Chapter 10

"Perfect," Anastasia purred as she began pacing again. "Just the right mysterious ailment to incapacitate Viktor upon his return. Nothing fatal of course - we must avoid making a martyr of him."

She chuckled. "But while my dear brother-in-law recovers, I can demonstrate my leadership by stepping in to govern affairs until he regains strength."

Stroking her chin thoughtfully, Anastasia added "And his devoted wife will naturally stay constantly at his bedside. Too preoccupied with nursing Viktor to question my decisions."

The man across from her raised an eyebrow but wisely held his tongue, accustomed to the queen's cunning ploys. Waiting patiently for further instructions, wondering but never daring to ask...

Anastasia halted her pacing and glared out the window, hands clenched behind her back. "Yes, it will be easy enough once Viktor is briefly out of the picture. With no other obstacles in my path, I will finally rule supreme."

She turned sharply toward her co-conspirator. "See to