On this Midsummer Night, moonlight spilled down, gently caressing the mansion by the bay.
In the bedroom on the top floor, warm yellow lamplight intertwined with the moon's silvery veil beside the bed, illuminating the only two figures in the room.
"Hughberlian..."
Lanchi sat in the chair beside the bed, a trace of concern in his eyes.
"Don't say anything right now, please!"
Hughberlian's voice trembled, and her tone no longer sounded like her usual self.
"..."
Lanchi seemed genuinely worried now.
Whatever else he had wanted to say to Hughberlian no longer mattered compared to her condition.
He was worried that she might have been injured after spending too long inside the Fallen Lord's magical barrier. If necessary, he would call a doctor immediately.
But he couldn't see Hughberlian's face.
She had hidden herself behind the blankets.
"I'm fine..."
Hughberlian's voice was soft and muffled. She curled up a little more beneath the covers, trying to find a trace of comfort.
At last, she seemed to have recovered somewhat and responded to Lanchi.
On this midsummer night, the sea breeze drifted gently by, carrying the sound of the tide and a subtle chill.
The night outside had grown deep, yet the moonlight shining through the window seemed to make the entire room even more enchanting.
"If you still feel like the dream was better, you can sleep a little longer. I'll stay right here beside you."
Lanchi watched Hughberlian for a while. Once he was sure she was truly fine, he spoke with relief.
His voice was like a lullaby, gently filling every corner of the room.
"...Lanchi."
Hughberlian fell silent for a moment before calling his name.
"Hmm?"
At her words, Lanchi looked toward Hughberlian again.
"When I was fast asleep, were you beside me the whole time?"