Sera waited patiently for Mertyll to finish her checkup, not interrupting the lady even after minutes had passed. With her breath held high in her throat, Sera glanced now and then at Mertyll, but then quickly turned back to stare at her chamber as if pretending none of this affected her.
It did. A lot more than one can imagine. But Sera knew better than to show it in person. At long last, Mertyll let go of Sera's wrist gently, making the girl whip her head back towards her in eagerness. "Well? How is it?"
For a long time, Mertyll remained silent, and with the silence, Sera already had her answer. "Mertyll…"
"It is the same as ever, Your Majesty. There has been no improvement. Forgive me."
Sera said nothing as the lady bowed her head in submission, she didn't even seem surprised, nor was she upset. If anything, she gave a soft smile. "Raise your head, Mertyll. It is not like any of this is your fault."
"But Your Maj-"
