Elara had been tending to Queen Rose of Selaris for two months now. The once-vibrant queen had fallen gravely ill, and her condition had left the palace in a state of quiet turmoil. At the royal advisor's insistence, Elara, a renowned young physician, had been called to the palace. The queen's health had since improved dramatically, though her recovery required constant vigilance.
Elara approached the queen's chambers that morning with a small tray. On it sat a cup containing the final brew of the herbal remedy she had painstakingly prepared. She knocked softly before entering, her steps light but purposeful as she made her way to the bedside.
Queen Rose rested on the right side of her grand, king-sized bed. The large room was filled with light streaming through the ornate windows, highlighting the intricate gold embroidery on the velvet curtains. Despite her improved health, the queen still appeared frail, her usually sharp features softened by months of illness.
"I am so grateful the royal advisor reached out to you," Queen Rose said, her voice still carrying a regal authority despite its softness. "You've done a wonderful job caring for me." She stretched out her hands to accept the brew as Elara approached.
"It has been an honor to serve, Your Highness," Elara replied with a respectful bow of her head. "Be it royalty or common folk, my duty remains the same. I am delighted to see how greatly your condition has improved."
The queen took a small sip of the tea, her delicate fingers wrapped around the warm cup. She watched Elara with a thoughtful expression.
"You know," Rose began, setting the cup down momentarily, "we haven't spoken much these past two months. I regret that. I don't know you as well as I'd like, and I imagine you have fascinating stories to tell."
Elara lowered her gaze, her professional demeanor firmly in place. "Your Highness, you were unable to speak during the earlier months of your illness. I was called only to tend to your health, and that is what I have done."
Rose chuckled softly, taking another sip before placing the empty cup on the tray. "Well, I'm feeling better now, and this was my last brew. So tell me, Elara, what's a young woman like you doing as a renowned physician? What's your story?"
Elara froze for a moment, the queen's unexpected question catching her off guard. The gentle touch of the queen's hand on hers urged her to speak.
After a moment's hesitation, Elara began, her voice steady but soft. "I've always had a passion for caring for others. I suppose it started with a cat I once had. Her name was Plum. She fell ill, and I nursed her back to health. The joy I felt when she recovered made me realize I wanted to dedicate my life to helping others heal."
Rose's gaze remained fixed on her, her interest genuine.
"My mother was my greatest supporter," Elara continued, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "She worked tirelessly to ensure I could pursue my dreams. With her encouragement, I was admitted into one of the best schools for physicians. And, by what I can only describe as divine intervention, I earned a scholarship that made it all possible."
The queen nodded approvingly. "That's a lovely story, my dear. May I ask, where is your mother now?"
Elara's smile faded, her expression turning somber. "She passed away... due to an illness."
A shadow crossed the queen's face. "Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that," she said gently.
Elara nodded, her voice quiet but steady. "It's all right. She's at peace now."
There was a pause before the queen spoke again, her voice cautious. "Do you mind if I ask what happened?"
Elara hesitated, her fingers twisting the fabric of her skirt. "She had been unwell for some time, and her work only worsened her condition. I left school to care for her, but she insisted I return to finish my studies. She didn't want me to sacrifice my future. Reluctantly, I obeyed. I stayed with her for a week before leaving. When I returned two weeks later, she was gone."
Her voice wavered as she spoke, and tears began to well in her eyes.
Rose reached out instinctively, brushing a tear from Elara's cheek. "Oh, my dear, you've endured so much. I admire your strength and bravery. Your mother would be so proud of you."
Elara managed a small, grateful smile. The queen's kindness was unexpected but deeply comforting.
"And your father?" Rose asked, her tone gentle.
"They separated when I received my scholarship," Elara replied, her gaze distant. "He took my younger sister with him, and I haven't heard from them since."
The queen's brow furrowed. "How long has it been since your mother's passing?"
"Two months," Elara said softly.
At this, the queen's eyes widened with realization. "To think that immediately after losing your mother, you came here to care for me… You have remarkable strength. I am truly sorry for everything you've been through."
Touched by the queen's compassion, Elara bowed her head slightly.
Rose placed her hands on Elara's shoulders, her expression one of genuine admiration. "I will always support you, Elara. You have my deepest respect."
"Thank you, Your Highness," Elara replied.
"Please, call me Rose," the queen said with a playful smile.
Elara hesitated, her formal upbringing making her uncomfortable with the idea. "But you're the queen, Your Highness. I should show respect—"
"Nonsense!" Rose interrupted. "I consider you my friend now, and I insist. At least when we're alone."
Reluctantly, Elara agreed. "Very well… Rose."
The queen beamed. "Now, tell me—what is the name of the physician who has so diligently cared for me?"
"Elara," she replied with a soft smile.
"Elara," Rose repeated, savoring the name. "Such a beautiful name. It suits you perfectly. My royal physician, my friend."
Elara's heart swelled at the queen's words. Though she had never sought titles or recognition, Rose's warmth felt like a mother's embrace, something she had sorely missed.
Their tender moment was interrupted by the sudden creak of the chamber doors. The royal advisor, Bridgette, entered with a swift but composed stride. Her posture was impeccable, but her expression was tinged with urgency.
"My queen," Bridgette said, dropping into a respectful curtsy. "The prince has returned from his retreat."
Rose's eyes lit up, her regal composure replaced by visible excitement. "My son has returned?"