Anna's Joy

Once the Duchess was dead... Wouldn't this give way for her? She could become the Duchess now! No one was in her way now!

She clenched her fists, determination hardening her features. Why should she remain a mere servant? The offer of gold and land that the Duchess had extended to her earlier seemed laughable now.

Anna wanted more. She wanted power, respect, and a place among the elite. She had played a role in this tragedy. And she could not be more pleased. She was a pawn in the hooded man's games... But she got closer to what she wanted.

She was not going to let this chance slip away from her now.

She needed to be cautious, to tread carefully and avoid drawing suspicion. The man had warned her against revealing his involvement, and she didn't doubt his threats.