Chapter 142

I beg your pardon?

"What do you think, Doctor?"

"It is… admittedly… quite an exceptional rate."

The physician stared at my duck belly with the expression of an explorer who had just discovered an uncharted continent.

The two of them spoke with grave solemnity, studying me as though I were a most unusual specimen.

"What are her symptoms, Your Grace?"

"Her appetite has increased dramatically. She's been eating as though she hasn't had a meal in days."

"Oh. And? Any other symptoms?"

"As you can see — considerable abdominal protrusion."

Kael tilted his head toward my duck belly.

I protested immediately.

"Are you calling me a pig right now?"

But Kael proceeded to ignore me entirely and continued speaking only to the physician.

"Ah — and even outside of mealtimes, I'm told she's been wandering near the kitchens, sniffing at the food."

"You don't say, Your Grace! She actually did…