An Embodiment of Fear

Oriole peeked from behind the flower-painted curtains that separated the staircase from the main floor. In the dim slit that protected him from being seen, he saw a figure raising a finger at the woman from earlier, wearing nothing but silk robes.

"I was told that I would have Sophia tonight! Why is there a sudden change of plans? What do you mean she is sick?!"

"Most apologies, your highness," said the woman with a heartbroken and sincere expression as she bowed. "But to protect our workers and customers, we cannot allow her to work tonight! Please understand!"

"I call that bullshit. In just the span of a few minutes, she is sick with such a disease that I need protection from?!" asked Prince Caleb with rage as he slammed a fist on the table. "Bring her here and I will cure her with my runic cards!"