Alessia smiled as Elinor stood.

"So polite Elinor. So unlike the majority. You welcome your guests."

Alessia's voice was soft with a touch of sorrow but her smile grew.

"Thank you Miss Wincham. Have I done something wrong?"

"Not at all Elinor and I have said before please call me Alessia. After all you carry my family name in remembrance and protection so we are almost kinfolk. You have I am glad and relieved to say satisfied those who dwell within this house of shadow. I had hoped you would. It has claimed too many victims. One more tonight."

Elinor trembled slightly
"I did it to appease the spirits. You told me that if I made the sacrifice...." her voice trailed off as Alessia put her hand on her shoulder. Alessia's hand was icy cold.

"You did well Elinor. I am not here to say otherwise. Now you have done what was necessary your future is protected. I wished only to congratulate you before I return for some rest."

With that the spirit of Alessia turned and walked towards the bedroom door disappearing as Alessia's hand reached for the door handle.

Elinor breathed a sigh of relief. Everything would be good from now on. Though as she fell asleep for the second time her thoughts drifted to her bargain with those in the house and how she became Elinor Wincham Mistress of Calstone House....