"How long?"
Mei studied her, assessing. "If you rest properly? A few hours. Perhaps less. I can give you a temporary boost of energy, but it will not last long once we arrive."
"Then do it."
"After you rest." Mei's tone permitted no debate.
The lady wanted to argue, to demand they press on immediately. But her body had been pushed beyond its limits. The exhaustion was a riptide, pulling her under.
"What if…" she began, her voice barely audible. "What if something happens while we linger here? What if she needs me?"
"Your son is there. He is overprotective and nosy, but he would lay down his life for hers. He will let nothing happen to her."
That much was true. Long Chen's loyalty was absolute.
"Fine," she conceded, the fight seeping out of her. "A few hours. But no more."
"Agreed." Mei's fingers began tracing intricate symbols in the air, gathering threads of soft golden light at their tips. "Now close your eyes. Let me work."
