I Am The Dying Emperor’s Doctor

“Just now, I was wondering whether to let you into the study, Lady Serena,” Leonard said with an awkward smile, expressing his genuine concern.

Serena studied Leonard’s expression and guessed the situation. “Is His Majesty in a bad mood?”

Leonard nodded weakly in response.

It was expected. The time of year had come again.

Around this time, Azeid always seemed to be at his lowest, as if he was hitting rock bottom. Serena smiled awkwardly, and Leonard explained further.

“It’s almost Lady Medeia’s death anniversary.”

Leonard assumed Serena might not know and cautiously provided the information. As Serena listened, Leonard continued.

“During this time, His Majesty tends to be very sensitive. Usually, it’s best not to disturb him…”

“And?”

Encouraged by Serena’s patience, Leonard explained, “Recently, he seems more at ease with you, so I wondered if talking to you might help.”

“I see.”

Serena felt a bit shy at the acknowledgment from Azeid’s closest confidant.

‘So, he thinks I’ve gotten closer to the Emperor?’

Considering it came from someone who knew Azeid well, it wasn’t just empty words. Although she didn’t start her project to rehabilitate Azeid for praise, it did feel good.

Leonard, seeing Serena’s slight smile, added gently, “If it’s too difficult, it might be best to come back later. His Majesty isn’t in a good state right now.”

Leonard couldn’t determine whether letting her in would help or hurt. He worried it might only agitate Azeid further.

Serena pondered Leonard’s advice. While she had come to ask for permission to go out, it wasn’t urgent.

But would Azeid be in a better mood later?

From her experience, Azeid grew more sensitive as the anniversary approached. It might be better to address it today.

Besides, ignoring a patient’s sorrow would be neglecting her duty. Having received such praise from the Emperor’s closest aide, she couldn’t shirk her responsibilities.

“Thank you for your concern, Lord Leonard.”

“Are you planning to come back another time?”

Leonard looked relieved, assuming she’d avoid the confrontation. Stirring a moody Emperor was like asking for trouble.

Even Serena, bold as she was, might find it daunting. Leonard was about to offer to escort her when she replied firmly.

“No.”

Leonard stared at her in surprise.

“I can’t just leave now that I’m here. Besides, His Majesty’s mental health is part of my duties.”

“Lady Serena.”

“You don’t need to worry about me, Lord Leonard. I’ll just do my job.”

Serena smiled brightly, and Leonard blinked. After a moment, he seemed somewhat reassured and said, “Then I leave it to you.”

With a nod, he left lightly on his feet.

Serena watched him go, clenched her fist, took a deep breath, and knocked on the door.

“Your Majesty, it’s Serena.”

“……”

There was no response from inside, but there was also no command to stay out.

Taking it as permission to enter, Serena gently pushed the door open. Azeid was staring blankly out the open window.

He wasn’t really focused on anything. It was just a vacant gaze, lacking direction. Serena was taken aback by his unusually desolate demeanor.

‘He looks really down.’

Azeid’s expression was like a drenched puppy or a fawn soaked in the rain.

“Enjoying the weather?”

Serena approached casually and asked. It took a moment for Azeid to acknowledge her.

“What is it?”

“Do I need a reason to visit? You did give me the Ezring.”

Serena waved her hand slightly, making Azeid smirk. Having the Ezring meant she could see the Emperor anytime. Since he gave it to her, her point was valid.

“You usually come to see me when you have a reason.”

“So, were you disappointed?”

“Maybe. Was I?”

Azeid, unusually not his argumentative self, seemed deflated. Serena stood quietly by his side until he muttered meaninglessly.

“…Maybe I was.”

“Then I’ll come more often so you won’t be. But don’t complain if you find it annoying later.”

Azeid chuckled at her playful remark. Her lighthearted response to his idle comment was comforting.

He shifted his gaze from the window to Serena. Her neatly tied hair was as usual.

Remembering her hair sprawled across his pillow last time made Azeid feel wistful.

“Why do you always tie your hair?”

“It gets in the way when I work. Why? Do you want me to leave it down?”

Today, Serena seemed ready to oblige anything he said.

Azeid, too, felt like he could grant any of her wishes for some reason.

“Not really, but you always tie it.”

“I’m just used to it. Marie complains a lot, though. She wants to try different hairstyles, but I always refuse.”

Serena chattered on without being asked, smiling softly. Azeid watched her quietly.

His gaze, now focused, was different from earlier.

He didn’t know where to rest his eyes. Strangely, his heart pounded—whether it was because of his mother’s approaching anniversary or because Serena was in front of him, he couldn’t tell.

Azeid reached out, touching her long hair, and said, “Why not let her? I’m sure other styles would suit you too.”

Serena looked at the hair he held and replied, “Really? Since you say so, I might try it.”

“I’m sure it’ll suit you. I have a good eye for these things.”

His eyes, now more lively, were a better sight than his earlier hollow look.

“Alright. I trust your judgment.”

“So, what’s the matter?”

Serena laughed at his persistent question. It was hard to deceive the Emperor.

‘Do I always visit with a reason?’

Realizing she might have, Serena resolved to visit him casually next time.

“I’m planning to go out.”

“Where to?”

“The Gordon Trading Company.”

“Ah, to pick up the medical tools you ordered?”

“Yes. I also plan to stop by the pharmacy.”

“The one you frequent?”

“Yes, that’s the one.”

“Do as you wish. If you’ll be late, let me know.”

“I will. And Your Majesty.”

Azeid blinked as Serena called him. She smiled and held out her hand.

“Shall we go for a walk?”

“Haha. You’re persistent.”

Azeid laughed, taking her hand. Her warm, small hand fit perfectly in his.

“Walking will make you feel better.”

“Indeed.”

Azeid didn’t resist and quietly followed her. He mused that he had never really opposed her prescriptions.

* * *

The cheerful sound of the bell rang as Eldah turned her gaze towards the door.

“Eldah Auntie.”

“Serena? Oh my, how long has it been!”

Eldah stood up, delighted, as Serena greeted her with a firm handshake.

“It’s been a while, Aunt Eldah. I missed you last time.”

“Lewin told me you visited. How’s everything in the palace?”

Eldah guided Serena to the sofa, asking kindly. She busily prepared tea, her movements showing her hospitality.

Serena sipped the tea Eldah served and replied, “I’m living in luxury.”

It was the best time of her life. Eldah wrinkled her nose at Serena’s mature response.

“Glad to hear you’re doing well. Are you here for herbs today?”

“No, I came to see you.”

“Me?”

Eldah laughed warmly, clearly pleased. She had always adored Serena, even before Lewin was born.

Taking a breath, Serena got to the point.

“I have something to ask you.”

“I never thought I’d see the day when you’d have questions for me.”

Eldah waited patiently. Serena set her teacup down and began.

“Recently, something strange happened.”