Chapter 166
It was only after seeing Helena that the physicians understood why Duke Frantor had kept the patient’s identity a secret.
She was currently one of the most controversial figures in the Empire. Though public opinion was largely positive, there were still those who believed she should be punished solely for being of Eskel blood.
When the physicians found out that the patient was Helena Eskel herself, they tensed up. The Eskel name carried such a notorious reputation that they feared she might be difficult or violent. But Helena was far gentler than they’d expected—especially compared to figures like Rosalith or Laviel. She was so reserved she even seemed shy.
She always treated the physicians with kindness and cooperated during all examinations. She followed instructions without complaint, even when asked to move or undress. Despite her title as the Duchess, she never acted arrogantly or looked down on others. Eventually, even the most cautious physicians grew fond of her.
However, as the gravity of the treatment became clearer, their anxiety resurfaced. In the capital, it was almost taken for granted that Duke Frantor would divorce Helena. While she might be a forget-me-not of the nation, public sentiment overwhelmingly questioned how a man could stay married to the daughter of the enemy who killed his brother. But from the physicians’ perspective, it was Duke Frantor who seemed unwilling to let go. When he spoke to her, Helena barely met his eyes and responded with only a few short words.
The Frantor twins, too, scrutinized everyone around Helena with hawk-like eyes. They were likely aware of the mixed public opinion and feared that the physicians might harbor ulterior motives.
“Good day, Duchess,” they greeted her with utmost formality. Some even praised her.
As more guards and physicians gathered around her residence, it was only natural that the locals grew curious. Eventually, a few began to recognize who she was. Fortunately, it was only trustworthy people like Aunt Holly who discovered the truth, but even that made Helena uneasy.
She had lived her entire life under harsh criticism and scorn. The recent wave of positive opinion was the first she’d ever experienced. But becoming a hero hadn’t magically restored her self-esteem. Confidence was easily destroyed in a moment but could take decades—if not a lifetime—to rebuild.
Helena wanted to focus on her treatment, not public opinion. So she asked the children not to visit for a while. Respecting her wishes, only a few physicians and close acquaintances were allowed near her.
Due to her rapidly deteriorating condition, the treatment was scheduled as soon as possible. Both Helena and the others—Caligo, the twins—began preparing their hearts.
Usually, when autumn came, Caligo would either finish his duties in the capital or return to Frantor to inspect the border. But this time, he stayed by Helena’s side, even taking a hard stance against the Kingdom of Kelimban.
“Wait for the right moment. Not only stop them—march across the border yourself.”
Frantor’s usual approach had been limited to guarding the border, trying not to escalate conflicts. But this time, things were different. His declaration that he was even willing to go to war made Kelimban back down.
Joshua also sent word that he wouldn’t return to Seantillen until Helena recovered. Her house bustled with physicians and the strong smell of medicine.
As the treatment day approached, everyone grew more tense. Yet they all tried to carry on with normal life instead of crying or despairing. Even Jeremy remained composed—at least in front of Helena.
During mealtimes, they all dined together in her room. Caligo would bring her food tray, while Joshua and Jeremy brought snacks or other dishes.
“I’m glad you can still eat some cake.”
“What kind of cake do you like, Helena?”
“…Honestly, I don’t really like it that much.”
“Then what color do you like?”
“Gray?”
They passed the time with such idle chatter—things like what colors suited each of them, or favorite shades. To their surprise, they even learned Caligo liked the green colour.
Despite the small room, even with large-framed Caligo and the twins all seated together, it felt nice. Sometimes their shoulders bumped, but even that made them feel closer. Occasionally, someone would spill tomato sauce on the blanket while dipping bread or cake.
***
Finally, it was the day before the treatment. The house was saturated with the smell of medicine, and physicians were busy transporting poisonous mushrooms needed for the procedure. Some of the surgeons prepared scalpels, and the sight made Joshua go pale.
Before meeting Helena, he had swung swords often, even been wounded before. But the thought of those blades being used on her was unbearable.
He ran into Helena’s arms, pale-faced.
“How can they use those knives on Helena? They looked so sharp.”
“I thought you weren’t afraid of blades, Joshua.”
“Of course I’m not! Getting stabbed doesn’t scare me. But… but using it on Helena? That’s not right.”
Helena’s hands and feet were small and pale. He couldn’t understand how anyone could hurt such fragile parts or make her bleed. In fact, even Joshua had been shocked when he first heard what the treatment would entail.
“I’m not scared. Not at all.”
“You’re really not afraid, Helena?”
“No. I studied herbs and even poisons a bit in the past.”
“…And?”
“It probably won’t be too painful or dangerous.”
“Really?”
“Mm. It’s not as bad as it sounds.”
“That’s a relief.”
Joshua finally smiled, reassured.
“I’m so glad it’s not a big deal! Still, eating poison and getting cut by a knife… Helena, you’ve got guts! No wonder people call you a hero!”
“Can we not with the ‘hero’ stuff?”
Her weak reply made Joshua giggle.
***
Because Helena remained so calm and composed, the treatment preparations went smoothly. More importantly, the children felt at ease.
But that night—
Dark, terrifying thoughts overwhelmed her. She had to sleep early for the next day’s procedure, but she couldn’t. She lay there, burying her face into her pillow, sobbing quietly.
That’s when Caligo entered her room. It was then Helena realized he must spend each night outside training briefly before going to bed. Maybe he had heard her crying.
“I’m sorry. I was trying to sleep, but I just can’t…”
She couldn’t finish the sentence. The lump in her throat made it impossible. She couldn’t lie in front of him—not when he might’ve seen through her sorrow and fear. She couldn’t hide it anymore.
“If I’m unlucky… I might die tomorrow, right?”
“…”
“I… I actually want to live. I don’t want to die like this.”
Last night, she had forgotten reality for a moment in his arms. But now, fear blinded her. She no longer cared about pride or their estranged relationship. She cried like a child, desperate for comfort—whether from an enemy or a condemned criminal. She just needed someone to hold her, or else she would collapse.
“I tried to accept this situation… but I’m still scared.”
“…”
“I just want to live a normal life like everyone else. I’m still young. I still have so many things I want to do… Is it already too late for me? Please tell me. Please?”
“I’m sorry… I was wrong. I’m so sorry.”
Caligo couldn’t say anything else. All he could do was hold her tightly and gently pat her back. When her tears soaked his shoulder, he fell silent, his heart breaking.
And then, at last—
The day of the treatment arrived.
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