Chapter 2 The Garden

# Chapter 2: The Garden The gardens stretched across acres of terraced hillsides, each level containing different plant species arranged in elaborate geometric patterns. But everything was overgrown — vines choking trellises, weeds smothering flower beds, and trees whose branches twisted into unnatural shapes. "This used to be magnificent," Thomas said, running his hand along a stone wall covered in moss. "It was," Mrs. Halloway agreed. "Before the last frost." "What frost?" She looked at him over her shoulder, her eyes narrowing. "You'll learn. For now, focus on the rose garden. It's the most damaged." Thomas followed her to a circular garden enclosed by a high stone wall. Inside, the roses were dead — blackened stems, brittle leaves, and soil that smelled sour. "These need to be replanted," he said. "Not replanted," Mrs. Halloway corrected. "Revived. These roses are special. They require... specific conditions to thrive." Thomas frowned. "What kind of conditions?" Mrs. Halloway didn't answer. Instead, she handed him a set of keys. "Your quarters are in the east wing. You'll need to make yourself comfortable. The manor is large, and the staff is minimal." She turned and walked away, leaving Thomas alone with the dead roses and the smell of sour soil.