Bound by the Dark Prince

Evelyn lay awake in the lavish chamber she had been given, staring at the ceiling. The soft glow of moonlight filtered through the high-arched windows, casting silver patterns across the room. Despite the comfort surrounding her, sleep refused to come.

Kael's words from earlier echoed in her mind. To stand beside me.

What did that even mean? What was he preparing her for?

She exhaled sharply and sat up. Her body still ached from the battle in the woods, but the pain was a reminder—she had survived. She had fought, and she had won. But why did she feel like the real battle had yet to begin?

A soft knock at the door pulled her from her thoughts.

"Come in."

The door creaked open, revealing a young woman dressed in deep blue robes. She had warm brown eyes and long, dark hair braided down her back. She held a tray with a small cup of steaming liquid.

"My lady," the woman said, bowing slightly. "Lord Kael asked me to bring you this. It will help with the pain."

Evelyn eyed the cup warily. "What is it?"

"A tonic made from moonflower and ember root. It eases soreness and strengthens the body."

Evelyn hesitated for only a moment before taking the cup. If Kael wanted her dead, he had plenty of chances before now. She took a cautious sip, the warmth spreading through her instantly. It had a slightly bitter taste, but it wasn't unpleasant.

The woman smiled. "You're stronger than most who come here."

Evelyn raised a brow. "Most?"

The woman set the tray aside and stepped closer. "You are not the first outsider to enter this castle, nor the first to be tested."

A chill ran through Evelyn. "And what happened to the others?"

The woman's smile faltered. "Not all of them survived."

Evelyn swallowed hard. She set the cup down. "Who are you?"

"My name is Liana," the woman said. "I am a healer, but I also serve as an observer."

"An observer?"

Liana nodded. "I watch those who enter Kael's world and see if they can withstand what lies ahead."

Evelyn narrowed her eyes. "And what do you see in me?"

Liana hesitated, then smiled. "A fighter. Someone who does not break easily."

Evelyn wanted to believe that, but doubt still gnawed at her. "And Kael? What does he see?"

Liana's expression darkened slightly. "That… is something you must ask him yourself."

Before Evelyn could respond, another knock came at the door. This time, it was deeper, more commanding.

Liana straightened. "That would be him now."

Evelyn felt a surge of anticipation as Liana opened the door, revealing Kael standing in the dimly lit hallway. His presence filled the space, his crimson eyes steady as they met hers.

"Come with me," he said. "Your training begins now."

Evelyn glanced at Liana, who gave her an encouraging nod before stepping aside.

Gathering her strength, Evelyn rose to her feet and followed Kael into the darkness of the castle halls.

Whatever lay ahead, there was no turning back now.