Unexpected Encounter

The morning sun cast a warm glow over NEOM as Vecna and his family prepared for their important medical appointment. They had spent the previous evening settling into their hotel rooms, and now the day had come to seek help for Elena's health issues.

Vecna, dressed in a neat suit, paced the room with a sense of determination. He had researched the NEOM Regenerative Medicine Institute extensively, and he was hopeful that they would find answers here. 

Silvia, always the early riser, watched her older brother with a mixture of admiration and sympathy. Despite their differences, she respected Vecna's unwavering determination to help their mother. She knew he bore the weight of their family's hopes and fears.

She too made sure to look appropriately, wearing a simple dress that wasn't inappropriate for the customs of the country, even thought NEOM was a place that had certain freedoms for women when it came to dress code.

She couldn't help but watch her brother's restless movements with a reassuring smile.

"Adrian, everything will be fine," she said, trying to ease his nerves. "Haven't you told me that this Dr. Rahman seems like a genuinely caring doctor, and NEOM is known for its cutting-edge medical facilities?"

Vecna nodded, appreciating his sister's attempt to comfort him. "You're right, Silvia. I just want everything to go smoothly for Mom."

Meanwhile, Elena sat in front of a vanity mirror, carefully applying makeup to hide the exhaustion that had become a constant companion due to her illness. She was determined to appear strong and hopeful for her children, even though she knew the challenges that lay ahead.

Alexander sat quietly in a corner, his eyes filled with concern for his mother. 

As the time for their appointment neared, Vecna led his family down to the hotel's lobby, and taking the mobility corridor toward Ward 87, at 5 minutes distance stood the NEOM Regenerative Medicine Institute.

Vecna stood up and walked over to his mother, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Mom, don't worry. Everything will be fine. We're here to support you every step of the way."

Elena smiled weakly, her eyes filled with gratitude for her children's unwavering support. "Thank you, Adrian. You've always been my rock."

Silvia and Alexander joined in, offering their own words of encouragement and love. The family's bond was unbreakable, and their shared determination to overcome adversity was a source of strength.

The modern building gleamed in the morning sunlight, a symbol of the city's commitment to cutting-edge healthcare.

As Vecna approached the reception desk, he put on his most polite and confident demeanor. He knew that clear communication was essential, especially when it came to his mother's health. 

Silvia watched with a mixture of pride and surprise as her brother engaged in a conversation with the receptionist in flawless English. It wasn't just his fluency that impressed her; it was his courteous and professional manner.

"Good morning," Vecna greeted with a warm smile. "We have an appointment for my mother, Elena Avramescu, with Dr. Noah Rahman. I just wanted to confirm that everything is in order and that we're not running late."

'Wow, Adrian sounds better than my teacher. I never knew he was good at foreign languages.' thought Silvia, who was surprised that Vecna could speak English so casually. 

What the young sister will experience in the following years was that her older brother was a man who didn't live up to the fullest of his intellect. Being someone who learned in school both English and French to a C2 level. 

The receptionist, a young woman with a friendly demeanor, returned his smile. She glanced at her computer screen and verified the appointment details. "Good morning! Let me check that for you," she said in English. 

She typed a few commands into her computer and then nodded. "Yes, Mr. Avramescu, everything is in order. You're right on time for your appointment with Dr. Rahman. If you could please have a seat in the waiting area designated for Hepatology, the doctor will see you shortly."

Vecna thanked the receptionist and turned to his family, conveying the good news. "We're right on schedule. Let's go to the waiting area, and Mom will get the care she needs." His words were a source of comfort to Silvia, who couldn't help but feel a surge of pride for her older brother.

The Avramescu family settled into the comfortable waiting area designated for hepatology issues. It was a spacious room with large windows that let in natural light, soothing colors, and soft, ergonomic chairs. There were a few other patients quietly waiting, each lost in their own thoughts.

After a brief wait, a door in the corner of the room opened, and a tall, slender man in a white lab coat stepped out. He had a warm and reassuring smile, and his eyes reflected genuine empathy. Dr. Noah Rahman extended his hand towards Vecna. "Good morning, Mr. Avramescu. I'm Dr. Noah Rahman. It's a pleasure to meet you and your family."

