The Forge Masters of Steel Fortress have countless reasons to underestimate and belittle her, even beauty—a generally perceived advantage—could place her at a disadvantage during negotiations.
Sometimes, posing as the weaker party is an excellent strategy, but not in the current situation. Being seen through by the Forge Masters of Steel Fortress would only work against her in exerting pressure later on, slowing down the negotiation process, and what Winters needed most was time.
Therefore, every action Anna took today was well-considered: her makeup, her attire, her tone of speech, her manner of entry, and the "particularly fierce Dusack guards."
She intentionally crafted an image that was unapproachable and undirectable, exerting subtle pressure on the older and more powerful Forge Masters.
It may sound like side-door trickery, but people always start by judging strangers from their appearance.
Anna had prepared another weapon, a more sophisticated one—mystery.
