Tasks

Katarina's POV

"Jane, I can't keep doing this back and forth with you. Tell me when I'll be better," the prince asked with a straightforward face.

"I wish I could but I can't. I am still preparing for the cure. I'm doing everything in my power to make sure you get the cure but like I told you it's mostly not in my hands anymore. It's in yours."

"So you want me to believe that the reason I haven't been well is because I haven't been doing some kind of random exercise?"

"That, and the fact that you don't want to let me do my job by telling you when you'll be ready for the cure if it was ready."

"You said I had to do other things as well."

I couldn't remember saying that but it might have been an attempt to stall him while I tried finding the cure.

"Yes," I said to him. "These tasks may take time, perhaps even up to a year, but I assure you, I will not rest until I have explored every possible avenue."

"A year?!" He yelled in rage. "I might not even have up to a year at the rate this pain is going. My health is deteriorating."

"Relax my prince. The tasks should not be up to that time frame but it's just a guess on my part."

The prince's anger subsided momentarily, curiosity replacing his rage. He looked at me, his eyes searching for any sign of deceit. "What kind of tasks are you proposing?" he asked, his voice laced with skepticism.

I took a moment to gather my thoughts, knowing that the tasks I proposed had to be significant enough to occupy the prince's attention and buy me the time I desperately needed.

"Your Highness," I began, my voice confident, "The first task I propose is the study of philosophy. I believe that the pursuit of knowledge and understanding can bring peace to the soul. I suggest that you dive into the works of great philosophers, engage in debates, and surround yourself with scholars who can guide you on this intellectual journey."

The prince's brows furrowed as he contemplated my suggestion. "Philosophy? Why should I waste my time with such matters when my health is deteriorating? I'm literally dying."

"Your Highness," I implored, "By studying philosophy, you will gain a deeper understanding of the human condition and the nature of existence. It will provide you with a sense of purpose and meaning, even in the face of adversity. And who knows, perhaps in the pursuit of knowledge, we may stumble upon a clue or an idea that will lead us closer to creating something new for the kingdom."

I didn't believe what I was saying but I had to buy time. Telling him that he only needed to be good at fighting was a waste of time. This man was a prodigy. He was good with the sword.

He had learned a new move within a few hours. I needed to broaden my task if I had any chance of hindering him from catching up to me.

This way, I would have enough time to relax and look for the cure.

I was giving myself one year to make sure I finished whatever this was and move on with life.

The prince's expression softened as he pondered my words. It was clear that the idea intrigued him, for he had always possessed a curious mind. "Very well," he finally acquiesced. "I shall dedicate myself to the study of philosophy."

Relief flooded through me, knowing that I had successfully bought myself some time. But the journey was far from over. I had to ensure that the subsequent tasks were equally engaging and time-consuming.

"As your second task, Your Highness," I continued, "I propose that you embark on a pilgrimage. Travel to the holy sites of our land, seek spiritual guidance, and immerse yourself in the rituals and prayers of our faith. This pilgrimage will not only grant you peace of mind but may also bring about a sense of healing."

The prince's eyes widened with surprise, his curiosity piqued once again. "A pilgrimage? But why? Will it truly aid in my recovery?"

"Your Highness," I explained, "A pilgrimage has been known to bring peace to the weary soul and instill a sense of hope. It is said that in the presence of divinity, miracles can occur. By undertaking this journey, you may discover a renewed sense of purpose and find the strength to face your illness with unwavering resolve. Trust me, one man did it and he came back healed even without my father healing him. It was amazing. Trust me, it could work for you. I won't be shocked if you no longer need my help to heal."

The prince contemplated my proposal, his gaze distant as he weighed the possibilities. "Very well," he declared, determination coloring his voice. "I will embark on a pilgrimage to seek peace and perhaps find a divine intervention… whatever that means."

With each task I presented, the prince's skepticism faded away, replaced by a growing curiosity and a willingness to embrace these tasks. The third task was crucial, for it needed to divert his attention while I delved deeper into my research.

"As your third task, Your Highness," I began, my voice steady, "I suggest that you engage in the art of diplomacy. Visit neighboring kingdoms, forge alliances, and immerse yourself in the depths of politics. By doing so, you will not only strengthen your own kingdom but also gain insights into the workings of power and influence."

The prince's eyes gleamed with a newfound excitement, and a hint of a smile played on his lips. "Diplomacy?" he mused. "To think that my illness could lead me on such a path."

"You never know. Maybe things that you have very well forgotten to do in your position has piled up and hurts you deep inside."

"This diplomacy… did the other people who had the illness go through it?"