CHAPTER 3

Pacing back to the kitchen, Ana decided, "I have to check on him. That way, I'll stop worrying."

She hurried back to Leo's room, but the guards blocked her path. She listened from outside.

The queen's voice was laced with concern. "He's been vomiting, abdominal cramps, and losing balance sometimes."

The doctor's reply was measured. "That's bad. I'll prescribe some drugs."

"Okay, please rush the results. We need to know what's wrong with the prince," the queen urged.

The doctor nodded. "I'll get it ASAP."

Ana turned away from the door, determination etched on her face. She hurried to the kitchen, her mind racing. "I can make something to ease that.., symptoms..."

She ruffled through the kitchen stores, gathering herbs and spices. "Ginger, chamomile... that should help settle his stomach."

Aide Kim walked in, frowning. "What are you doing, Ana? You shouldn't be making anything for the prince."

Ana didn't look up, focused on her concoction. "I'm making something to ease his cramps. What's the point of being a kitchen maid if I can't help?"

Aide Kim sighed. "Ana, you're gonna get in trouble. The queen's orders were strict – no one gets near the prince without permission."

Ana's hands didn't stop moving. "I'll take the risk. Besides, I just want to help."

Aide Kim watched, a hint of concern on his face. "Fine. But if anything happens, I'm not covering for you."

Ana nodded, a small smile on her lips. "I'll be careful."

She finished the brew, pouring it into a wooden mug. "Aide Kim, can you make sure the prince gets this?"

Aide Kim took the mug, his expression unreadable. "I'll try."

Head Chef Ryu stormed into the kitchen, her eyes scanning the room. "What's that smell?" she asked, sniffing the air.

Ana stood by the counter, tidying up. "I made some herb soup for His Majesty," she replied calmly.

Chef Ryu's expression turned stern. "You did what? The queen won't accept it. You wanna lose your job?"

Ana's voice remained steady. "I care about His Majesty. I don't want him to be in pain."

Chef Ryu scoffed. "Despite losing your job?"

Ana rinsed her hands. "I asked Aide Kim to help me. If they're hesitant, I'll be fine with it. I've done my best."

Chef Ryu huffed. "Get me the condiments from the fridge. I want to prepare the prince a meal."

Ana hurried to the fridge, fetching the ingredients.

In Leo's chambers, Queen Elena's anger simmered as she learned about the soup. "How dare she? Aide Kim, why did you bring this to the prince?"

Aide Kim stood firm. "It's hygienic, my queen. Besides, she made a tea yesterday that helped His Majesty sleep well."

Leo spoke up, his voice weak. "Aide Kim is right... Maid Ana seems to have a skill in medicine."

The queen's gaze narrowed. "Did you watch her make this?"

Aide Kim nodded. "I also made her taste it."

The queen's expression softened slightly. "Give it to him."

A guard interrupted, delivering a message to Aide Kim. "Your Highness, Harrison is here."

Leo's eyes lit up. "Aide Kim, show him in."

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