(This part of the story can be arranged gradually. My daughter has to go to Yan eventually anyway.)
"Gavial!"
The Doctor cried out in alarm at the sight of Gavial.
Everyone except Bai Ye and Texas was startled by Gavial's sudden outburst.
Even Zumama had not expected Gavial to strike so suddenly.
As for Texas and Bai Ye, they had sensed the signs that Gavial was about to act in advance. Having trained in swordsmanship under Bai Ye, Texas could now accurately grasp such shifts in intent.
In truth, Texas had possessed this talent long ago. After all, she had mastered the Texas Family's killing arts and carved combat into her body as an instinct.
However, instinct and deliberate application were naturally two different things. After special training, Texas had turned that instinct into an ability she could consciously wield.
Still, even though she had foreseen Gavial's outburst, the girl was somewhat surprised by the act itself.
Fortunately, Gavial reined in her punch at the last moment.
"Zumama, your Big Ugly is indeed impressive. But if you're willing to let your subordinates contract Oripathy just to mine ore, then as a doctor, I have to stop you."
Gavial looked at Zumama seriously and spoke in a stern voice.
Unlike her usual casual demeanor, Gavial seemed like an entirely different person at that moment.
"Hm? Oripathy? Oh, you mean stone sickness. I don't have it."
Zumama shook her head, then said:
"I've told them many times not to go too deep into the mining area."
"Huh?!" Gavial froze. "But your subordinate has clearly contracted Oripathy!"
As she spoke, Gavial pointed at the patient lying on the ground.
"There are always disobedient fools who run in there. I can't stop that, right, Yogi?"
As she spoke, Zumama turned to Yogi.
"Mm... ah,