With Cui Ciyou escorting them, the return journey went remarkably smoothly.
The monsters roaming the mountain forests had been driven into a frenzy by the Snow Dragon Beast.
Yet they seemed instinctively aware of the terrifying aura emanating from the party, and none dared approach to harass them.
Three days later, they reached the next town.
The first thing to do upon reaching the next town...
Was, of course, to find an inn.
Zoldat's first priority was to get all the wounded settled in.
He also invited the best Healing practitioner in town to treat them.
The night passed uneventfully.
It was not until the following evening, while Cui Ciyou was in his room planning the detailed route to Ranoa Magic University, that someone knocked on his door.
It was Zoldat.
He had changed into a clean green cloak.
The swelling on his face had also subsided considerably, restoring his original handsome features.
Healing you paid for really did deliver.
But now, as he faced Cui Ciyou, there was not a trace of arrogance left on his face.
In its place was heartfelt respect, mingled with awe and gratitude.
"Ciyou."
He bowed deeply.
"Have you gotten all the wounded settled?"
Cui Ciyou nodded, indicating that there was no need for such formality.
People were usually at their most polite when they knew each other least.
Of course, someone like Alice was an exception.
She was at her most polite when she cared about you most.
With strangers, Alice generally just did as she pleased.
Zoldat's personality was quite similar to Paul's, too.
Both were the sort who really let loose once they got to know you.
"Yes. Thanks to you, everyone has finished receiving treatment."
"No one's life is in danger."
Zoldat paused, seeming to struggle for words, then