From the corner of the dimly lit room, Ville Ashford, his slender frame tense, fidgeted nervously as he awaited his master's summons. With a hesitant knock, the door creaked open, revealing the stern figure of his master.

"Ville," the master's voice was sharp, cutting through the silence like a knife. "You were late with your chores today. This is unacceptable."

Ville's gaze fell to the ground, his thin fingers twisting in anxiety. "I-I'm sorry, Master. I lost track of time."

His master's expression softened slightly, though the disappointment remained evident. "You know the rules, Ville. Punctuality is crucial. You'll have to make up for lost time."

"Yes, Master," Ville murmured, his voice barely audible.

A tense silence enveloped the room before the master spoke again, his tone softer this time. "I expect better from you, Ville. You have potential. Don't let it go to waste."

Ville nodded, a glimmer of determination flickering in his empty brown eyes. "I'll do better, Master. I promise."