Patrick steps forward before the senior prefect can issue another order. He moves carefully on the sore aftermath of punishment, then steadies himself beside Alan within the ring.
Patrick Mermagen
Senior Prefect, I ask that my next cricket assessment be judged without Alan beside me. I do not withdraw my account of what happened, but my batting place must depend on my attendance and play.
The request briefly stills the Green. Patrick keeps his hands at his sides, offering neither apology nor challenge, while the cricket captain watches from near the boundary.
The Senior Prefect
You ask to separate your cricket from Turing’s presence, yet you make the request before me. Is this proper independence, or another attempt to dictate how authority shall operate?
Patrick Mermagen
It is independence, sir. I accept your authority to judge my conduct, and I accept the captain’s authority to judge my cricket. I am not asking for favour or exemption.
The senior prefect studies Patrick, then glances toward the receipt and the cricket captain. Patrick’s request leaves the earlier testimony intact while refusing to let association determine his place in the House side.
The Senior Prefect
Granted, subject to one condition. The captain may assess your attendance and play without Turing beside you, but your account remains available for examination, and you will answer when recognized.
✓ Quest Accepted
Establish Patrick's independent standing in the House side