C5

At the top floor of the building, Skylar finally arrived, her heavy breath reflecting the punishment she had endured. Clearly, she had struck a nerve with her words, hence why everyone was fearful of him.

"He's ruthless. How can someone be so heartless and yet so attractive?" she thought to herself, a smile forming on her face. "I can't believe I had the courage to say that to him. I must admit, my acting skills have improved greatly with this new identity," she said, placing a hand on her chest. As she walked through the hallway, holding her dress with one hand, she couldn't help but sweat profusely. This uncomfortable attire was not something she was accustomed to, silently yearning to wear something more comfortable like her underwear liner if only it wasn't see-through. Mistaking it for a dress was easy. Her gaze briefly fell upon a portrait, but she continued walking, unable to find an exit. Exhausted, she finally stopped and looked back, realizing she had been walking in circles all this time. Examining the portraits closely, she noticed one depiction of fire and a man wielding a sword. Placing her finger on it, she suddenly felt a sharp pain in her heart, causing her to retreat her hand and place it back on her chest.

"What is this?" she exclaimed, the pain disappearing instantly, leaving her startled. With widened pupils, she swiftly departed from the area.

"Where are you going?" a familiar voice called out from behind. It was Ramiel. Skylar rushed towards him, embracing him tightly, relief flooding through her body. "I'm glad you're here. I thought I was going to meet my end."

Ramiel froze at her touch, surprised by her actions. Skylar immediately stepped back, realizing her mistake. "I apologize, Your Highness. I didn't mean to startle you," she said, acknowledging her blunder.

"Where have you been?" Ramiel inquired.

"I have been..." she began before being interrupted by the sight of three separate doors, placed on the left and right sides of the building.

"Am I imagining things? There were no doors here. Where is the portrait?" she thought to herself while scanning her surroundings. Ramiel's gaze remained fixed on her, causing Skylar to smile.

"I must be hallucinating. Adapting to all these changes is not easy," she spoke, catching Ramiel's attention. He walked past her, and she followed closely behind. They entered the last room on the left side. As soon as she stepped in, the door closed behind her, plunging her into darkness. Suddenly, two candles were lit up Upon entering, Skylar was greeted by the sight of the prince leisurely seated on a cushion, one leg crossed over the other. Unfortunately, the darkness surrounding the room made it difficult for her to clearly see the details, the predominant colors being black with a few dashes of red. The prince's bed, exuding an air of grandeur and spaciousness, was adorned with large black sheets and red pillowcases. The beautiful chandelier hanging from the glass ceiling also shared the same black tone. Curiously, the painting on the wall was entirely black, giving off a vibe of darkness. She couldn't help but wonder if he was some kind of demon, given the overwhelming darkness that seemed to surround him. Despite this thought, a smile involuntarily formed on her lips as she continued to gaze at him.

"Please approach," he instructed, extending his index finger as a gesture of invitation. However, she stopped midway, hindered by the glass separating them.

"Who is Elina Wilson, known as Skylar?" he inquired.

"I am Skylar Wilson. Perhaps one day I will marry, or perhaps not," she replied.

"Since you persist in being my maid, you must familiarize yourself with and adhere to my rules; failure to do so will result in punishment," he declared, his eyes filled with obsession.

"Punishment?" she questioned.

"Yes, my little bird."

"Seriously, now you call me birdy after calling me Skylar? Why the sudden change?" she pondered inwardly.

"The first rule is that you are forbidden to ask me when, why, and what. Secondly, do not burden me with unnecessary questions. Thirdly, all your tasks must be completed in a timely manner; breakfast shall be served promptly at 8 am, lunch consisting of fruit juice should be served in the library, and dinner at 9 pm. This is assuming I choose not to dine with my family, as there is a kitchen here as well, understood?"

"Yes, your highness," she responded with a nod.

"Lastly, since you are insistent on being my maid, you are not allowed to quit unless I grant you permission to do so."

"It's not like we are dating," she thought to herself, but just then, she noticed a smirk on his face as if he had read her mind, which was simply impossible.

"Understood, your highness," she replied, bowing respectfully.

"Your duties will commence tomorrow, my little bird. You are dismissed."

"Very well," she said, bowing once more.

"Hold on," he interjected, capturing her attention. "Your room is the second door close to mine."

"But-" she started to protest, only to be swiftly interrupted.

"You expressed your displeasure throughout your journey here. Would you prefer to stay downstairs and come and go whenever I require your services? That could be rather entertaining."

"I apologize, your highness. I will gladly make use of the room you have assigned me. Thank you for your consideration. I shall take my leave," she said, bowing and exiting the room.

Ramriel observed as her figure gradually vanished from sight. It was as though she had undergone a transformation, no longer resembling the naive young woman he initially encountered. Though she still possessed a hint of naivety, she now exuded boldness and courage. He knew it would be enjoyable to observe her from this point forward.

• • • • •

When Skylar entered the room, she was greeted by an abundance of bright light.

The following passage showcases an assortment of items exuding a delightful and fitting ambiance, reminiscent of the persona of the owner. This encompasses the azure hue adorning the walls, contrasting with the smaller yet charming bed, which mirrors the royal lineage within her homeland. The regal blue coverlet accompanied the bed. Within the confines of the drawer and wardrobe, a makeup vanity caught her attention. Upon investigation, she discovered a collection of elegantly simple dresses, befitting her occupation as a maid, alongside an array of enchanting flat footwear, which brought a smile to her face. Fingers crossed, she hoped that her choice would not be met with any regrets. In the end, she owed her life to him, as he had saved her from certain demise, thus granting her a second lease on life. Offering him her service was the least she could do in return. As she undressed, meticulously folding her attire, she placed it delicately upon the cushion before finally resting on her bed, succumbing to fatigue as she drifted into a peaceful slumber.