Chapter 36

Chapter 36: The Ultimatum

As Letecia predicted, Lucian couldn't rest. The guilt and concern gnawed at him until he could no longer ignore it. In the dead of night, he silently slipped out of his chambers, moving through the palace with stealth. His thoughts were consumed by Isabel and the state he had left her in, desperate to see her and assure himself of her well-being.

When he finally reached the clinic, Lucian approached the door anxiously. Just as he was about to push it open, two of the palace physician's apprentices stepped forward from the shadows, blocking his path.

"Your Majesty," one of them began, bowing deeply. "We must insist that you do not enter the clinic."

Lucian frowned with his hand still poised on the door. "And why is that?" he demanded, his voice filled with frustration but with authority.

The second apprentice, a young woman with a calm demeanor, spoke up. "Sire, the clinic is currently being disinfected. The recent illness that struck Lady Isabel has necessita