Chapter 1443
Growing up with a steady diet of World War II movies, Lydia had always dreamed of serving her country, of one day taking down the enemy with valor and pride. As soon as she was old enough, she enlisted, eager to turn her childhood dreams into reality.
Tonight, Thalassa caught Lydia’s surprised gaze with a knowing smile. “Lydia, I’ve got something to discuss with you.”
“You come back in the middle of the night to talk? This must be something big,” Lydia said with wide-eyed curiosity as she ushered her friend inside.
After Thalassa greeted Lydia’s parents with a warm hello, they retreated to Lydia’s bedroom for some private talks.
Lydia poured a glass of drink for her friend. “Sit down, don’t fuss. I’ve got some serious business to talk about,” Thalassa said, setting the glass aside and pulling Lydia down beside her.
“What’s this? A matter of national importance? You look so stern; it’s giving me the jitters,” Lydia said, her voice deep and boyish.
“You’re back home out of the service now, looking for something to do, right? How about I set you up with a great opportunity?” Thalassa said, her clear eyes locking onto Lydia’s.
“You came all this way just to help me find a job? Somehow, I feel like there’s more to it,” Lydia said, her skepticism clear.
Lydia wasn’t one to be easily fooled. Her military background had honed her instincts sharp as a tack.
“It’s not simple, that’s for sure. But hear me out!” Thalassa took a sip of water, clearing her throat before she continued, “You’ve heard of Dr. Samuel Funke, haven’t you? He’s a renowned physician, known far and wide for his expertise in acupuncture and Western surgical techniques. He’s looking to take on an apprentice in traditional medicine, and I’ve recommended you.”
“What? You think I can learn medicine? I don’t know the first thing about it,” Lydia said, overwhelmed by the sudden leap.
“You’re quick-witted, Lydia. Of course you can handle it. Besides, your grandma’s been bedridden since her fall. Imagine if a master acupuncturist could treat her, she might just get back on her feet. And if Dr. Funke won’t come himself, once you’ve learned, you can treat her yourself. Wouldn’t that be something wonderful?” Thalassa tried to persuade her.
“Alright, I’m in!” Lydia said, slapping her thigh decisively.
Thalassa had hit home with a single point: if Lydia could master the art of acupuncture,
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Chapter 1443
she might heal her grandmother and restore her mobility.
Lydia had been raised by her grandmother while her parents worked far from home. The bond between them was deep and unique. When her grandmother took a bad fall and became paralyzed, Lýdia left the military early to be by her side, afraid that if she waited any longer, she might lose the chance to be with her.
Now, with the opportunity to learn from a world-famous doctor and use that knowledge to help her grandmother, Lydia had no reasons to decline. She would throw herself into her studies, master the medical skills quickly, and race against time to save her beloved grandmother.
“Great, pack your bags, then. We’re heading to Starhaven now,” Thalassa said.
“Now? So sudden?” Lydia was taken aback.
“I have to introduce you to Dr. Funke tomorrow morning. If we don’t leave tonight, we’ll miss the perfect time at eight o’clock,” Thalassa explained.
She had looked it up. In the world of traditional medicine, apprenticeships often began with a ceremony at eight in the morning. Missing that felt like a bad omen.
When it came to following tradition, Thalassa was not one to break the rules.
“Okay, let me just grab a few things.” Lydia was all efficiency, packing her suitcase in under two minutes with her clothes folded neatly.
As they stepped out of the house, Thalassa’s phone rang.
It was Alaric. “Mr. Falconer, what a surprise to hear from you.”
“Have you and Hertha made it back? I’ve been trying to dial Hertha’s number, and there’s no answer,” Alaric’s voice was laced with concern.
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