On a cold Friday night, shadows lurked across the dimly lit room, moving with silent purpose. A hooded figure crept toward a large door, hesitating only for a moment before reaching for the handle—
81Please respect copyright.PENANAOuehOeTGgy
"My Lady…? Is that you?"
81Please respect copyright.PENANAMbhLwh65Kd
The voice startled her. From the top of the grand staircase, an elderly woman peered down, sharp eyes filled with suspicion.
81Please respect copyright.PENANAKI17HP6vMi
The hooded figure stiffened before turning slowly to face her.
81Please respect copyright.PENANAs9khWyiugL
"N-No, Mrs. Francis, I'm just one of the waitstaff," she answered, forcing a calm tone.
81Please respect copyright.PENANAxKUluSLptl
The old woman raised an eyebrow. "Is that so? Then tell me, why would a waitstaff be wandering around at this hour? And shouldn’t you at least knock before entering someone’s room?"
81Please respect copyright.PENANAaQD2e0a7e1
"I—uh—"
81Please respect copyright.PENANATAG4jdO7Ur
She struggled for an excuse, but the woman cut her off with a sigh.
81Please respect copyright.PENANAD7sVmwvEVp
"I know it's you, Princess," she said knowingly. "You shouldn’t be awake this late. You have an important meeting with the officials tomorrow."
81Please respect copyright.PENANA0NvJzqN3vU
She huffed. "I know, but I want to explore South Korea! We only arrived two days ago. It wouldn't hurt to look around my temporary state, even just for a little while!"
81Please respect copyright.PENANApduDjSbxps
The old woman hesitated. "But, Princess—"
81Please respect copyright.PENANAknm5KdAblI
She faltered wwhenthe young Lady's eyes shimmered with a pleading expression. The infamous puppy eyes.
81Please respect copyright.PENANAtNkrc6uzkQ
With another sigh, she muttered, "His Highness will scold me for this later… but I suppose it wouldn't hurt for you to explore a little, as long as you're careful."
The young Lady gasped, her face lighting up. "Really?! Thank you, thank you, thank you!" she exclaimed, practically bouncing with excitement.
81Please respect copyright.PENANALUoXem2XZk
The old woman chuckled softly. "You're welcome, My Lady. Just… don’t get yourself into trouble."
81Please respect copyright.PENANAaIdgoWf39q