MAYA, my love.

CHAPTER 35

"Doctor," John called out to her, but she did not respond. "Doctor..." Still, there was no reply. John sighed for the hundredth time that day. She was the most stubborn person he had ever encountered, even more so than himself. Still he could not afford to be harsh to her; he sensed she was already at her limit. He knelt before her, ensuring she would meet his gaze. "Miss, are you listening?" he inquired gently.

"Yes, I am," she replied slowly.

"I comprehend your purpose for being here and the request you wish to present to His Majesty. His Majesty is also aware," John stated in a measured tone. "I recognize the depth of your emotions. Arthur was a noble man, and I mourn his loss profoundly. I understand your sorrow, yet you must realize that His Majesty will not permit you to depart. He holds you in high esteem, which is why he seeks to ensure your safety, albeit in his own manner."

"Did I solicit his protection?" Mey retorted, her gaze unwavering. This was the first time she looked him in the eye. There was such intensity in her gaze that it rendered him momentarily speechless. "That is not a sufficient enough reason to prevent someone from fulfilling their duties with efficiency," she stated, her voice chillingly cold.

"I concur with you," he replied, looking at her but to no avail. He knew that his soothing words would not sway her; she would relent only if her desires were met. Perhaps he was feeling unusually generous that evening, or perhaps it was her unwavering gaze that compelled him to propose an impulsive solution that he would have never suggested if he was behaving as usual. "I am to meet with His Majesty. I could grant you permission to accompany me. What say you? Come and present your case to him and change his mind." He extended his hand to her and she hesistated but took it eventually.

He was shocked by how cold her hand was. Her movements felt unstable, prompting him to be alert to her condition. He caught her as she began to falter upon standing. Supporting her by the arms, he offered her his arm to escort her. She accepted it hesitantly, and they began their slow walk to the king's chambers.

The atmosphere was tense as they made their way. John was especially careful with his steps, matching her pace. Upon reaching the king's chamber, John turned to her and said softly, "Miss, please remain here. I shall return shortly to summon you, if that is agreeable." He awaited her response, and she nodded slowly. "Very well, I shall see you in a moment," he assured her, gesturing to the guard at the door, who opened it for him.

Mey remained outside, hoping to be called soon. Inside, John knelt on one knee, placing his right hand over his heart and lowering his head in deference. "To the Sun of Ceracuse, may your reign be long and prosperous. Your Majesty, it is a privilege to be in your radiant presence. I, John Alastair, announce my arrival."

"Rise," commanded the king. He was pleased to see his son, especially when he took the time to visit unexpectedly. John was meant to be attended to by Mey, yet he had not summoned her today, aware of the situation surrounding her actions. The king knew what she wanted and resolutely refused to allow her to journey to Sereath. He had been avoiding her persistent efforts to change his mind, but now that Arthur had passed, he was certain Mey would not relent. Deep down, he feared witnessing her hurt and disappointment.

"Child, how have you fared? What brings you here so suddenly? Are you here to offer solace to your father on this sorrowful day?"

"I beg your pardon, Your Majesty. I hope to alleviate your concerns, though I fear my words may cause offense," John replied, his tone respectful yet firm.

"How could that be possible? Child, you have never caused me offense in your life," the king remarked, a hint of surprise evident in his voice.

"That might change today," John said, moving toward the door. The king noticed a glint in his eye; something was amiss. However, before he could inquire further, John exited the chamber. Moments later, he re-entered.

"Child, you—" the king began, but his sentence was interrupted as he saw Mey entering behind him. His expression darkened with anger.

"John!" he exclaimed sharply.

"I beseech your forgiveness, but I implore you to hear her out," John insisted, stepping aside to allow Mey to approach the king.

The king was seething with indignation at the audacity of the two youngsters before him. Yet, as he looked at Mey's face, his fury diminished. Her expression mirrored the grim look he had seen when they first met. He realized this was the expression he had long sought to avoid, yet his evasion had not erased the pain he had caused her.

"Your Majesty," she called feebly. Her fatigued demeanor rendered him momentarily speechless.

"Please, let me go to Sereath." mey said feebly but suddenly her expression and tone changed markedly." No. You must let me go to Sereath," She said firmly.