya asked, trying to soothe the girl''s nerves.


    Everlyn looked around as if assessing whether this was a safe environment. ¡°Please tell me so I can help you,¡± Ilya emphasized.


    The girl finally spoke, ¡°an angel.¡±


    Ilya tried not to react, Everlyn¡¯s eyes were so pure and genuine it felt like she believed she had been impregnated by an angel.


    ¡®It seems like today I have finally met a mad woman.¡¯


    Ilya forced a smile but said nothing, instead she led the girl to complete a full examination, but the results only left her more confused. She called Mrs Taylor back once Evelyn was dressed adequately and explained the results.


    ¡°I examined Everlyn thoroughly,¡± Ilya began, ¡°and there is no evidence that she is pregnant. Her symptoms could be caused by a variety of other factors, such as hormonal imbalances, stress, or even gastrointestinal issues. From where I stand, it is very unlikely that she is pregnant.¡±


    Mrs. Taylor looked greatly relieved. ¡°Oh, thank heavens,¡± she said, visibly relaxing.


    ¡°However,¡± Ilya continued, ¡°if you notice her belly growing or if her symptoms persist, please come back for further evaluation.¡±


    Everlyn glared at you, insisting, ¡°But I am pregnant. I know I am!¡±


    Ilya maintained her professional stance. ¡°Everlyn, I understand you feel strongly about this, but all the tests indicate otherwise. We¡¯ll keep monitoring your condition closely.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much! May God bless you!¡± She turned to Everlyn grabbing her arm. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s go home!¡± Everlyn hissed but was dragged out by her mother. Ilya sighed once they were gone and finished writing the consultation history on the piece of paper before slipping it in the file with her other patients. By the time she was done, her cup of tea was already lukewarm.


    The clinic ended as usual in the mid-afternoon. Saying goodbye to the head nurse, Ilya began her walk home. The weather had not improved one bit in the hours she had spent attending to patients. Rain poured heavily, and the streets were slick with water. Ilya pulled her shawl tighter around her and quickened her pace, eager to escape the cold and wet.


    As she approached her home, a large, terraced house with multiple rooms, Ilya sighed in relief. She unlocked the door and stepped inside, shaking off the rain. The warmth of the house enveloped her immediately, and she felt a wave of comfort wash over her.


    ¡°Good afternoon, Lady Ilya,¡± greeted her housekeeper, a young woman named Agnes. Agnes was in her early thirties, with a kind demeanour and a meticulous nature that kept the house spotless.


    ¡°Good afternoon, Agnes,¡± Ilya replied, removing her wet shawl, and hanging it on the stand. ¡°Has lunch been prepared?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s ready for you in the dining room,¡± Agnes said with a smile.


    Ilya made her way to the dining room, where a delicious meal awaited her. She sat down with a book she had been reading recently, hoping to enjoy a quiet lunch. As she took her first bite, she remembered the strange patient from that morning.


    ¡°Agnes,¡± she began, ¡°I had an unusual case today. A young girl, Everlyn. Her mother believed she was pregnant, but all the examinations showed she was not.¡±


    Agnes, ever the empathetic soul, shook her head sadly. ¡°Poor girl, she must have had a hard life to end up in such confusion. It¡¯s always heartbreaking to see young ones in distress.¡±


    Ilya nodded reluctantly, not wanting to dwell too much on the girl¡¯s troubles. ¡°I suppose so,¡± she said, turning her attention back to her meal.


    After finishing her lunch, Ilya had some time to herself. She moved to her study and began sorting through the letters that had arrived for her. There were several from the Morewood residence, which she recognized immediately but chose to stuff into a drawer, unwilling to open them. Another letter, simply signed "A," caught her eye, but she stuffed that one away as well.


    She read through the rest of the letters, dealing with the mundane matters they contained. Eventually, the quiet and warmth of the room lulled her into a drowsy state, and she dozed off in her chair.


    Her nap was short-lived. The ringing of the doorbell startled her awake. Groggy but curious, she rose from her seat and made her way to the door, wondering who could be visiting her at this hour.


    Walking down the stairs, Ilya was met with a young gentleman standing at the front door, just below her. Upon seeing her, he introduced himself.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to bother you. I am Detective Black. I¡¯m here to talk to¡­ Physician Morewood?¡±


    Detective Black was in his late twenties and a strikingly handsome young man. He had long, blonde hair tied back in a neat braid, and his sharp, blue eyes exuded confidence and intelligence. His attire was polished yet practical, with a crisp white shirt, a black tie, and a well-fitted vest under his coat. He looked very much like the picture of composed determination.


