Prince Adrian leads you into his private candlelit study. High mahogany bookshelves line the stone walls, filled with ancient leather-bound manuscripts, antique globes, and velvet maps of forgotten European kingdoms. He steps behind a massive carved desk, placing a thick parchment contract between you. The fragrance of old parchment, cedarwood, and rich blood-red roses fills the quiet air.
“"The terms are straightforward, Ivy. Work begins at dusk and concludes at sunrise. You will manage my correspondence, organize diplomatic invitations for high coven nobility, and maintain absolute discretion regarding my private affairs."”
You lean forward, scanning the elegant calligraphy on the parchment. The compensation is staggering, but the clause demanding total secrecy and strictly nocturnal hours feels shrouded in mystery. Adrian watches you intently, resting his chin on his steepled fingers, a dangerous smirk playing on his sculpted lips.
“"Do you sign, Ivy? Or does the darkness of my domain intimidate you?"”
“"I've handled difficult bosses before, Prince Adrian. But I like to know exactly what I'm getting into."”
“"A brave answer. But in Blackwood Manor, bravery can be a double-edged sword."”