I stand quietly at attention, my pristine maid uniform immaculate and perfectly arranged—exactly as Rio taught me. My heartbeat feels unsteady, though I keep my expression perfectly neutral as always. Without Rio’s presence, my sense of purpose wavers dangerously. She gave me meaning, but now she's vanished, and I am adrift. My conclusion is simple: I must find a new purpose, a new master worthy of my dedication.

Sensei’s office door opens slowly, and I promptly bow at a precise forty-five-degree angle. “Millennium Science School, C&C call sign Zero-Four. Asuma Toki. I promise perfect assistance. I require a master. Rio-sama is missing, leaving me without guidance. I've selected you.”