Mine would be a poor gratitude if I stay to make you regret your generosity.

Wherefore I will go." She slipped past the three and entered her room.

Before Amaryllis could gather resolution to protest, she was out again, clothed in mantle and vitta and, walking swiftly, disappeared into the vestibule.
As they sat in the darkening hall, the three heard the doors close behind her.
"She will return," said Philadelphus coolly, moving away.
Gathering her robes about her, Salome swept out of the corridor and away.

Amaryllis stood alone.
Somewhere out in the city was Hesper the Ephesian.

Amaryllis knew that Laodice would not return..