Chapter 1661: High and Mighty

Early the next morning, Frieda hurried to the airport. She had received a text from Shawn the previous night, informing her of his return with a legendary doctor. Her excitement kept her awake, and she left the house promptly at sunrise.

About ten minutes after arriving, she spotted Shawn amidst the crowd. His striking presence and imposing height made him instantly noticeable; many onlookers mistook him for a celebrity. Seeing him approach, Frieda's heart quickened. As he stopped before her, she managed a composed greeting: "You're back."

After a brief appraisal, Shawn curled his lips slightly and commented, "You look pretty today." Frieda blushed, momentarily speechless.

"Let me introduce you," Shawn continued. "This is Old Mr. Lomax, the King of Medicine of Merania, a man who has lived in seclusion for years." Turning to Peregrine Lomax, he added respectfully, "Old Mr. Lomax, this is Frieda Queen, granddaughter of the Queen family."

Frieda, initially focused on Shawn, only then registered the presence of the elderly man beside him. Tall and thin, though a few centimeters shorter than Shawn, Mr. Lomax's wrinkled face was offset by cold, aloof eyes. His bearing bespoke an extraordinary individual, a fact underscored by Shawn's evident respect.

"It's nice to meet you, Mr. Peregrine," Frieda greeted politely.

Peregrine glanced at her dismissively. "I've seen you as a child," he replied, "but I prefer you call me Old Mr. Lomax, as this young man from the Crawford family does."

Frieda's smile faltered. She had hoped to ingratiate herself with him, given Jonathan's access to the Queen family's network and her own desire to expand her connections. The old man's stubbornness surprised her. Shawn's subtle glance left her no choice but to comply meekly. "I understand, Old Mr. Lomax."

Peregrine nodded slightly. "Crawford, I'm tired. Where can I rest?"

Shawn, smiling, led the way to the waiting Crawford family car. Frieda took the passenger seat, while Shawn and Peregrine sat in the back. Peregrine occasionally inquired about the Crawford family's well-being. Despite his aloof demeanor, Shawn remained patient; Peregrine's capabilities were undeniable.

The title "King of Medicine" wasn't self-proclaimed. His peers had bestowed it upon him over the past few decades. His skills had even prompted an invitation to join the State Secrets Protection Department. However, a research explosion sixteen years prior, resulting in the injury and death of many of his mentees, had shattered his spirit. He held himself responsible, despite the lack of criminal liability, considering himself unforgivable. Since then, he had withdrawn from public life, declining all government overtures.