Larissa: I'm Not Upset

For a moment, silence fell between all of us.

Even Ara and Suzan, usually so quick to fill the air with chatter, stood reverently still, their gazes lowered as if in silent respect.

I looked once more at Keala's face; she seemed so calm, so deceptively peaceful. But beneath that stillness was a storm I could almost sense, a fire waiting to awaken.

And in that moment, I made a quiet promise to myself.

"When she wakes," I whispered, "I'll be here. And I'll thank her myself."

Remi's lips curved in the faintest of smiles. "She would like that, my Queen. She respects honesty. She'll respect you."

I wasn't sure whether those words brought me comfort or unease. But I nodded, resolute.

As we left the room, I cast one last glance over my shoulder. Keala remained still, untouched by our presence, her beauty and strength suspended in that fragile sleep.

After Remi quickly examined my condition and found nothing she should be worried about, I finally excused myself.

"Alright, I will return to t