Vecna shook the doctor's hand firmly. "Good morning, Dr. Rahman. This is my mother, Elena, and my siblings, Silvia and Alexander."

Elena nodded weakly in greeting, and Silvia and Alexander offered polite smiles.

Dr. Rahman's attention turned to Elena. "Hello, Mrs. Avramescu. How are you feeling today?"

Elena spoke with a touch of weariness in her voice. "Thank you, Doctor. I've been struggling with fatigue and discomfort for a while now, but I'm hoping to find some answers today."

Elena spoke with a touch of weariness in her voice. "Thank you, Doctor. I've been struggling with fatigue and discomfort for a while now, but I'm hoping to find some answers today."

The doctor's empathetic smile didn't waver. "We'll do our best to provide those answers and find a suitable treatment plan for you, Mrs. Avramescu. Now, if you don't mind, I'd like to discuss your condition in more detail. Mr. Avramescu, would you like to join us, or would you prefer to wait here with your siblings?"

Vecna glanced at Silvia and Alexander, silently asking if they were comfortable waiting in the room. They both nodded, and he turned back to Dr. Rahman. "I'll join you, Doctor."

Dr. Rahman led Vecna and Elena into an adjoining examination room, leaving Silvia and Alexander in the waiting area. The room was well-lit and equipped with various medical instruments. Vecna took a seat next to his mother, his expression obvious to the eye, it was concern.

The doctor began the discussion by asking Elena about her medical history, including any previous diagnoses, treatments, and medications she had been prescribed. Elena understood the questions but struggled to express herself in English. 

Sensing her difficulty, Vecna offered, "Doctor, my mother understands English, but her speaking skills are limited. Would it be acceptable if I act as her interpreter?"

Dr. Rahman nodded kindly. "Of course, Mr. Avramescu. Your assistance will be greatly appreciated in ensuring clear communication."

With Vecna now acting as the interpreter for his mother, Elena was able to answer the doctor's questions more effectively. She provided a detailed account of her health history, and Vecna translated her responses accurately.

Dr. Rahman listened attentively, nodding in acknowledgment as Vecna translated each sentence. Once Elena had finished, he expressed his gratitude for her openness. "Thank you, Mrs. Avramescu. Your description is valuable in helping us understand your situation better. Based on your symptoms, we'll need to conduct several tests to narrow down the possible causes."

Vecna interjected with a question, his concern evident. "Doctor, is there any indication of what might be causing these symptoms? My mother's health has been deteriorating in the past year, and we're eager to find answers."

Dr. Rahman replied with empathy in his voice. "I understand your concern, Mr. Avramescu. The symptoms your mother is experiencing could be associated with various conditions, including liver disorders, viral infections, or autoimmune diseases. However, we won't have a clear diagnosis until we complete the necessary tests."

Dr. Rahman outlined the diagnostic procedures he believed would be most informative. "To begin, we'll conduct a series of blood tests to assess liver function and screen for infections."

"We reached a high ground in blood tests, we'll also perform imaging studies, such as an abdominal ultrasound, to visualize the liver and surrounding organs. Depending on the results, we may consider a liver biopsy for a more in-depth evaluation."

After their detailed discussion with Dr. Noah Rahman, Vecna and Elena exited the consultation room, feeling a mix of emotions. The prospect of a thorough diagnosis and potential treatment options brought hope, yet the uncertainty of Elena's condition weighed heavily on both their minds.

As they made their way through the bustling clinic, Vecna couldn't help but reflect on the importance of family. He knew that their journey in NEOM was not just about seeking medical help but also about spending quality time together as a family.

"Mom," Vecna said, his voice filled with genuine concern, "how are you holding up? Are you feeling okay?"

Elena gave her son a warm smile, her eyes reflecting her appreciation for his care. "I'm doing as well as can be expected, Adrian. It's comforting to know that we're taking the necessary steps to understand and address my condition."

"The doctor seems to be a capable person, and speaks from his heart, unlike the doctors back home."

"Mhm, he did give me a good vibe too."

Silvia and Alexander walked alongside them, both looking a bit more relaxed now that the initial consultation was behind them. Silvia turned to Vecna and asked, "So, what's the next step, Adrian? Are they going to schedule the tests right away?"

Vecna nodded in response. "Yes, they'll schedule the blood tests and imaging studies as soon as possible. Dr. Rahman mentioned that they'll try to expedite the process, so we should have more information soon."

