Hidden Agenda
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The discovery of the map sets off a series of investigations. Sarah, Ethan, Dr. Whitaker, and Lila split up to visit the marked locations, hoping to uncover more about the society's activities and any remaining threats. Each site reveals traces of dark rituals—candles melted to stubs, symbols etched into stone, and remnants of offerings.
At one of the locations, Sarah finds an old photograph of a group of people, among them the shadowy figure from her vision. "This is them," she murmurs, showing Ethan the photo. "But who are they?"
Ethan's eyes narrow as he examines the photograph. "We need to identify these people. Maybe someone in town knows."
Their inquiries lead them to an elderly woman named Mrs. Pritchard, who has lived in Eldridge her entire life. "Ah, yes, I remember them," she says, peering at the photograph through thick glasses. "They were always a strange bunch, always up to something in the dead of night."
"Do you recognize this man?" Ethan asks, pointing to the shadowy figure.
Mrs. Pritchard nods slowly. "That's Gideon Blackwood, Ethan's great-grandfather. He was one of the founding members of the society."
Ethan reels back in shock. "My great-grandfather?"
Mrs. Pritchard nods again. "He was a good man at first, but something changed. He became obsessed with the rituals, the power."
The revelation leaves Ethan conflicted. "I need to know more about him," he says. "Maybe understanding his motives can help us stop this once and for all."
YOU ARE READING
Shadows of Midnight
HorrorSarah Miller's fresh start in the eerie town of Eldridge takes a dark turn when she moves into a haunted Victorian house. Uncovering a century-old diary, she learns of a tragic love story and a deadly curse. With the help of the enigmatic Ethan Blac...
