Kai had to mask his true emotions, maintaining an air of composure to avoid raising suspicion. Without hesitation, he issued his commands, his tone sharp and resolute. "Assemble a group of knights immediately. Lock down the palace and its grounds. Conduct a thorough search—we must determine if the murderer is still within our walls."
Inside, however, his thoughts were far from calm.
It must have been the Beast King, Kai mused, a sly grin creeping across his pale face. He probably decided that if he couldn't have Lorelai, then no one could. Well, it's all for the best. Mother will be furious, but this accelerates everything. With that old pervert gone, I no longer have to endure this agonizing wait.
The news was undeniably advantageous, and Kai's excitement simmered just beneath the surface. He was even tempted to let the beasts' delegation slip away unscathed, but for the sake of appearances, he had to feign outrage and take immediate action.
