Chapter 1711: Not Much Time
"You're Old Mr. Lomax?" Roxanne finally recovered from her shock, comparing the man before her to a younger picture.
Peregrine nodded and asked caringly, "How are you feeling?"
She sat up straighter, replying respectfully, "Thank you for asking. I'm fine now. I apologize for my impertinent greeting."
She attempted to leave the bed, but Peregrine waved a hand. "It's alright. You're a patient; there's no need for formality."
He turned to Lucian. "How did Ms. Jarvis awaken? Did someone synthesize an antidote?"
Pressing on Roxanne's shoulder to keep her seated, Lucian replied in a deep voice, "I successfully obtained some from Jack. However, the dosage wasn't sufficient to eliminate all traces of poison. I'm afraid your help is still necessary, Old Mr. Lomax."
Peregrine nodded. "Of course." He was determined to treat Roxanne; that was why he had come.
"Jonathan said you've already analyzed some of the poison's composition. Is that true?" Lucian inquired impatiently. Knowing the poison's makeup would simplify antidote synthesis.
Peregrine nodded and explained his analysis. Lucian, knowing nothing of medicine, could only assume the herbs Peregrine listed were rare.
As Roxanne listened, awe filled her eyes. When he finished, she exclaimed admiringly, "You truly live up to your title as Merania's King of Medicine! While these herbs aren't particularly rare, they're seldom used, often overlooked. I believe only you could have considered them, Old Mr. Lomax!" She realized she'd almost forgotten some of them existed.
Peregrine shook his head. "Don't celebrate yet. This is only part of the solution. To develop the antidote, we must find all the medicinal herbs." He paused, staring at Roxanne expectantly. "I believe the remaining herbs are recorded in the Damaris family's ancient medical texts, but even I am unsure what they are. You are Harvey's student, so your skills should be exceptional. Since you've awakened, you can help me devise a solution."
Roxanne felt slightly embarrassed by his praise. "I'm an amateur compared to you. However, since it concerns my life, I'll do my best." Her tone became more resolute. "If you don't mind, could you tell me what you've discovered these past few days? I'm running out of time."
Peregrine nodded with delight, impressed by her quick adaptation and composure despite her poisoning. He thought her future incredibly bright.
Soon, the two began discussing the poison's composition, occasionally receiving input from Jonathan. Lucian, meanwhile, listened from the side, silently wishing he'd found time to study medicine.