Dominic knocked and gently pinched Yasmin's hand. She coughed violently, nearly sitting up in the throes of the attack. Worried onlookers leaned in, fearing the worst. However, after a few more coughs, the queen spat on the ground and fell back onto the bed. She gasped for breath, closed her eyes, then slowly opened them again.

Rick quickly pushed aside the doctors and approached her. "Your Majesty!"

Yasmin looked at him and nodded slightly. She then turned to Dominic, silently mouthing her thanks; her gratitude was evident to everyone present.

The old man raised an eyebrow and withdrew his hand, stepping aside as if his role in her recovery were complete.

"How are you feeling?" Rick asked, his concern evident.

"I'm fine," she replied, lifting and shaking her hand before closing her eyes once more.

Rick glanced over his shoulder. "You can all go now. But don't tell anyone about what happened today, understood?"

The order was superfluous; the doctors were well aware of the highly classified nature of Yasmin's condition. After they left, Rick turned to Dominic. "Sir, could you please examine Her Majesty again and see if you can assist her further?"

"Why should I listen to you?" the old man retorted, giving him a sidelong glance.

In the past, Rick would have been offended. However, witnessing Yasmin's deference to Dominic, he remained calm, understanding the old man's words were not meant literally. Indeed, the miracle doctor's reputation was well-deserved. The other doctors had toiled to no avail, yet Dominic had roused the queen with a simple touch. Rick was astounded by the old man's skill, hoping for an improvement in Yasmin's health.

"Please help her, sir. We'll do anything you want," Rick pleaded earnestly.

"Oh? Anything?" Dominic raised his eyebrow. "Then release me and my student."

Rick was taken aback.

"Ha!" Dominic chuckled, the challenge merely a playful jab. "Don't make promises you can't keep, got it?"

"That's impossible, of course. But if there's anything else we can do, you can rest assured we'll do it," Rick replied.

Dominic looked at him intently. "Really?"

"As long as it's within our means," Rick emphasized, anxious to avoid another unreasonable demand.

Dominic's next words surprised Rick. "I want to see someone."