Alexander, who had been quietly absorbing the conversation, finally spoke up. "I'm just glad we're here together, supporting Mom. This place is so high-tech, it's like something out of a sci-fi movie."

Vecna chuckled, being reminded by what Silvia said, extended his hand to ruffle  his younger brother's hair. "Sure, it is impressive. But remember, we're here not just for the technology but for the care and expertise they can provide."

The family continued to navigate the clinic's corridors, heading toward the reception area to finalize the scheduling of tests and appointments. Vecna couldn't help but feel a sense of unity among them, they weren't only interested in his money like how the doctors from Romania were.

As they approached the reception desk, a friendly staff member greeted them and began the process of arranging the necessary tests. Vecna provided all the required information, ensuring that every detail was in order for Elena's care.

While they waited for the scheduling to be completed, Vecna glanced around the clinic, taking in the diverse group of patients and families who were also seeking medical assistance. 

As Vecna observed the clinic's diverse clientele, his eyes were inevitably drawn to the young Asian woman who stood out not only due to her striking appearance but also her demeanor. She carried an air of elegance and poise that seemed out of place in the bustling clinic, and her graceful movements caught the attention of those around her.

The woman's long, jet-black hair flowed like liquid silk, framing her delicate features and cascading down her back. Her eyes, a mesmerizing shade of dark-amethyst, held a depth and mystery that seemed to draw Vecna's gaze like a moth to a flame. 

Her skin was flawless, and her attire, though simple, was tailored to perfection, accentuating her natural beauty.

'For some reason, she seems familiar. But I can't seem to remember who she is, and why do I feel she's familiar.'

Beside her stood an elderly man, presumably her grandfather, who exuded wisdom and experience. Despite his advanced age, he held himself with a straight back and an unwavering presence.

Vecna couldn't help but wonder about their story. The attendants accompanying the woman and her grandfather were diligent and respectful, attending to their needs with great care. 

It was evident that this group was not here for routine check-ups but for something more specialized, something that hinted at substantial wealth and a pursuit of advanced medical treatment.

Once the scheduling for Elena's tests was completed, Vecna turned his attention back to his own family, ensuring that they were comfortable and ready for the next steps in their journey towards Elena's treatment.

As Vecna focused on attending to his family, he was oblivious to the shift in attention that his gaze had caused. 

Unbeknownst to him, the young Asian woman had noticed his lingering look and shifted her attention in his direction. Her grandfather who had been engaged in a conversation with her, couldn't help but sense her distraction.

(in Korean) "Yuna, my dear," he began in a hushed tone, leaning in closer to her, "you've never shown interest in any of the suitors I've presented you with, even the heirs of prominent Cheobol families. And now, you're casting your eyes toward that blonde young man?"

(in Korean)  "Do you have something for Western youngsters?"

Yura, her amethyst eyes still fixed on Vecna, responded with a nonchalant shrug. 

(in Korean) "Grandfather, you know as well as I do that most of those suitors were insufferable. Money can't buy intelligence or character."

Lee Jinmyung chuckled softly. "True enough, my dear. But do you know who that young man is? He's a chaebol heir as well, the Lotte heir, if I'm not mistaken. His family's wealth is considerable."

Yura's gaze remained on Vecna, a thoughtful expression on her face. "I think I recognize him from some of the videos I've seen online. He's quite skilled. Besides, I'm not interested in wealth, and don't want to entertain your plans, Grandfather."

"But I do appreciate talent and competence."

Her grandfather raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by her response. "Ah, I see. You're more interested in someone's abilities than their wealth or status."

Yura nodded with a small smile. "Indeed, Grandfather. Besides, I have no intention of being courted by an idiot with too much money. If you want me to take on the successor chair, better drop any idea of introducing any chaebols idiot."

Lee Jinmyung couldn't help but chuckle again, his affection for his granddaughter evident in his eyes. "You always did have a mind of your own, Yura. Say, how long was the Nanobot Treatment for me? Any risks?"

"None. It's a safe and effective procedure. You'll be in and out in a few hours, and the nanobots will work to clear impurities from your bloodstream over the next few days."

"It's as the young lady said, sir. This is a remarkable advancement in medical technology."