St Chaos Healer

Ch 66 - Ultear Cross

"Are you absolutely certain they got it right? What if their equipment malfunctioned or something?" my mother questioned, her hand resting on her chin as if she were playing detective.

I let out a sigh of exasperation, "We've been through this, Mom."

"Did you follow the correct procedure to circulate your mana?" she persisted, sounding like an investigator on a mission.

"Mom, for the fifth time, yes!" I replied, my weariness evident.

Ever since we left the ceremony hall, my mother had transformed into a relentless detective, bombarding me with questions about my newfound abilities.

Continuing her relentless questioning, she pressed, "Are you sure—"

My father, sensing my frustration, intervened, "Hold on now! What's done is done. There's no need to dwell on it. We should be celebrating."

We were currently seated around a table in a cozy tavern located in the outer district. Having returned to the inn where we were staying, we dropped off our belongings before heading out for a family dinner to mark my acceptance into the Royal Academy.

However, what should have been a joyous celebration had turned into an interrogation, with my mother struggling to come to terms with the reality of my new healing abilities.

"Here's your order: Fried Northern-Style Snapper, Deep-Fried Vegetables & Pork, and our house special Deep Fried Ethereal Cave Duck marinated with Dew Honey Sauce, along with 2 House special Cider ale," the waitress announced, elegantly placing the three exquisite dishes along with the drinks on our table.

The moment the dishes were set down, the tantalizing aroma wafted into my nostrils, immediately triggering my hunger. All three dishes presented a captivating sight, and my appetite roared to life. For a brief moment, all my worries seemed to melt away as I was consumed by the prospect of savoring the delicious feast before me.

"Enjoy your meal," the waitress bid before departing.

"Let's dig in!" I exclaimed excitedly and reached for the spoons.

"Wait, Benjamin! First, we must thank the Lord for this delicious meal," my mother reminded me, her tone edged with a hint of irritation.

"Yeah, yeah," I replied nonchalantly.

In an unexpected move, she playfully pulled my ear, earning a chuckle from me. "One time yes is enough."

"Alright!"

We offered a brief prayer of gratitude before finally indulging in the feast before us. The dishes presented a symphony of flavors, with succulent and tender meats complemented by a harmonious blend of spices. Each bite was a delight for the taste buds, and I found myself devouring the food as if I hadn't eaten in weeks.

"This is really good," my mother chimed in, expressing her approval.

"Of course it is. I ordered the finest dishes this tavern has to offer. Our son has been selected to join the Royal Academy, after all," my dad replied with a proud grin.

However, my mother's brow furrowed suddenly. "But still, I can't believe the results-"

"Mom, why did you keep your fire mage history a secret all this time?" I interjected, redirecting the conversation.

I could see the surprise in her eyes. I was taking charge now; the tables had turned.

She managed a wry smile. "Well, that was in the past. It wasn't intentional to hide it."