The man standing beside him, Killian, wore a subtle, self-assured expression. "Mr. Myers, the latest tests show the patient is experiencing cardiac failure. The cause appears to be heart-related. In such cases, surgical intervention should be performed as soon as possible. If the heart deteriorates completely, even a miracle won't save her."
A flicker of hesitation and internal struggle crossed Nicolas' face.
He was afraid that if the true cause remained unknown, rushing into surgery might lead to losing his beloved daughter, the apple of his eye, forever.
"Mr. Myers, I almost forgot—I brought a friend. He's Stefan Bryant. His medical skills are exceptional. Perhaps he could examine Rebecca," Nina suddenly said, pulling Stefan forward.
At Nina's declaration, every eye in the room turned to Stefan.
Taking in his youth, Bruce frowned. "Miss, Ms. Myers' condition is extraordinary—extremely rare. Any mistake could cost her life. This isn't a matter for just anyone to get involved in.
"At his age, he likely has no clinical experience whatsoever, yet he dares to offer an opinion?"
Killian glanced dismissively at Stefan, his tone dripping with condescension. "Young man, there are no shortcuts in medicine. It requires steady, practical experience through countless clinical cases. Don't be reckless—you'll only harm the patient and yourself."
"I haven't even examined the patient yet. How can you assume I'm being reckless or that I can't help?" Stefan met Killian's gaze calmly before adding bluntly, "Wisdom isn't bound by age, and mastery lies in specialization. Some people can practice for a lifetime and remain mediocre. Advanced age doesn't automatically grant skill."
"Quite the bold claim." Killian let out a cold laugh. "Are you saying you can treat Ms. Myers?"
Stefan looked toward the girl lying in the hospital bed, already forming a clear assessment. "Yes, I believe I can."
"Ridiculous! You haven't even reviewed the medical reports or understood the patient's condition, yet you boast like this. To me, you sound like nothing but a fraud!" Killian sneered, his voice icy.
"Enough! Stefan is no fraud!" Nina snapped sharply.
As tension simmered, Nicolas stepped forward. "Let's all remain calm. Nina, I know you're concerned about Rebecca, which is why you brought your friend. However, I've already invited Dr. Hale and Dr. Wayne. For now, we won't be needing this young man's assistance."
Seeing Stefan's youth, Nicolas himself felt a pang of distrust. He couldn't afford to gamble with his daughter's life.
Nina started to protest, but Stefan gently pulled her back, shaking his head slightly.
If Nicolas had made his decision, Stefan wouldn't push where he wasn't wanted.
He paused, then asked, "If I may ask, Mr. and Mrs. Myers, is there any history of hereditary heart disease in your family?"
Both Nicolas and Eleanor shook their heads. "None."
Valka fell silent for a moment, deep in thought. Then he said, "Judging by the symptoms, it's not merely heart failure. The patient's vital energy is severely depleted. In my view, heart failure is likely a consequence of this depletion—there simply isn't enough vitality left to sustain the heart's function. In such a case, I can only attempt to slow the progression. Without discovering the underlying cause, a complete cure... seems unlikely."
Hearing this, Eleanor paled, her legs buckling beneath her.
Nicolas quickly steadied his wife, his own face etched with deep worry.
If even Valka is powerless, does that mean we can only watch our daughter fade away?
Seizing the moment, Bruce spoke up urgently, "Mr. Myers, since Dr. Hale cannot provide a cure, I strongly advise proceeding with surgery immediately. With Dr. Wayne's surgical expertise, he can certainly save your daughter's life."
"Ha!" Killian snorted coldly. "Some renowned 'healer' he is! And he dares call himself that? I told you—traditional medicine is utterly useless against an illness like this."

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