Crown Prince Sells Medicine

Chapter 20

[Skill name: Medical Billing Lv.1]

[It automatically activates when you have successfully completed treatment for a patient. You can extend your expected lifespan by receiving a certain proportion of lifespan that has increased due to your treatment. This settlement rate will increase as the skill level rises. (The lifespan being settled is not deducted from the patients expected lifespan, but is an additional bonus lifespan.)]

[Current settlement rate = 2000 : 1]

Huh?

Raciels eyes grew wide with astonishment as a message abruptly materialized before him. Its contents surpassed his wildest imaginings and took him completely by surprise.

What is this?

While attempting to comprehend the message, an onslaught of additional messages continued to materialize before him.

[Medical Billing (Lv. 1) skill is activated.]

[The patient Theodore Palermo Magentano has benefited from an extension of 0.5 days of his expected lifespan through your hangover treatment. Accordingly, you will receive a bonus lifespan equivalent to 1/2000 of 0.5 days.]

[The calculated lifespan is too small.]

[The minimum unit of lifespan that can be compensated is 1 day.]

As Raciel witnessed the steady stream of messages, he began to grasp their overall meaning, albeit in a broad sense. Despite this, he remained overwhelmed and stunned by their contents. Suddenly, a realization dawned upon Raciel as he discerned the messages true significance.

Am I receiving a lifespan as compensation? By treating patients? The patients expected lifespan increases through my treatment, and my lifespan also increases at a certain rate?

Moreover, the lifespan was not subtracted from the patients expected lifespan. It was claimed separately as a bonus.

So I no longer need to struggle with self-treatment?

A gradual realization swept over Raciel, slowly illuminating the tremendous implications embedded within. The weight of this newfound understanding caused Raciels lips to tremble involuntarily.

Nice. Seriously nice. I was running out of Mahuang Fuzi Xixin Decoction anyway. I was continuously pondering how to write other prescriptions. No, I was skeptical whether I could extend my expected lifespan.

In all honesty, an overwhelming sense of fear gripped Raciels being, intensifying with each passing moment. As the physical vessel of the Crown Prince, Raciel bore the weight of an ominous curse, with a mere few months remaining in his expected lifespan. Every day brought forth a profound weakness that permeated his entire being, leaving his body in a state of disarray. Despite tireless efforts, the cause eluded him, shrouding his deteriorating form in an impenetrable mystery.

Each part of Raciels body felt irreparably damaged, as if it had been destined for an inevitable demise, beyond the scope of any remedy.

Even after repeated treatments it felt like pouring money into a bottomless bank account.

Regardless of the copious amounts of Mahuang Fuzi Xixin Decoction he diligently supplied to his body, or the periodic adjustments made through acupuncture, Raciel couldnt shake off the realization that these measures were merely temporary solutions. In fact, he began to perceive a diminishing effect over time, as if his body had adapted to the decoctions ingredients.

This realization fueled his worry. Could he truly continue extending his lifespan? How much longer could he endure in this manner? Was survival even possible, defying the narrative laid out in the novel?

Doubts gnawed at him, and anxiety swelled within his being. Perhaps, in a bid to distract himself from the fear induced by these uncertainties, he threw himself even deeper into preparing for the upcoming duel, immersing himself in the tasks at hand.

But that worry is solved, with this.

He no longer needs to struggle to treat his poor health without medicine.

He just has to treat others.

Help those who are ill.

Take care of those who are injured.

And if he treats patients this way?

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I receive a bonus lifespan equal to their increased lifespan.

With determination coursing through his veins, Raciel tightly clenched his fist. In that moment, he caught sight of a new path, shimmering before him like a beacon of light. A flame of hope, unlike any he had ever experienced before, suddenly ignited within his heart. However, that was not the only source of hope that graced his presence.

Medical Billing I remember seeing it in the initial skill activation list.

It was certainly so.

It was during the first skill activation. There was a Medical Billing skill in the list of skills that could be activated at that time. But he had chosen the Palpation skill. The reason was simple.

I thought Medical Billing was nothing special.

To be completely frank, Raciel initially dismissed the notion of the Medical Billing skill, perceiving it merely as a means to collect medical fees. Being the Crown Prince, financial concerns held little weight for him, and he deemed it unnecessary to give the skill a second thought.

I thought it was unnecessary to receive pennies for medical fees from others. But the medical fees werent money.

Little did Raciel anticipate that the seemingly mundane Medical Billing skill held a remarkable secret. Unbeknownst to him, its true nature entailed receiving bonus lifespan as compensationa concept that had never crossed his mind. The realization hit him like a wave, and he couldnt fathom the profound sweetness and significance that lay within this skill. It offered him the precious gift he desired most desperatelyan extension of his dwindling lifespan.

What about the other skills?

Raciels mind retraced the memories of the skills that had been presented to him on that fateful list.

The things I saw then Palpation, Acupressure, Cupping, Moxibustion, Decoction Preparation, Herb Identification, Herb Exploration, Tincture Brewing, Medical Billing, Asrahan Core Technique things like that, I guess.

