Chapter 15: Shadows of Authority

"Why did you take the slave girl to Mark's house, Nick? You know how he feels about them." Seth's voice was laced with curiosity, though his eyes betrayed something darker. They flicked from the doctor to the girl cowering behind him, an unmistakable desire simmering just beneath the surface. Nick met Seth’s gaze steadily, unperturbed by the question or the not-so-subtle hunger in his eyes. He responded calmly, "I took her because I needed her assistance in the healing process. His son is plagued with the sickness. I assumed that Mark, like any father, would prioritize his son’s health over a petty disdain for slaves." A wry smile tugged at his lips. "But I was wrong. His hatred for this girl surpasses his concern for his own flesh and blood. Disgusting, really." Seth sighed, visibly conflicted. His eyes, once again, shifted toward the trembling girl behind Nick. He couldn't deny the doctor's point. As much as he despised the presence of slaves, even Seth knew that the plague was a f