Mystery of the Sealed Villa

By Guan Yue

In an isolated mountain-top villa, guests mysteriously vanish from locked rooms. Bizarre occurrences follow in rapid succession. Doubt, suspicion, and panic ensue, as each individual seems to harbor a secret. Every person becomes a suspect. With police intervention, the murderer is believed to be among them in the villa. Despite the investigation hitting several roadblocks, detectives, tracing the most minute clues, eventually uncover the concealed truth.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Great Wall Publishing
• Release date: Sep 24, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223253068

Book preview

Prologue

Deep into the night , the wind continued to blow without rest. A solitary figure ambled along the mountain path, seemingly unhurried, occasionally pausing to soak in the surrounding moonlit scenery. The distant rustle from the trees hinted at hidden watchers, perhaps curious about this lone wanderer.

He had journeyed far and the culmination of his long-awaited plan was drawing near. This mission had cost him a great deal of time and effort, and failure wasn't an option on this particular night. The moonlight carved a path before him, revealing a dark mansion ahead. Approaching the gate, he retrieved a key from his pocket, unlocking his way inside. As silently as he entered, he closed the gate behind him, disappearing into the embrace of the night.

Chapter 1: An Old Friend

June 7th.

Joseph Rogers settled in front of his desk, powering up his computer to continue the business novel he’d left unfinished. But as he delved into his thoughts, a melodious doorbell echoed through his study. With a leisurely stride, Joseph made his way to the front door. Opening it, he was greeted by the cheerful face of a portly man.

The visitor, donned in light blue casual wear with his dark hair slicked back, was none other than Joseph's dearest friend, Oscar Lloyd. Oscar darted straight into the kitchen, grabbing a cold drink and some ice from the refrigerator, before settling into the living room sofa.

Good heavens, it's sweltering out there. The streets were practically empty, Oscar remarked, taking a sip and dabbing his sweat-beaded forehead.

Dressed in an oversized loungewear due to his lean physique, Joseph stood adjusting his blue-rimmed glasses. Behind those glasses, sharp eyes twinkled. His demeanor always carried a touch of the scholarly, a vestige from years gone by.

Making any progress on that magnum opus of yours? Oscar inquired.

Almost there, just the ending left, replied Joseph. I might've finished it today if you hadn’t shown up to distract me.

Distract? Oscar feigned shock. Didn’t we agree that I'd pick you up today? You seem unappreciative despite me braving this heat for you.

Joseph looked puzzled. Where are we supposed to go? When did I agree to this?

Remember? I called you last week about an advertising forum today. Oscar reminded him, I was sent two invites, so I thought we might as well attend.

Oh, that, realization dawned on Joseph. But I never committed to it.

Seeing the resolute look on Joseph's face, Oscar quickly tried a different angle. You need to understand the trends in advertising if you're considering a comeback.

I'm not going! Joseph cut him off. I've lost interest in the advertising world. Let me finish my book first, and then we can discuss the future.

Understanding his friend's stance, Oscar conceded, I know where your heart lies. To be honest, the forum has already started. By the time we get there, it'd be wrapping up. The most we'd get would be some cheap mementos.

Joseph raised an eyebrow, If you weren’t interested in the forum, why the urgency?

Oscar grinned, Sometimes the journey is more important than the destination. After the forum, there's an event at some hilltop villas.

You've never stayed in a villa? Joseph interjected.

Let me finish, Oscar persisted, These aren't just any villas. They're perched atop a mountain, shrouded in mist. Think about it – cascading waterfalls, scenic views, birds serenading. Imagine penning down your novel's climax amidst such inspiration.

The idea appealed to Joseph. He had indeed been pondering a getaway with Oscar. But as he contemplated, Oscar had already fetched an outfit for him, urging him to get dressed.

Joseph hesitated, The weather report mentioned heavy rain tonight.

What does that have to do with us? Oscar quickly responded, fearing Joseph might change his mind. It’s not like we’ll be camping mid-hill.

Little did either of them know that, in a few hours, they’d be facing a test of life and death.

At exactly four in the afternoon, Joseph and Oscar pulled up to the venue in their car. The building reflected a fusion of Eastern aesthetics, dominated by a sleek black hue. Its exterior was enveloped in a curtain of glass, adorned with a streamer of vibrant red. Balloons of every color imaginable littered the entrance.

The sun blazed high overhead, the expansive square stifling, not a breath of wind to alleviate the oppressive heat. Cicadas, hiding beneath the leaves, chorused their monotone symphony, signaling the arrival of a sweltering summer. Majestic trees, their foliage thick and lush, stood sentinel like wise old men basking in the relentless sunlight.

Oscar, a bundle of energy, jumped out of the car and darted into the grand hall. Joseph trailed behind at a leisurely pace. The sky was a pristine shade of blue, as if impurities had been wiped away by a celestial hand. Silken clouds drifted by, morphing into myriad shapes, injecting a touch of whimsy into the mundane expanse. Distant mountains, painted in shades of jade, unfurled endlessly like a verdant screen. Atop the peaks, a mist settled like delicate gossamer, enveloping the proud mountains in its embrace.

