Riff Raff trailed behind the group, his tall, hunched frame moving almost silently through the castle's corridors. His expression was as it often was—bored, detached, and disinterested. The others were of little consequence to him. Brad and Janet were mundane, their nervous chatter grating. But then there was Eden.

When his eyes landed on her, his demeanor shifted subtly. The corners of his mouth softened, and his perpetually sharp gaze lost its edge, becoming something gentler—something curious.

Why is she so... different? Riff Raff wondered, his mind uncharacteristically occupied by thoughts of her.

There was a radiance about her, an aura that seemed to brighten even the castle's gloomy, eccentric halls. Despite the strange circumstances she found herself in, she carried herself with grace and an almost childlike wonder that was utterly disarming. Her curiosity, kindness, and sincerity felt foreign to him, a man who had long grown cynical and detached from the world.

He mused, "She doesn't belong here, not in this madness, not among us," though the thought stirred an unfamiliar pang of regret. Something was compelling about how she stumbled on those impractical shoes, laughing softly at her misstep, or how her cheeks colored when Frank held her.

The others—Magenta, Frank, even the castle itself—seemed to pull toward her, drawn by her quiet magnetism. But for Riff Raff, the pull was more profound, more personal. She was a mystery he didn't understand but found himself yearning to solve.

His mind began to wander further. What might she think of him if they spoke more? Would she see him as he was—broken, strange, and out of place? Or could she, perhaps, see something else? Something more?

Shaking his head, Riff Raff forced himself to look away, his sharp features hardening once more as he followed the group into the dining room. Yet, no matter how much he tried to quell his thoughts, Eden lingered in his mind like a melody he couldn't forget.

Magenta watched the scene unfold with curiosity and amusement. Her sharp eyes flicked between her brother, Dr. Frank-N-Furter, and Eden. There was no denying the energy shift whenever Eden was in the room. The way Riff Raff softened and Frank's theatrical charm seemed to falter into something genuine—Eden affected everyone, and it intrigued her.

Magenta leaned casually against the wall, her lips curling into a sly smirk.

Human... yet so different, she thought. Brad and Janet were typical—a little dull, nervous, and entirely predictable. But Eden? She carried herself with a quiet strength and warmth that Magenta couldn't quite place. Even in this strange place, dressed in something out of a wild dream, Eden seemed... at home. Not with the castle, necessarily, but in her own skin.

Magenta glanced at Riff Raff, noting how he seemed to hover near Eden without realizing it. It was rare to see him so captivated. Frank, of course, was equally drawn, though his interest was more forward, almost possessive.

I can see why they're both so taken with her.

But for Magenta, her interest was different. Something was refreshing about Eden, something genuine. Magenta couldn't remember the last time she had spoken to someone who didn't have ulterior motives or wasn't as twisted as the castle's eccentric residents. Frank was her friend, sure, but his self-absorbed nature made any deeper connection nearly impossible. Riff Raff, her brother, was a constant companion but came with his burdens.

Eden, though... Magenta wondered if she might find something more in her. A friend, perhaps? Someone to talk to who wasn't consumed by their madness or schemes?

Her smirk softened into something more thoughtful.

"I'll have to see," she murmured under her breath, already planning to find ways to spend more time with Eden.

For now, she followed the group into the dining room, her sharp gaze always returning to the intriguing human who had managed to captivate the entire castle.

Frank strutted into the dining room with his usual flair, his sharp eyes darting between Brad, Janet, and Eden as they entered behind him. He claimed his seat at the head of the grand table, draping himself into the chair with the elegance of a king and the mischief of a performer.

As he observed Brad, his lips curled into a subtle smirk.

Brad—so stiff, so predictable. A walking advertisement for the ordinary. Frank chuckled inwardly. The man was trying so hard to be composed, but his discomfort was evident in how he avoided eye contact and clutched Janet's hand like a lifeline.

Next, his gaze shifted to Janet. She clung to Brad like a shadow, her nervous eyes flitting around the room. Frank saw through her polite smiles and hesitant movements.

Ah, Janet, darling, so sweet on the outside... but there's a storm beneath that innocent facade, isn't there? He thought he detected a glimmer of envy in her gaze when it rested on Eden. It was deliciously transparent.

And then, his eyes lingered on Eden. His smirk faded, replaced by something softer, more contemplative.

Eden was a puzzle, unlike the others. Where Brad and Janet shrank under the castle's eccentricities, Eden seemed to adapt. Her curiosity was noticeable, her wonder unguarded. She asked questions, observed, and carried herself with a quiet confidence that Frank couldn't help but admire.

