The Camellia Tattoo - Chapter 168
“We need you. Just knowing that you’re alive will make the imperial army hesitate to advance.”
The imperial family had likely held back so far simply because they were gauging the situation.
It was difficult to confirm whether the rumors about Igmeyer’s condition were true or not. They were likely being cautious.
However, it was impossible to keep his absence completely hidden for months on end.
Despite all the hard work she and Jean put in, there were definitely tasks only the Grand Duke could handle. If Igmeyer continued to remain absent like this, there would surely be many who would speculate.
‘I have things to do…What do I need to look over today?’
Amber had only gained weight in her belly, while her overall weight had dropped by more than 10 kilograms.
Feeling thin, she gently rubbed her belly with her frail hands as she stood up from the bed.
Now, Amber wouldn’t stumble, even by mistake.
She had grown stronger in her resolve to protect both herself and her baby.
She couldn’t show even the slightest weakness, knowing there was no husband who would catch her right now.
Repeating that thought, Amber steadied her legs.
“Madam! The cart carrying instruments from Shadroch has arrived!”
“Oh? I should go check it out.”
As she exited the bedroom, Nora quickly approached with a message.
Beside her stood Betty was holding out a list of items, which Amber skimmed quickly as she moved forward.
Every second was precious. There were so many tasks to complete and responsibilities to manage.
‘Thanks to my brother, we now have instruments for every school…’
It was fortunate that there were many places she could turn to for help.
Although the Northerners were somewhat uncomfortable with those coming from Shadroch, no fights broke out.
The people of Shadroch were fundamentally accommodating, always smiling, and had excellent social skills. So even if the Northerners treated them coldly, it didn’t escalate into a major conflict.
‘If they weren’t from Shadroch, there would have been significant friction. I’m truly grateful to be the princess of Shadroch.’
She had to keep moving. Even if her feet felt heavy, even if she was overwhelmed by fatigue.
She had to keep moving, just like Igmeyer did while facing Nidhogg.
“Sweetheart, Daddy still can’t wake up today. Should we try again in the evening?”
For some reason, her stomach began to ache slightly.
Lately, these kinds of cramps have become more frequent.
At first, she had panicked, worrying that the baby might come before the full ten months, but she was relieved to hear that it was fairly common to experience tightening in the lower abdomen or pelvic pain.
If most mothers experience this, there’s no need to be afraid, Amber reassured herself as she examined the instruments with her hands.
The many violins her brother sent were all of high quality, and she was incredibly grateful, instructing that two instruments be distributed to each school.
After all, there might be a musical genius living in the North.
Someone could possess a hidden talent that hasn’t been discovered yet.
‘It would be wonderful if receiving these violins today became the cornerstone for nurturing future musicians.’
Amber smiled faintly, only to swallow a sigh as a headache crept in.
Though it was common, she still hadn’t grown accustomed to it.
At times like this, resting would help, but turning to see the butler waiting to report made her feel it was wrong to head to her bedroom.
“Madam, if you’re feeling very tired, perhaps you should rest for a bit?”
“I’m fine. Continue with the report.”
Lying in bed doing nothing would only lead to negative thoughts.
She couldn’t shake the feeling that Igmeyer might never wake up, that he would remain asleep for a long time, perhaps until after the baby was born, and many years had passed.
As long as he didn’t die, everything would be okay, but the loneliness still weighed heavily on her.
The tears she shed in secret made her feel that being among people was better.
“Madam! Would you like a warm cup of tea?”
“Thank you, Nora.”
Thus, the day passed in a blur, and soon it was 6 PM. The sun was slowly setting.
This twilight hour was the most difficult for Amber to endure.
It felt as if the impending darkness would consume her.
‘This time used to feel so romantic when Igmeyer was here.’
Human emotions can be quite strange.
“Prepare a simple dinner and bring it to me.”
“Yes, Madam.”
After giving instructions to Lotty, Amber made her way to the room where Igmeyer lay.
According to Nicolas, having family around to speak to him was helpful. So, Amber spent time by his side twice a day, sharing various stories.
“I’m feeling a bit breathless now, honey.”
Igmeyer looked just as he had during the day.
Aside from the sunset highlighting his handsome face, the blankets remained undisturbed.
When she placed her hand under his nose, she could feel a faint breath, confirming that he was alive….but he remained so still that he felt like a stone.
