Sorayah immediately stepped forward and dropped to her knees with grace and poise. Her head bowed low as she spoke, her voice soft but clear.
"I apologize, Your Highness," she began. "But I'm afraid I must humbly decline your kindness. I've been experiencing a persistent stomach ache, and I'm still recovering from injuries I sustained while imprisoned in the palace dungeons. The healers advised against taking any new tonics while I'm under treatment. In fact... I can't even serve the emperor at this time. My body is weak. I must first recover and follow the healers' guidance."
Her words were delivered with sadness and humility, her eyes downcast, her hands trembling slightly as they clutched the folds of her dress.
Meanwhile, Mira had already reached for her bowl and drained it with no hesitation, her expression unreadable.
Mellisa raised an eyebrow, her expression bored now as if Sorayah's explanation had failed to amuse her.
