397 The hours passed quickly as they regrouped and planned their next moves. Despite the danger, Darwin felt a sense of hope. They were making progress, and with each step, they were getting closer to bringing Blackwood down. As the night wore on, the team gathered once more in the sitting room, r

399 The next morning, Darwin arrived at his mansion with a sense of renewed determination. After a restful night, he felt ready to dive back into planning their next steps. The mansion was abuzz with activity as preparations for the evening's grand party were in full swing. Servants bustled about,

401 He stopped pacing and stared out the window, his jaw tightening. The sun was beginning to set, casting an orange glow over the estate. The party would start in a few hours, and he had to be there, had to play his part. But once the party was over, he would make his move. Darwin took a deep bre

403 **The Wettin Estate** The grand ballroom was a symphony of elegance, adorned with crystal chandeliers that sparkled like diamonds against the marble floors. The guests, draped in their finest evening wear, mingled beneath the vaulted ceilings, their laughter and conversation a low hum that fil

405 **The Wettin Estate - Continued** Darwin lingered near the Penningtons a moment longer, watching Alexander struggle to keep his composure. The memory of their last encounter was still fresh, and he could see the tension in Alexander's clenched fists and the way his jaw tightened with every for