Lightning flashed, briefly illuminating the old, abandoned Victorian house. Shadows danced across the cracked walls with each thunderous roar. In the dark, a sharp scream pierced the stormy night. Then, an eerie silence followed, settling like dust in air. Inside, a candle flickered, casting a quivering light in darkness. An antique clock chimed midnight, unsettling the deep, suffocating silence. From upstairs, slow, heavy footsteps began to creak on wood. Each step sounded closer, descending towards the dimly lit foyer. Below, a figure stood unblinking, knife shimmering with sinister intent. The door creaked open; a cold wind blew out candles. A single shriek echoed as the intruder moved swiftly, decisively. In moments, the house swallowed the night’s grim secret again.