"I'm going back to the manor to straighten a few things out, then I'll continue traveling," Ace said to Athena.
"You're leaving again?" Athena's bright little face suddenly fell, and her ruby eyes shimmered with pitiful starlight.
"New Medicine still needs refining. I need to travel across Salia and collect more medicinal herbs, remedies, and formulas. I want to visit the Northern states, broaden my horizons, spread New Medicine throughout Salia, and treat even more patients!" Ace declared righteously.
Athena looked at Ace and suddenly felt as though a holy, warm radiance had risen around him.
"You're right. You have your dreams and convictions—go fulfill them. If you ever need any help, be sure to come find me. Remember, you are my only good friend."
Looking at Athena's gentle smile, Ace felt as though his heart had been healed. He nodded solemnly. "If I truly need help, I'll definitely ask."
The next day, Ace invited Teacher Peter, Morton, Carter, and Daina to a small gathering at his villa. The cups and jars passed back and forth, and the atmosphere was warm and harmonious.
"Let us raise our jars together for New Medicine! Thank Ace for his outstanding contribution."
Teacher Peter's face was flushed as he raised a jar of beer and shouted loudly.
After everyone raised their jars together, Romon tore off a huge piece of roasted lamb leg and dug in with great relish.
His complexion was rosy and his spirits high. His life had suddenly improved after middle age, and his entire family's fortunes had soared. His son had become a renowned genius scholar of the city-state, known as the "Goddess of Wisdom's favored child." His whole bearing had come alive.
"Mr. Peter, I offer you a jar! Thank you for teaching Ace so well."
Romon set down