The old mansion loomed ominously against the stormy sky, its windows dark and uninviting on this fateful autumn night. Detective Sarah Parker stepped out of her car, her keen eyes scanning the gothic facade for any signs. A crack of thunder made her flinch, but she steeled herself and approached the grand wooden doors cautiously. As she reached for the ornate brass knocker, the door creaked open slightly, revealing a sliver of darkness. Sarah hesitated, her hand instinctively moving to her holster as she called out, "Hello? Is anyone there?" Only silence greeted her, broken by another rumble of thunder and the faint sound of raindrops beginning. Taking a deep breath, she pushed the door open wider and stepped into the dimly lit foyer ahead. The musty smell of age and neglect assaulted her senses as she fumbled for the light switch nearby. Suddenly, a bloodcurdling scream echoed through the house, followed by a loud thud from somewhere upstairs. Sarah's heart raced as she drew her weapon, knowing that this night would change everything forever.