Chapter 5: Irene in the Painting
Ever since that strange incident with the frog, Yu Sheng felt as though his heart had expanded, somehow toughened. Everything seemed a bit easier to handle—like now, for instance. Waking from a bizarre dream, he had unlocked a room that should’ve stayed locked, discovered a talking oil painting, and even sensed there was something more—something not quite right—lurking within it. Yet, here he was, calm as ever.
Stepping forward, Yu Sheng lifted the painting from the wall, holding it in his hands, and studied it carefully.
The frame was heavy, almost commanding respect, and the details were extraordinary. Intricate patterns swirled across the surface of the black wood, weaving in and out of one another like vines, blending seamlessly with the delicate flowers at the edges of the canvas. He didn’t know much about art, but even he could tell this painting was worth a small fortune.
Still, the figure hiding within the painting refused to fully reveal itself. Only the hem of a skirt peeked out from the corner, retreating ever so slightly as if it sensed his attention.
Yu Sheng leaned in closer, squinting at the painting, trying to peer into its depths. But there was nothing more to see.
“I know you’re in there,” he said, shaking the frame just enough to rattle it. “Hiding won’t do you any good.”
A soft rustling came from the painting’s corner, but no voice.
Not one to be ignored, Yu Sheng calmly placed the painting on the floor and crouched down. From his pocket, he pulled out a lighter, flicking it open with a smooth, practiced motion.