Lila's POV
A feeling of pure shock coursed through my veins, rendering me momentarily speechless as I struggled to come to terms with the reality standing right in front of me. It was Lucian Evans, gorgeous in all of his regal glory, his presence commanding attention, and an unbelievable smirk etched across his undeniably handsome face.
"You! Y-You are the man who haunted me in my dreams," I spluttered, my index finger quivering as it pointed accusingly at his highness, my face contorted in a mix of disbelief and horrified recognition.
"It took you ages to figure that out," Lucian mocked, his tone dripping with disdain.
"S-Sorry, M-M-Master, for not recognizing you at first," I fumbled for words, my nervousness palpable.
"Like I said before, you can call me Lucian," the prince ordered, his facial expression meticulously masked, revealing nothing of his thoughts.
Before I could reply or further process this astonishing turn of events, I was abruptly jolted awake by the warm embrace of morning sunlight streaming through my window.
My bedroom was exactly as I remembered it, except for the long scroll that had been carefully placed under my pillow. As I unrolled it, the message it held became apparent:
Dear Lila,
I apologize for my abrupt departure, but it was imperative that I deal with a group of rogue werewolves. It appears one of them aspired to become the Alpha King, a goal he won't achieve easily, especially not in my presence.
Now, onto more immediate matters. Today, I've decided to have you prepare my lunch. According to my sources, you have experience working in a bakery, so it's time to put your culinary skills to the test for me.
During your free time, I've granted you permission to explore the castle. As my personal maid, it's crucial that you familiarize yourself with the layout so that you won't require my assistance, as you did last time, to find your way to my chambers.
Lastly, should anyone give you any trouble, don't hesitate to reach out to me, and I will ensure they face dire consequences.
Sincerely, Lucian Evans
Sitting up reluctantly, my mind went blank as it registered the Demon Prince's commands: Prepare his lunch and explore the castle. I couldn't shake the fear that there might be an ulterior motive behind his orders. I was a lowly servant trying to survive in a world where humans were at the bottom of the food chain, while the Demon Prince held the highest position and was capable of silencing an entire audience with a single gesture and inducing unease into his opponent's mind.
The intricate questions that had occupied my thoughts just the day before were once again swirling in my mind's labyrinth. Shouldn't he, in accordance with the usual rule of things, be tormenting me in the dark locations of the royal dungeons at this very moment, all while he indulged in the company of the esteemed High Lords?
"You shouldn't be questioning him, Lila," my daring inner voice scolded, "Considering all the things he has made you do, it's insolent of you to inquire about his actions. He might as well be aware your thoughts at this very moment."
"Right," I replied with a touch of unease tainting my words, "Follow the orders of his highness, and I might stand a chance of surviving these twelve years."
"Don't overlook the fact," my cautious side reminded me, "that the Demon Prince holds an intense disdain for our kind. You should investigate why he hasn't compelled you to endure ceaseless torment yet."
Carefully, I sneaked out of the prince's chambers and stepped onto the balcony. The sight before me was enchanting, with a garden stretching out beneath my gaze. It was the most alluring scene I had ever encountered. It was an exquisite sanctuary of natural beauty, carefully designed to captivate the senses. Vibrant and fragrant flowers in a kaleidoscope of colors decorated every corner, their petals kissed by the golden sunlight. Ornate statues and marble fountains enriched the pathways, and the gentle sound of trickling water added to the garden's serene ambiance.
Immediately, my mind was fixed upon my destination and my feet were practically darting towards the garden. It might been the only source of happiness in this location where killing is done for enjoyment.
"What are you doing, slave," a guard abruptly appeared, his hand twisting my arm with such strength that I felt my skin tearing apart.
"Please don't," I pleaded pathetically for mercy as I felt my soul resisting against his powers.
"What am I expecting?" I inwardly cowered, "Demons practically suck on souls."
"Yes," the guard snarled like a wolf, just eagerly waiting for the exact time to pounce on me, "I do suck on souls and yours will become my next one."
My pleas for mercy fell on deaf ears as I felt my soul resisting the relentless pull of the guard's powers. Panic gripped me as I realized the horrifying truth – demons thrived on consuming souls.
"Stop what you are doing, Guard," a female ear-piercing voice screeched my ears.
Swivelling around, I turned to face my savior. She was a girl with an ethereal beauty with long, wavy black hair adorned with purple floral and jewel embellishments. Her violet eyes were large and captivating, set in a fair and finely featured face. A distinctive forehead jewel connected to a nose piercing increased her aura. She wore a deep purple gown with intricate silver embroidery and gemstones, complemented by elaborate jewelry.
That's when I realized I was standing in front of Princess Celeste, the princess of all demons.
"Your highness," I quickly bowed, my eyes not daring to look into her enchanting ones, "My apologies for being so clumsy."
