On top of a mountain, at the end of a winding dirt road, is the West family mansion. It is a rather dilapidated shack, with a commanding view of the county landfill; it has running water (during heavy rainstorms), passive solar lighting (on sunny days), and a bio radiant heating system (generously provided by three unwashed beagles, and a family of raccoons living in the rafters, that absolutely refuse any and all attempts at forced relocation.)