Chapter 160: The Savage Craving (3)
How long can I handle Adelle's behavior before my body gives out? Will it be months or years? Diana warned me that my body would eventually break down, and with the added stress from Adelle, I don't think I can endure it for much longer. If only I had a strong constitution, I wouldn't have to deal with these limitations.
Lost in contemplation, I was abruptly interrupted by a sharp blow to my arm, causing me to wince in pain. Bewildered, I turned my attention toward Lily, whose expression exuded annoyance.
"What on earth was that for?" I inquired, reflexively massaging my throbbing arm.
And then, a realization dawned upon me. "Wait, the numbness and pain... they've vanished?"
A mischievous smirk displayed on Lily's lips. "That, my love, is the power of the advanced medical techniques practiced by my people."
Caught off guard by the sudden disappearance of my discomfort, my curiosity piqued. "Your people possess truly impressive medical knowledge, don't they?"
Lily nodded, a hint of pride in her voice. "We have a long history of healing knowledge. We combine natural remedies and advanced magic to make our treatments effective."
Lily beamed smugly, radiating confidence as she shared her knowledge with me. "That's an exclusive herb in our kingdom," She said. "It helps restore damaged blood vessels. Although the pain has subsided, your body's vascular system still needs time to recover. So, rest. With your resilience, I think the effects will last for an hour or two."
I chuckled softly as Lily spoke, amused by the contrast of her character whenever the topic of her people came up.
"What's funny?" she asked, curious about my reaction.
Taking a moment to gather my thoughts, I appreciated the chance to have a meaningful conversation.
"It's interesting to think about the differences between traditional remedies and modern medicine," I explained with a warm smile, as I truly enjoy hearing Lily's explanation. "Each approach has its own merits, rooted in centuries of knowledge or cutting-edge discoveries. It's fascinating how different cultures and eras have developed their own healing methods."
Lily nodded, captivated by the notion of integrating traditional and modern practices. "You're right," she conceded. "Ancient traditions hold wisdom, and modern medicine has made incredible progress. We're at the point where the bridge of the gap has been closer than before. I truly believe we can harness the combined potential."
I smiled in agreement.
She continued, growing more enthusiastic. "Through collaboration and embracing the strengths of both approaches, we can unlock innovation and enhance patient care. Just imagine a future where diverse healing traditions converge."
Lily's eyes gleamed as she exclaimed, "Ha!"
'And, here we go...'
Lily left the room without uttering a word, fueled by her newfound inspiration.
"Just like she left," I remarked jokingly.
Adelle's eyes widened as her grip on me loosened.
Adelle can't stand drinking any blood other than mine. She has stated herself that the taste of other blood has become revolting and unbearable, to the point of making her vomit. Therefore, I have essentially become Adelle's main source of sustenance. Even if she were to run away, her unquenchable thirst for blood would instinctively lead her back to me, and the earlier incident would happen again—bounded by hunger.
Adelle's grim gaze softened as her shoulders dropped down. Tears formed in her eyes, and in a sudden burst of emotion, she raised her arm and balled up her hand, striking my solar plexus with force.
"Wait... S-Sorry... Eh? Buuugh—!" My life flashed before my eyes.
'I almost saw Pix again!' I gasped for air, clutching my stomach in agony.
"What was that for?!" I yelled, seeking an explanation.
Instead of answering, Adelle pressed her face against my shoulder, wrapping her arms around my back. The room fell silent once more, but this time, the atmosphere seemed gentler. I sighed exasperatedly and placed my hand behind her head, offering a comforting touch.
Unlike Adelle's tears, mine were from the aching pain left in my abdomen. 'It fucking hurts so much. But I guess that's her way of conveying her feelings. What a relief... Thank God.'
I stared blankly at the ceiling once again.
"You suck at cheering a person up," Adelle said.
"I-I, yeah, pretty much... Sorry about that..."
"Sorry."
"There's nothing to apologize for," I said. "I mean... If I could bang a beautiful woman like you with a cost like this? That's a fucking bargain, y'know?"
"Just shut up for once." Adelle buried her head against my chest.
Adelle snuggled further into my chest. "Sorry."
I gently patted her back. “Don’t be hard on yourself.”
Once upon a time, a lovely, kind old woman said to me, "God will never give us more than we can handle." Needless to say, as someone with limited time left, I didn't think much of it at the time. But it struck me deeply. Since then, I've questioned both the existence of God and my own purpose.
Does this thing called "God" truly exist? And if so, why? Why me? What is the purpose of my life? How can a kid like me handle such a burden?
But now, I think I finally understand the message of the old woman. In my remaining days, I've pinned myself down, believing I had already given up. But now I question if I had chosen a different path, would anything have changed? Would I have been happier if I at least did something, at least leaving the world with a smile on my face? Those questions will remain unanswered forever. A meaningless regret.
Editor : Zenon#4120