Suddenly, a soft clicking sound echoed loudly in the silence of the large bedroom. It was clearly the sound of a key turning, coming from the wall near the fireplace.
Viana opened her eyes at once, her heart pounding fast. She held her breath and stayed completely still.
The wall behind the golden tapestry slowly shifted, revealing a hidden door behind it. A dim light from the dark corridor inside reached her, and she could smell damp soil from there.
A tall figure stepped into the room with silent movements. Viana immediately recognized him. Count Lazarus Bloodworth.
His long black robe brushed against the floor as he walked toward the bed, his face showing triumph. His eyes stared coldly at Viana, but it felt like he was holding himself back from doing something more.
Viana pretended to stay asleep, peeking through her lashes. She forced her breathing to stay steady, not wanting Lazarus to know she was awake.
