The night in Black-Briar manor was long. The wind gently blows through the open window, creating a small chill in the warm bedchamber, which was dimly lit by candles. The soft whispers of servants doing chores on the other side of the door echo in Maven's mind. This time of night, she can't sleep.

It is an endless debate in her mind. She was contemplating how to bring more influence for her family, more power and more money. All she had to do was keep her wits and make sure nothing interrupted her plans. Sleep did not come easy that night.