Sleeping forever

Here's an expanded and enhanced version of your chapter, emphasizing emotional depth, character development, and world-building:

As the young physician continued to work his magic, the room was filled with a tense energy. Observers watched in awe, many whispering about how such a handsome and young man could possess such extraordinary healing abilities. His golden eyes shimmered with determination, and whispers circulated that he should be scouted for the prestigious academy. But for now, he was solely focused on Arissa, whose fate hung in the balance.

Arissa was enveloped in a deep, dreamless sleep, her body still recovering from the poison that had threatened her life. The physicians eventually stepped outside, allowing her the peace she so desperately needed. The young healer, though weary, took a seat beside her, his eyes never leaving her frail form. Just as he relaxed, Arissa began to stir, her eyelids fluttering open slowly. The world around her spun in disorienting circles, and she squinted against the brightness.

When her gaze settled on the young man, she felt a strange comfort in his presence. He smiled at her, a warm and encouraging expression, but her fatigue soon overcame her, and she closed her eyes once more, surrendering to sleep.

(Later that Morning)

Arissa awoke to the sensation of a cool, damp cloth pressing against her forehead. She blinked slowly, finally adjusting to her surroundings. The maid attending her gasped in surprise. "My lady! You're finally awake! I shall alert the whole palace!" Without waiting for a response, she dashed out of the room, her excitement palpable.

As the maid ran to spread the news, Arissa lifted herself gingerly, itching her head. How long had she been out? Feeling surprisingly refreshed, she stood and made her way to the window. The sight outside took her breath away—snowflakes danced in the air, blanketing the ground in white. It was beautiful, yet bewildering. Wasn't it still fall? Her mind raced, trying to grasp the sudden change in the seasons, feeling as if she had been asleep for only a few days.

Before she could dwell on her confusion, her father burst into the room, worry etched across his face. He rushed to her side and enveloped her in a fierce embrace. "Don't do this to me again…" he whispered, his voice trembling with relief.

"Father, how long was I out?" she asked, her curiosity mingling with concern.

He looked her in the eye, a serious expression replacing his earlier relief. "It's been a few months."

"A few what?" Her eyes widened in disbelief, and she took a step back, shock coursing through her veins.

A flurry of activity ensued as courtiers and nobles gathered outside her door to welcome her recovery. Amidst the congratulatory shouts and warm embraces, Arissa found herself feeling lost, her mind still grappling with the implications of her long absence.

Later, as she gathered her thoughts, Arissa sought out the maids who had cared for her during her sleep. "What happened while I was asleep?" she inquired, her voice steady but tinged with curiosity.

One maid spoke hesitantly, "You were basically asleep forever. We were so worried." Another added, "You started sleeping on September 8. It's December second now…"

The weight of their words settled heavily in her chest. "Oh my? Can you tell me what else has happened since?"

Another maid's expression turned somber. "We haven't caught the person who poisoned you. There was no one in the building who went by Lilac."

Shock surged through Arissa. How could someone slip through the cracks like that? The implications were frightening, and she couldn't shake the feeling of vulnerability that gripped her heart.

Once the maids helped her change, she prepared for the ceremony to choose her personal knight. Dressed in a stunning baby blue gown adorned with delicate lace, she felt a sense of purpose return. The maids enhanced her natural beauty with subtle makeup, ensuring she looked regal yet approachable.

As she arrived at the grand banquet hall, she was greeted by the warm smiles of noblewomen and the curious gazes of guests. Seeking a moment of respite, she settled into a chair, allowing herself to breathe. Just then, her father entered, commanding attention as he always did. Arissa felt grateful for his presence, knowing it meant she could sneak away for a moment.

Slipping out of her chair, she headed toward the snack cart, reaching for a glass of juice. Just as she began to sip, a voice startled her from behind.

"BOO!"

Arissa jumped, almost dropping her drink. It was Karson, his face lighting up with a mischievous grin. "I'm so glad you're okay," he said, pulling her into a warm embrace. "I've missed you, my lady."

"Thank you as well," she replied, her heart fluttering as she hugged him back. As she pulled away, she noticed he was dressed in a knight's attire, a sight that made her heart race.

"What are you wearing that for?" she asked, her brow furrowing in concern.

"Well…" he began, his expression turning serious.

Before he could continue, realization hit her like a wave. "Don't tell me…"

"I want to be your personal knight."

"Don't! That will stoop your status!" she exclaimed, a mix of shock and worry flooding her.

"It won't diminish it by much. I'm still his son," he insisted, his tone resolute.

"Karson, please don't do this! You have too much to lose!" She felt desperation creeping into her voice.

"I can still fulfill my duties as his son. Do you not want me as your knight?" he asked, searching her eyes for an answer.

"No, it's not that. It's just… you're of such high status, and losing it isn't something I want for you."

"I won't lose it as long as you choose me," he replied, his determination unwavering.

Just then, the banquet commenced, and Arissa knew she had to focus. She made her way to the center of the hall, where her father awaited. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as nobles and knights gathered, their eyes fixed on the pair.

As the announcer began, he declared, "The princess of the Celeste Kingdom is choosing her personal knight! Who will be the lucky one to take care of the princess?"

With her father's support, Arissa stood tall, scanning the crowd. Her heart raced as she spotted Karson, and she pointed to him, the room erupting in murmurs.

Karson stood, his eyes meeting hers, a smile playing on his lips. The crowd buzzed with excitement, whispers of disbelief filling the air.

"THE FUTURE KNIGHT IS… Karson, the son of the duke! The young sir has officially been chosen as the princess's personal knight!" The announcer's voice boomed, his tone shifting to one of grandeur.

As Karson smiled at her, Arissa felt a mix of elation and dread. She knew the consequences of her choice—how it could affect his status, their lives, everything they had built. Her father watched, concern etched on his face, unsure how a young man could willingly jeopardize his future for his daughter.

In that moment, as the cheers echoed around them, Arissa understood that while she had chosen Karson, their journey was just beginning. The weight of her decision settled heavily upon her, but deep down, she felt a flicker of hope—perhaps together they could navigate the storm that lay ahead.