    Ilya noticed his name immediately. The Black family, known for their high-ranking positions in national security. A mischievous smile played on her lips as she decided to engage him in small talk.


    ¡°Detective Black, is it?¡± she said, her tone light and slightly flirtatious. ¡°It¡¯s not every day I get a visit from someone with such a handsome¡­name. What brings you here?¡±


    He looked slightly amused but remained professional. ¡°I¡¯m in need of some assistance from a gynaecologist, and I was told that Physician Morewood is the best in the area.¡±


    Ilya raised an eyebrow, her interest piqued. ¡°Well, you¡¯re in luck. Physician Morewood at your service. What kind of assistance are you looking for?¡±


    He hesitated for a moment, as if carefully choosing his words. ¡°It¡¯s a delicate matter, I¡¯m afraid. It involves a case that requires your specific expertise. Would you be willing to come with me? I can explain more on the way.¡±


    Ilya''s curiosity was now fully piqued. ¡°Of course, Detective. Please wait here while I change into something more suitable for work.¡±


    As she turned to head back up the stairs. ¡°I won¡¯t be long, I promise.¡±


    Detective Black nodded, a small smile playing on his lips as he watched her go. Ilya quickly changed into her professional attire, her mind buzzing with possibilities about what could require her expertise outside the clinic.


    Ilya quickly changed into a beautiful and elegant dress before heading out with Detective Black. The dress was a stunning piece, featuring delicate lace and intricate details. The bodice was fitted with black velvet, cinching her waist and highlighting her figure, while the sleeves and upper portion were made of fine, white lace, creating an exquisite contrast. The lace was adorned with frills that added a touch of sophistication and grace to her appearance.


    As she descended the stairs, her dark, curly hair framed her face perfectly, cascading down her shoulders in soft waves. Her warm brown eyes glimmered with curiosity and a hint of excitement. The dress she wore accentuated her regal bearing, making her look both professional and approachable.


    Agnes, busy with her tasks, couldn''t help but notice Ilya''s attire. She looked at her knowingly, a smile playing on her lips.


    Detective Black, waiting by the door, stood up straighter as Ilya approached. He was momentarily taken aback by her appearance but quickly regained his composure.


    ¡°Shall we?¡± she asked, her tone now more business-like. Agnes brough a fine wool cloak and handed it to Detective Black who helped Ilya cover up.


    Detective Black extended his arm slightly, gesturing for her to lead the way. ¡°After you, Physician Morewood.¡±


    As they stepped outside, Agnes watched from the window, shaking her head with a fond smile.


    Ilya and Detective Black walked towards his carriage, the rain still drizzling lightly. As they climbed inside, Ilya took his gloved hand to help herself up.


    The carriage ride was tense. Detective Black struggled to find where to look as he tried desperately to maintain his professionalism. Ilya hummed softly to herself, enjoying the discomfort her presence seemed to cause him. The silence between them stretched, filled only by the steady rhythm of the horse''s hooves on the wet cobblestones.


    Eventually, Ilya decided to break the silence. "So, Detective Black, why exactly were you looking for me?"


    He cleared his throat, still avoiding her gaze. "There''s been a murder in Fort Park."


    Ilya was momentarily shocked. Murders were not an everyday occurrence in their usually quiet district. "A murder? But why do you need a gynaecologist?"


    His expression turned grim. "You''ll see when we get there. It''s... it''s something that requires your specific expertise."


    Ilya felt her heart drop. His tone and the tension in his face suggested the situation was dire. "How bad was it?" she asked, already fearing the answer.


    Detective Black nodded. "The manner of her death... it''s quite gruesome."


    The rest of the carriage ride was silent, the gravity of the situation sinking in. Ilya''s mind raced with possibilities, each more horrific than the last. The rain outside seemed to match the sombre mood within the carriage.


    They arrived, stopping in front of number 18 Milestone Road. The house was unassuming, its exterior blending in with the other homes on the street, but the air around it was heavy with a sense of dread and curiosity.


    Detective Black helped Ilya out of the carriage, his touch gentle but his demeanour focused and serious. They approached the house, which was cordoned off by the police. A few officers nodded at Detective Black, stepping aside to let them pass.


    Inside, the atmosphere was thick with tension. The entry hall was dimly lit, and the murmurs of hushed conversations could be heard from the adjoining rooms. Detective Black led Ilya upstairs, stopping in front of a closed door.


    "Prepare yourself," he said quietly. "It''s not an easy sight."


