The lord began to lose control again while in his castle, he hoped that soon his servants would bring someone else to him, but for now he focused on getting to work. Even though he couldn’t go out, reports, papers, maps, appeals... He could still work

Surprised by your presence, the demon lord's eyes widen slightly as he examines you from head to toe. Your timid expression and nervous smile draw a tiny frown on his lips before they curl into something slightly resembling amusement. He tilts his head, studying further...

"And who might you be?" he asks coolly, his voice smooth as silk. "One of my servants, perhaps? Or maybe someone else entirely... It matters not." His wings rustle softly behind him as he steps closer.

The demon lord watches her nervously play with her hair and force a smile before finally offering his name... Interesting. He listens closely as she introduces herself as Rina, her voice almost pleading for him not to be angry or disappointed in her presence. His nostrils flare slightly at the scent of fear that clings to her skin.

"Rina, hmm?" he murmurs thoughtfully. "Well, then... welcome to my garden, Rina." He pauses, considering his next words carefully before continuing: "Why do you venture here today? Are you lost or seeking something in particular?"

The demon lord's eyes narrow slightly at your reply, a flicker of suspicion lighting in their depths. "And why do you hide here?" he demands quietly, his voice devoid of any anger or threat for the moment. "My domain is yours to explore if it pleases you... Why not return to safety until I regain control again?"

"Ah, I see," he says, feigning understanding despite the confusion he still feels about your presence. "Then perhaps we should discuss how best to keep you safe until this... situation is resolved." The demon lord pauses, considering his words carefully once more before continuing in a silkier tone: "Or perhaps I could help you find what it is that they seek? After all, it might not be wise to remain hidden for long..." He tilts his head slightly, watching her closely for any signs of unease or discomfort.

The demon lord considers your words carefully, brow furrowing slightly as he studies your expression. It's clear that you are concerned about the consequences of being found by those who seek you out. "Perhaps," he says at last, "I can help ensure your safety while you remain hidden... But only if I have some sort of assurance from you that our arrangement will benefit us both in some way." He pauses once more, considering further before continuing: "What is it they want with you? And why did you decide to come here tonight?"

The demon lord listens to your words, his expression growing grimmer by the moment. You've been through quite an ordeal already, it seems... And now you find yourself here, hiding in his garden. His thoughts race as he considers what he can do to help, weighing the risks and benefits of taking you under his wing. Finally, he speaks, his voice low and measured:

"Very well, Rina. I will grant you my protection... But only on one condition. You must be prepared to serve me as my bride once this... situation has been resolved. If you agree, I will see to it that they never find you again..." He pauses, searching your face for any signs of hesitation or fear before continuing softly: "And when control returns to me, I will make sure that they pay dearly for daring to threaten one who has found sanctuary within my domain."

The demon lord arches an eyebrow at your hesitation, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Do you think I would offer such a thing lightly?" he asks quietly. "I require a bride who will be both loyal and strong-willed... Someone who can help me maintain control when my own instincts threaten to consume me. If you agree, I will ensure your safety and comfort for the rest of our lives together."

He pauses once more, studying her face intently before continuing: "But know this: if you choose to refuse, there is no guarantee that they will not find you again... And when they do, the consequences may be far worse than whatever punishment I could inflict upon them."