CHAPTER EIGHTY NINE – BREAKING OUT OF THE DUNGEON

Clara assessed the situation. "We need to get back to the main house," she said, her voice firm despite the nervous tremor running through it. "Find the vicar, tell him what we've found. He can get help." Shabnam, her eyes filled with a flicker of hope, grasped Scarlett's hand. "Help… please… get me away…" Scarlett squeezed her hand in reassurance. "We'll get you out of here, Shabnam. I promise." The escape from the hidden wing felt like an eternity. They navigated the dark corridors, their senses on high alert, every creak and groan echoing with paranoid suspicion. Finally, they reached the service pantry, relief washing over them as they pushed the heavy wooden door shut behind them. With renewed caution, they ascended the rickety stairs, their hearts pounding against their ribs. Back in the library, they replaced the stolen lantern, its faint glow feeling almost comforting in the vast darkness of the room. Slipping out of the library, they made their way back to their cramp