    He opened the door, and Ilya stepped into the room. The scene before her was like something out of a nightmare. Flesh and skin were stretched grotesquely, attached to each corner of the room, forming a macabre web. At the centre of this horrific tableau were the ribs, splayed open, and organs spilling onto the floor in a gruesome display.


    The head of the body hung forward, bloodied brown hair barely covering striking green eyes filled with terror. Ilya''s heart lurched as she recognized the victim. It was Everlyn Taylor, and somehow, she was still alive.

 Chapter 2

    Ilya looked at the mass of flesh spread out on the cold metallic table of the autopsy room. She donned her surgical gown and gloves, the room brightly lit, making every organ visible. The metallic smell of antiseptic hung in the air, mingling with the faint, lingering scent of decay. She picked up her scalpel, her hands steady.


    Outside the autopsy room, Detective Black sat on the floor, his back against the wall, waiting for Dr. Morewood to finish her report. The door soon opened, and he stood up quickly to face her.


    "You''re still here, Detective?" she asked, seeing him.


    "I figured it would be faster this way," he said.


    "Well, I have the report, so I can just tell you. Everlyn should not be alive, but she is. Her heart is still beating, and her brain is still intact. There''s something else that''s really strange."


    Detective Black waited for her to finish.


    "Her uterus... there is a placenta. She was pregnant."


    Detective Black stared at Dr. Morewood blankly. "But I thought¡ª"


    "When I saw her this morning, she wasn¡¯t pregnant. She said she was, but I examined her, and she was not. This placenta belongs to a full-term baby. Everlyn Taylor was not nine months pregnant."


    Detective Black didn¡¯t know how to take this. "So there¡¯s some kind of serial killer stealing babies?"


    Dr. Morewood sighed; he still wasn¡¯t getting it. "Detective Black, this woman was not pregnant this morning, and yet she is now in a half-alive, mangled state, and someone has torn through her uterus. This doesn¡¯t seem like something a serial killer would do."


    Something sinister was happening here, something she honestly didn¡¯t want to be a part of.


    "I will take your opinion into consideration. Thank you, Dr. Morewood."


    Ilya looked at him; he didn¡¯t seem convinced, so she could only sigh and give him the paper report. "God¡¯s grace with your investigation, Detective."


    He nodded and let her leave.


    Ilya got home rather late. Her street was silent, so she remained as quiet as possible when opening the door in case Agnes was asleep.


    "Welcome back, Ilya."


    Agnes was waiting for her in the receiving room with a candle. She was wearing her night shawl as it was quite cold that night.


    "I¡¯m sorry I¡¯m late, Agnes. That took longer than I expected."


    Agnes helped her in and put her shoes away. "It''s alright, Ilya. Come, let¡¯s get you warmed up. Would you like some tea?"


    Ilya nodded, exhaustion seeping into her bones. "Yes, please. Thank you, Agnes."


    As Agnes went to prepare the tea, Ilya sank into a chair, her mind and body were spent. She reclined on her armchair, unable to move anymore.


    She hadn¡¯t slept a lot the night before and now she had gone the entire night without sleeping. Did she still need to go to work late that day?


    ¡°Here you go.¡± Agnes came back with a cup of hot tea.


    ¡°Thank you, Agnes.¡±


    Agnes watched her settle in and slowly drink her tea, she wanted to ask what had happened with the investigation but didn¡¯t know if it was her place to ask.


    ¡°If it¡¯s ok, I will retire, I am really too tired.¡±


    ¡°Do you want a bath first?¡± Agnes asked.


    ¡°That would be amazing, thank you Agnes.¡±


    A bubble bath was just was Ilya needed, her body felt relaxed, she had no idea how tense she was from what she saw that night. Agnes retired after she left Ilya upstairs and so now her house was silent.


    She drank her cup as she listened to the foam, she couldn¡¯t help but hum to fill the void of silence. Slowly, she slipped off to sleep in the water.


    That morning: Agnes knocked on the door to wake her up for work.


    Ilya groaned and got up from her bed, she was nicely tucked in and didn¡¯t want to get out of her warm cosy bed.


    ¡°Miss Ilya, if you don¡¯t wake up your boss will be cross!¡±


    Remembering that dandy made her force herself out of bed.


    ¡°I¡¯m awake!¡± She shouted so Agnes would stop knocking on the door.


    She dragged her body to the bathroom, her tub was still full of now cold water, she couldn¡¯t remember getting to the bed, but she must have gotten there somehow. She freshened up and dressed up as usual and started her walk to the clinic.


    This time she arrived as the head nurse was preparing the schedule for today.


