Whispers in the Dark

I pushed open the door slightly, peeking inside to find Elara standing in front of a large mirror. She was dressed in a set of revealing lingerie, her golden hair cascading down her back like a river of sunset hues. She was brushing it out, her strokes smooth and languid as she gazed at her reflection. As I watched, Elara began to talk to herself, her voice barely above a whisper. "Come to me tonight, my lord," she said, her eyes locked on her own reflection. "Grant me your attentions, and I will be yours forevermore." I felt a pang of unease as I listened to her words. It was clear that Elara was hoping to entice the demon lord to visit her, and that she was willing to do whatever it took to gain his favor. I wondered what kind of relationship she had with this creature, and what she hoped to gain from it. As I continued to watch, Elara's words grew more urgent, her voice taking on a desperate tone. "I have done everything you asked of me," she said, her eyes pleading with her own reflection. "I have waited patiently, dressed for you, and prepared myself for your return. Come to me tonight, and let me know that I am still yours." I felt a surge of discomfort at her words, and I was about to turn away when Elara's gaze shifted, her eyes seeming to look directly at me. I froze, holding my breath as I waited to see if she had seen me. But her gaze passed over me, and she continued to brush her hair, lost in her own thoughts. I took a deep breath, trying to process what I had just seen. It was clear that Elara was deeply invested in her relationship with the demon lord, and that she was willing to do whatever it took to gain his favor. I wondered what kind of power this creature held over her, and what she hoped to gain from their relationship. As I stood there, frozen in the doorway, I heard a faint noise coming from outside. It was a soft footstep, followed by another, and I knew that someone was approaching. I quickly pulled back, disappearing into the shadows as I waited to see who it was. The footsteps grew louder, and I saw a figure come into view. It was one of the servants, a young woman with a tray of candles in her hands. She smiled as she approached Elara's door, and I realized that she was here to help Elara prepare for the demon lord's visit. "Good evening, milady," the servant said, curtsying low. "I brought the candles you requested. Shall I light them for you?" Elara turned, a smile on her face. "Yes, thank you," she said, her voice husky. "I want everything to be perfect tonight." The servant nodded, and began to light the candles, casting a warm, golden glow over the room. As I watched, I felt a sense of unease growing inside me. I knew that I had to get out of there, and fast, before I was discovered. But as I turned to leave, I caught a glimpse of Elara's face, and I saw something there that gave me pause. She was hoping for something, and I knew that I had to find out what.