II. The Impact of Her

~ Twenty-Six ~

Why was Mother refusing to receive treatment from the Medicine King?

It was quite clear that he wanted Mother to recover. But she didn't seem to be enthusiastic about it. And what sort of treatment did the Medicine King pertain to?

"Amelia, I made it very clear that this treatment can be your last chance of survival," the Medicine King explained firmly. It was evident that he was begging for Mother's approval. "It may not completely heal you. But it can slow down whatever virus is inside of you."

"Good sir, you can see my state. An Immortal, weak, fragile, and unable to leave her bed. How can I go to another city with my condition?" she questioned, with a hint of humour and sarcasm in her tone.

"Amelia, this matter isn't to be taken lightly," the Medicine King scolded her. He continued, "Your situation is already a matter of life and death. If you agree to this treatment, I can go and get the materials needed so we can begin."

"I'm already too ill to handle too much stress. As much as I can, I add a little bit of humour in everything that I do to lighten up the mood around me," Mother explained.

"With your condition, humour isn't needed. It isn't a priority," the Medicine King proceeded with his scolding. "You need to take this seriously and accept treatment. James already agreed to this treatment. Don't you want to get better for your family?"

"Good sir, I think we've discussed enough for today. I would like to take my rest now," Mother said after she let out a deep breath. "I don't need to hear such words right now. I'm already weakened by this unknown disease. I don't need another reason to feel sicker."

"Always remember to take the herbs I've given you. I will come back tomorrow." As the Medicine King bid his goodbye, I quickly stepped away from the door. As the door opened, he immediately noticed my presence. "Oh, young Robert. It's good to see you," he smiled, closing the door gently.

"A good day to you as well, Medicine King," I bowed.

"Have you been waiting for a long time?" he asked, walking up to me.

"No, I just arrived," I smiled. "I wanted to pay Mother a visit but I didn't want to interrupt your conversation with her."

"You could've just knocked, young prince. I would've given you time to speak with her," he replied. "She's about to take her rest. She must have a lot of it to strengthen herself."

"I just want to sit beside her for a little while. Watch over her as she sleeps," I answered. Should I tell him that I overheard what he told Mother? Because if Mother wasn't agreeing with him, she might agree if I asked her to.

"I'll leave, then. I will see you soon, Robert," he lightly tapped my shoulder before walking away.

I was about to open the door but I turned around and chased after him. "Sir?" I called out.

He was quick to turn around.

"Medicine King, I would like to ask you something," I said, finally catching up with him.

"Yes, Your Highness?" he replied.

"Do you have any clear diagnosis on what kind of disease my mother has?" I started. "Also, I overheard you mentioning some kind of cure for her. Can you tell me more about it?"

He let out a deep sigh. "Your mother's case is a complicated matter. Discussing it would take a long time and I need to get back to my office."

"I'll escort you to the entrance," I quickly replied. "But as we walk, I would like to discuss Mother's condition with you."