Page 88 of A Dilemma for the Duke

He reached out, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “Whatever lies ahead, as long as we’re together, it will be a grand adventure.”

She sighed happily. “Then let’s make it a future filled with purpose and love.”

He leaned in, their foreheads touching. “To the journey ahead.”

“To the journey,” she echoed.

*

Barrington and Edwardsat in the study, the fire casting flickering shadows on the walls. The letter lay before him, its wax seal bearing an unfamiliar crest. He broke the seal, unfolding the thick parchment with care.

Edward peered over his shoulder, adjusting his spectacles. “What does it say?”

Barrington’s eyes scanned the page, his expression growing more serious. “It’s in code. But look at the seal.” He handed the letter to his brother.

A raven with its wings spread wide over a geometric diamond. Edward glanced at Barrington. “It’s from the Order of Shadows.” He glanced at the message. “We must decode it immediately.”

After hours of meticulous work, the message slowly revealed itself.

“‘The shadows are deep and long. Our work is not yet complete,’” Barrington read aloud, his voice tinged with concern. “Here.” Barrington pointed to a specific section. “They know about Hastings.”

Edward’s jaw tightened. “And they’re warning us. ‘This isn’t over.’”

Barrington nodded, folding the letter with a heavy sigh. “No, it’s not. We must remain alert.” He glanced once more at the raven’s crest, the ink stark against the parchment. “The Order of Shadows never sleeps.”

As the fire crackled, Barrington stared into the flames, his determination firm. The fight against the Order of Shadows continued.

The End

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