    ¡°Morning.¡±


    ¡°Morning Ilya, today¡¯s schedule is not too bad.¡± She handed the list to Ilya who skimmed through.


    ¡°Thanks, who is my emergency patient?¡±


    ¡°Actually, there is a detective here to see you.¡±


    ¡®A detective?¡¯


    She wondered if it was Detective Black.


    Going through to the back she went to the VIP room again.


    ¡°Detective Black?¡±


    There he was waiting for her, this time with another woman in tow.


    Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    ¡°Sorry for bothering you again Dr Morewood.¡± He said standing and the woman stood promptly too, she looked nervous and fidgety. A little mouse of a girl, brown hair, green eyes and beautiful freckles across her rosy cheeks.


    Seeing Ilya look at the girl Detective Black spoke up, ¡°can we talk in your office Dr?¡±


    ¡°Oh of course, I¡¯m sorry, right this way.¡±


    She led them to her office and they sat her across her desk as she sat on the opposite side of the desk.


    ¡°So Detective, what can I help you with? Again.¡± Her again was emphasised on, she was too tired to think too much about Everlyn¡¯s case.


    ¡°This is Ms Beauchamp, she says she¡¯s.. pregnant.¡±


    ¡®Not this again.¡¯


    ¡°Ms Beauchamp, are you ok with Detective Black being in the room?¡± The girl jumped at the sound of her name, she looked up with big scared eyes and eventually nodded.


    ¡®Where did he find her? She looks petrified.¡¯


    ¡°Alright Ms Beauchamp, when was your last cycle?¡±


    ¡°Um.. 12 months ago.¡± Her voice was almost unbearably quiet.


    ¡¯12 months is a long time, but at least she¡¯s probably not pregnant.¡¯


    ¡°Then, has it been a concern to you?¡±


    ¡°She says she¡¯s pregnant.¡± Detective Black said getting impatient.


    ¡°I see, then let me examine her. Detective?¡±


    He got the hint and stepped outside. Ilya looked at the scared girl and sighed.


    Detective black found himself sitting on the floor in the hallway, the bags under his eyes were heavy. He yawned trying to stay up, the girl had showed up to the police station this morning alone and scared out of her mind. He offered to come with her to get checked out and this was the only clinic he could think of.


    The door opened and Ilya stepped out.


    ¡°Is everything ok?¡± He asked looking up.


    ¡°I¡¯m just getting a second opinion. Give me a few minutes.¡±


    She stalked up to get another Doctor, this time she was not pregnant either, she was beginning to think it was her mistake.


    By the time Ms Beauchamp was checked a second time she was still not pregnant.


    Ilya looked at the girl and the Detective sitting in her office and didn¡¯t know what to do. 12 months without a cycle and no symptoms of pregnancy, it was weird.


    ¡°Why do you think you¡¯re pregnant?¡± She finally asked.


    ¡°An angel gave me a baby.¡±


    Ilya felt a chill up her spine, she had a bad feeling.


    ¡°What¡¯s her full name?¡± She asked Detective Black, the look on his face confirmed all she wanted to know.


    ¡°Everlyn Beauchamp.¡±


    Ilya looked blankly at Detective Black, this was weird, he had to admit this was weird.


    He understood the look in her eyes and he also had to admit, this was starting to freak him out.


    ¡°Why did you come in today? How long have you known you were pregnant?¡± Ilya asked the girl.


    ¡°I had a dream last night that I would be giving birth soon, I was a big concerned since my belly hasn¡¯t grown, so I was worried I had lost the baby.¡±


    ¡®The on earth does that mean?¡¯


    ¡°Can you tell us a bit about it ¨C the dream I mean.¡± Detective Black quickly spoke up.


    "I''ve had multiple dreams, but the first one was a year ago. I was approached by an angel." She paused, a look of adoration crossed her face. "He was beautiful, with blonde hair like the sun, and beautiful blue eyes. He promised me that I would bear the child of god."


    Ilya felt her heart skip a beat as she listened to Everlyn''s description, she glanced at Detective Black, who was scribbling notes, his expression tense.


    "Everlyn," Ilya began gently, "did the angel say anything else to you in the dream? Did he give you any instructions or guidance?"


    Everlyn nodded again, her eyes distant as she recalled the memory. ¡°He said that I must protect the baby at all costs and trust in the divine plan."


    Detective Black looked up from his notes, his face grim. "Everlyn, has anyone else heard about these dreams or your pregnancy?"


    Everlyn shook her head. "No, I haven''t told anyone except for you both now. I was afraid people would think I''m mad."


