Emilia and Thomas continued their research, pouring over old books and documents. As the night wore on, they took a break, stretching their legs and walking around the manor's grounds.
As they strolled through the gardens, Emilia noticed a figure standing in the shadows. At first, she thought it was just a trick of the light, but then she saw the figure again, this time closer.
"Thomas, look," she whispered, her eyes locked onto the figure.
Thomas followed her gaze, his eyes narrowing. "Who is that?" he whispered back.
The figure stepped forward, revealing a tall, dark-haired man with piercing green eyes. He was dressed in a long coat, and his presence seemed to command attention.
"Good evening," he said, his voice low and smooth. "My name is Alexander. I've been watching you."
Emilia felt a shiver run down her spine. "Watching us?" she repeated, her voice firm.
Alexander nodded. "Yes, I've been watching you from afar. You see, I have a certain interest in the manor's history."
Thomas's eyes narrowed. "What kind of interest?" he asked, his voice cautious.
Alexander smiled, his eyes glinting in the moonlight. "Let's just say that I'm a historian of sorts. I've been studying the manor's past, and I believe I can help you uncover the truth about the secret society."
Emilia's eyes locked onto Alexander's, a question in her mind. Could she trust him? And what did he really want?
"Let's hear him out," Thomas said, his voice low. "We could use all the help we can get."
Emilia nodded, her eyes still fixed on Alexander. "Okay, let's talk," she said, her voice firm.
As they walked back to the manor, Alexander leading the way, Emilia couldn't shake the feeling that she was taking a risk. But she was determined to uncover the truth, no matter what it took.