Chapter 1229

“And about the scars,” she said gently, “I’ve examined them closely. Surgery can remove them—restore your face as it once was.”

The spark in Sophie’s eyes flared brighter. What woman didn’t long for the reflection she once knew? To lose her beauty had been a wound that never stopped bleeding. She would have traded years just to glimpse her old self again.

“But it can’t be rushed,” Elliana added, catching that desperate glimmer. She smiled again—warm but cautious.

“We can only consider surgery once your body is strong enough. And even then, recovery will take time. It’s a long road ahead. And there’s one more thing…”

Elliana’s words instantly caught Sophie’s ear. She looked up, eyes fixed on Elliana, waiting for what came next.

Elliana said softly, “Regardless of any illness, the patient’s mental state matters just as much as the medicine. With a disease as stubborn as Psychephrenia, willpower is everything. Sophie, you must stay strong and keep hope alive. Before we begin your treatment—and all through it—can you promise me that? No matter the obstacles, will you hold on and never give in to despair?”

Sophie replied without hesitation, “Yes, I can. Don’t worry. I’m tougher than I look. I’ve fought this battle alone for years and faced more pain than I can describe. I made peace with the prospect of death long ago. But now that you’re here, I feel nothing but hope. Whatever happens, I won’t give up on myself.”

“Good.” Elliana smiled, visibly relieved.

“Before we start the full treatment, I’ll need to strengthen your body. Once you’re ready, we’ll move on to the medication for the Psychephrenia. During this time, staying positive is just as important as any drug. Hearing your words eases my heart.”

With that, the heaviness between them lifted. The room felt lighter and warmer. Sophie’s spirits rose a lot.

Everyone had full confidence in Elliana’s medical skills. As for Sophie, her renewed hope seemed to breathe life back into her. Their talk afterward was calm and pleasant. Time slipped by easily until the plane finally touched down at Gearveil Hall.

Months ago, Maxine had emptied Gearveil Hall to hide from Elliana and Cole, leaving only deserted halls behind. But today, the estate was alive again.

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News had spread fast—Maxine was gone, and Elliana, now the keeper of the Sovereign’s Orb, had taken Maxine’s place as head of the Griffiths family. Members from every corner of the clan, even those long in hiding, had returned to witness the change.

No one dared question their late leader’s final decision. They gathered in order, ready to welcome both the departed matriarch and the new one.

At the front stood Maxine’s mother, Anita Griffiths. Though she was one hundred and two, she looked no older than fifty—still graceful, still strong.

For generations, the Griffiths heiresses had mastered the ancient Medical Codex, crafting secret remedies to preserve youth and lengthen life. Barring any accidents, they all lived long lives. For someone like Maxine to pass away at nearly eighty was, in fact, a rarity.

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