Inside the luxurious hall, lights dazzled, while two attendants in traditional dresses flitted about, serving water to the audience. At the podium stood an elderly gentleman, his silver hair a testament to his years. He spoke with fervor, while a projection behind him cycled through various charts and graphs. The audience listened intently, all except for one man. Around forty, with thinning hair and donning an oddly outdated suit, he fanned himself with a sheet of paper, occasionally whispering to his neighbors, blatantly indifferent to the ongoing presentation.

Joseph whispered to Oscar, It seems we have a friend in the front row.

Really? What a coincidence. Oscar's excitement was palpable as he craned his neck to see. Upon recognizing the man, a look of distaste flashed across his face. Of all the people, Isaac had to show up. Just our luck.

Isaac Martin was once Joseph's prime competitor. With his company, Zona Corporation, bolstered by investments from the Arnold Group, he grew bold, often clashing with Joseph and vying for market dominance with ruthless strategies. Yet, Isaac's ambition met its match and he had to leave the company after failing to meet certain performance benchmarks.

Have our accommodations been sorted out? Joseph inquired.

All set. We have a villa with four rooms, enough space for eight, Oscar replied. I didn't get a chance to see who else is staying with us, but I reckon they're from the ad world. Probably familiar faces.

Are you Joseph? A deep, somewhat quirky voice broke their conversation. Joseph turned to see a tall man, his frame draped in a pale blue shirt. Pardon the intrusion. I'm Johnson, the chief representative for the Arnold Group in this region. With a gesture of respect, Johnson presented a finely crafted business card adorned with an elegant lotus motif.

Johnson's demeanor spoke of sophistication and the poised confidence characteristic of top executives. The hint of a foreign accent in his voice betrayed years spent abroad.

Sorry, I don't have my card with me, Joseph responded.

Johnson chuckled, With or without a card, everyone knows you.

That's a bit of an exaggeration, Joseph said, humbled.

I've wanted to meet you for a while. Lucky to run into you today, Johnson admitted.

Well, I've stepped back from the advertising scene, Joseph replied.

Johnson nodded, I've heard. Let me be frank: my boss admires your talents and would love for you to join Arnold Group. You can bring your team. Terms are negotiable. What do you say?

Joseph smiled, I appreciate the trust, but I currently have no plans in that direction.

Johnson waved dismissively, These things can't be settled in a mere conversation. You're staying here tonight, right? We have ample time to discuss. Which villa are you in?

Before Joseph could answer, Oscar interjected, Villa No. 1.

The serendipity of it all! Johnson exclaimed with such enthusiasm that Oscar almost jumped in surprise. I'm staying in Villa 1 too. Do you believe in destiny? Oh, and who might this be? He glanced at Oscar, as if only just noticing him.

Without missing a beat, Joseph introduced Oscar to Johnson. Hesitantly, Oscar offered his hand for a handshake.

Ah, Oscar! I've heard much about you. Johnson greeted with an exaggerated politeness, which Oscar reciprocated with a few insincere pleasantries.

Behind him, Johnson introduced a younger man to Joseph. This is my assistant. You can call him Assistant Cox. Say hello to Mr. Rogers. He directed the young man in a way one would instruct a pet.

Perhaps due to his tenure at multinational companies, Assistant Cox's tone was a peculiar match to Johnson's. Joseph observed him, noting the youthful innocence on Cox's face. He was slightly shorter than Johnson, average in appearance, and although his attire seemed impeccable, it didn't quite fit, making him appear rather awkward.

Well then, we'll catch up later. The organizers are taking me up the mountain first. I won't be on the shuttle with you all. See you tonight, Johnson declared pompously before departing.

Doesn't the company Johnson works for sound familiar? Joseph pondered. Haven't we heard of it somewhere?

Yes, it does ring a bell, Oscar contemplated. I think it's somehow linked to Isaac.

Look closely at this business card, Joseph handed over Johnson's card to Oscar.

This is the company that collaborated with Isaac, Oscar said, his eyes widening in realization. If that's the case, then Johnson must be the one who pushed Isaac out.

Joseph blinked, replying, Exactly. It was him.

This is going to be interesting, Oscar said, rubbing his hands in anticipation. Before those two have a chance to turn the tables on each other, let's grab something to eat. He then pulled Joseph towards the buffet.

As Joseph and Oscar settled at their table, a pair of strong hands landed on their shoulders.

Fancy seeing you here, Isaac said with a grin. I have an investment proposal I was planning to discuss with you over the phone in the coming days. Now, this makes it even more convenient. I'm in Villa 2. And you?

Jumping in, Oscar answered, What a coincidence, we're in Villa 2 as well. Looks like you two can have a long chat tonight.

That sounds perfect. We'll discuss it in detail tonight. I'm sure you'll find it intriguing, Isaac said, shaking hands with Joseph before departing.

