Meanwhile…

That’s not fair! Tiana said. After only a few hours, she had managed to lose all her jewelry and hope. You said this game would help me win a ton of money!

And somehow you managed to lose it all. Ephriam, the swindler, said. If only the gods had been on your side. A sly smile crawled up his face.

But I don’t have 500 bronz! There was no way Tiana could come up with that kind of money. And going back to the castle for help – Minjin would never let her live it down!

I don’t know what to tell you. Ephriam tossed his hands up. You wanted to go double or nothing. Rules are rules. 

Rules… a mischievous glint sparked in Tiana’s eyes. Technically, she didn’t need to go to the castle. She just needed to make Ephriam think she was. Then, she’d hand him over to the guards! They’d shower her with rewards for cleaning up the streets. And with that money… oh, the delicious things she could buy to eat. It was perfect! 

Well, Tiana said, tilting her head innocently. I’m sure my father, the Demon Lord, would be willing to…

Cut the act! Ephriam said. I know you’re not a princess… and if you are, then 500 bronz isn’t nearly enough. 

Grabbing Tiana, he ripped her off the ground. Us merchants starve every day, and the Demon Lord does nothing! I lost everything because of him! 

How dare you! Tiana struggled desperately to escape.

Shut up! You’re just a spoiled rich kid! Ephriam said. What do you know? He tossed her to the dirt and let out a shout. Several thugs slowly gathered behind him. I was going to let you go, but now…

Wait. Tiana’s hands trembled uncontrollably. He was right, she had lived a privileged life while others suffered. But it wasn't her fault. She was the princess! It wasn’t her fault. If she had known, she would have…

It’s not my fault! Tiana said. 

Yes, it is. Ephriam whispered, now mere inches from her face. She watched as he drew out a long sharp knife. Now be a good slave.

She had never felt so alone in all her life.