Chapter 243: The Treatment Takes Shape
“To be honest, sir…” Doctor Cai hesitated, clearly struggling with his thoughts. His eyes kept darting toward Song You, as if he wanted to speak but was too apprehensive, held back by some inner concern.
He weighed his options for a long while, exchanging a glance with his two disciples before finally steeling himself.
“This Nine-Day Plague is indeed strange. As you mentioned, the afflicted suffer horribly—head to toe, inside and out, there is no part left unscathed. They look like ghosts even while still alive. Treating it requires a comprehensive approach: internal medicine, external poultices, combined with acupuncture and fumigation therapy,” Doctor Cai explained as they walked.
He added, “My disciples and I have researched day and night, giving it our all, but we’ve been constrained. Although the current method shows some signs of effectiveness, it is far from perfect. Those with milder symptoms, or those who are in better physical health and have a bit of luck, may experience temporary recovery. But nine times out of ten, we still fail to cure it.”
Song You caught on to the key points in Doctor Cai’s explanation and noticed the healer’s glance in his direction after he finished speaking. Sensing that there was more to be said, Song You prompted him at the right moment, “What is it that concerns you, Doc?”
“It goes against worldly customs and norms.”
“I am but a hermit traveling the land. While I follow common customs, I am not bound by them,” Song You reassured him. “Speak freely, Doc.”
“What if it’s something you find unacceptable?”
“Then I will pretend I never heard it.”