Chapter 68 - The Charlatan's Deceit and a Desperate Summons

I found myself staring at the silver needles arranged neatly in the wooden case, their polished surfaces catching the light. Despite the Shepherd family's dismissal, something told me I might need them soon.

"Eamon," I said, closing the case with a soft click, "I need you to purchase more silver needles. The highest quality available."

Eamon looked at me curiously. "More needles? But the Shepherds already made their choice."

"Sometimes people need to learn the hard way before they're ready to accept help," I replied, unable to shake the image of Mrs. Shepherd's pale face from my mind. "When they do, we should be prepared."

Eamon nodded, understanding dawning on his face. "You think they'll call us back."

"I know they will," I said quietly. "I just hope it won't be too late."

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