Eden, my dear, you're a rare jewel, aren't you? Not just beautiful but... magnetic. Frank tapped his fingers on the armrest, studying her closely. She didn't have the same hesitations or fears as the others. Even in her moments of self-consciousness, like her stumble earlier, she bounced back with grace and humor.

For a brief moment, Frank's expression softened entirely. Something in Eden resonated with him—a confidence in her individuality, a strength that spoke of someone who could thrive even in a chaotic world.

Oh, darling, you don't even know the effect you have, do you? On me, on Riff Raff, on Magenta... His gaze flicked briefly toward Riff Raff and Magenta, confirming what he already knew—they were as enraptured by Eden as he was, each in their own way.

Frank leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers as he let a slow, devilish grin spread across his face.

This is going to be so much fun.

Riff Raff, typically indifferent to pleasantries, surprised everyone by stepping forward to pull the chair for Eden. His movements, usually jerky and impatient, were uncharacteristically smooth, and his gaze lingered on her as she gracefully took the seat.

"Thank you, Riff Raff," Eden said with a warm smile and a sincere tone. Frank and Magenta noticed the small gesture.

Frank arched a brow, his lips curling into a sly grin as he noted the dynamic.

"How... chivalrous of you, Riff Raff," Frank said teasingly, though his tone carried a hint of amusement rather than malice.

Riff Raff gave a slight bow before retreating to his seat. Magenta exchanged a knowing glance with her brother, her lips twitching into a smirk.

Frank gestured for Brad and Janet to sit further down the table, clearly ensuring Eden remained the center of his and everyone else's attention. Sensing the deliberate arrangement, Brad hesitated, but Janet tugged at his sleeve, urging him to sit.

Eden, meanwhile, glanced at the ornate dining table, curious about the meal they were about to have. She leaned slightly toward Frank, her curiosity overcoming her usual reserve.

"What will we be eating tonight?" she asked, her voice light and curious. "I'm curious, though I should mention—I'm sensitive to dairy and prefer plant-based milk if that's an option."

Frank looked at her with surprise and delight. He leaned closer, resting his chin on his hand as he studied her unabashedly.

"Sensitive to dairy, you say?" Frank mused, his lips twitching into a smile. "How delightfully unique. Fear not, my dear Eden. We aim to accommodate all tastes here at my humble abode."

He clapped his hands dramatically, signaling Magenta and the castle's staff.

"Make sure our enchanting guest has something suitable," Frank commanded, his tone leaving no room for error. "Something exquisite, plant-based, and utterly divine—like her."

Magenta nodded, disappearing with a graceful swish of her skirt to relay the instructions.

Eden felt a blush creep up her cheeks at Frank's words, but she maintained her composure. Her curiosity only grew about the enigmatic host and his peculiar household.

As the conversations and clinking of utensils began to fill the dining room, Eden's gaze subtly shifted from one person to the next, her analytical mind quietly at work. She didn't speak but observed with an almost imperceptible intensity, her eyes lingering on small details—the way Riff Raff's fingers tapped the edge of the table as if impatient, the slight twitch of Magenta's lips as though she found amusement in a secret no one else knew, and the way Frank seemed to dominate the room without effort, exuding charisma even in silence.

Frank leaned back in his chair, his sharp eyes glinting with intrigue. He had noticed the shift in Eden's demeanor almost immediately. Her curiosity wasn't just surface-level; it was probing, reflective, and distinctly different from the others. Brad and Janet squirmed uncomfortably, clearly out of their element, while Eden sat poised, her attention flitting between the oddities of the castle's residents.

Frank tilted his head, his lips curving into a knowing smile as he observed her. He was no stranger to being scrutinized, but Eden's assessment felt... different. It wasn't judgmental or fearful but rather deeply curious, as though she were trying to unravel a fascinating puzzle.

Eden's gaze finally settled on Frank, her eyes locking with his. There was no hesitation, no flinch, just an unspoken acknowledgment of his awareness of her silent study.

"You're quite the observer, aren't you, darling?" Frank finally broke the silence, his voice smooth and teasing.

Eden blinked, momentarily caught off guard, but quickly recovered. She smiled faintly. "I like to understand people. You can learn so much by just watching."

Frank chuckled, low and melodious, leaning forward as if drawn closer by her words. "And what, pray tell, have you learned about us so far?"

The room went still, all eyes on Eden. Riff Raff's fingers stopped tapping, and Magenta's smirk faded into something more neutral, though her eyes sparkled with interest. Brad and Janet exchanged uneasy glances, hoping Eden wouldn't say anything too revealing.

