Chapter 27 - 25th solar term - Start of Autumn
Old Ferrero seemed extremely pleased, for this dissection was perfect. His dear new apprentice might have been a bit clumsy with his hands and feet, but considering that he had never served as an assistant before today, the composure he maintained amidst a dance of ribs and organs was already far beyond those so-called disciples of the past.
Even if he was a bit slow, it didn't matter. The child was only ten, and all he needed was to be taught.
Moreover, teaching him brought joy to Old Ferrero's heart—grasping concepts with but a hint, mastering cutting techniques with a single lesson, and understanding the principles behind organ extraction after just one demonstration.
Such a perfect apprentice, yet snatched away by that old consumptive ghoul.
Old Ferrero was filled with heartache. Such a fine child, why pursue a life of violence and killing? Why not learn medicine? Mastering his skills, he could be wealthy while young and choose his own path on this stairway of life, with no need to scrounge for the leftover scraps from battle professionals.
Fortunately, the child was brilliant.
This made Old Ferrero's view of Colin much improved—previously he felt this child should have followed in his footsteps, but now it seemed the boy was quite self-aware. Considering the little apprentice he had provided, Old Ferrero would no longer be needed to assist in the future.
The freedom you desire, I give you.
.........
Colin pushed open the door and looked at Old Hoffman sitting under the setting sun. He walked to the table and replaced the incense stick that was about to burn out.
"Colin, how was your day?"