Princess Celeste nonchalantly waved off my apology. "It's fine," she said, "Besides, I've always believed that boys should be the ones doing all the work while us women enjoy a life of luxury. Unfortunately, my foolish excuse for a brother decided to make things fair, subjecting both genders to a life of servitude. It's a shame, really. I've always considered boys to be rather sluggish creatures."
My jaw fell to the ground. The princess - was actually not acting like royalty but instead a commoner with a strong opinion about the law.
"Close your mouth. You would catch flies. Don't worry, you are safe with me. Besides, who is your master. I must have a word with them. They are really idiotic - leaving their slaves where any demon can gobble them up," the princess rattled on.
My fondness for the princess increased rapidly. She was unlike other royals who cared only about appearances and status. She was an open and candid speaker, often saying what was on her mind before considering how it might affect others. In a way, she was herself.
Suddenly, I realised that I had to answer the princess's question.
"S-S-Sorry, your highness," I fumbled for words, "My master is in fact your brother, his highness."
"My brother?" the princess looked deeply shocked.
One of her hand immediately touched my forehead, probably to discern whether my words were a lie.
"It's true," she grinned, "You are stating a fact. You must be special, considering my brother never had slaves before. Most of his slaves ended up as torture victims within a day."
Concerns welled up in my stomach. Was that the reason why the Demon Prince was being unusually kind to me? Was he planning to betray my trust and subject me to unspeakable torment?
"Don't worry," the princess smiled, sensing my concerns, "I will protect you from my brother if it comes to that. I have already taken a strong liking to you."
"E-E-Excuse me," I stammered, feeling a rush of embarrassment as the princess turned her attention to me, "Do you happen to know the way to the kitchen?"
"Of course," she replied, appearing somewhat surprised, "But why do you need to know?"
"B-B-Because M-Master instructed me to prepare lunch for him," I responded, my face flushing crimson with embarrassment.
Princess Celeste immediately locked her hand with mine and began skipping towards the royal kitchen with me. Guards sent me looks filled with bewilderment and contemptment as me - a servant - was spending time with the princess.
Guess what guys? I am that breathtaking to earn both the favour of the Demon Prince and the Demon Princess. I was born to be a star.
Ok, I was just kidding about that fact. In reality, I could not help but agree with what the guards were pondering about. Inside, self-doubt consumed me and I was fairly certain that the princess was using my for her person gain.
"Here we are," the princess exclaimed, displaying a majestic door inscribed with 'The Royal Kitchen.'
The royal kitchen was a bustling hub of activity, with the scent of various spices and ingredients permeating the air. It was a spacious and well-organized area, with rows of gleaming copper pots and pans hanging neatly on the walls. Cooks and servants hurried about, chopping vegetables, stirring bubbling pots, and attending to the needs of the grand feast being prepared. The kitchen was well-lit by large windows that allowed the warm sunlight to stream in, creating a comforting and inviting atmosphere amid the busy preparations.
In the royal kitchen, I began my adventure to prepare lunch for Lucian. I found an array of fresh vegetables, meats, and fragrant herbs at my disposal. With trembling hands, I carefully selected the ingredients, determined to make a meal worthy of a prince.
As I chopped and seasoned, the smell waffled in the air, and the sizzling of the pan added a harmonious melody to my efforts. The sizzling steak released a mouthwatering aroma as it cooked to perfection. The colorful array of vegetables danced in the pan, combining flavors and textures in a delectable symphony.
My heart raced with every stir of the spoon, and I hoped that my culinary skills would meet the standards of royalty. With a final touch, I plated the dish, presenting it with utmost care.
Suddenly, carriages appeared in my line of sight, their majestic design towering over the normal type of vehicle. Lucian Evans, dressed in a regal attire with a casual smirk hanging over his lips, stepped out of the coach.
Surrounded by guards, Lucian Evans began to walk, one step by a time, making servants cowering in fear. As he walked in the direction of the kitchen, my heart pounding in fear. If my cooking abilities did not suit his taste, I may as well be dead.
"Welcome home brother," Princess Celeste frowned.
"Well Davies," Lucian beamed from ear to ear, ignoring his lovely sister, "What have you provided for me."
With trembling hands, I carried my dish towards him - my eyes trailing on the floor and my legs, wobbling in fear.
As I set the meal onto the table, I couldn't help but hold my breath, anxious to see his reaction.
Taking in his every step, his every reaction, my heart pounded in my chest - every beat was loud enough for everyone to hear.
His calloused yet beautiful long nimble fingers uncovered the plate as his mouth slowly but surely formed in a smug smirk.
"Ah," he leered, "Seems as if my predictions have been accurate."
All of the kitchen staff, including Princess Celeste, was leaning forward, waiting to hear news about my demise - except for Celeste.
"Lila Davies here," Lucian smirked as he knowingly created tension.
Silence filled the room.
"Please don't get me murdered on my second day as a slave," I inwardly pleaded.
"Has proven to me that she can live for another day!"
Did Lucian Evans just allowed me to live?
My heart filled with happiness as I was totally not prepared to die. However, I did not register the words 'for another day.'