A car, black and sleek, sat in front of a house, a large mansion. A cold blew from the west and swept up the golden leaves resting on the brick road.

A young man crawled out from the car, his clothing matching the car’s shade of color. Another cold breeze, almost freezing, again blew from the west and ruffled up his fine golden hair. He knew he had been waiting for this moment. Thomas Valerie had finally been able to meet his best friend. Actually, he came here to investigate something, something he kept hidden deep within his heart.

The formerly-dressed man began taking his first steps up the front porch stairs, when he noticed that none of the aging glass windows showed any sign of a light within the mansion. This gave him a chill, which ran down his long spine and urge him to turn back.

He knew he mustn’t turn away. If he did, he would be proven a coward. The best choice would be to stay put and to carry out his duty.

He found his courage once again, and stopped at the large wooden door. He looked at the intricate designs carved into the door. Since it was dark at the moment, he couldn’t correctly determine how the designs were supposed to appear to the human eye.

Reluctantly, he raised his fist and quite firmly, knocked on the door three times.

At first, no trace of life could be seen or heard.

Just as Thomas was about to turn his head to start his way back home, the door swung open.

There, in the doorway, stood a man around his own age. In fact, he was quite similar in appearance to Thomas. This man was strikingly handsome, yet seemed to possess some effeminate, gentleman-like qualities. His hair slowed in waves just below the ears and his eyes gave off a soft essence. He was quite slim and tall.

“I have been waiting for you, my friend,” the man remarked with a soft, yet vibrant voice. Indeed, this was Thomas’ friend. Thomas responded with a shy expression, almost blushing.

“Come in, it must be cold,” the man said, “As I have told you earlier in my letter, it would not be necessary to bring your belongings with you. You will be supplied here well enough.” Thomas blinked a little. He disobeyed, for he kept a possession in his right pocket: a small journal, for he knew that what would happen here would be worth remembering.

Thomas entered the building silently.

The door slammed behind them.

Little did Thomas know that his friend had plans for him, just as he had for his friend.

The battle has begun.