CHAPTER 26 Links

Detective Friesland sat alone in his dimly lit office at Scotland Yard, the flickering light from the gas lamp casting long shadows across the room. In his hands, he held the telegram from his fiancée, Elizabeth, the words etched in stark contrast against the crisp white paper. As he read the message, a knot formed in the pit of Friesland's stomach. Elizabeth's mother had fallen suddenly ill, the telegram explained, and she had rushed to be by her side. The doctor had labeled the illness as the "reaping disease," a name that sent a shiver down Friesland's spine. The detective couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled over him like a heavy fog. The term "reaping disease" sounded ominous, and he couldn't help but wonder if there was more to it than met the eye. Friesland's mind raced with possibilities, his years of experience as a detective kicking into overdrive. Could it be a contagious illness spreading through the town? Or perhaps foul play was involved? But then, his th