Feigning confusion, Bryson replied, I just finished watching the show inside and was about to head out.


    Is there a problem with leaving? The guard scoffed, his disdain clear, showing no intention of letting him pass.


    This doors sealed.


    Youll have to leave through the main entrance.


    While the guards were distracted, Conor stealthily approached from behind and swiftly incapacitated them with a homemade electric baton.


    With the guards unconscious, the duo seized the moment, slipping past and emerging through the back door of Twilight Dimness into the freedom of a dark, narrow alley.


    Though rundown, it offered a breath of liberation.


    Conor paused, longing for a moments rest, but Bryson ced a hand on his shoulder, urging him onward. We cant linger here.


    Once they realize were missing, theyll start searching outside.


    We need to move.


    Returning to Lyons Manor was no longer an option.


    After coordinating with Hannah, Bryson drove Conor to his secluded vi.


    The drivested half an hour, thendscape outside growing increasingly deste and stark.


    As the surroundings darkened, Conor felt a growing need for vignce.


    Where are we headed? Rest assured. Its not good for me to hurt you now.


    Whether its back to the Compton Manor or to the hospital, theyll track us down Hannah instructed me to take you somewhere they wont find-for now.


    The suburb was so deste that only two vis stood side by side, isted from the rest of the world.


    After getting out of the car, Conor gazed at the dark structures and asked, Are you sure someone is inside? Lets go, Bryson said curtly, leading the way with confidence.


    The lights are off.


    With a soft click, Bryson unlocked the door and pushed it open, stepping into the silent interior.


    Conor followed him into the darkness.


    Just as he was about to switch on his shlight, Bryson seized his wrist. What… Dont turn on the shlight! Brysonmanded sharply.


    The two men proceeded into the vi shrouded in darkness, the door closing softly behind them.


    Bryson motioned for Conor to follow as he navigated the stairs to the second floor with practiced ease.


    Thump.


    Thump.


    Thump.


    Bryson gave two rhythmic knocks before pushing open a door on the second floor.