As the mealtime drew to a close, the receptionist called for those residing in Villas 1 and 2 to board the transport. A luxurious coach awaited them outside. Opting for the rear seats, Joseph and Oscar settled in. The bus rumbled to life, heading up the mountain, its path crossing a construction site. The guide onboard began describing the scenic attractions of the resort and the history of the mountaintop villas. While Isaac listened intently, Oscar engaged in animated conversation with fellow passengers, and Joseph got lost in the serene beauty outside.

The mountainous route was steep and winding. The engine roared louder as they climbed higher, leaving the grand pavilion far behind. As dusk approached, an ominous veil of darkness began to envelop the coach. The howling wind sang a haunting lullaby in their ears. The vehicle navigated the sharp turns cautiously. Joseph's mind began to buzz, a peculiar sensation grew in his throat, and his ears felt stuffed.

At that moment, Oscar turned to introduce Joseph to a couple he had just met. The man, Kevin Turner, was a senior manager at an advertising firm. Tall and robust, he wore a casual t-shirt and had an affable smile. Beside him was his wife, Jade Turner, a picture of grace and elegance with a red travel bag on her lap.

Oscar shot a discreet glance at Isaac up front, then whispered to Joseph, Kevin and Jade are also staying in Villa 1 tonight.

After exchanging brief pleasantries with the new acquaintances, Joseph's gaze returned to the misty landscapes outside. The engulfing darkness seemed to merge with the very air they breathed. The coach's headlights projected feeble beams, reminiscent of a lone lighthouse guiding ships in the vast ocean. Inside, an uneasy silence prevailed. The passengers, seemingly subdued by the encroaching night, sat with palpable tension, their eyes darting around the dense surrounding forest.

On an isolated peak, with the steep, cliff-like mountainsides, the roar of the car echoed ominously throughout the silent valley, reminiscent of a riled beast's haunting cry.

After a few moments, the vehicle came to a halt. A mild commotion arose among the passengers as they tried to peek out of their windows. The hostess gently said, We've reached Villa number 2. Those of you staying here, please prepare to disembark. Staff will guide you inside. At half-past seven tomorrow morning, we'll pick you up for the scheduled tour. Breakfast will be served in the villa. A couple of things to note: first, mobile signals are weak up here—bear with us; and second, there are no neighbors around, so refrain from wandering off. Each villa has its own attendant and chef to cater to your needs. Now, if those staying at Villa number 2 could step out first.

A few passengers from the front began to disembark in an orderly fashion, except for Isaac. Oscar nudged him, Isaac, we're at Villa 2. Aren't you getting off?

Turning with a sly grin, Isaac responded, I checked with the committee. You're in Villa 1. To make our business discussions more convenient, I switched places.

Oscar, visibly annoyed, held his tongue. Joseph's eyes, meanwhile, settled on a peculiar middle-aged man. Ever since they'd departed, this man had remained perfectly still, silent as if lifeless. Joseph felt a disconcerting twinge of concern.

As the vehicle rumbled to life again and after a brief, bumpy stretch of dirt road, the hostess announced, Ladies and gentlemen, we've arrived at our final destination. The staff is waiting for you below. Enjoy your stay, and we'll see you tomorrow morning at 7:30.

Counting in his head, Joseph tallied the number of people staying at Villa 1: Oscar, Isaac, Kevin, Jade, the quiet middle-aged man, Johnson and Assistant Cox who had arrived earlier, plus the attendant and the chef—and of course, himself. Ten in total.

Looking through the window, the silhouette of the looming villa stood out against the night. For reasons he couldn't fathom, an unsettling feeling began to gnaw at Joseph's heart.

Chapter 2: The Mansion

Joseph was the last to disembark from the vehicle. A middle-aged man, somewhere around fifty, stood ahead of the crowd. His voice, raspy with age, greeted them, Greetings, everyone. I am Mr. Jiang. Welcome to the Hilltop Mansion.

Under the faint moonlight, Joseph scrutinized Mr. Jiang: a slight stoop to his posture, wrapped in a gray coat that concealed a well-tailored blue uniform beneath. His cap bore a resemblance to those worn by hotel bellhops. His high cheekbones and the wrinkles etched deep into his skin were starkly visible. His gaze danced across each visitor, but it lingered a tad too long on a particular middle-aged man, sending an involuntary shiver down Joseph's spine.

A gust of mountain wind rustled past, causing Joseph to shiver once more. The sounds of the departing vehicle faded, eventually swallowed by the vast expanse of the night.

Mr. Campbell chimed in, Please, everyone, follow me to the mansion. With that, he slowly began ascending the hill. The other six visitors trailed in silence. The mansion was enclosed by tall, imposing walls, atop which were rows of barbed wire. A heavy iron gate sat at its center. Within the walls, the courtyard was carpeted in lush green, dotted with plastic tables and chairs. At one corner of the yard, two windowless structures stood, their silver doors firmly shut.

The mansion spanned two levels, its dark gray façade embellished with creeping greenery. Oddly out of place, towering scaffolds bordered the first-floor windows, contrasting the pristine image of the mansion. The lower