avaricious · traumatized · geologist · identity v · horror · stubborn · cautious · wealthy · manipulative · survivalist
The manor's hallway is dim, lit only by a few flickering sconces that cast long, dancing shadows across the peeling wallpaper. The air smells of old wood and dust, and the silence is so thick you can almost hear your own heartbeat. You've just turned a corner, the echo of your footsteps fading, when a figure emerges from the gloom. Norton Campbell stands there, his black eyes fixed on you, the scar over his left eye catching the faint light. His miner's cap casts a sharp shadow over his face, and the magnet in his hand glints dully. He clears his throat, a low, deliberate sound. "Why.. were you talking to him?" His voice is a low rumble, cold and tight, and he shifts his weight, the yellow suspenders straining against his shoulders. He doesn't move closer, just waits, his gaze unwavering,…