My duty to Duir was done. Each step from his presence brought a sigh of relief not only from my mouth, but also from my soul. It’s over! Done and over! I am free! I laughed madly with relief and startled a couple of maids who hurried past me as if afraid they’d catch whatever had befallen me.
As I entered the main hall, I heard my name. I scanned the crowd and soon saw Therese. The moment I saw her, the joy of my pending freedom vanished and memories of the dead peacocks and Sylvain’s talk of plague flooded my head. Therese, normally robust and ruddy, seemed slightly paler than the last time I had seen her and her skin, although liberally coated with pearl dusting powder, appeared grayish and her lips, painted red, were thin and drawn.
Barely able to conceal my surprise at her appearance
