Chapter 120

The air up here on the higher floors feels a bit different from downstairs.

Though subtle, the refreshing flow and gentle concentration can be felt.

Every morning when I rise to open the window on the fourth floor, I always sense it.

The cold wind steals the warmth inside the house.

The cozy heat is quickly replaced by winter’s biting breeze, which gradually fills the space.

As the chill begins to swirl around the fourth floor, several figures stir in bed, sensing the change.

“Good morning~”

With a joyful jump, a black-haired demon girl greets me with vibrant energy.

“Yeah. Did you sleep well, Yul?”

“Mhm!”

The girl dons an expression filled with eager mischief.

I wonder what kind of antics she’s planning today.

The creativity fueled by a child’s curiosity is impossible to keep up with.

Gilbert would probably find her most adorable.

He firmly believes that magic stems from creativity and curiosity.

After all, a child’s imagination can sometimes bring unexpected surprises.

“Are you awake?”

“Hmm… Good morning.”

Red short hair flows down as golden light elegantly wraps around their bodies.

Even in the morning, these ladies radiate stunning beauty as they smile.

“Did you sleep well?”

Closing the window, I approach the bed.

There’s nothing better than a little skinship to greet the morning.

With a soft sound, Anne and Evangelin beam happily.

The ensuing hug lasts longer than expected.

“Let’s go down.”

Yul has already hopped down and is bounding down the stairs.

“Yeah.”

Our mornings are simple.

The winter scenery brings nothing unusual, creating a comforting routine filled with happiness.

“At the public bath…”

“I briefly visited the Great Abbey yesterday…”

With new gossip in town, conversations naturally increase during breakfast.

Light daily chatter often fills these moments.

Sometimes, the absence of special events makes for the most pleasant days.

“On the 15th, you know we’re all going on a trip, right?”

“Of course! We’re almost fully prepared.”

“Hehe. I’m excited.”

A noble banquet awaits us.

We’ve been formally invited to a place where anticipation and concern coexist.

Starting 15 days early for a trip that officially begins on the 30th gives us time for leisurely sightseeing.

While travel in this world differs somewhat from Earth’s, the excitement and joy remain the same.

My improved confidence in advanced magic helps too.

Healing and protective magic related to the divine keep us safe.

Bass has arranged for good horses and a carriage.

Without noble crests or symbols, we’ll travel inconspicuously.

“How do I look?”

Yul twirls around in the straw hat Anne made, thoughtfully designed to accommodate her horns.

“You look amazing.”

“Really?”

“Absolutely!”

Yul happily embraces Anne after receiving her praise.

It’s heartwarming to see them positively influencing each other.

“Will it be okay to leave home for so long?”

“It will be fine.”

I’ve considered the safety concerns.

During my absence, I’ll ask Gilbert to keep an eye on things just in case.

After a warm morning, we head out toward the Tower of the Mage.

Passing through its peculiar yet familiar atmosphere, an indistinct voice calls out.

“Come in.”

“It’s been a while.”

“Here to boast? You’re still a magician without much progress.”

Gilbert scrutinizes me, seemingly instantly assessing my condition.

I’ve grown comfortable meeting his gaze.

Not hiding anything from someone who’s both advisor and mentor feels respectful.

“It was good luck.”

“Living life on luck alone? If that’s true, you must have used up a hundred years’ worth of fortune.”

His usual grumbling feels familiar now.

I choose not to point out the faint pride underlying his tone.

“I brought some snacks.”

“Ah.”

He taps his desk, indicating where to place the box.

Using magic, I gently levitate it over.

As the box settles securely, Gilbert studies me intently.

“So, why are you here?”

“I have a favor to ask.”

“Not the curious type, but I suppose it’s fine.”

“Probably won’t be much trouble.”

“Speak then. I’ll listen.”

“I’m asking for your help preventing any accidents while I’m away.”

“If you mean protecting the village, that’s something I’ve already been doing. No need to worry.”

“Thank you.”

“Don’t mention it. Just doing my job.”

…

“Have you mastered healing beyond basic levels?”

Remembering our first meeting, I recall saying I had covered all areas, though that wasn’t entirely true at the time.

“Yes.”

“Then it’s about time you start advancing related research. It could be quite interesting.”

“Research?”

“Curing incurable diseases, countering specific curses, amplifying buffs and healing… Your talent shouldn’t go to waste sitting idle.”

“Curing incurable diseases…”

Why does that phrase resonate so strongly?

It brings Jack to mind – the boy holding Evangelin’s hand, now tending the greenhouse with love as a spirit companion, growing brighter every day.

“Is it possible?”

“Why ask me? That’s your challenge to solve now. Seems you’re intrigued.”

“Yes.”

“That’s enough from me. If that’s all, you should go. I have work to do.”

“Thank you.”

Another task presents itself.

Though uncertain of success…

Learning magic traditionally versus acquiring skills through the system leaves gaps in knowledge.

Still, I’ve never regretted this path.

Experience and knowledge…

When I actively apply what I’ve learned, it proves invaluable.

Especially with high-level magic gained through hardship – how vast must the knowledge stored in my mind be?

I haven’t fully tapped into it yet.

Perhaps this will serve as a catalyst.

The smile forming on my face confirms it.

An intriguing challenge involving someone I love deeply.

Maybe even addressing shared trauma.

Motivation comes naturally.

“Healing…”

Physical issues might be solvable through amplified healing.

However, this seems more psychological in nature.

Some trigger…

Something reinforcing the trauma…

A wall blocking progress…

I’ll need to carefully discuss with Jack during our travels.

Accurately assessing the patient’s condition is crucial.

Returning home lost in thought, there’s still work to be done.

Day 12 of winter.

Time to check the winter crops in the greenhouse.

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