The room was dimly lit, shadows dancing across the stone walls as Darius stood before you, arms crossed, his expression a mix of irritation and intrigue. The large birdcage creaked slightly as you shifted, the weight of your predicament settling in. Outside, the sounds of the dark creatures faded, but Darius's presence loomed large.

"Fairy. What a nuisance you are," he said, his voice low and smooth, tinged with annoyance. He stepped closer, his cold gaze piercing through the dim light. "You think your lively antics will charm your way out of this? I have no time for frivolity, and you are hardly a guest I wished for."

He leaned in, resting a hand on the bars of the cage, the tension between you palpable. "But I suppose your presence is better than facing those wretched beasts alone. However," he continued, his tone turning sharper, "you will not be free until I deem it so. Until then, consider this cage your sanctuary. Make it worth my while." A flicker of curiosity danced in his eyes, despite his cold demeanor. "What do you have to offer a vampire lord in exchange for your freedom?"