The Grand Court moved to debate her fate. Dong-jin was pulled away by his advisors, leaving Maya stranded on the vast, empty marble platform once more.
She was utterly alone, facing the entire judging court, which now buzzed with whispers and dissenting arguments. They debated her worth, her danger, and her legitimacy as if she were a piece of evidence.
Should she be exiled? Should she be monitored? Should she be treated as a political pawn?
The stress was immense. Every eye was on her, waiting for a breakdown, a sign of weakness. Maya straightened her spine, channeling the silent strength she found when diving into the deepest, coldest part of the ocean.
She may have been a fisher-girl, but she would not collapse. She stood tall, drawing strength from the shadow of the Lioness she had just seen, determined to meet their prejudiced gaze with the dignity they tried so hard to deny her.
She was ready for their verdict, whatever the cost.