The road to the convent hadn't changed. The same narrow path cut between the mountains, disappearing into a curtain of mist. Clouds pressed low against the peaks, as if the sky itself had fallen and refused to rise again.
Morron paused at the bend. For a moment, it felt like he had never left. The wind carried a faint smell of wet earth and old stone. Somewhere far above, thunder rolled—not loud, but deep… like something shifting in its sleep.
He exhaled and continued.
The convent stood where it always had—quiet, still, untouched by time. Tall stone walls. Narrow windows. A place built more for silence than for life. But something was different. He couldn't name it. Not yet.
"Stop right there."
The voice came sharp and familiar.
Morron turned—and there she was. Mother Superior. Older, yes. More lines on her face. But the same eyes—sharp enough to notice what others missed.
"You've grown," she said, studying him. "But not enough to forget how to knock."
A small smile tugged at his lips. "Good to see you too."
She didn't smile back, but she stepped aside. "Come in."
Inside, the air was warmer—but heavier. Girls moved quietly through the halls. Some glanced at him, whispering. Others simply watched. He recognized none of them. And yet… it felt like they recognized him.
"You're late," Mother Superior said, walking ahead.
"I didn't know I was expected."
"You weren't."
That made him frown.
They passed the corridor leading down—the basement. Morron slowed. The door was closed, but something about it felt… wrong. Like it wasn't just wood. Like it was watching back.
"You remember the rules?" she said suddenly.
He looked up.
"Some places," she continued, "are not meant to be entered. Especially by those who ask too many questions."
Thunder cracked—closer this time.
Morron glanced toward the window. The sky had darkened far too quickly. Rain began—not gently, but all at once.
And for a second… just a second… he thought he saw someone standing in the courtyard. Alone. Not moving.
Then lightning flashed.
They were gone.
"Stay inside," Mother Superior said. Her voice was calm. Too calm.
Morron looked back at the empty courtyard. A strange feeling settled in his chest. Not fear. Not yet.
Something else.
End of Chapter 1