Blossom in Adversity

C9. Illness.

Chapter Nine: Illness

"Physician Chu."

In the courtyard, Chu Shitang turned around.

Hua Zhi gestured for him to follow, and they walked together to the courtyard gate.

"Physician Chu, is there anything else I need to pay attention to regarding my grandmother's health?"

Chu Shitang was not surprised by Hua Zhi's question. Unlike the others who breathed a collective sigh of relief at the news of the old madam's improved condition, Hua Zhi's brow remained creased in contemplation. Her demeanor suggested a deeper understanding of the situation, perhaps hinting at a lingering unease or a premonition of impending challenges.

"To be honest, Miss, if the old madam can let go of her worries and rest properly, there's a chance she can recover. However, it may not be easy for her to let go of her worries. The illness of the heart requires healing of the heart. I can only stabilize her for now, but in the future, it would be important to persuade her to let go of the burdens in her heart."

Hua Zhi smiled bitterly. It would be impossible for her grandmother to let go of her worries unless her grandfather returned.

"Miss, please don't worry too much. Things will pass, it just takes time."

"Thank you for your kind words. However, there is another matter that requires your assistance, Physician Chu."

"Please, go ahead."

"I would like to order some pills and ointments from you, made with quality medicinal herbs and sealed in wax. I will settle the payment with you monthly. What do you think?"

"May I ask if you intend to send them to the northern region?"

"Yes, it's cold there, and it may not be convenient for medical treatment. I want to prepare some to send over."

"You have a kind heart, Miss. I will do my best to assist."

"Thank you. Steward Xu, please escort Physician Chu back to his clinic."

Steward Xu bowed deeply, his eyes filled with admiration for Hua Zhi. Even the old madam, with her years of experience, had not realized the harshness of the northern winter. But Hua Zhi, with her foresight and wisdom, had already begun preparations. It was evident that she was a young lady of exceptional character, capable of adapting to even the most challenging circumstances.

Watching them leave, Hua Zhi yawned. After a day and night of busyness, she was starting to feel exhausted.

Inside the house, she sat on the edge of the bed and gently touched her grandmother's forehead. "Everyone has been busy all night. Suyun Mama, please arrange for everyone to take turns to rest. If there is a shortage of help, bring in others from elsewhere."

"Yes, I will arrange it. Miss, you have worked hard all night. Please go and rest."

Hua Zhi did not push herself. If it weren't for the rules in place, she would have wanted to lie down on her grandmother's bed nearby. "Make sure to give grandmother water. If her temperature rises again, use the previous method and inform me immediately."

"Yes, I will remember."

Hua Zhi, a delicate soul unaccustomed to the strenuous demands of physical labor, was gently supported by two attentive handmaidens as they carried her back to her private quarters. Her slender frame, weakened by the unaccustomed exertion, sought respite upon the soft cushions of her bed. As the weight of her body sank into the bedding, her eyelids grew heavy, and her mind drifted into the peaceful realm of slumber. The gentle sway of the handmaidens’ steps, coupled with the soothing ambiance of her chamber, lulled her into a deep and restful sleep.