CHAPTER ONE — The Young Doctor

A small boy ran through the village streets, tears streaking down his dirt-covered face. His father was burning with a deadly fever, and desperation crushed his tiny heart. He had begged every doctor he could find—but no one came. Exhaustion finally overtook him, and he collapsed to the ground, choking back sobs.
A calm voice broke the silence.
“Kid… why are you crying?”
Startled, the boy looked up. Standing before him was a tall man with striking orange hair and bright blue eyes. Beside him stood a young woman—pale, elegant, with long black hair and deep violet eyes.
The boy’s lips trembled, ready to cry again, but the man knelt and spoke gently.
“You can tell me what’s wrong. Maybe I can help.”
The boy sniffed, wiping his face.
“My father… he’s sick. Crimson Fever. I can’t afford a doctor. I looked everywhere, but no one would help…”
The man placed a reassuring hand on the boy’s head and smiled softly.
“Don’t worry. I’m a doctor. Take me to your house.”
Hope flickered in the boy’s eyes. He nodded and led them through the village.

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• Inside the House
The boy burst through the door.
“Father! Mother! I brought a doctor!”
The woman inside—his mother—rushed forward.
“Please… help my husband!”
The man examined the father carefully. His skin was crimson, his breaths shallow, his body weak and trembling.
He turned to the woman beside him.
“Elen, prepare the medicines I told you about. Quickly.”
Elen nodded and hurried to gather herbs and mixtures. The man administered the medicine, watching closely.
Minutes passed.
Slowly, the father’s breathing steadied. His color faded from crimson back to normal. His eyelids fluttered, then opened.
The boy leaned forward, eyes filling with tears.
“Are you okay, Father?”
The father exhaled shakily.
“The pain… it’s gone.”
He turned to the young doctor, overflowing with gratitude.
“Thank you. You saved my life.”
The man smiled modestly.
“Crimson Fever. Without medicine, it would’ve been fatal. Finish the treatment, and you’ll recover fully.”
The father’s expression darkened.
“But… I can’t afford this medicine.”
The man shook his head gently.
“It’s fine. I can’t stand by and watch people die. Your recovery is enough payment.”
The mother wiped her tears.
“Thank you… truly.”
The boy stepped forward, bowing deeply.
“I’ll never forget your kindness.”
After making sure the family was safe, the man turned to leave. The boy hurried after him.
“Sir! What’s your name?”
The man paused, smiling.
“Ivan.”
He walked away beside Elen, leaving behind a house filled with relief and hope.