Chapter 45

Akira POV

I made my way to the servant quarters, my heart was drumming in my chest. I couldn’t help but wonder if I would find Lisa and Brielle there, safe and sound.

I had wanted to ask Hunter if he had done anything to them, but I held back. I couldn’t risk letting him know how much I cared about my friends or hint that my return had anything to do with them.

That would only complicate things and potentially put them in more danger.

I knew that checking the dungeon first would have been the smarter option since that was Hunter’s favorite place for dumping prisoners. But the fear of what I might find—or not find—down there kept me from going.

I couldn’t face the possibility that my friends might be locked away or worse.

When I finally reached the room, I hesitated at the door. I took a deep breath and silently prayed to the moon goddess they were inside, or maybe just out working somewhere nearby.

Gathering every ounce of courage I had, I slowly opened the door and peeked inside.