Chapter 1449 
The trio gathered before a small shrine dedicated to Dr. Funke’s ancestors. The shrine featured a pastoral painting depicting a countryside village, complete with a majestic pine tree that seemed to welcome visitors. In the center, there were two candles, casting a sacred aura over the scene. 
Dr. Funke flicked his lighter, igniting the candles with reverence. 
“Lydia, come,” Dr. Funke said, glancing back at her. 
Without hesitation, Lydia mimicked Dr. Funke’s actions, placing her incense in the holder. 
Next, Dr. Funke poured six shots of clear, strong liquor. He turned to Lydia and said, “After this, you’ll officially be my apprentice. It’s not too late to back out now.” 
“If I was the type to get cold feet, I wouldn’t be here! Enough talk, let’s drink.” 
Thalassa’s eyes widened in surprise. 
Lydia’s forthright manner was nothing short of daring, and Thalassa feared she might have offended Dr. Funke. 
To her surprise, however, Dr. Funke didn’t seem bothered by Lydia’s brashness. Instead, he laughed heartily and clinked glasses with her. 
Before Dr. Funke could take a sip, Lydia downed her shot in one swift gulp. “Ah, that’s the stuff! It’s been too long!” 
Lydia looked like she was savoring the moment, while Dr. Funke stood momentarily stunned. He then let out a chuckle and finished his shot as well. 
Following the same ritual, Lydia toasted Dr. Funke with the remaining two shots. 
With that, the ceremony was complete, and Lydia was now Dr. Funke’s sole apprentice. 
“Starting the day after tomorrow, you’ll join me at my clinic to learn medicine,” Dr. Funke announced, eager to commence his teachings now that he had taken on a disciple. 
“Dr. Funke, when are you available to check on Lysander?” Thalassa asked anxiously. 
She had done so much just to secure Dr. Funke’s expertise. 
“What’s the rush? Go and make arrangements. I’ll visit him tomorrow morning,” Dr. Funke replied after giving Thalassa a reassuring glance. 
“Alright, I’ll come to pick you up tomorrow morning, Thalassa said. 
“No need. Just give me the address, and I’ll make my own way 
there.” 
Thalassa’s brow furrowed with worry, fearing complications. 
08:18 
“Rest assured, since I’ve made a promise, I will ensure your husband receives the best care,” Dr. Funke said, sensing her concern. 
With his assurance, Thalassa felt relieved. “Okay, then we’won’t keep you any longer, Dr. Funke. See you tomorrow.” 
After leaving Dr. Funke’s house, Thalassa sped off towards Starhaven Hospital. 
The words of the police officer still echoed in her mind. Hertha had been in a car accident the night before, and the outlook wasn’t good. 
Thalassa should have gone to Starhaven Hospital immediately, but she had to prioritize Lysander’s treatment opportunity, leaving Alaric to handle Hertha’s situation. 
So far, Alaric hadn’t called her, and Thalassa was anxious about Hertha’s condition. Alaric arrived at Starhaven Hospital as fast as he could. He only knew that Hertha had been taken there for treatment but had no idea where she was. 
Rushing into the hospital, he grabbed a nurse and asked frantically, “Where’s Hertha?” 
The nurse was startled by his intense anxiety and quickly replied, “Sir, please calm down. We have many patients here. If you’re looking for someone, you should inquire at the appropriate department.” 
Feeling a throbbing pulse in his temple, Alaric realized he had been too abrupt, his urgenc causing him to lose composure. 
He hastily let go of the nurse’s collar, took a deep breath, and asked, “There was a woma involved in a car accident last night, brought in by ambulance. Her name is Hertha. Which room is she in, and how is she doing?” 
510 
08:18