Eden hesitated for a moment, carefully choosing her words. "I think you're all... more complex than you let on," she said finally. "You each carry something deeper beneath the surface. It's fascinating."

Frank's grin widened, and he leaned closer, his voice dropping to a near purr. "Oh, my dear, you have no idea how right you are."

Dinner was served with theatrical flair, each plate carefully presented. Eden's meal was distinct—steamed vegetables, quinoa, and a creamy-looking sauce that Frank had assured her was made with cashew milk. By contrast, Brad and Janet's plates were laden with rich, traditional fare: a hearty roast, buttery mashed potatoes, and an abundance of thick, savory gravy.

Frank watched Eden intently as she took her first bite, his lips twitching into a sly smile when her expression softened with approval. He subtly nudged Riff Raff, who glanced at Eden, his curiosity thinly veiled.

"It's delicious," Eden said softly, glancing at Frank. "Thank you for accommodating my preferences."

Frank's grin grew wider, a spark of satisfaction gleaming in his eyes. "Oh, darling, I wouldn't dream of serving you anything less than perfection."

Riff Raff's gaze lingered on Eden a moment longer before he resumed eating, a small, almost invisible smile on his usual dour face.

Meanwhile, Brad and Janet noticed the stark contrast between their meals and Eden's. Janet's nose wrinkled as she stared at the roast on her plate, clearly unimpressed. She opened her mouth to say something, but Brad's sharp look stopped her.

"Just eat," Brad whispered under his breath, his tone firm but low enough not to draw attention.

Janet huffed quietly but picked up her fork, though her expression made it clear she wasn't happy.

Observing the exchange, Magenta smirked, her sharp eyes flicking to Eden. "Seems you've made quite the impression," she said slyly, her voice carrying a teasing edge.

Eden glanced at Magenta, then at the others, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. "I'm just grateful for the hospitality," she said modestly, her words directed at Frank but including everyone at the table.

Frank chuckled, his voice rich and amused. "Oh, my dear Eden, you bring more to this table than just gratitude."

Eden tilted her head, curious but choosing not to press further, savoring another bite of her meal.

The conversation gradually slowed as the last of the dishes were cleared away. Frank leaned back in his chair, his fingers lightly tapping the edge of his glass, a thoughtful look in his eyes as he watched Eden. He wanted everything about her stay to be nothing less than perfect.

With a smooth, deliberate motion, he stood up and placed his napkin on the table. "Magenta," he called, his voice soft and commanding. "Escort Eden to her room. Ensure she is as comfortable as a queen." His eyes softened as they met Eden's, a glint of something mysterious in them. "We'll settle you in a place worthy of royalty, darling."

Magenta gave a slight nod, her lips curving into an almost imperceptible smile as she moved toward Eden. "Right this way," she said, her voice calm but warm. Her eyes momentarily flicked toward Frank with a silent understanding.

Eden stood up, hesitant but intrigued by the promise of a regal room. She glanced at Brad and Janet, who were still finishing their meals but had heard Frank's instructions.

Brad gave her a reassuring nod, though his expression was concerned. Janet looked away, her gaze lingering on Eden for a moment too long.

With a final glance at the others, Eden followed Magenta toward the hallway, the distant sound of rain still drumming against the windows. The castle felt imposing and enchanting, the long hallways leading them to unknown places.

Meanwhile, Frank turned his attention to Riff Raff, his tone casual yet firm. "Riff Raff, take Brad and Janet to their rooms. Make sure they're comfortable, but not too comfortable," Frank added with a wry smile, his gaze flicking briefly toward them. "We wouldn't want them to get too... at home."

Riff Raff didn't respond immediately but gave a curt nod, his eyes briefly meeting Frank's with a mixture of understanding and resignation. He stood up and motioned for Brad and Janet to follow him, his footsteps echoing in the grand dining room as he led them away from the table.

As the group split into different directions, the castle seemed to hum with the strange energy of the night, its secrets waiting to be uncovered.

Eden, still intrigued and uncertain, followed Magenta down the grand corridor. The air seemed to grow heavier with each step, and she couldn't shake the feeling that she was walking deeper into something far beyond her comprehension.

As they walked down the grand corridor, the rain pattering against the stone walls, Magenta glanced at Eden from the corner of her eye. She had noticed how Eden carried herself—her curiosity and confidence despite the unfamiliarity of her surroundings—and it intrigued her.

