Second Deal

"Related to blood?" the witch echoed.

"Yes," Oriana responded. "I seek your assistance in breaking the blood curse afflicting the royal family members...."

"Hahaha!"

The witch's laughter reverberated through the chamber.

"So, this was your plan all along, huh?" The witch's voice resonated in the darkness.

Oriana remained poised and unruffled, as though it unfolded precisely as she foresaw.

"Do you take me for a fool, young witch?"

"Do you expect commendation for posing such an obvious question?" Oriana chuckled. "Certainly, I regard you as a fool. In the presence of someone as intelligent as myself, everyone appears a mere fool."

"You consider yourself clever?" the witch questioned. "Do you believe I would liberate the royal family from the blood curse, exposing myself to potential retribution from the Prince?"