Then, as if in answer to an unspoken call, a shift occurred. Richard’s chest rose slightly, a shallow breath escaping his lips. The room collectively inhaled, a unified gasp of astonishment and hope. Elena continued her ministrations, her face a mask of concentration and determination.

Slowly, color began to return to Richard’s cheeks, the ashen hue giving way to a more healthy glow. His eyes fluttered, a flicker of consciousness sparking back to life. The room erupted into a flurry of activity as the doctors moved in, now working in tandem with the maid who had done the impossible.