For Such A Time As This

Chapter Five - The Push

JAFA'S POV

"Melia! Melia!! Melia!!!

I called out yet no response.

"I wonder where that child could be?" I thought to my self.

"In here father"

I heard her voice behind me; only to be caught in her hugs.

"Father, I missed you, she said"

I was worried about you until I remembered you spoke of going to the King's palace for a meeting.

"Oh my child" you need not worry. Your papa is fine, I said as I rubbed her cheeks warmly. She smiled so softly at me. I had never seen a girl so lovely like my Melia. She is free spirited and hopeful.

"I have something to tell you child" I said as I led her to the chair to sit.

What is it father? She asked.

"Melia!"

I looked into her green eyes that looked at me sternly to hear my words.

The King is choosing a new queen...

"That is wonderful papa, she said interruptedly."

Hold on now! I said.

The King has decreed that every fair maiden in all the province of Penna be brought to the palace and prepared for the day of selection as Queen of Penna.

"She stared at me with a worried look on her face."

"Papa, I can't go. I am not qualified for this selection. More so, we are not of Penna and they would figure out eventually, she said."

Nonsense child, I replied sternly. I held her by the chin to face mine.

I have watched you grow into a beautiful woman with a good heart. My heart keeps telling me that you should go.

Tears rolled down her face and she kept wiping them away.

"But papa, I cannot stay a day without you. I wouldn't know what to say."

"Melia, if you will only do what I say then you will be save and our God will protect and guide you."

She looked at me hopefully, What do I do papa?

"Never disclose your identity to anyone until I tell you to."

"Oh papa" she said as she embraced me tightly.

"My child! You must prepare now. The king's harem will be here any minute to bring you to the palace.

Okay papa.

I watched her walk towards the room faced down lost in her thoughts.

I held my hands to heaven and prayed for my child.

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