Chapter 117: A Step Forward
The week-long vacation had been anything but relaxing, but the sacrifice of rest had been well worth it. Throughout those days, I had mended dozens of crippling injuries, from ruptured organs to replacing legs lost decades ago in farming accidents. And it wasn’t just the infirmary’s patients; word had spread like wildfire, drawing townsfolk and villagers from all corners of the countryside to our humble church.
A few nobles of wealth and influence had even sent personal servants, inviting me to their estates. But at Fyren’s insistence, I had turned them all down, dedicating myself solely to the church’s work. With the stalwart adventurer as my guardian, my mana had been drained constantly as I slowly perfected the fifth-circle healing spell. Surprisingly, despite the stir my presence had caused, we had managed to avoid trouble the entire week—until the last day.
Fyren and I gathered our belongings and met Rodrick and Anna one last time to say our goodbyes. The infirmary was now empty, save for a few minor cases, and both priests held back tears, clasping our hands in gratitude.
"Your kindness shall forever be etched in our memories," Rodrick said warmly. "You’re always welcome here, no matter the circumstance. I know most of the town feels the same. I can’t walk down the street without someone approaching me to express their gratitude. Of course, I made sure to give you all the credit, but it seems everyone already knows."
"Isn’t it wonderful?" Anna chimed in. "I even overheard some young men planning to stage accidents just to meet you. If it weren’t for your intimidating bodyguard, we might have had a line of suitors longer than the line of patients!"
I blushed, not quite sure how to handle the warmth spreading through my chest. For the moment, I had no desire for romance, but the sentiments of love and support expressed by the two priests was overwhelming.
"Thank you. I’m just glad I could help." And perfect my spell, although I left that last part unsaid.
As I slung my satchel over my shoulder, Fyren’s gaze fixed on the chapel door as if he could see through it. His hand fell to his hilt, and tension filled the air.
"Something wrong?" I asked quickly, summoning my staff.
"Perhaps. We’d best get going before we drag this place into whatever trouble’s brewing outside," He muttered.
"If there’s any trouble, you’re welcome to take refuge within these walls. Even the most arrogant guards know not to cause a disturbance in the church," Rodrick said confidently. "Especially with the immense favor you’ve earned with the townsfolk."