Chapter 114: Rodrick

The familiar voice sent shivers down my spine and tail. I turned, my throat tightening with anxiety, to meet the gaze of a middle-aged priest. As our eyes locked, his face brightened, and he rushed toward me, taking my hands.

"I can't believe it! You actually came back!"

"That's enough," Fyren said sternly, laying a hand on the priest's shoulder and guiding him back a step.

"Oh, yes, forgive my lack of manners," the priest replied, bowing low. "But please, come in."

With a sweeping gesture, he invited us into the chapel. The building was just as I remembered: ancient, dry, and dusty, yet its enduring warmth remained. "I'm afraid I neglected to introduce myself the last time we met. I'm Rodrick."

"Do you know this man?" Fyren asked warily, maintaining his protective stance.

"We've met before. He allowed me to practice my healing magic here, some weeks ago."