The Gilded Cage

As Kaelith Veyraen's hand wrapped around her elbow, the woman felt a jolt of electricity run through her body. She tried to pull away, but his grip was firm, yet not ungentle. He guided her towards the palace, the sound of her heels clicking on the stone steps echoing through the night air. The grand entrance was flanked by two imposing stone statues, their faces serene and unyielding. As they stepped inside, a warm golden light enveloped her, and the woman felt a sense of disorientation wash over her. The interior of the palace was just as impressive as its exterior, with high ceilings and intricate frescoes adorning the walls. Kaelith led her through a series of corridors, the soft rustle of his clothes against the stone floor the only sound. They eventually stopped in front of a pair of ornate doors, which swung open to reveal a group of maids dressed in identical uniforms of white and silver. They curtsied in unison, their faces expressionless. "Welcome, milady," one of them said, her voice soft. "We've prepared your quarters. Please, allow us to assist you." The woman hesitated, unsure of what to do. Kaelith's grip on her elbow tightened, and he gave her a gentle push forward. The maids closed in around her, their hands gentle as they began to undress her. The woman felt a surge of panic, but Kaelith's voice stopped her. "Leave the gag on for now," he said, his eyes glinting with amusement. "I think it's... becoming." The maids curtsied again and continued their ministrations, efficiently removing her outer clothes and replacing them with a flowing white gown. The woman felt a sense of vulnerability wash over her as they worked, but she couldn't help but steal glances at Kaelith. He stood watching, his eyes never leaving hers, a small smile playing on his lips. As the maids finished, they stepped back, and Kaelith took a step forward. "Your quarters are through that door," he said, nodding towards a doorway. "You will find everything you need within. I suggest you rest. We will speak again in the morning." The woman nodded, still feeling dazed. As Kaelith turned to leave, one of the maids approached her and gently took her hand, leading her towards the doorway. The woman glanced back, catching Kaelith's eye one last time. He was watching her, his expression unreadable. The door closed behind her, and the woman found herself in a lavishly decorated room. The bed was a sprawling affair, covered in silken sheets and plush pillows. A large window looked out onto a moonlit garden, the scent of blooming flowers wafting in on the breeze. But despite the beauty of her surroundings, the woman felt trapped, a prisoner in a gilded cage.