After checking the washroom from floor to ceiling, I return to the bedroom, frustrated.
I’m running out of time. Fast.
If I don’t find this key and get the heirloom, I’m so fucked.
Phoenix won’t get the help from this Oka Oya. She won’t win. Daegel will reign.
I’ll see my freedom like I see the back of my head.
If I hadn’t gotten distracted by Noblewoman Genji, I would have more time now.
“Fuck,” I curse and run a hand through my hair.
One last time I circle the bedroom and check every corner again.
Nothing.
I stand in the middle of the room with my hands on my hips and eye the space. Where would this damn man keep a key?
Somewhere that’s easily accessible, but not a place where people would?—
The white-and-black mask on the wall catches my attention.
“Hm,” I hum. Cock my head to the side. “No way.”
I approach the mask and carefully lift it from the wall. It comes off easily. I freeze. Nothing happens. No traps.
The wall is empty, though. No secret hidden door that hides the key.
I glance down at the mask in my hand before I lift it to put it back.
There it is.
The long, slim gold key with dainty thornlike spikes at the very end.
My shoulders sag as I exhale. Then I rush towards the locked door.
I insert the key into the dragonbird lock and turn it. The mechanism inside whirls. A moment later, the door cracks and slides open.
Dozen of shelves stacked with the most luxurious treasures line the walls of a small treasury. Swords, masks, rubies the size of my head.
If I steal one of these and sell it, I can spend the rest of my life living lavishly without a worry.
I pause by the big diamond-encrusted egg. It’s tempting.
Before my fingers reach for it, I scold myself.Stop that.
I roll my shoulders, remind myself of my mission, and look for the small ruby-encrusted box Vera said should have the heirloom inside.
After some search, I find the box sitting at the very back of the room between two large wolfturtle statues.
I snatch the box and whirl on my heel. I lock the door behind me and put the key back where I found it.
Before going downstairs, I stop and inspect the room to ensure I left everything the way I found it.
Vera will be pleased.
My balls are safe.
