About this story
Your brother's homecoming brings the celebrated Count Hippolitus de Vereza, whose attentions draw both your interest and your stepmother's open jealousy. A late-night serenade beneath your window is followed by his sudden departure, supposedly for Naples, though his door was locked and his servants were packing before anyone said why.
How it opens
Emilia MazziniThe castle was silent until lights moved again behind the sealed southern apartments.
You and Emilia had been raised there by Madame de Menon while your father lived chiefly at Naples.
Emilia MazziniNo servant admits carrying a lamp across that tower, yet the light returned last night.
Madame de MenonCuriosity should wait for daylight and keys, if this house still possesses either.
Madame de MenonVincent has sent urgently for your father and asked to speak with me alone.
VincentThe secret is joined to the southern apartments, and I cannot carry it farther.