The old city gallery stood dark and silent under the streetlights, and Nora knew meeting a stranger there could cost her everything.
She had slipped out of the mansion after midnight using a service exit the twins did not know about. Her heart pounded as she walked quickly through the empty streets. The note burned in her pocket like a warning.
The gallery door creaked when she pushed it open. A single light glowed in the back corner. An older woman with sharp eyes stepped out from behind a painting.
"You came alone," the woman said. "Good. My name is Elena. I worked with your mother many years ago."
Nora stayed near the door. "You said you have proof. Show me. I do not have much time."
Elena handed her a thick envelope. "Your mother planned the ritual from the beginning. She knew the
