The vampiric Count Dragomyr learns to ask first before acting. In this case, by doing so, he saved many lives. Had he rushed in as he so often had done in the desire to care for those he loved, he'd've caused more harm than good. He was grateful this lesson was taught to him.
@internutter/challenge-04517-l133-enlightened-self-interest -- Anon Guest
It wasn't just doctors. Dragomyr encouraged libraries and education programs. For anyone willing to learn, the resources could be there. There was little to be done with the unwilling to learn. If they wanted to shove turnips under their armpits to repel the miasmas, nothing was going to stop them.
Dragomyr was honestly hoping that those attitudes would wither on the vine, but there was no underestimating the power of willful ignorance.
He had plenty of time to work on it, all the same. But in the moment outside the doctor's office where he was waiting for the results of Marzanna's tests. Count Dragomyr was covered head to toe against the sunlight, tucked in a corner away from its beams, and clutching a large umbrella like his life depended on it. Which, strictly speaking, it did.
For the fifth time, Darla the receptionist said, "I'm sorry. Doctor's not from around here. He doesn't understand how things work around here, yet."
"It is not myself I fear for," said Dragomyr.
Nevertheless, Darla scurried around to close the louvers where their light was threatening to impinge on Count Dragomyr's space. Ducked back behind her desk and pretended it had always been like that.
Minutes ticked by like years. During which Dragomyr often forgot to breathe. His nervous twitching never ceased. Checking the umbrella. Checking his gloves. Checking his hat. Adjusting his coat. All but jumping out of his skin every time a door or a drawer opened.
He only properly breathed when Marzanna returned to his field of view. "My love?" he quavered.
"It's an infection. I'm on antibiotics for a month and then all will be well," she said. "Good thing I convinced you about doctors." She held his hand and looked him in the eye. "Now. We need to talk about your oral hygiene before you dine."
[Photo by freestocks on Unsplash]
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