Bab 767: Attack (2)

Ahead, the mansion stood, a behemoth in the gentle embrace of the morning light.

Erik and June halted their advance, eyes riveted to the imposing edifice that was their aim.

The mansion, with its proud columns reaching skyward and arches sweeping like the wings of a grand bird, was a fortress in its own right.

The grounds were not without their defenses. The landscape had been molded by hands that understood the value of a high vantage point.

Guard posts were placed strategically around the property, their eyes commanding a bird's-eye view of the surroundings, ready to spot any intruders daring enough to breach this citadel of power.

Erik's eyes scanned the premises, his gaze sharp and discerning. "See them?" he said to June.

"They're not just gardeners tending to the flowers or butlers attending to the mansion's upkeep. They're guards, every single one of them."

His hand moved, pointing out the figures scattered around the property.