Roxanne tilted her head, seeing the children clustered around her. They'd heard Larry's earlier words, but fear lingered. She longed to treat them personally, but the day's schedule loomed. Curing everyone would consume the entire day, even working through the night.

Though heartbroken, the larger picture spurred her to coax them gently. "The doctors there can cure you too, little ones. They're kind. Remember how kind they were during your check-ups?"

The children exchanged glances, yet none moved. Roxanne felt a pang of defeat. "If you wait for me, some won't be treated today, and that's not ideal. I hope everyone gets their treatment."

Hesitation gripped the children again. Just as Roxanne searched for words, the leading girl stepped forward. Approaching Larry, she obediently requested, "Please be gentle." Larry smiled warmly, stroking her head. "Got it. Thank you for trusting me." The girl smiled sweetly.

With that first step, more children left Roxanne's side, heading to the other doctors. Daniel remained, utterly alone. The children, though claiming forgiveness, remained terrified, especially given his scowl.

Their avoidance further infuriated Daniel. Years a respected practitioner, he'd never before faced such rejection. Unable to ask Roxanne for help after their earlier clash, he stood stiffly. Several children still surrounded Roxanne.

She turned, noticing Daniel's isolation, a frown creasing her brow. Hesitation flickered within her. The children clearly feared him, yet his lack of patients hampered the team's efficiency.

After a moment's pause, Roxanne curved her lips into a smile. "You can go to the kind doctor there, too. He seemed scary earlier because he wanted to cure everyone quickly. Now that he's learned his lesson, will you give him a chance to redeem himself? He's very skilled and can cure you quickly."

Roxanne then smiled at Daniel, a silent encouragement. He was stunned. She was speaking up for him? He'd been rude, yet she still helped...

Daniel looked at the children, their eyes brimming with tears. His stiff smile gradually softened into a warmer expression. "I was too impulsive earlier, kids, and I'm sorry. I promise I'll be more patient and won't hurt anyone anymore."

The children remained wary. Roxanne's heart ached. Approaching Daniel, she gestured for his hand. Unsure of her plan, he complied. A handful of colorful candies landed in his palm.

"Look! He has so many candies. If you behave and do as he says, you can have one," Roxanne said, smiling to encourage the children.

Despite the candy, Daniel's smile felt awkward, further unnerving the children. Yet, the sweet temptation proved irresistible, and they hesitantly approached him.