The Malefactor

[00 Months: 12 Days: 17 Hours]

I watched as Theo's gaze moved from the doctor to me, a mixture of hope and desperation etched in his usually stoic features.

"Luke," he started, his voice barely audible, "this is the situation. Can you do anything about it?"

I exhaled softly, eyes flitting from the unconscious Duke to the sobbing Duchess and back again.

"Can I observe the Duke?" I asked, addressing my question to both Theo and the doctor.

The doctor seemed ready to object, but a quick glance from Theo silenced any protests.

"Go ahead, Luke," Theo said, stepping aside.

With their approval, I approached the Duke.

As I moved closer, I could make out the rapid rise and fall of his chest, the pale blue tinge to his lips, and the faint tremors that wracked his frail form. I knew I needed to find out more about his condition, but for that, I needed to establish a connection.

"Duchess," I started, nodding at her in respect.