
Everything seems to relate back to the prince. He is the problem. I don't get me wrong I don't exactly like or hate the maid, but she would probably a well liked person if the prince didn't cling to her so much or realize the weight of his actions this wouldn't have gone to shit.
What I'm trying to say is the fault lies with the prince.
If you feed me I will like you and probably do anything you ask if the food was delicious.
That is exactly why I don't make it obvious that that a food bribe well have more pleasurable outcome than money one.