    Ilya exchanged a worried glance with Detective Black.


    "Everlyn, I am worried for your safety, do you mind staying at the station just for tonight?"


    The girl looked uncomfortable at the idea, Detective Black looked up at Ilya, ¡°Dr Morewood, is it possible..¡±


    Ilya sighed, ¡°she can stay at my place tonight, but you should stay with her as well. I do not feel comfortable hosting a stranger without some form of protection.¡±


    He nodded, ¡°that is understandable Dr Morewood.¡±


    ¡°But please keep this under raps, my reputation is at stake here.¡±


    ¡°Naturally.¡±


    She was still unmarried, to have a man at her house would set people¡¯s tongues on fire.


    Ilya could not focus for the rest of her day; Detective Black and Everlyn had left and so she saw the rest of her patients as usual.


    When it was time for her to leave, she was stopped by the head nurse.


    ¡°Is everything alright?¡± Ilya asked.


    ¡°Someone came and left you a parcel.¡±


    She handed Ilya a small brown parcel, It was light and didn¡¯t really sound like anything.


    ¡°Thank you, I think I won¡¯t be in tomorrow. So I might see you next week.¡±


    ¡°Have a lovely weekend, Dr Morewood.¡±


    Ilya walked home, the parcel tucked under her arm. When she arrived, Agnes was there to welcome her. "Good evening, Ilya," Agnes greeted with a warm smile, her black hair was tied back in a ponytail.


    "Good evening, Agnes. You¡¯ll be pleased to hear we¡¯ll have guests tonight," Ilya informed her.


    Agnes¡¯s eyes lit up with excitement. "Guests! Wonderful! I¡¯ll make something special for dinner."


    Ilya smiled. She didn''t stop Agnes; "Thank you, Agnes."


    Ilya went straight upstairs, feeling the weight of the day pressing down on her. She left the parcel on her desk and fell into bed, exhausted, falling asleep almost immediately.


    Later that night, Detective Black arrived with Everlyn. Agnes, true to her word, had prepared a special dinner and was her usual hospitable self, making Everlyn feel as welcome as possible.


    "I hope you like roast chicken," Agnes said cheerily as they all sat down to eat.


    "It''s lovely, thank you," Everlyn replied, her discomfort from earlier easing under Agnes¡¯s warmth.


    Detective Black maintained his professional demeanour but appreciated the hospitality. "Thank you for allowing us to stay here, Dr. Morewood."


    "It''s no trouble," Ilya replied. "Given the circumstances, it''s the least I could do."


    She really didn¡¯t want this to happen again, so hopefully this situation would pass with no more deaths and the case of Everlyn Taylor was just a fluke.


    After they ate, Ilya took Everlyn to her room, a small side room with a skylight.


    ¡°I¡¯m just in the next room so if you need anything or feel uncomfortable in anyway tonight, you know where to find me.¡±


    ¡°Thank you Dr Morewood.¡± She said softly, Ilya closed the door behind her and met with Detective black who seemed like he wanted to talk to her.


    "Dr. Morewood, are you free to talk for a moment?" he asked.


    "Of course," she replied. They both went downstairs to the receiving room. Ilya lit a candle since Agnes had retired for the night. The soft glow of the candle cast long shadows on the walls, adding a sense of intimacy to their conversation.


    Detective Black sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I have to admit, I feel increasingly out of my depth with this case. It''s like nothing I''ve ever encountered before."


    Ilya didn''t offer the reassurance he seemed to be seeking. Instead, she said, "Call a priest." Because why was he telling her? What was she supposed to do?


    He laughed, though there was little humour in it. "If I were a hundred percent sure this was supernatural, I would. But I still think there''s a rational explanation."


    "Call a priest," she insisted, her tone leaving no room for argument. ¡°Seriously, it feels like something serious is going on that we should not be unearthing.¡±


    Detective Black looked exasperated by her insistence but didn''t argue further. "Alright, alright. I''ll consider it."


    Just then, a sudden silence fell over the house. Not the natural silence of night with the occasional low murmur of the outside world, but deadly silence.


    Detective Black frowned, pointing it out. "Do you hear that? Or rather, not hear anything?"


    Ilya''s heart began to race. The entire house was dark, save for the single candle they had lit. She quickly lit another and handed it to Detective Black. "We need to check on Everlyn," she said, her voice trembling slightly.


    They moved upstairs quietly, the flickering candlelight casting eerie shadows on the walls. Ilya held on to Detective Black and called out softly, "Everlyn?" But there was no answer.


