第１３２４堀：精神的ケアの方法 (Part2)
"As long as she desires it, I believe that to be the case. I hold that those who are truly terrified prefer to avoid the subject rather than voice it. Besides, physically speaking, she has been normal since the moment she was admitted. The reason she remains hospitalized is for the sake of her mental care. She is now capable of conversation, and as you can see, she is able to discuss her anxieties regarding the future. As for the hospitalization itself, between your word, my own, and the fact that we have framed it as a case of resolving psychological issues, there is no problem, but..."
"So it comes down to whether Lyushi can handle the weight of grasping her own situation."
"Precisely. Whether she can accept that she is being sheltered due to her own mental state. Unlike a visible physical wound, psychological matters are often opaque even to the sufferer. Above all, the understanding of such things has yet to permeate."
"True enough. Even on Earth, psychological medical treatment only really took root in the last fifty years. Before that, it was all treated as demonic possession or the like."
"Indeed. Being treated as such for mental struggles is much the same here. That is all the more reason why she would not want to believe that she herself is in such a state."
"Which would only place a greater burden on her mind..."
No one wants to believe they are suffering from an affliction that would cause society to reject them. To do so is synonymous with believing they can no longer survive in this world.
"For my part, I think it is better that she makes a decision based on the facts, rather than having her spiral out of control or stumble upon the truth by accident."
"That way, it’s easier for her to accept, and it prevents accidents, too."
"Yes. Though, we have no intention of abandoning her. Isn't that right, Master?"
I seek his confirmation.
"Of course. I’m the one who decided to save her on a whim. I’ll look after her until she can live a proper life. Researching her condition may also lead to helping many others in the future; in that sense, there is purpose in saving her."
As expected of Master. He never wavers. He doesn't act out of mere benevolence; he ensures there is profound meaning behind his actions. Benevolence alone leaves people feeling insecure, yet meaning alone makes one feel like nothing more than a tool. The balance is incredibly delicate.
"Well, I suppose a level like Lyushi's is a rare case."
"Indeed."
Her state is truly a rarity. That is precisely why we are struggling with how to handle it...
"Lyushi-san. How are you?"
"Hm? Ah, that is..."
Master seemed momentarily confused, but he understood quickly as Lyushi-san entered through the door, accompanied by Nina and Kishua. Master turned to face her.
"So, how is it? Now that you’ve heard the truth by your own choice, what are your thoughts?"
"Ah, yes. It was a bit of a shock, but I understand the meaning behind why I am here. However..."
"However?"
"If I am physically healed, might I be allowed to work? I understand your reasoning, but... lying in bed is... it’s difficult for me."
"Well, I understand that it’s distressing. But for me and Rurua, it would be a problem if you were to die. That would defeat the purpose of saving you."
"…Yes."
Lyushi-san looks crestfallen, as if she understands that much. She knows she is asking for the impossible. However, in this situation, how will Master choose to act?
"Then, we shall have to compromise. You can work, provided it is by my side, Rurua’s, or Lilishe’s."
"Eh?"
Lyushi-san looks up, startled.
"As long as you are within my sight, you may work. That is the only compromise we can offer. What will you do?"
"Ah, um..."
As she stands there, too surprised to find words, Nina-san and Kishua-san place their hands on her shoulders.
"He’s mean-spirited like that. It would be better to go with Rurua or Lady Lilishe."
"Ah, I wonder. Personally, I’d like to recommend Yuki. Calling him mean-spirited is just Nina’s bias. Rurua is in medicine, and as for Lady Lilishe..."
"It is only natural to be conflicted. For now, it is more important to discuss the workplace. Orelia, explain it to her."
"Yes, certainly."
With those words, Orelia steps out in front of Lyushi-san.
"Should I be the one to explain my own work?"
"I wonder. It would be assisting the hospital director, wouldn't it? Or perhaps, an apprentice nurse to accompany her?"
"Hmm. It would be difficult for me to take her by the hand and teach her everything."
Now then, I wonder who would be the best person to explain this... A certain someone comes to mind.
The human heart is a mystery. I have gathered enough statistics to understand it to some degree, yet there are still so many parts that remain elusive. Will the day ever come when it is fully unraveled? Or perhaps, would that be a problem in itself?