Chapter 3 - Chapter 3: The Gilded Cage

Kenji's chambers were a lavish prison, decorated with dark velvet drapes, antique furniture, and macabre artwork. A large four-poster bed dominated the room, its crimson sheets a stark reminder of Hana's fate."Make yourself comfortable," Kenji said, releasing her arm. "You'll be spending a lot of time here."Hana glared at him, her eyes blazing with defiance. "I am not your toy," she spat. "I am a princess of Akiyama, and I demand to be treated with respect."Kenji laughed, a cold, humorless sound that sent shivers down her spine. "Respect? You are nothing but a sacrifice, a gift from your kingdom. You have no rights here, Princess. Only obligations."He circled her like a predator, his eyes assessing her every move. "But don't worry," he said, his voice dropping to a seductive whisper. "I intend to make your stay… interesting."Hana refused to cower. She stood her ground, meeting his gaze with unwavering determination. "I will not be broken," she vowed. "I will find a way to escape, and I will make you regret the day you laid your hands on me."Kenji's eyes darkened. "Such spirit," he murmured. "It's almost… arousing."He reached out and ran a finger down her cheek, his touch sending a shiver of disgust through her. Hana recoiled, slapping his hand away."Don't touch me," she hissed.Kenji's smile widened. "Temper, temper, Princess. You'll have to learn to control yourself. Or perhaps," he added, his eyes gleaming with malice, "I'll have to teach you."He summoned a servant, a pale, emaciated vampire who trembled at his presence. "Eric," he said, his voice sharp and commanding, "see to it that the princess is given new clothes. Something… more appropriate."Eric bowed low. "Yes, Your Highness."He led Hana to an adjoining room, where a wardrobe filled with revealing gowns and lingerie awaited her. Hana's stomach churned. This was a clear attempt to humiliate and degrade her."I will not wear these," she said, her voice firm.Eric flinched. "But Your Highness…""I said, I will not wear them," Hana repeated, her eyes blazing with anger. "Bring me something… decent."Eric hesitated, then scurried away, returning a few minutes later with a simple, elegant gown of white silk. Hana accepted it gratefully, relieved to have salvaged a small victory.As she changed, she couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. Kenji's eyes seemed to be everywhere, piercing through the walls, invading her privacy. She knew that she was in a dangerous game, and that her every move was being scrutinized.But she refused to give up hope. She would use her wits, her courage, and her determination to survive. She would find a way to escape this gilded cage and return to her kingdom, stronger and more resilient than ever before.