The Screaming Staircase

Lucy and George rarely agree, but both become irate with Lockwood for agreeing to the assignment without any consideration for their opinions. George believes a month is needed to properly prepare, and Lucy resists the very idea of entering the haunted house without the ability to use fire of any kind. Despite the resistance of his staff, Lockwood orders George to begin researching while he and Lucy get the house and equipment in order. They have iron bars installed on the windows as well as new locks, and Lockwood orders brand-new rapiers and other gear. Fully immersed in the case and determined to be ready in time, Lockwood leaves that night to investigate the mansion, telling Lucy to continue preparing and keep the house safe while George performs vital research. Lucy worries about Blake, and sure enough, a phone call comes to let her know that he is being released due to a lack of evidence or confession.

Left alone at the house, Lucy gets the dangerous idea to call upon Annabel to enlist her help in solving the code inside the locket. She goes to the basement and creates an iron circle, but this time stands outside of it.