Ashira's cough was getting worse. It had started with a sore throat and a runny nose. Now she was so weak couldn't sit up for more than a few minutes. Even more worrying than that, she kept throwing up the broth I made for her.

"I think it's time to go to the hospital," I say. I'm sitting on the edge of the bed, holding her hand. It's so hot and dry.

She sighs. "Maybe it is time," she croaks before another round of coughing racks her. "But I don't think I can drive." She gives me a small smile.

I feel on the verge of tears. "No," I agree. "I'm calling an ambulance."

The ambulance arrives swiftly, and the paramedics transfer Ashira to the gurney. We are whisked away to the hospital where the medical team takes her vitals and starts her on IV fluids. They give her something that helps with the cough.

Soon we're in a room waiting to hear the verdict. A doctor comes in with a serious look on her face. She looks at the both of us, Ashira on the bed and me sitting next to her, before speaking. "The good news is you got here in time. The fever had started to affect Ashira's organs, but we were able to stop the progression. The bad news is we're not sure what's causing all this. We'll have to keep her for observation."

I frown. "Is that all you can do? If her organs have been damaged, can you reverse it?"

The doctor sighs. "I don't know. We'll be able to assess better in the morning." Her attention turns to my wife. "For now, try to get some rest."

As she leaves, I look at Ashira and shake my head. "I don't think you're going to last until morning." There's a shake in my voice. "I can feel this illness coursing through you. We might need to do something more drastic."

Ashira pats my hand. “The doctor said I would be fine. They're doing all they can.”

“They might think you’re going to be okay but I don’t.” I know I’m speeding up and stumbling over my words. “They can’t feel it in you.”

Ashira gasps, which sets off a coughing fit. When she can catch her breath, she glares at me. “Are you suggesting you magic me better? You can’t be serious!” I try to shush her but she won’t be shushed. “Do you know how dangerous that is? You slept for three days straight last time.”

“I know, I know! But I need to do something.”

Ashira’s glaring at me. “And what happens if you get caught? You could go to prison for practicing medicine without a license There’s no way they won’t notice. Not only will I suddenly be better, you glow.”

I cringe back then lean forward. It’s imperative she understands. “We! Don’t! Have! A! Choice! You’re not going to make it otherwise-”

“I might,” she insists. But I can hear, and feel through the hand I'm holding, that she's getting weaker by the moment.

“Maybe we can get them to discharge you and we can do it at home.”

“Not a chance.” I just about jump out of my skin. The same doctor is standing in the doorway. She steps forward to speak to Ashira. “While we can’t hold you here against your will, I strongly recommend you do not leave. Whatever is so important, you can do here.” She then looks over at me. “Do you have any suggestions for how to help? I’ll admit, we’re somewhat out of options. This virus is unlike anything we've seen before.”

When she sees my hesitation, she leans in conspiratorially. “I heard you mention magic. So I understand your hesitation. But I fear your assessment is correct. Mrs. Kirwan might not last the night. I offer you my full support if you think you can help her.”