"I'll stop by the clinic first."
These days, whenever the Young Physician saw Su Mu, her first instinct was to come closer and check whether he'd been "beaten up." It left Su Mu not knowing whether to laugh or cry. How could he cultivate the Adamantine Body without getting "beaten up"? Besides, the one doing the beating was Su Mu himself.
"Little Su, you've come at just the right time. Come with me."
The apothecary led Su Mu to the dispensary and, right in front of him, poured a decoction into a vessel containing poisoned blood. This time, the blood reacted far more strongly than before.
After a violent churning, its black, viscous mass began to reveal its original red color, and the stench that had been boring into their nostrils faded considerably.
"This medicine is three times as effective as the old prescription." The apothecary stroked his beard smugly, then changed tack. "But all medicine carries some poison, and this one's Fire Toxin is fierce. Take three doses for now. Boil three large bowls' worth for each dose, and try taking one every three days."
"Thank you for all your hard work, apothecary."
"Think nothing of it. I enjoy this work, too. There are still some herbs left from the last batch. Once they're used up, I'll draw up another list for you."
Su Mu thanked him and carefully accepted the medicinal powder. The apothecary added a few more precautions. Outside the clinic, voices clamored in a jumble. The change of seasons made people prone to illness, and the clinic had been busy lately.
"You came early today, so the pastry shop isn't open yet. What pastries would you like next time?"
"Hmm, date-paste cakes?" The Young Physician tilted her head and thought it over. "Or maybe the new