Interlude: Beriberi

The disease that Anna's mother was facing was called Beriberi disease. It is a condition that occurs in people deficient in thiamine (vitamin B1). It damages the nerves, leading to decreased muscle strength and muscle paralysis. This disease can be life-threatening if it isn't treated.

Fortunately, Seraphine has arrived on time, and her condition is not yet bad. It is possible to cure by taking a thiamine supplement or food that contains it. However, the hard part is who will provide the food for a long-term treatment.

"Your diet consisting mainly of potatoes and vegetables lacks essential nutrients, which are crucial for maintaining good health," Seraphine explained. "Over time, this deficiency can weaken the body and lead to the symptoms you're facing." Seraphine tried to explain in simple terms to make her understand.

Anna's mother looked surprised and saddened by the revelation. "We've always tried to make the best of what we have," she said, her voice tinged with regret. "But it seems it wasn't enough."

It seems from famine and poverty, Anna's mother always provides the most nutritious food to her daughter first. That is why she eventually fell sick from malnutrition.

Seraphine's heart swelled with compassion for Anna's mother as she explained the severity of beriberi disease. She could see the worry in the woman's eyes and the fear of the unknown. Still, Seraphine remained hopeful that they had caught the condition in its early stages and could work towards a full recovery.

"I understand it's not easy, but together, we can make a difference," Seraphine reassured Anna's mother, her voice warm and comforting. "I will personally ensure that you receive the necessary foods rich in this essential nutrient. We'll help you recover."

Anna's mother nodded gratefully, tears glistening in her eyes. The burden of her family's health had weighed heavily on her, and now, knowing that someone was there to help, she felt a glimmer of hope.

After finishing her diagnosis with the mother, Seraphine knew that she had a daunting task ahead of her. The drought and poverty in this town had caused malnutrition, and many people were suffering from this terrible illness. She knew that it would take a lot of food and money to help these people, and she was determined to find a way.

Seraphine proceeded to visit the other patients who were suffering from the same illness. She listened carefully to each one, asking questions and taking notes as she went along. She asked about their diets and the amount of money they had to spend on food. They all described similar scenarios, where they ate mainly potatoes and vegetables, and many of them said that they couldn't afford to buy more food.

Seraphine knew that she had to act fast. She went to the village chief and explained the situation. She told him that the people of Oakdale were suffering from malnutrition due to the drought and poverty, and that they needed help desperately. The chief was shocked, but he recognized the gravity of the situation and promised to do everything in his power to help these people.

With determination, Seraphine set her plan into motion. She used her own resources and the support of the expedition group to order a supply of thiamine-rich foods from the city. She knew that it would be a long-term treatment, but she was willing to go to great lengths to help the people.

The supplies arrived in Oakdale a few days later, and Seraphine, along with Anna's assistance, carefully prepared nutritious meals for the whole town. She showed them how to incorporate these foods into their diet to ensure they received the required thiamine intake.

As the days passed, the positive effects of the treatment started to show. Anna's mother began to regain her strength, and her muscle paralysis gradually improved. The villagers were amazed at the miraculous transformation, and word spread about the young advisor who had come to their aid.

Seraphine's dedication and genuine care for the people had won the hearts of the villagers. They were in awe of her kindness and willingness to help, even without any personal gain

( from their point of view).

As the weeks went by, the transformation in Oakdale was nothing short of miraculous. The village that had once lived in despair now embraced hope and a new sense of community. Seraphine's actions had not only saved a life but had also rekindled the spirit of the town.

Seraphine sat on a wooden chair in front of Anna's house, resting after a long day of distributing food and educating the townspeople. She looked tired as she gazed at the sunset before her.

While she was resting, Anna approached with a cup of tea to offer her some refreshment. Seraphine happily accepted the tea and drank it with contentment.

"Miss Seraphine, if it weren't for your help, our town might have collapsed from this crisis. I'm truly thankful," Anna said sincerely, bowing to Seraphine in respect. Seraphine had sacrificed so much for the town, and Anna felt deeply indebted to her. She pondered how she could repay such kindness, but it seemed Seraphine already had something in mind.

"No worries, Anna. I am just glad that everything turned out alright," Seraphine replied, standing up from the chair and approaching Anna with a gentle pat on her shoulder. Anna felt a warm and comforting aura from Seraphine.

"But, Anna, you know that all the resources we provided were not free, right? Do you have any idea how much I have spent?" Seraphine suddenly raised this issue, making Anna tremble slightly. She was aware that the assistance Seraphine provided must have cost a significant amount, and she didn't know how she could possibly repay her.

"Miss Seraphine, I am truly grateful for your generosity, and I will definitely do anything I can to repay your kindness," Anna responded earnestly.

"Anything?" Seraphine said with a smile, her intentions not entirely clear to Anna. She looked up at Seraphine's face, unable to predict what she might be thinking.