The perfume-making competition ground to a halt as chaos ensued. The once bustling crowd had dissipated, leaving a tumultuous aftermath in its wake.

Despite efforts to locate the culprit, the dispersal of the crowd made it nearly impossible. Frustrated, they reluctantly abandoned their search, realizing the odds were stacked against them. Adding to the dilemma, the ambulance found its path obstructed by the throngs of people, rendering it unable to reach Absolon swiftly.

“What's going on over there?"

Lilah lingered at the scene, almost among the last to depart, her hand clasped in Gerard's. As they made their way out, their gaze fell upon a group of individuals in suits, furiously scouring the area for something or someone.

Gerard squeezed her hand gently, a wry smile tugging at his lips. Lilah's inquisitive nature was as relentless as ever.

"Shall we go and find out?" he asked.

Lilah nodded immediately, and they navigated through the dense crowd until they reached Absolon. Lilah's gaze immediately fell upon the figure lying on the ground.

"Mr. Morris! Are you alright?"

Gerard's expression darkened as he surveyed the scene. His eyes narrowed as he noticed Absolon lying on the ground with an arrow dangerously close to his heart.

“What happened?" Lilah pressed, her worry growing.

"I'm not sure. The assailant hasn't been apprehended yet. The area is too crowded for the ambulance to get through, and we're stuck here as well.

However, the hospital staff mentioned they'd send in a stretcher soon. Mr Harris, I don't think we need to trouble you," the assistant explained.

Gerard nodded grimly, drawing Lilah closer to him, his protective instincts kicking in.

Sensing the urgency of the situation and the potential danger lurking in the crowd, Gerard decided they needed to leave immediately.

However, their plans were thwarted when the hospital staff arrived unexpectedly.

“Did someone call for an ambulance? The vehicle is parked outside and can't access the area. Let's assist in moving the injured party out together," a nurse announced upon their arrival.

With swift efficiency, they began assessing Absolon's condition, squatting down to examine his injuries.

"He'll need immediate treatment to remove the arrow. There's a risk of significant bleeding. Do you know the patient's blood type?"

"Rh-negative AB blood," the assistant responded promptly.

He was accustomed to handling such crises and was well-informed about Absolon's medical details.

However, the medical staff exchanged concerned glances.

"There might not be enough of this blood type in the hospital. You'll need to find a way to procure more of the same type to save him," the nurse stressed urgently.

Rh-negative AB blood?

Lilah's mind raced with suspicion. What a curious coincidence; her blood type matched his.