By the time Erich stepped out of the study, Adam had just finished giving Oriana simple instructions on the new batch of medicines. Oriana carried the medicine case as she and her master headed towards the main palace of the Palace of Oak.
When they reached the King’s chamber, they were led to a reception room first. Ailwin had indeed returned from convening the royal court, but given that two princes were both in the palace, instead of eating in his chamber, he was in the dining hall to share a meal with his family.
Erich and Oriana did not wait long. After getting permission from the King, they were allowed to enter the King’s chamber where they found the royal family in attendance.
Oriana’s gaze met with Arlan’s and she immediately lowered her eyes. Erich casually greeted the King. "You should have sent me a message that you’ll be late, Ailwin."
The old physician’s grumpy remark caused Lenard to raise a brow, but the King of Griven was long used to his indifference in social status.
"I made you wait, Erich." Ailwin was sitting in the lounge area beside Julien. "I was just too happy today. It’s rare I get to see my two sons at the same time."
Lenard, who was sitting next to his brother, looked at Oriana with a surprised gaze. He didn’t expect this young servant so soon, and it appeared that his brother’s attendant was acting as Erich’s servant. He glanced at his brother, but Arlan did not even seem to notice his gaze.
Erich proceeded to examine the King, who sat with his back resting against the headboard. The room fell silent as everyone awaited Erich’s diagnosis. His expression remained stern as he assessed the King’s pulse.
Ailwin couldn’t help but smile at Erich’s serious demeanor. "Erich, it appears your skills have finally found a worthy challenge."
Erich briefly glanced at the King. "It seems the illness has become more stubborn with time, much like our patient."
The King chuckled, seemingly unfazed by his ailment.
Lenard turned his attention to Erich. "Last time you mentioned that Father’s condition was improving. What has changed so suddenly?"
Erich was equally puzzled, having not yet identified the exact cause. "We must persist in our efforts, and I believe we may uncover something valuable soon."
Arlan fixed his gaze on Erich. "Can you at least stabilize his condition and prevent it from worsening? You should be able to manage that much."
Oriana observed Arlan closely, sensing that something was amiss. He had a reputation for being fiercely protective of his people, yet he merely requested stability rather than insisting on an immediate cure. Something was not right.
As the conversation continued, Oriana turned to Erich. "Master, may I check His Majesty’s pulse?"
Though unsure of the reason behind her intuition, she felt compelled to conduct her examination.
Erich sought permission from the King. "Your Majesty, my apprentice seeks your consent."
The King glanced at Oriana and then at Erich. "I see no reason to deny your apprentice the opportunity to learn about this peculiar ailment."
With the King’s approval, Erich stepped away from the bedside, allowing Oriana to take a seat.
’Evil Black Magic?’
The King sensed her distress and gazed at her. ƒreewebɳovel.com
"I need Orian to assist me today with new medicines I am going to prepare for the King. He might not be able to return till late in the night."
Arlan glanced back at Oriana, who walked behind them. She met his gaze, wondering if he would grant permission.
Arlan turned his attention forward and replied, "As long as you both succeed in improving my father’s health."
"We will do our utmost," Erich assured him.
They parted ways, with the prince leaving with his brother, and Erich and Oriana returned to their assigned guest mansion.
After Erich and Oriana had departed, Lenard, who had been silent until then, turned his gaze toward his elder brother. "I never knew you had such a talented aide by your side who could also serve as a physician. Elder brother certainly has a gift for surrounding himself with talented individuals."
"I believe you learn from me."
Lenard grinned mischievously, his eyes twinkling. "Oh, then should I get one young pretty boy as my personal aide as well? Perhaps I should borrow your aide first to see how it feels, and then decide if I want one of my own?"
Arlan abruptly halted in his tracks, fixing his younger brother with an icy glare. "Say another word, and I’ll send you to the northern territory, where you won’t even be able to bring your wife along."
Lenard wisely chose to keep his mouth shut and silently resumed following his brother. But his mind could not stop working on its own. ’My brother sure has some interest in that aide. That cold glare of his just now it was as if I was talking about his woman. Sadly it’s just a pretty boy-servant.’
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