Finally, the book is snapped closed. Dismissively tossing it to the side, the Count lifts his head to address everyone for the first time since they entered. His voice is a low drawl, displaying some amount of disinterest in the hijinx currently unfolding.

"Welcome to my Elysium," he says, leaning back in his chair. "I've brought you here so that you might plead your case. In a matter of speaking."

On the tops of shelves and beneath every shadow, the eyes, feathers, and beaks of crows can be seen, lurking. It's almost as if the darkness itself is comprised of them.