Chapter 299: Public Display
The older mans voice rings out among the now silent crowd.
Other people step away to reveal a brown-haired, middle-aged man, who I suspect is a mid-Foundation Establishment realm cultivator. Potentially, an elder of a local clan. Meaning that he has a reputation and some influence to speak.
Instead of looking at me, he turns to the man at the door. Speaking much more respectfully than his previous outburst.
Im sorry for questioning you, but are you sure you havent made a mistake, Junior Bai? This kid has clearly barely touched the world of cultivation, let alone have the decades of experience needed to heal all of us.
The man at the door, Junior Bai, simply shakes his head and turns toward me, causing the Seniors eyes to land on the token in my hand. The one that displays my rank as a core disciple of Sister Nuan.
He takes a sudden inward breath before changing his tone toward me and giving an apologetic bow towards me.
I deeply apologize for my harsh words, Young Master. I did not see that you were the core disciple of Elder Song.
There are a few approaches I could take here. But Ill use one that isnt too harsh, considering the circumstances.
Theres no need to apologize, Senior. If I were to be treated, I too would be shocked to hear that a man of my age would be treating a group this large and with such varied conditions.
I can see his head rise to peer up at me. My intense stare into his causes him to freeze.
However, I will admit that it is frustrating to have my ability questioned in such way. Especially when I was asked by the Patriarch himself to come heal the people here.
I fall silent, letting my words ring through the minds of those here.
Things go quiet, as I still say nothing.
Even this elder before me trembles a little in place. I can see his hand shaking, as others around him whispering pitying statements.
Any words spoken against me now is questioning the actions of the Patriarch.
If the Patriarch is going to advertise my presence here, then I will use him as well to establish credibility. This risky action will soon prove beneficial for both of us. And if his request to have me do this led to them getting healed, then he will share an increase in reputation, as well.
I do find it strange that I havent heard from Sister Nuan yet. I was hoping to check with her after the library, but she doesnt seem to be anywhere close to me.
But I should resolve this situation first.
I release a loud breath to break the silence.
I understand your hesitation. If you can check in with the honorable senior to my left, then I will heal you here to assuage your concerns.
At this, he bowed his head lower and lower and the shaking of his hand ceased. Something that might not just be out of nervousness, but anger. His eyes twitched toward me with a look I cant recognize, giving me a few shivers. My actions undeniably caused a loss of face for him.
But not long after my words, all I see is him sprinting towards the senior at the door, dashing over to start the process.
I guess it wasnt a look of anger, but of determination. Ill stay cautious.
Saying nothing else, she confidently brushes past everyone and heads directly in. Only stopping to turn to me. A sign to follow, which I soon do.
As we move inside, I can hear the people behind us badgering the door guard to come in.
Just as I look at her to speak, she shakes her head.
ah. That is subtle.
Like a soft breeze, I can feel it. The eyes of someone watching the area with their spirit sense.
While Ive had my scan out for anyone watching me, I assumed that someone would constantly observe general and important areas like this.
But even though it isnt focusing on me, my assumption appears to be incorrect.
That it would be safe to speak.
Sister Nuan leads us past the main entrance area, nodding to this worlds equivalent to a receptionist, before leading us to a lengthy hallway.
Tap tap tap.
Step step step.
The sound of our footsteps echoes through the desolate halls. A far cry from the louder areas we just came from. And despite the lack of spacial changes, like what I found in the library, this part of the hospital feels like another world.
A dangerous feeling creeps into my heart.
Prickling. Creeping.
But just as it begins, Sister Nuan stops in front of a closed door. One marked with only a circle, as an identifier. Opening it, she indicates for me to come in with her.
My scan is up and ready.
What is revealed is a simple cultivation room.
Just a room with a higher amount of ambient qi and a spot in the middle to meditate. However, a small medical table is positioned in front of the meditation spot, setting it apart from typical cultivation rooms.
Another notable feature of this room is the privacy provision. One that blocks out that widespread spirit sense that was spying on us.
I hear the door close behind us, with Sister Nuan being the culprit.
When she turns to me, her face is scrunched up, squinting at me. I cant figure out what shes thinking.
Soon that doesnt matter, because of her next words.
Finally. Now we can talk.