บท 41: This Young Master Will Take Responsibility

Kira was awakened by a loud scream that cut through the stillness of the night—high-pitched and panicked. She froze, her heart leaping into her throat. She strained to listen, the sound fading as quickly as it had begun. Seconds later, she heard voices outside her door. Though familiar, they still made her alert.

Before she could gather her thoughts, the door burst open, slamming against the wall with enough force to make her flinch. Caspien hurried inside, out of breath, his normally composed face etched with worry.

"Princess," he said, dropping to one knee. His voice was low but urgent.

"What's going on?" Kira asked, standing quickly and pulling her robe tighter around her.

"It's Lady Mei Mei," Caspien replied, rising to his feet. "Her maid discovered her missing moments ago. She went to check on her mistress, but the bed was empty."