[Chance]

"Apologies," Keanu immediately dropped the thief's hand. "I...I don't know what came over me. Of course this is the real Diamond; your reputation precedes you, Black Panther, I would never think it was a fake." The Prince's face reddened and he thanked the stars that his hood still shrouded his face in darkness. Prince Keanu swiftly redrew his hands into the billowy sleeves of his cloak, hiding them, too. Why did his heart suddenly beat with quickened paliptations? The deal was done; the Diamond was his. No need to worry any more.

"I'll be leaving now. Thank you kindly for your services. I'll contact you again for future jobs; I have many in mind for you." The Prince had suddenly decided to evacuate the building because he heard the nearby trumpets of Royal Guards. He could not be seen in such a place, his reputation and therefore word would be compromised. Besides, he had no doubts that the Guard were looking for the Diamond. His father would surely be on a rage now. His wrath would stretch to all ends of the kingdom. No one would be free of the vengeful punishment the King would dole out for the loss of his Diamond...

Keanu turned to leave the upper room, his heart still thundering...he wondered if the Black Panther had noticed his sudden anxiety.