"Tell me. How is the King? Is he in good health?”

“His Majesty’s condition has markedly improved. Allow me to present a comprehensive report.” The woman took her notes and began to read aloud.

“His Majesty’s fever has subsided to 37 degrees Celsius. There has been a notable reduction in lymphadenopathy. His sputum production and coughing have both diminished. There is no longer any expectoration of blood or incidence of vomiting. Additionally, His Majesty experienced a mild case of cyanosis due to hypoxia, which has also resolved with the restoration of normal respiratory function. Should his recovery proceed as anticipated, he should be able to resume normal activities within a week. For the present, we are maintaining isolation due to the residual risk of infection transmission.” Following this summary, she proceeded to elaborate on the specific medications being administered.

“Indeed, that is quite a complex treatment regimen,” Elizabeth remarked as the report concluded. “May we now presume that we can be reassured?”

“Indeed. Please put your mind at ease. His Majesty has also requested that I convey his assurances regarding his health, and he looks forward to meeting with you in due course.”

“Doctor,” John interjected after a pause, having listened with careful attention throughout, “I must express my concern even though I feel as if we are just going in circles at the same point but, again, I have been repeatedly kept in the dark regarding the severity of His Majesty’s symptoms. We were under the impression that he was merely suffering from fever and cough, isolated to prevent the spread of disease. However, based on your report, it appears there was considerable respiratory involvement—cyanosis, coughing up blood—conditions that are indeed grave. It is imperative that a family be fully apprised of the health status of their loved ones, regardless of the situation.”

“I offer my sincerest apologies. I fully comprehend your concerns. However, His Majesty’s health is of the utmost sensitivity and any information regarding it must be handled with the greatest discretion. I was instructed by His Majesty himself to withhold certain details.”

“Mei,” Elizabeth’s tone grew firmer, “this is not the moment for rigidity. I understand the protocols involved; indeed, the King’s affairs are complex and political. However, His Majesty’s intention to keep us uninformed was likely an attempt to shield us from undue distress, as he done numerous times previously. Nonetheless, in matters of family, one must prioritize emotional considerations over rigid adherence to protocol. What if His Majesty’s condition had deteriorated further? Would you have only informed us if he had finally died?”

Elizabeth’s tone was harsh. She articulated precisely what john had been contemplating, though her directness was unusual. His aunt was a woman known for her usually carefree demeanor but capable of adopting a severe stance when necessary. She possessed an innate ability to address matters with firmness. Though kind, she was never lenient.

“Once again, I apologize. I am constrained by higher orders,” the woman said.

“You must understand,” Elizabeth continued with a now softened yet resolute tone as if she was trying to lecture a child, “you should, in exceptional cases concerning myself and His son, deviate from the established protocol. His Majesty would not reproach you for it, and I shall ensure it remains so. Therefore, you are to inform us of any serious developments, particularly regarding His Majesty’s health, forthwith. Is that clear?”

“I understand. I acknowledge my error. Should His Majesty’s condition deteriorate, I will certainly inform you. However, given the current circumstances, it is unlikely to occur. His Majesty is progressing well towards recovery,” the woman replied, her demeanor shifting from rigid to one of comprehension.

“I must now take my leave, Your Highnesses. I must return to my duties. I shall provide daily updates on His Majesty’s condition as well as on the ongoing drug development experiments in the laboratory. I will first endeavor to seek His Majesty’s permission for this. May I be permitted to depart?” she inquired, bowing respectfully.

“Yes, you may go. And thank you,” Elizabeth responded turning to look at her. She had a perticular meaningful stare.

The woman paused. She met Elizabeth’s gaze momentarily before lowering her head once more. John observed a fleeting change in her expression, as if she had suddenly turned self conscious at his aunt stare. There was something being said between them with only their eyes. He wanted to know what it was. The women swiftly gathered her notes, offered another bow, and exited without further comment.

“What was that all about?” John asked Elizabeth as the woman left.

“She is a rather complicated child. She does not take well to my expressions of gratitude and tends to avoid me. Yet, I find her quite endearing.” She answered with a motherly affection evident in her voice. 

John sensed a deeper history between them. He contemplated asking further but chose to refrain from intruding. The woman’s manner always left him both irked and intrigued. Her impassive nature made her difficult to read. John prided himself on his ability to discern intentions quickly, but she remained a puzzling case.