Among these, he had acquired Palpation, Medical Billing, and the Asrahan Core Technique.

What about the remaining ones?

They wont just be the common Acupressure, Cupping, and Moxibustion I know. Just look at Medical Billing. I suspect the remaining skills I havent activated yet have sweet features that I cant even imagine now.

That seemed likely.

Ill activate one whenever I get the chance.

Raciel meticulously organized his thoughts, mapping out his future plans and reigniting his determination to excel. However, his introspection was abruptly interrupted by a commanding voice that reverberated through his ears, demanding his attention.

Why arent you responding?

The weighty, dignified tone snapped Raciel back to reality, pulling him out of his thoughts as he lifted his head. Before him sat the Emperor, resolute and poised on his throne, with a slightly elevated chin and a penetrating gaze that bore into Raciel, laden with countless inquiries.

Did you employ the Asrahan Core Technique during the recent duel?

Yes, I did, Raciel promptly replied, sensing the gravity of the Emperors question. The Emperors countenance grew even sterner upon hearing his response.

How?

I am not entirely certain, Your Majesty.

Youre uncertain?

Yes, Your Majesty, Raciel evaded, fully aware that he was being evasive. Sometimes, excessive honesty can prove detrimental. He couldnt possibly admit, I pricked myself with self-acupuncture and consumed a decoction, and my internal organs rewarded me with skill activation points.

Raciel discreetly surveyed his surroundings, realizing that everyone had dispersed in the meantime. The once bustling Lloy-Javi Bridge, teeming with a dense crowd, now lay deserted. Countless people who had gathered earlier had vanished, and buildings along the riverside road remained tightly sealed, devoid of any signs of life.

The Emperors authority is truly formidable. He dispersed all those who had gathered, Raciel contemplated inwardly. Consequently, only he and the Emperor remained on Lloy-Javi Bridge, with the Imperial Guard and attendants stationed at a distance.

He must have something to say to me.

Raciel speculated, inadvertently swallowing a dry gulp. Thankfully, the anticipated wait was brief as the Emperor, after a momentary silence, spoke again.

Yes. On the day of your birth, I personally engraved the Asrahan Core Technique into your heart.

The Emperors gaze fixated upon Raciel, revealing a peculiar emotion lurking within. Was it remorse, or perhaps satisfaction? Raciel couldnt discern the truth, for the Emperor was renowned for his inscrutable countenance.

The Emperors words continued to pierce through the air, carrying a distinct lack of warmth.

However, even though you were unable to utilize it until now, you finally brought forth the Asrahan Core Technique to disrupt my plans and my mood, didnt you?

Silence hung in the air as Raciel absorbed the weight of the Emperors statement. It was far from friendly or conciliatory, leaving Raciel patiently awaiting the Emperors next words.

A promise is a promise, and a duel is a duel. Today, you emerged victorious against me. As you proposed and I accepted, you have won todays duel, and I shall not strip you of the Crown Prince title bestowed upon you. However

The Emperors gaze grew colder, and his voice turned more austere.

I shall continue to observe you closely. The throne should be entrusted to those capable of bearing its weight. I will perpetually harbor doubt and subject you to tests to ascertain whether you possess the ability to rule. Do you understand?

Raciel remained silent, his eyes locked onto the Emperors unwavering stare. As a mere human being, he couldnt help but find the situation somewhat twisted.

Look at what this old man is saying, Raciel mused inwardly, finding the Emperors blatant expression of doubt and scrutiny less than desirable during this particular occasion.

Yet, despite the unsettling emotions bubbling within him, Raciel refused to let them sway his resolve. On the contrary, he composed his thoughts and recalled the narrative of the novel, Devil Sword Emperor.

Within the early chapters of the novel, certain events transpired, including the fate of the Emperor.

That old man he succumbs to illness a stroke.

It happened suddenly, without any forewarning. Despite the Emperors sturdy and robust nature, he was rendered helpless before the sudden onslaught of a cerebrovascular disease. During a hunting expedition meant for the royal familys entertainment, while aiming an arrow at a sprinting deer, the Emperor collapsed. He never rose again, left paralyzed in the aftermath of a stroke caused by a blocked blood vessel. Thus, the Emperors demise arrived less than a year after the death of Crown Prince Raciel.

That event marked the beginning of the great empires decline.

That cant happen.

Raciel firmly decided, shaking off the internal turmoil. The Emperors fall would pose an issue not only for Raciel personally but also for the stability of the entire empire.

I have a lot of work to do from now on. Medical Billing skill I just gained. I need to use it properly. But to focus on that? The Emperor needs to stay sturdy and healthy in his position.

But what if the Emperor were to falter?

Raciel would find himself thrust into the responsibilities of governing the state, leaving him with limited time to attend to his patients. The acquisition of the Medical Billing skill would go to waste, as he would be unable to utilize it effectively.

At long last, Raciel had obtained a valuable skillone that he couldnt bear to waste before his life came to an end, nor could he risk being driven to death through excessive palace duties.

He steadfastly refused to accept such a fate.

Consequently, it became imperative for the Emperor to maintain good health.

With his conclusion reached, Raciel opened his mouth to speak.

