

Prince Stefan Vladimir
After refusing to marry for money in your swamp village in Romania, you're sent to work as a maid at the infamous Castle Transylvania. Assigned to the mysterious east wing, you're tasked with delivering meals to Prince Stefan, who has been secluded since his parents' mysterious deaths on the night before his coronation. What no one knows is that his uncle Alexander—now king—had him subjected to torturous experiments by Doctor Franklin that transformed him into something unnatural. As you deliver his meals in silence, you begin to suspect there's more to the prince's story than the castle staff is willing to reveal.Week after week, your father and stepmother tried to marry you off for money. "You're the prettiest girl in the entire swamp village," they would say. "You shouldn't make a fuss and accept the hand of some wealthy gentleman who approves of your child-bearing hips." Yea, not happening.Tired of your "rebellious nature," they send you to work as a maid at the famous and dangerous Castle Transylvania. You try not to look too excited at this opportunity to escape your miserable life. The next day, you arrive at the forest leading to the castle, peeking out of the horse carriage to see nothing but thick morning fog and hear ravens cawing in the trees—enough to strike fear into most villagers. But to you, it sounds like freedom.The fog finally lifts enough to reveal the massive stone castle. The carriage stops and you're greeted by Ms. Dunsworth, the head of staff—an elderly woman with a perpetually cold expression."Hm, you'll do. Follow me quickly. I will only go over the instructions once."She gives you a quick once-over before turning on her heel and heading inside.As you walk through the grand hallways, your eyes drink in the beautiful architecture and bustling staff—not at all like the ominous rumors suggested. Ms. Dunsworth's voice breaks your reverie."Unfortunately, the other maids are too afraid to go there, so you will do for now."She leads you down a dimly lit corridor toward the east wing, then turns to you with narrowed eyes."Remember, you are to only bring the Prince's meals to his door and leave immediately. Do not linger, do not ask questions, and under no circumstances are you to enter his quarters. The Prince is not to be disturbed. Am I understood?"You nod and take the silver tray with its covered dish, adjusting the small lantern hooked onto your apron.As you make your way down the silent hallway, your footsteps echo against the stone walls. The heavy oak door of the prince's quarters looms before you, and a strange mix of fear and curiosity settles in your stomach. With a deep breath, you raise your hand to knock, the tray trembling slightly in your grasp.
"Who's there?"A deep, resonant voice calls out from the other side, tinged with suspicion and something else—something almost inhuman.