    Detective Black gestured for Ilya to check the girl''s room. Ilya hesitated before approaching the door with trepidation, her heart pounding in her chest. She opened the door slowly, and instead of Everlyn, a figure stood in the room. Its head turned towards her as the door creaked open, revealing a face shrouded in darkness and malevolence.


    Ilya''s breath caught in her throat, and the candle in her hand flickered violently as she stared into the eyes of the unknown figure. The scene ended with a chill running down her spine.


    ¡°Dr Morewood?¡±


    That was Everlyn¡¯s voice, but that wasn¡¯t Everlyn.

 Chapter 3

    The moonlight filtered through the skylight, it seemed like a cloud had shifted finally releasing it¡¯s light to shine on the figure in the room.


    Long, blonde hair cascaded down their back, now painted with crimson. Their pale face contrasted sharply with the horror of their appearance, wide, vacant eyes staring ahead with unsettling calm. The moonlight highlighted every detail, casting eerie shadows around her as blood dripped steadily to the floor.


    The most beautiful child in the world.


    And underneath her the split body of Everlyn.


    ¡°Dr Morewood?¡± The child said again, facing Ilya, Ilya felt her heart beat wildly out of control. It was merely a child yet she did not dare move under their gaze.


    ¡°Detective.¡± Ilya called out to the man waiting behind her. ¡°You need to call a priest.¡±


    <hr>


    ¡®A child born from destruction can never hope for grace.¡¯


    Ilya stared into space; it all felt surreal to her.


    ¡°Would you like a cup of tea Miss Ilya?¡± Agnes asked. Ilya was sitting silently in the receiving room staring into the fireplace as behind her people moved up and down the stairs. Detective black and his comrades were preserving evidence of the scene and the child was wrapped in cloth and taken outside. Their hands were tied together waiting for the church.


    The only thing the child had managed to say was ¡®Dr Morewood¡¯. Was that the last thing Everlyn said? Ilya¡¯s mind was in no place to speak. Agnes sighed and sat next to her wrapping her shawl around her. For something like this to happen just after moving, it was bad luck.


    Ilya focused on the crackling of firewood, her mind trying to make sense of a situation. This Evelyn birthed a full-bodied child that looked no older than 10, then what happened to the other Everlyn? Who killed off her family? Where is the child?


    ¡°Dr Morewood.¡±


    Ilya¡¯s head snapped up to see Detective Black, how long had he been there fore.


    ¡°I don¡¯t feel comfortable letting you stay here, please consider my offer to stay at the Black residence until this investigation is over.¡± He felt guilty he dragged her into this, and now this house will forever linger with the smell of blood.


    ¡°Thank you for your consideration, Detective, but I will stay in a separate Morewood residence.¡± Ilya said, no matter what it would be too inappropriate to live with him.


    ¡°I understand, then please let me escort you there tonight.¡±


    Ilya nodded absentmindedly, ¡°Agnes, please pack our things, it is better to leave tonight.¡±


    ¡°Yes Miss.¡± She said before getting up leaving her Shawl with Ilya.


    ¡°Detective Black! The priest is here!¡± Someone called from outside.


    Ilya stood up, her fingers combing through her hair to look presentable. Detective Black watched her, but held back his statement, he headed outside first and brought the priest in.


    Detective Black returned with a tall slim man in a black cassock. A gold crucifix hung from his neck and his fingers were intertwined with a rosary. His had long blonde hair and piercing green eyes that bore through Ilya¡¯s soul.


    ¡°Dr Morewood, this is Father Andreas.¡±


    He took her hand politely kissing the back of it. ¡°It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you Dr Morewood. Please, call me Lucian.¡± His hands were cold against hers.


    ¡°I am Eliyah, but you can call me Ilya.¡± She returned his courtesy.  ¡°Are you here for the child?¡±


    He straightened his back and nodded. ¡°The child will be investigated by the church, it seemed like something sinister is lurking under Ardes, something rotting.¡±


    His words sent a shiver down her spine, he sounded so ominous in his whimsical voice it freaked her out.


    ¡°Now if you excuse me, I should take a look at the crime scene.¡± Lucian said before heading upstairs.


    Detective Black watched her stare at Father Andreas absent mindedly and sighed. ¡°Should we get you a carriage Dr Morewood?¡±


    She looked at him and nodded silently. Understandably, she was still shaken up from the ordeal.


    He helped her outside in the cold, the conversations of the other officers and the curious gazes from the neighbours made her hide her face in his side, he understood how she felt.


