Chapter 1

The beast emerged from the swirling mist. Its silky black coat shimmering in the orange glow of the streetlamps. The cab driver tugged on the reins. The horse snorted and obeyed the command. It pulled to the left and rounded the corner.

                The driver of the cab peered into the fog. Everywhere was awash with shadows. Except for the clopping of the horse's hooves, the night was deathly quiet. The cab slowed and halted. The driver climbed down from on top and opened the carriage door.

                A smartly dressed gentleman stepped out. He held out his hand to assist the next passenger. 'Come along, Emily.'

Emily took hold of her husband's hand and exited the carriage. Her pale face was ghost-like in the dim light. 'There's no rush, Edward. I'm sure Madam Clara isn't going anywhere on a night like this.'

The third occupant's face appeared. She wrinkled her nose as she looked through the doorway. 'Yes. Who would leave their warm fireside to go out in such foul weather?'

Edward laughed. 'My dear Alice, only us lunatics!'