Bound by the Dark Prince

The path ahead was shrouded in an eerie twilight, the air thick with whispers that seemed to come from the very walls of the shadowed realm. Evelyn followed Kael in silence, each step forward deepening the reality of her situation.

The castle soon emerged from the gloom, towering obsidian spires piercing the sky like the fangs of some ancient beast. Strange symbols flickered across its surface, alive with an energy that sent shivers down her spine.

Kael led her inside without a word, the grand doors groaning open as if in warning. Inside, the air was cooler, laced with the scent of embers and something faintly metallic. Torches lined the vast hallway, casting flickering shadows against the walls.

He finally stopped before an immense throne room. "You seek freedom, yet you bear the Mark of Shadows," he said, turning to face her fully. "That mark is no ordinary brand. It binds you to my kingdom, to my rule."

Evelyn swallowed hard. "Then remove it."

A slow, predatory smile crossed his lips. "It does not work that way."

She clenched her fists. "Then tell me what I must do."

Kael studied her for a moment before speaking. "A bargain."

Evelyn hesitated. She knew the dangers of making deals with beings like him, but did she have another choice?

"I'm listening," she said at last.

His silver eyes gleamed. "Good."