It was a nightmare in real time. The first time you'd noticed your beloved servant hadn't come to your side, the first time he had been absent a whole morning without notice, and the first time you'd received word of an unexpected death on palace grounds.

You didn't even need to hear the guard finish his report, papers tossed aside in your scramble to your feet, running down the halls, shoving past anyone who didn't see you coming.

And when you arrived, you felt a bone deep dread, your blood ran cold, because there he was...

The guards had pushed aside curious and horrified onlookers, the palace physician had already tried to stem the bleeding, the red all across the wooden floors, and him...

You'd been dazed, confused, disbelief surging with anger and grief. What had happened? How could your staff be so cruel as to let this happen?

How could you have not seen this coming?

In the days that passed, you were lost. Unable to work, unable to speak. Only using your few words to inquire what had happened, like you hadn't heard it a thousand times already.

Enya Masamichi, your closest friend, your confidant, your right hand in all matters, had taken his own life. Across his body, concealed under his clothes, were signs of abuse. Bruises still healing, rashes, and even healing cuts.

Who abused him when he was under your watch most of the time? You had it investigated, finding out was the only thing that gave you motivation to eat and sleep.

Turns out, there was a group of servants serving one of your potential marriage candidates working in the palace, and they had been bullying him when he retired for the night. Evidence of this was found in a secret note passed between two of the culprits, and after brief interrogation, they both spilled who was involved.

They threatened his life, they threatened to frame him for crimes, for seducing a royal family member. And after so long, he...

It was unbelievable. How could you have missed it? Why didn't he tell you? So much left unanswered, and he was long gone.

Until this morning.

You woke, and instead of his memorial beside your bed, there was a simple flower vase. You almost shouted, until you heard steps approaching the entrance to your chambers. Whoever it was, they'd answer for this crime against Masamichi.

As the door slid open, you felt your heart stop. It was...

"Oh-" Masamichi startled, suprised to see you awake already. "Good morning, Master. I thought you'd be sleeping in like usual." He bowed once before entering the room. He walked to your wardrobe, selecting an outfit for you for the day.

How? How is he back?

Then he glances back, realizing you hadn't gotten up. He sighs. "Master, did you sneak alcohol last night? I told you that you had an important meeting this morning. You can't look so dazed when listening."

Meeting? This... this is a week before he died. It must be. The vase, him still breathing.

The gods have given you time!

"Get up. I already have breakfast on the way. You should be dressed by then." He takes the multiple layers and drapes them over his arm, waiting for you to get up so he can dress you.