The ballroom buzzed with whispers and hurried footsteps as the news of Lydia's disappearance spread like wildfire. Panic rippled through the guests, casting a shadow over the once vibrant atmosphere of the celebration. Lilith, my mother, stood at the center of the chaos, her regal demeanor a beacon of strength amidst the turmoil.
"We must act quickly," she declared, her voice cutting through the din of panicked voices. "Gather every available guard and search the grounds. We cannot afford to waste a moment."
Her words sparked a flurry of activity as servants hurried to carry out her orders, disappearing into the labyrinthine halls of the estate in search of reinforcements. I watched, my heart heavy with dread, as the ballroom emptied, leaving behind only a handful of trusted advisors and close confidants.
