Page 71 of Bloody Business

But about the girl...technically, he needed her to get the inheritance.In reality, he had the manpower to take over and Zul Kan's blessing.He already had his people in place.Some bribes here, an assassination there, and he could control the entire organization.

Getting his hands on the girl would make things easier, and she was lovely, of course.

As for taking on Tashi Yal...that would be an interesting challenge.He might be in a chair, but he was also a battle mage and his father was a general.

He would make some inquiries.

Loyal Employees

“Iexpect to see mymaid any minute with my trunk,” Lily said as she sat in the parlor, sipping tea.She kept an eye on the window.“Be a dear and alert your guards, would you?”

Tashi looked at her with interest.“Are you expecting trouble?”

“Well, she has been such a loyal employee.”She looked thoughtful.“And yet...”

A few minutes later, a coach pulled up to the front gate.The butler brought word that it was Lily's maid, and she had brought Lily's luggage.

Lily was pleased.Accompanied by Tashi, she went down to the gate to greet her loyal servant.

“Anji!You brought my things, and such excellent timing!”Lily asked a couple of servants to bring in the heavy trunk.

“Of course, Madam.”Anji started to enter.

Lily held up a hand.“No need for that, Anji.You're fired!A severance fee has already been sent to your account.I added a bonus for the assistance in escaping and the luggage delivery.”

Anji stared at her, confused.“Fired?Why?Haven't I done everything you asked?”

“It's your mother, I'm afraid.She lives very well on your salary.Too well.You should have cautioned her to be more modest.”

Anji’s gaze flicked to Tashi in mild alarm.“What do you mean?”

Lily sighed.“You've been taking bribes to spy on me from Tashi, Hegah and who knows how many others.Honestly, don't you think it's just a bit greedy?It would be one thing if it was just one of them, but you're so mercenary about it.”

Anji flushed.“I see.”She looked at Lily appraisingly.“You're more alert than I gave you credit for.”

“Thank you,” Lily said modestly.

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