    He waved down a carriage who waited for Agnes to come back with two boxes of things ready. Realistically they could not uproot everything in a night, much less tonight but they could take what they needed.


    ¡°I will join you tomorrow, Miss Ilya, so please be safe on your journey.¡± Agnes said with a kind smile. Ilya nodded as her things were loaded inside the carriage and Detective Black got on with her.


    The carriage set off through the cobblestoned streets of Ardes, Detective Black looking at Ilya only to see her staring out of the carriage absentmindedly.


    ¡°I am not one who Is usually wrong Dr Morewood, but this time I have made an irredeemable blunder, I hope you forgive me with time.¡±


    She didn¡¯t say anything.


    And neither did he.


    They rode in silence for the hour until the city¡¯s infrastructure slowly became grass fields and the houses seemed to appear less and less.


    The Morewood estate closest by was a two-hour trip from the city, Ilya realised she wouldn¡¯t be able to go to work tomorrow.


    If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    ¡°Do you mind dropping a message at Baskerville clinic when you return Detective Black?¡± She asked quietly.


    ¡°Yes of course, what message would you like me to give them?¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t be coming to work for the week, until I find a closer residence. Lord Baskerville will be quite upset with me, I just started that job you see.¡±


    ¡°I understand, Dr Morewood, I will explain the situation to the staff, please do not worry about it.¡±


    ¡°.. When we arrive at the city it would be quite late, you should still stay the night at least. Travel back to the city in the darkness alone is not safe.¡±


    ¡°I understand, thank you for your hospitality, Dr Morewood.¡± He thanked her, at least she was willing to converse with him.


    After nearly two hours of travel, they approached the Morewood estate. The grandeur of the mansion loomed ahead, a memory of Ilya¡¯s childhood before moving to the capital. Even when she came back to Ardes, she had hesitated to return to her childhood estate. Her heart felt tight looking at it.


    They pulled up to the grand entrance, and Detective Black helped Ilya out of the carriage. She gazed up at the mansion silently, the sounds of children laughing echoing in her mind. The front door opened, and the chief butler stepped out.


    ¡°Welcome back home, Miss Eliyah,¡± he said with a smile, bowing.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad to be home, Benjamin.¡± She smiled at the elderly man who was happy to see her again.


    ¡°Your visit was unexpected. I will ask the servants to clean up your room this instance, Miss Eliyah.¡±


    ¡°Please ask that my parents'' room be prepared. I¡¯d rather sleep there,¡± Ilya said.


    ¡°Yes, my lady. And this man¡­¡±


    ¡°This is Detective Black. He was my escort on my journey here. He will leave in the morning, so please prepare a room for him.¡±


    ¡°Of course, Miss Eliyah,¡± he said, bowing slightly. ¡°Detective Black, please this way.¡±


    "Dr. Morewood, I will ensure the message is delivered to the Baskerville clinic first thing in the morning," Detective Black assured her before he was led away by the butler. He had a feeling that he would not see her the next morning.


    "I appreciate that, Detective," Ilya said, managing a faint smile.


    "Please, rest well tonight," he added, his tone sincere.


    She merely smiled.


    As Ilya settled into the warmth of the bath, the events of the night replayed in her mind. The blood, the child, the horror of what they had witnessed¡ªeach image was etched vividly in her memory. She submerged herself in the water, hoping to clear her mind, only reemerging on the edge of drowning.


    After her bath, Ilya dressed in a soft nightgown and climbed into her parents'' bed. They were not with her, but the comfort of their presence remained in the room. She held onto her pillow tightly as she felt the weight of exhaustion pull her towards sleep.


    She tried to sleep, she desperately wanted to, but she felt herself tossing and turning that night, the vivid imagery of Everlyn¡¯s destroyed body had seared itself into her mind. She wanted to desperately forget that little girl but she couldn¡¯t. Time and time again she found her gaze being drawn to the parcel on her desk. She had yet to open it and now she was in her own estate it was convenient for her. Her things had been neatly put away in her parents room but that parcel was the only thing on her vanity, the moonlight streaming from her windows illuminating it. She got up from her bed and took the parcel in her hands. She tore away the paper only to see an intricately carved wooden box. It looked like a beautiful brush box or a music box, but she hesitated to open it.


    After that night¡¯s proceedings she had a nagging feeling that she was sinking into something she could not escape, like quicksand, but she remained unaware of the threat underneath her. Pandora''s box, something like that should never be opened. Something was written around the sides of the box, ¡®Lasciate ogne speranza, voi ch''intrate¡¯.


