Love, Thrones, and Past Intrigue: A Fantasy Adventure

Chapter 35 - A Physician's Concern

As the moments stretched into eternity within the confines of Prince Oliver's chamber, the air hung heavy with the weight of unspoken turmoil. Alexander stood sentinel by the prince's bedside, his eyes never wavering from his charge's haggard form, a silent vow etched upon his heart to protect him from further harm.

In the midst of this vigil, the door creaked open, and Dr. Owen, the kingdom's prodigy, entered with purposeful strides. His expression, usually stoic and composed, betrayed a flicker of concern as he beheld the state of Prince Oliver.

"Alexander," Dr. Owen began, his voice grave, "what has happened to Prince Oliver? His condition is far worse than I anticipated."

With a heavy sigh, Alexander recounted the harrowing events of the interrogation room, sparing no detail of Prince Oliver's descent into emotional turmoil and the physical toll it had exacted upon him.

Dr. Owen listened intently, his brow furrowed with each revelation. Once Alexander had finished, Dr. Owen's expression softened, though his concern remained palpable.

"Prince Oliver is in a fragile state, both physically and emotionally," Dr. Owen remarked solemnly. "It is imperative that he rests properly and avoids any further emotional distress. His well-being depends on it."

With a sense of urgency, Dr. Owen produced a small vial of medicine from his satchel, along with a handwritten prescription. "Administer this medicine to Prince Oliver every two hours," he instructed, handing the vial to Alexander. "It will help alleviate his physical discomfort and aid in his recovery."

Turning his attention back to Prince Oliver, Dr. Owen's gaze softened with compassion. "But remember, Alexander," he continued, his voice gentle yet firm, "medicine alone cannot heal the wounds of the heart. Prince Oliver's emotional well-being is just as crucial to his recovery. Ensure that he is surrounded by comfort and happiness, for only then will true healing begin."

Alexander nodded solemnly, a sense of determination settling in his heart. "I will do everything in my power to see Prince Oliver through this," he vowed, his voice steady with resolve.

With a final nod of reassurance, Dr. Owen took his leave, leaving Alexander to his vigil by Prince Oliver's side.

Meanwhile, as Serena drifted into the realm of dreams, her mind became a battleground of whispers and shadows. Amidst the darkness, a voice emerged, echoing with urgency and purpose. "Your people need you," it whispered, each syllable laden with weight and responsibility. Serena tossed and turned, her subconscious wrestling with the call to duty. "Go to your people," the voice urged, its tone unwavering. "They need you. Don't forget your responsibility."

In her slumber, Serena's hands clenched the bedsheets, her brow furrowed with the intensity of her inner turmoil. Beads of sweat formed on her forehead, a testament to the intensity of her dreamscape.

Aviva, roused from her own sleep by Serena's restless movements, reached out to her. "Serena," she murmured softly, gently shaking her shoulder. "Wake up, Serena."

Slowly, Serena's eyes fluttered open, confusion clouding her gaze as she tried to make sense of her surroundings. Aviva's concerned voice broke through the haze, prompting Serena to sit up and wipe the lingering sweat from her brow.

"What happened?" Aviva inquired, her voice filled with worry. "Did you have a nightmare?"

Serena's mind struggled to grasp the fleeting memories of her dream, the details slipping through her fingers like grains of sand. "I don't remember," she admitted, a hint of frustration tainting her voice.

Aviva observed Serena closely, noting the lingering unease in her friend's demeanor. "You seemed so restless moments ago," she remarked gently. "It seemed like you were having a nightmare, and you were murmuring some words I couldn't understand."