After Kaliantha left, silence lingered in the chamber.
The door had barely closed behind the Queen when the atmosphere changed.
Camellia still stood near Ulrich's bed, the camellia pendant tucked safely in her hand.
"I should leave you to rest," she said at last.
She slipped the necklace carefully back into the small pouch at her side. Her fingers lingered there for a moment, ensuring the delicate chain was secure.
Then she turned toward the door.
Before leaving, however, she looked back.
"Have a good recovery, Lord Rubenhart," Camellia said softly.
Ulrich inclined his head.
"Thank you, Your Highness."
Camellia smiled faintly.
Then she departed.
The door shut behind her.
For a while, the room became awkwardly quiet.
Esther stood close to Hermione, looking relieved that Ulrich was awake but still unwilling to move too far away from his bed. Hermione had regained her usual composure, though she looked still concerned. Airam stood apart from them, silent and thoughtful.
