Leopold resembled a ghostly version of his former self, his complexion sallow, lips tinged with a bluish hue, and his eyes vacant. He lay still on the bed, while Egon sat beside him, firmly holding his hand. Bastian observed the scene from a distance, while Arkin stood nearby with his arms crossed.
For an extended period, Egon had been persistently endeavoring to keep Leopold's mind engaged and occupied—a task that had stumped three different mind doctors, who, for some inexplicable reason, had all failed to achieve the same result.
"You were the one who instilled in us the importance of holding on to life no matter how challenging it may be, to embrace each day fully, and to depend on ourselves and each other when the world abandons us. How could someone as resilient as you simply give up on living?" Egon's voice trembled with a blend of desperation and genuine concern.
