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Unbeta-ed chapter.
Title: A City on the Verge of a Crisis
Inspired by: Chapter 35 of the Manga Akagami ni Shirayukihime
Character: Izana Wistalia
Wordcount: 787
Rating: General
I left the Pharmacology Institute, intent on getting some fresh air to clear my head. The truth is, I planned to do some patrol around the area only after I have escorted the two safely back to their lodging rooms. But with Suzu and the curious Yuzuri watching my every move, they would become suspicious once they find out that I only have basic knowledge in healing and medicine. It's better that I went outside and continue my undercover work.
Plus, if I continue to be ensconced with Shirayuki in hidden corners, the red-hair maiden might find her reputation in tatters and her compromised virtue weighing around my neck. I'd have no choice but to make things right for her, and my brother would make sure I do!
Although the idea sounds a little tempting, being reckless is not my nature. I needed to focus on the issue on hand. This business of the mysterious disease has become a matter of great concern, and my guts tell me that it will worsen. I have seen the evidences of the start of a plague firsthand more than ten years ago. And it affected the Southwestern portion of Clarines, in the city of Tulsa, experiencing the most number of cases. Half of the city's population was affected; within a year, a quarter of the citizens died.
Thus, it was this basis that influenced my mother to promote health awareness and support medical researchers. At that time, Garack Gazelt, our foremost pharmacist has just started her residency at Lyrias.
This mysterious disease bore the signs of a problem about to get worse. Instincts taking over, my mind began to prepare for contingency plans, thoughts of Shirayuki pushed aside.
With my ever-attentive aide, Maruko, we immediately sought the office of Lady Haki where she received us immediately and provided a small corner for me to write some urgent correspondences.
After writing my letter, a messenger stood waiting nearby. Maruko immediately took the rolled-up parchment, sealed it and murmured quick instructions to the silent man.
"I need this letter delivered at utmost haste." I added to the silent messenger who nodded before turning and disappearing behind the door. I trust my messengers to deliver my missives in the shortest time possible.
Meanwhile, I motioned for Maruko to follow me, as we went out of the office, bidding Lady Haki a quick goodbye, even while she is in the midst of an intense discussion with a couple of her advisers.
Outside, I stepped onto the snow-covered path again. The sky has darkened considerably, and I saw a huge flock of black crows startled by my heavy boots. They made a loud ruckus, flapping their wings, incessant chattering, and their black feathers flying about. Their sounds made me uncomfortable; and I can understand that it is just me feeling a little anxious about what is unfolding before me.
I thought my visit would prove to be uneventful, just the usual jaunt that I can complete in a couple of weeks. But with the disease coming to light, I doubt I can even go back without at least ensuring that measures are taken to protect the populace. Lyrias is an important city for the country of Clarines. And if this mysterious disease proves to be a potential weakness, I need to be certain that we can mitigate it as soon as possible. Leaving this city without a proper conclusion in the horizon is out of the question.
Soft footsteps approach from behind. I could hear Maruko stepping forward near me.
"Your Highness, another child has fallen victim to the disease."
His voice, was just loud enough for me to hear. But his sudden movements startled the birds again. And the crows took flight, covering the sky with their black silhouettes. A felt a little shiver run down my spine and closed my eyes.
If this disease will continue its progression, Shirayuki and Ryuu will need all the help they could get.
"Maruko. Do not speak of these latest developments to Lady Haki and Lord Makiri until we make sense of what's going on." I turned around, heavy boots making crunching noises on the snow.
"As you wish, Your Highness."
I pulled my heavy fur coat tightly over my shoulders. I would need to see if the outer gates may need to restrict the gates of the city. If more people are to come and go while this disease is ongoing, the chances of spreading it to others cities will grow.
Clarines will have a catastrophic crisis in her hands, one that may potentially deal a heavy blow to the peace we are experiencing right now.
"Ready my horse. We will check the border patrols immediately."