The PCs materialize on the doorstep of the Hillingham estate, at the end of the west side terrace. If they decide to explore the grounds before knocking on the front door, they should be allowed to.
Wandering around the grounds reveals nothing of great interest to the party. The estate is in good condition and seems to have been kept in excellent repair.
If some amount of time is spent away from the manor house, the second thing that will become obvious is that the sun does not move across the sky. So long as the PCs do not approach the manor, it will remain "noon " When the PCs do decide to move closer to the house, the sun sets rapidly. Thus, by the time the party reaches the end of the cobblestone path or comes close to the outer wall of the building, it will be sunset. This happens whether one PC or the entire party moves toward the manor, which lies 100 yards from the surrounding wall.
Anyone who tries to climb the wall finds that they never seem to reach the top. Although the wall appears to be only 15' tall, it cannot be climbed. All attempts fail in some way.
When they are ready,
A ruddy-looking, handsome man rolls through the door in a wheelchair. His smile is broad as he extends his hand. "Greetings, friends! I am Lord Hillingham. I am delighted that you have come!"
1. THE TERRACE
The actual terrace runs nearly the length of the house. This is the main entrance to the house, and it serves as a reception area for guests. Six steps lead up from the drive to a gray flagstone floor, immaculately swept and washed. Four large and elaborate gargoyles stand at the top of the steps. Four additional steps lead to a smaller platform before the front door. The long walk to the estate makes a circle at the foot of the terrace.
2. THE GROUNDS
A garden maze, contrived of tall yew hedges occupies a half acre below the terrace. Adjoining the maze, the family cemetery forms a pleasant and unobtrusive part of the view encompassing the entire parklike grounds.
3. ENTRANCE HALL:
This huge and darkened hall is paneled with mahogany. Two huge tapestries display hunting scenes to either side of the double doors straight ahead. Wide stairways to the right and left climb to the second floor. There are storage closets with linens and china under each stairway. Hallways lead to the right and left directly from the entrance.