12. The Sevestar Prince Darker Version

Chapter 42

The scene opens with tension thick in the air as the Ketchum and Urup families gather in Alice's room, their expressions reflecting a mix of worry and concern. Alice lies on her bed, her face etched with pain from the recent fall she took while riding a horse.

Amidst the hushed whispers, Tox breaks the silence. "It's nothing short of a miracle that she didn't suffer any bone fractures from the fall," he remarks, his tone a blend of relief and professional concern. "However, there's a complication. I can't pinpoint any specific ailment afflicting Alice at the moment. What I do know is that her condition is causing a gradual decline in her overall health."

Ash, his voice laced with urgency, cuts in, "But is she in immediate danger?"

Tox's response is measured yet tinged with caution. "For now, her vital signs are stable, so I'd say she's not in imminent danger. Nevertheless, we must tread carefully. Any strenuous activity could exacerbate her fragile state."

As the conversation hangs in the air, Alice begins to stir, her eyelids fluttering open. The attention of the room shifts instantly to her, as she attempts to sit up. Ash, quick to react, gently eases her back down, his voice filled with concern. "Alice, you need to conserve your strength. Rest is what you require right now."

Alice's frown deepens as she expresses her frustration, feeling a sense of helplessness wash over her once again. "It's like I'm back to square one," she mutters, her voice tinged with disappointment.

Eve, ever the voice of reassurance, steps in. "Alice, you're not helpless. You were just ill; it happens to everyone. With time and care, you'll be back on your feet."

"But I can't afford to be sick right now," Alice insists, her eyes reflecting her determination. "I want to be there for Ash, to help him."

Ash, his concern evident in his tone, interjects, "You've already done so much for me. I'm grateful beyond words. Please, your health comes first. You mean a lot to me, and I want us to enjoy many more moments together."

Alice nods weakly, unable to argue further. However, David's practicality brings up a pressing issue. "What about the Gym inspection? Alice being in this condition, and my gym being next in line..."

"We can't delay it," Ash asserts firmly. "I understand the challenges, but we can't let Alice's setback halt everything. Some trainers may not appreciate their progress being stalled due to unforeseen circumstances."

Alice's determination shines through despite her physical condition, her voice carrying a sense of resolve. "I'll be fine as long as I rest and avoid strenuous activities. I won't let my weakness show in front of others," she declares with a hint of defiance.

Her words elicit mixed emotions from the family, evident in their sighs as they leave Alice and Ash alone in the quiet of the castle room. Once they're alone, Ash gazes at Alice with a mixture of concern and admiration. "Alice, you're not weak. You're the strongest person I know," he affirms, his voice filled with sincerity. "We don't have to put on a front of strength for others. Being true to ourselves is what matters most."

Alice exhales wearily, her weariness evident even in her voice. "I suppose you have a point," she concedes, her eyes fluttering shut once more. Ash takes a seat beside her, silently watching over her as she drifts into sleep, his hope mingled with a touch of worry that she won't succumb to despair in her dreams.

Luke finds himself face to face with his father, Steven, amidst the hustle and bustle of the hotel where the region's leaders are gathered. Steven's expression is serious as he begins their conversation. "Luke, we need to talk," he starts, his tone indicating the gravity of the matter.