As Julian delved deeper, he noticed a change in the town. The friendly smiles of the locals seemed strained, their eyes filled with a guarded suspicion. He learned of a secret gathering that took place every year on the anniversary of Lyra's banishment, a ritual where the townspeople paid homage to the Whitfields and their dark legacy.
Julian knew he had to attend this gathering. It was his chance to uncover the truth behind the curse and the dormant power. But he also knew that he would be walking into dangerous territory, where his presence would be unwelcome, and his questions could have deadly consequences.