When she was summoned to see Brad, by the King himself, a world of emotion washed over her. For days, she'd hardly eaten or slept, only doing what was necessary to quiet the ladies-in-waiting and to quiet the nagging voice telling her of the promise she made to him. So, no matter how badly she felt, how consumed with worry, Maria forced herself to eat and forced herself to sleep (albeit scant amounts) to make sure she wasn't completely neglecting herself or the life growing inside of her.<br/><br/>Maria had to remind herself, though, that just because she could see him, that didn't mean he was out of the woods. He was conscious, and she was being allowed to see him so he had to be in semi-okay condition, but he could take a turn. That was still an option.<br/><br/>The knock at her door wasn't met with any hesitation, rushing forward to answer it herself, rather than standing on procedure and propriety. If what waited beyond that door was an update, she wanted no formalities delaying it. And that news hadn't disappointed her. Robe tied about her and shoes once again slipped on, with a quick and grateful "thank you" was given to the King; the proper curtsy as the sign of respect, quelling the urge to give him a tight hug.<br/><br/>Hastening down the many hallways to his room, the woman paused for only a fraction of a second outside his door. A few calming breaths, a hand adjusting her hair and pinching her cheeks so she held some semblance of life in their hollowed complexion. But, when she couldn't stand to wait any longer, she knocked on the door, announcing herself as she opened the door to let herself in.<br/><br/>But nothing prepared her for what she saw in that bed.<br/><br/>A hand covered her mouth as she took a few steps forward, taking in the sight of him, his form diminished and raw, the life that'd once been in his face. Tears welled up, in part because of how poorly he looked, but also in part because he was awake and she didn't think they'd be able to speak again.<br/><br/>"Bradach..." the woman started, untrusting of her voice to say much else initially as she took up the newly-vacated seat beside his bed. But, when she was certain a sob wouldn't escape, she started again. "How are you fee-..." Where that was a stupid question, she cut herself off and took up a new train of thought. "...Do you need...do you want some water? Can I do anything for you?"