Chapter 12 - Hidden Paths

Victoria was deep in contemplation about what knowledge the prince may unintentionally divulge tonight when she was cut off by a forceful voice. "Hello there, angel" Victoria turned in surprise to see a man standing behind her. His eyes shone with pride, and he smiled sharply. She laughed lightly, trying to hide her uneasiness, "I don't work, I just offer the wine” Unfazed, the man's smile expanded, “Bold, I like bold” As Victoria opened her mouth to reply, a spine-tingling scream reverberated throughout the home. The room was frozen. Laughter and music abruptly stopped, and a strained stillness took their place. Everybody looked in the direction of the scream. No time was wasted by the pleasure house's mistress, a perceptive woman with a commanding presence. With her presence grabbing every guest's attention, she hurried toward the disturbance. Victoria watched from a distance, her gaze darting about the room, inquisitive but wary. One of the private rooms was pushed open as a