"But this is a language of peasants and serfs; I usually find it dreadfully dull. However, I've had a change of heart since I set foot on this drizzly island. The people here are so lacking in breeding and knowledge that they have no sense of awe.
"So, I think I should learn some truly terrifying English curses, don't you?" The Baroness took a step toward Eric, pressing herself against him suggestively. She tugged at his belt, tilted her head back, and rested it against his neck. Eric could feel her breath.
The Baroness had a reputation as a flirt.
"Is that so?" Eric shrugged. "Then I imagine it must have been quite an ordeal for you to attend this feast."
Afterward, Eric made an excuse to get away from the Baroness and left the castle.
He wanted to get some fresh air. The castle was so noisy it was giving him a headache. Since it was cold, everyone was crammed inside, and the air was a thick, stagnant mixture of perfume, roast goose, and who knew what else.