    ¡°Abandon all hope, ye who enter here.¡±


    Logic dictates she set down the box, but she found herself compelled to see what was inside, she had to se the box down immediately, she would open it in the morning with Detective Black, she was uncomfortable and stuffy. Her room felt uncharacteristically warm and so she headed to the balcony opening the clear glass pane doors stepping outside into the cool breeze. The moon and stars decorated the night sky and she took a deep breath.


    She looked down on the gardens below, dark shadows covered every corner, even the flowers seemed to be deadly, their innocence and beauty stripped from their petals making her uneasy. Everything felt oppressive and malevolent.


    She thought she heard laughter, glimpses of herself as child running around the gardens, three children following closely as they ran through the freshly cut grass, the edge of her skirt was wet from the dew, and often played hide and seek in the labyrinth, but now out of those four children she was the only one here.


    Her memories were interrupted by a drop of blood in the otherwise beautiful grim scene. A figure in a red cloak walked into the labyrinth and disappeared from her sight.


    She paused, unsure of what she just saw. She looked closer and there were no movements in the shadows, it was as if that figure was never there. She remained uncertain and so she grabbed her coat and boots sliding them on before heading out of her room with the box in hand. Everything was too coincidental to be unrelated. The children, the box, the red figure, she needed to find out what was happening.


    ¡°Dr Morewood?¡± She froze at the detective¡¯s voice, turning stiffly to see him at the end of the hallway looking at her. ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    ¡°I am going for a walk in the gardens.¡± She didn¡¯t need to explain herself, but she did anyway. ¡°I will be back shortly.¡±


    ¡°I do not feel comfortable letting you out of my sight, let me accompany you.¡± She didn¡¯t decline his offer; it was saver to have him with her. He returned to his room to find clothes that were more appropriate to wear, also bringing his revolver with him as he always did.


    ¡°What¡¯s the box for?¡± He asked on his way back, she was holding onto it tightly like it was important.


    She looked at the cold wooden box in her hands, ¡°I¡¯m still unsure, I hope to find out soon.¡± That raised many questions, yet he did not ask instead only following her out the kitchen door to the gardens.


    They walked through the labyrinth, the gravel crunching softly beneath their feet. The moonlight cast long, eerie shadows on the hedges, creating a stifling atmosphere. The air was crisp and cool, and every breath Ilya took felt like it might calm her racing heart.


    "Did you come here often?" Detective Black asked in an attempt to break the silence between them.


    Ilya nodded her head. "I used to. I know this labyrinth like the back of my hand. There¡¯s no place for anyone to hide that I wouldn¡¯t find."


    They continued walking, turning corners and doubling back, but they found nothing. Despite looking for a while, no one was there. The silence of the night was only broken by their occasional murmured conversation and the distant rustling of leaves in the wind.


    ¡°Ilya, this place is enormous,¡± Detective Black remarked, scanning the surroundings. ¡°How do you manage to keep track of where you are?¡±


    ¡°I spent a lot of time here as a child,¡± Ilya explained. ¡°It was our sanctuary. I memorized every twist and turn.¡±


    Just as they were about to give up, Detective Black noticed something. "Wait," he said, stopping abruptly. He pointed to the ground. "Footsteps."


    Ilya looked down, seeing the faint impressions in the gravel. The footsteps were fresh, leading deeper into the labyrinth. "Let''s go," she said, her voice resolute.


    They moved cautiously, following the trail. The footsteps led them to a secluded part of the garden, where the hedges grew taller and closer together. The air seemed colder here, the shadows darker.


    At the center of this hidden area, they found a small, weathered stone bench. The footsteps stopped there, but there was no one in sight. Ilya placed the box on the bench and looked around, her heart pounding in her chest. "What now?" she whispered, more to herself than to Detective Black.


    He scanned the area, his hand on his revolver. "This is strange, footsteps don¡¯t just vanish.¡±


    Ilya looked at the bench, noticing something peculiar. It was an old, weathered stone bench, It had been here for years. She got down and using her hands searched around and behind the bench but nothing. She pushed her hand through the hedges expecting to find nothing but twigs and the occasional animal but she cane across a pillar. Hidden in the hedges a tone pillar with some kind of notch.


    She pressed it.


    To her surprise, the notch clicked, and a section of the bench shifted slightly. Ilya pushed harder, and the bench began to move, revealing a hidden staircase descending into darkness.


    "This is also somewhere you played in as a child?¡± Detective Black asked in surprise.


    ¡°I think I would have remembered the descent to darkness.¡±


    Detective Black whistled, ¡°let¡¯s have a look.¡±