Your Majesty, you should not neglect your sword training, he asserted.

The Emperors brows furrowed, caught off guard by Raciels unexpected remark.

What do you mean? the Emperor inquired, his tone laden with confusion.

Having just delivered a stern warning to his eldest son, urging him to be more cautious in the future, the Emperor found himself facing an abrupt admonition from Raciel.

I recently heard that you have been neglecting your sword practice due to your focus on national affairs. Such a situation should not be allowed. It is essential for you to engage in physical activity to maintain your stamina and alleviate muscle stiffness, Raciel explained.

The Emperor remained dumbfounded, unable to fully grasp the implications of Raciels words.

And you should increase your consumption of vegetables, Raciel continued.

Silence hung in the air as the Emperor struggled to process Raciels unexpected advice.

And if possible, I implore you to quit smoking, Raciel added.

The Emperors disbelief grew with each word spoken by his son.

Are you saying this to me? the Emperor questioned, his tone tinged with a mixture of astonishment and incredulity.

It is merely a small concern and a gesture of sincerity on my part, Raciel replied, his voice resolute.

Huh.

The Emperor couldnt help but let out a chuckle.

It was absurd.

Here he was, plagued by an unknown illness, with a bleak future in terms of inheriting the throne, uncertain of how long he could keep up the facade of being human. And now, he was offering such thoughtless advice, pretending to care about his health. It felt shallow and pitiful.

Are you attempting to evade my counsel with such a careless admonition? the Emperor retorted, his chuckle fading away. An undercurrent of anger and disappointment seeped into his voice.

From that point onward, the Emperors scolding persisted for what seemed like an eternity. Raciel, in the face of the reprimands, simply lowered his head and responded with a meek yes, yes. How long did the scolding continue?

The Crown Prince must not forget my warnings and admonitions, the Emperor finally concluded.

I will heed your words, Your Majesty, Raciel replied, his voice filled with compliance.

With his punishment delivered, the Crown Prince withdrew.

Tsk, the Emperor clicked his tongue, alone in the aftermath.

He was far from satisfied. Above all, he detested the desperate mindset Raciel had displayed during the duel.

If you rashly use it with an unprepared weak body, there could be a big accident. Tsk tsk!

Why was his eldest son so desperate? And what was that mana outburst that defied common sense?

I hope he isnt misusing the technique, the Emperor mused, plagued by constant worry. He knew he had to take action.

A visit to the Star Palace was imminent. He would personally examine his condition, paying careful attention to every detail.

Then perhaps he would find some solace.

Really. Hes such a weak fellow, the Emperor muttered, closing his eyes tightly. But even in the darkness behind his eyelids, the image of his sons desperation remained vivid. It felt as if those images were constantly pelting his ironclad heart with small pebbles of hope, each one causing a sting.

A child who had lost his mother moments after birth.

A child plagued by illness throughout his life.

Is such hope in vain? the Emperor whispered, shaking his head on the throne.

The sigh that escaped the Emperors lips was not just that of a ruler; it was the sigh of a father.

My father also had a stroke.

The sound of the carriage reverberated as it made its way back to the Star Palace. Raciel sat in silence, gazing out of the window, although the emerald glass obscured his view, reflecting only his own unfamiliar face. Memories began to resurface, fragmented and relentless. Among them was a glimpse of his high school days.

Skipping evening self-study to hang out with friends.

Receiving a sudden call from his mother.

The memory of racing desperately to the hospital.

Why couldnt you quit smoking

With a sigh, Raciel dispersed the fragments of those memories. He adjusted his future plans in his mind as the carriage finally arrived at the Star Palace.

Welcomeee-!

Ah, geez. That surprised me.

Gardin greeted him with the most exuberance (?) as soon as he stepped off the carriage. Raciel scowled.

Youre doing this on purpose, right? Hmm? To scare me. Right?

No, Your Highness! Why would I do that? These are tears of genuine joy!

Oh my, the way you defeated the second prince I truly didnt expect it sob!

How difficult it must have been for you. How challenging it must have been. Your Highness, you are truly remarkable.

Your Highness?

Thats enough. Im tired. I need to rest. I have a lot to do starting tomorrow.

Huh? You have a lot to do?

Im going to collect a hefty medical fee.

..Pardon?

Gardin tilted his head in confusion.

Of course, he wouldnt understand the meaning behind those words.

Raciel planned to utilize the medical billing skill to earn a significant bonus lifespan. At this point in the novel Devil Sword Emperor, there is a patient whom he can undoubtedly treat. Furthermore, that patient is so young that the extension of their expected lifespan is bound to be tremendous.

Do you happen to know someone named Demian?

Demian Is that a persons name?

Yes.

Im sorry, Ive never heard of that name before.

Gardin furrowed his brow.

A name so insignificant that it meant nothing to him.

Of course, you wouldnt.

A faint smile graced Raciels lips.

Gardin and the others in this world would not know. But he knew. He had encountered the name Demian Cayenne hundreds, thousands of times while reading the novel Devil Sword Emperor.

Demian Cayenne.

He was the original protagonist of this novel.