Sinister

Ellison Oswald, a renowned true-crime writer, was in a state of panic. His last bestseller had been over a decade ago, and his bank account reflected the dwindling number of publications that showed interest in his work. Despite his extensive research and captivating storytelling, his sales had stagnated, leaving him scratching the surface for any glimmer of inspiration that could revive his stagnant career. Ellison's enthusiasm for unraveling the truth behind gruesome crimes was genuine, having grown up with a passion for the subject. However, as time went by, he found himself facing criticism and skepticism from the public. Society's growing unease with violence and mystery novels that glorified such themes led to a shift in public opinion, leaving true-crime writers on the periphery of the literary world. One evening, while rummaging through the dark corners of the internet, Ellison stumbled upon a cryptic website that peddled strange footage – a snuff film showcasing the gruesome murder of a family. The tantalizing sight intrigued him; the investigation of this grotesque crime could catapult him back into the spotlight, confirming to his contemporaries that his writing prowess remained unchallenged. Ellison quickly knew what he had to do; the elusive bestseller was now just within his grasp. Disclosing nothing to his family, he covertly purchased the notorious Bough house in the rural area where the family had been slaughtered. The dark history oozing from the manor seemed fitting to the grim story he had discovered, fostering an air of melodrama that fueled his imagination. As soon as they moved in, unsettling silences gradually occupied the atmosphere within the home's walls. Ellison instantly immersed himself in his investigation, meticulously inspecting each room, searching for any shred of evidence that might offer clues as to the killer's intentions. Lacking substantial intellectual stimulation, the tedium of suburban domestic life contrasted sharply with his immersion in this macabre world. Dawn Arcane, the main reporter, emerged through Bough's neighborhood as she chronicled the murders. She often came across as an extremely vigilant, dogged journalist keen to shed light on the hitherto-obscure circumstance of the Bough family's murder. This cold appearance hid her softer, compassionate nature; however, a steely glare struck fear into those concerned when she began pushing her lines of inquiry. Tragedy stumbles forward as news spreads and several crucial fragments are picked up; however, they provide no more than glimmers into the world of darkness which was slowly rising to overpower the couple. As the pace of events gathers ferocity, no doubts emerge regarding what secret was emerging with a greater vengeance with each terrifying presence surrounding them. While a mystery rapidly unfolds, the notion that some events are uncontrollable – even to experienced observers – stirs within the mind of Bough House's home's inhabitants. Ultimately this very premonition becomes their impending reality.