In the meantime, Justinian, pretending that he knew nothing of what was going on, neither inquired to what part of the world Priscus had been banished, nor ever thought of him again afterwards, but remained silent, as if he had fallen into a state of lethargy.
However, he seized the small fortune that he had left behind him.
Theodora had become suspicious of one of her servants named Areobindus, a barbarian by birth, but a youth of great comeliness, whom she had appointed her steward.

Wishing to purge the imagined offence, (although, as was said) she was violently enamoured of him, she caused him to be cruelly beaten with rods, for no apparent reason.
What became of him afterwards we do not know; nor has anyone seen him up to the present day.

For when Theodora desired to keep any of her actions secret, she took care to prevent their being talked about or remembered.

None of those who were privy to them were permitted to disclose them even to their nearest relations, or to any who desired to obtain information on the subject, however curious they might be.
No tyrant had ever yet inspired such fear, since it was impossible for any word or deed of her opponents to pass unnoticed.

For she had a number of spies in her employ who informed her of everything that was said and done in public places and private houses.