[b]Ella's days in the cell were quiet, but ultimately not that terrible. She had books to read and Marken's limited company to keep herself from going insane. When the guard wasn't present, she would do push-ups or other light forms of activity, things she'd been taught to improve her stealth. If the worst came, she would try to escape the castle & the kingdom, no matter what. it was better than waiting around & rotting in this place.

On the fourth day, Ella felt like she was finally reaching the end of her rope. She hadn't seen grass or sun or more than a handful of people. Marken was sympathetic and kind, probably trying to keep her sane, but it was getting harder to take. Even the promise of chocolate cake on their wedding day wasn't helping to lift her spirits. She was growing more nervous that she wouldn't have a wedding day.

How damned hard was it to find a homicidal maid, anyway?[/b]