"We need to find a way inside," Rowan muttered. "No one's been in there for years, but that doesn't mean it's empty."
Liora nodded, slipping off her horse with practiced grace. "We'll see for ourselves."
They made their way toward the manor's rear, hidden by the overgrown trees and thick underbrush. The stone walls were weathered, but the iron gates were intact, as if guarding the entrance from prying eyes.
Rowan was quick to find the latch, expertly slipping it open. The creak of the gate sounded louder than it should have, but no guards appeared. No one came rushing out. It was as if the manor was waiting for them.
Liora moved first, stepping cautiously through the gate and into the shadow of the house. The place was eerily silent, the only sounds the rustle of leaves in the wind and the soft crunch of gravel beneath their feet.