Magenta had always been observant, especially when it came to new people. She could see that Eden wasn't like Brad or Janet, not just in how she looked but in how she seemed to think and perceive the world. She could sense that Eden was a person of depth, and for the first time in a long while, Magenta felt a flicker of hope that she might find someone she could connect with, someone who wasn't just another loyal follower of Frank's whims.

"So, Eden," Magenta began, her voice smooth and casual, "I'm sure this place is a little overwhelming. I know Frank can be... a lot to handle at times. But if you ever need someone to talk to or... someone to hang out with, I'm here. I've been in this castle with Frank and Riff Raff for what feels like forever, and I could use a friend." She gave Eden a small, almost shy smile, her usual sarcastic edge softening for the moment.

Magenta's eyes lingered on Eden, trying to gauge her reaction. She wasn't sure why she felt this way, but there was something about Eden—something she couldn't quite put her finger on—that made her want to try and be more than just another servant in Frank's kingdom. Maybe, just maybe, Eden could see her for who she truly was and not just as Frank's maid.

"Don't worry, the room I'm showing you isn't too extravagant," she continued, her tone light. "But it'll be comfortable. And, hey, you won't have to listen to Frank's... extravagant plans for the night." She grinned mischievously, her dark eyes twinkling. "I'm sure he's up to something—he usually is. But it'll be good to have some peace before everything gets... chaotic again."

Magenta glanced at Eden again, eager to see how she would respond. Would she think Magenta was just another strange character in the castle's bizarre world, or would she see the sincerity in Magenta's words? Either way, Magenta was determined to make the most of this opportunity.

Eden smiled softly at Magenta's words, her curiosity piqued. She had always been a good judge of character, and something about Magenta's tone felt authentic. Hearing someone speak sincerely without the hidden agendas or passive-aggressive undertones she often encountered was refreshing.

"I appreciate that, Magenta," Eden said, her voice warm yet thoughtful. "It's been overwhelming here, but you're different. I've... had my fair share of complicated relationships, so it's nice to meet someone who feels genuine."

As they continued down the hallway, Eden's mind wandered momentarily, reflecting on her past experiences with people like Janet. While she had tried to be understanding and kind, she couldn't shake the feeling that Janet's presence was more of an obligation than anything else. Brad had always been there for her, but Janet—well, Eden tolerated her because of Brad.

"Honestly," Eden added softly, "I've had my fill of people who only tolerate others for the wrong reasons. It's a relief to know I won't have to put on a front around you."

Magenta's offer of friendship felt like a breath of fresh air in a place suffocating with secrets and manipulation. Eden had no expectations, but she couldn't help but hope that she might find something real here—something beyond the shadows of Frank's strange world.

As they reached the door to Eden's room, Eden turned to Magenta with a small smile, her eyes filled with gratitude. "Thank you, really. It means a lot to me."

For the first time since arriving at the castle, Eden felt a spark of hope. Maybe she could find something genuine here after all.

Riff Raff's sharp eyes flicked over Brad and Janet as he led them down the dimly lit corridors of the castle. He maintained a stoic demeanor, his movements calculated and silent, ensuring they believed him to be nothing more than their guide. However, his acute senses were tuned to their every word, every inflection, every pause.

When Janet's voice dipped into a forced sweetness, he caught the undertones of envy lurking beneath her words.

"Eden always seems to get all the attention, doesn't she?" Janet remarked her laugh was light but tinged with bitterness. "Even here, in the middle of nowhere, she's the star."

Brad chuckled, clearly oblivious to the edge in her tone. "Come on, Janet. Eden's... well, she has that kind of energy. People naturally gravitate toward her. It's not like she's trying to outshine anyone."

"Of course not," Janet replied quickly, though her clenched fists and stiff posture told a different story. "It's just... exhausting, you know? Always playing second fiddle."

Riff Raff's grip on the candelabra tightened as he suppressed a smirk. Humans were always so transparent, their emotions spilling out in whispers and glances. He made a mental note to watch Janet closely; her bitterness could quickly become more disruptive.

As they reached their respective rooms, Riff Raff gestured wordlessly for them to enter. He lingered in the shadows, his pale features partially obscured by the dim light.

"Enjoy your stay," he said, his voice low and measured, though his mind was already elsewhere. He would ensure that Eden remained unbothered by these two. If Janet's jealousy became a problem, he would handle it swiftly. Eden's presence was far too precious to risk.

As he turned to leave, his thoughts lingered on Eden's curious and kind nature. The idea of her being harmed—or worse, driven away—by such petty emotions was unthinkable. No, he wouldn't allow it. Riff Raff would protect her, even if it meant stepping far beyond his usual role in the castle.