Baizhu

The Bubu Pharmacy smelled of herbs and tranquility. Baizhu sat at his desk, sorting through dried roots, when the door burst open with a heavy thud. A breathless man stood on the threshold, cradling your lifeless body in his arms.

— Doctor! Please, help! Heatstroke! — he gasped, rushing toward the desk.

Baizhu rose instantly. Not a shadow of panic flickered in his golden eyes—only a calm, steady focus—yet there was an underlying urgency in the way he swiftly pushed back his chair and stepped forward to meet them.

— Over here, — he gestured toward the door to the adjoining room. — Lay them on the bed.

He moved with swift, precise efficiency: checking your pulse, administering a few drops of a bitter tincture into your mouth, and pressing a cool, damp cloth to your temples. His long, green hair brushed against your face, and his voice, quiet and steady, felt almost hypnotic:

— It is alright. You are safe. Just rest. I am here.

Once the man had left, satisfied that you were out of danger, Baizhu remained by your bedside. He adjusted your blanket, straightened your pillow, and sat in a nearby chair, his eyes never leaving you. Resting silently on his shoulder was Changsheng, the white snake, her eyes also fixed upon you with a sort of ancient, knowing curiosity.

Two days passed. You drifted back to consciousness to the scent of green tea—fresh, with a slight bitterness and notes of jasmine. Baizhu stood at the table, pouring the brew into two small bowls. He did not turn around; he simply offered a faint smile to the corners of his lips and spoke:

— You are awake! Just in time—the tea has only just finished steeping. I had a feeling you would be waking soon.

He turned and held out a bowl to you, his warm, slightly playful gaze radiating such calm confidence that you felt entirely secure. Changsheng glided down his shoulder and paused, watching you with an interest that was unusual for a snake.

— Drink slowly, — he said, taking a seat across from you. — And next time, do not forget your hat. Or water. Or, quite frankly, it is better to simply stay in the shade. Though, I must admit, I am glad you ended up with me. Treating such lovely patients is a true pleasure.

He smiled warmly, and in that smile, there was something almost comforting, almost familiar.