Chapitre 25: Chapter 24: A concerned visit
The sun had barely set, casting a soft glow across the city as Seraphina made her way to Kang's new apartment. She had heard about the brutal fight from the rumors circulating Wellston and couldn't shake off the gnawing worry in her gut. Despite their recent date and growing connection, she hadn't seen him since, and the thought of him lying injured somewhere made her heart race.
The building was a modest high-rise, not too different from the others in Wellston, but Seraphina made her way up the stairs, each step echoing her mounting anxiety. She reached Kang's door and hesitated for a moment before knocking. Her knuckles tapped against the wood, and after a few moments of silence, she knocked again, this time louder.
When Kang finally answered, the sight that met Seraphina's eyes was startling. His usually well-kept appearance was disheveled. His clothes were torn, and blood was smeared on his skin. His face bore bruises, and his right arm was in a makeshift sling. The sight was shocking and heartbreaking.
"Kang!" she exclaimed, her voice trembling. "What happened to you?"
Kang gave a weak smile, clearly trying to downplay the severity of his injuries. "It's nothing. Just a tough fight."
Seraphina's eyes narrowed, her worry transforming into frustration. "This doesn't look like nothing. You need help."
Without waiting for a response, Seraphina quickly stepped inside and began assessing his injuries. The apartment was sparsely decorated, a few pieces of furniture and a small kitchen, but it was clean. Despite his injuries, Kang had evidently managed to keep his space orderly.
Seraphina's worry deepened as she inspected a particularly nasty gash on his forehead. She pulled out her phone, scrolling through her contacts. She found Elaine's number and hit dial, her fingers shaking slightly.
Elaine answered on the second ring, her voice cool and detached. "What is it, Seraphina?"
"I need your help," Seraphina said urgently. "Kang's hurt badly. I know we haven't seen eye to eye on him, but he needs medical attention. Please."
There was a long pause on the other end, and Seraphina could almost hear Elaine's internal struggle. "Fine," Elaine finally said, her tone begrudgingly resigned. "But you owe me for this."
Seraphina hung up and looked at Kang with a worried expression. "Elaine is on her way. She's not thrilled about it, but she's the best healer I know."
Kang's eyes softened, though he tried to muster a smile. "Thanks, Seraphina. I didn't mean to worry you."
"Don't mention it," she said, though her voice was firm. "I'm just glad you're getting the help you need."
It wasn't long before the doorbell rang, signaling Elaine's arrival. She walked in with a professional, albeit annoyed, demeanor. Elaine was known for her skills as a healer and her somewhat frosty attitude, particularly towards those she deemed unworthy.
She took one look at Kang and raised an eyebrow. "Looks like someone got himself into quite the mess," she remarked, her voice dripping with a mix of sympathy and disdain.
Seraphina's cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "Elaine, please."
Elaine rolled her eyes but went to work immediately. Her hands glowed with a soft, green light as she began to heal Kang's injuries. Her power was evident as the worst of his wounds started to close up and the pain in his face began to ease.
But as Elaine continued, Seraphina and Kang both noticed something odd. Despite Elaine's considerable skill, the healing process seemed slower than usual. The light from Elaine's hands, typically a vibrant green, appeared duller and less intense.
"Is it just me," Kang said, wincing slightly as Elaine worked, "or is this taking longer than usual?"
Elaine frowned, her concentration unwavering. "It's not supposed to take this long. I haven't used my energy to heal anyone in a few days. My power should be at full capacity."
Seraphina nodded, looking concerned. "Maybe there's something wrong with the way your ability is interacting with Kang's injuries?"
Elaine didn't respond, but her brow furrowed deeper as she continued her work. The green glow around her hands seemed to flicker, and the progress was visibly slower. She finished the healing with a sigh, frustration clear on her face.
"There," Elaine said tersely. "That should be better, but I don't understand why it took so long."
Kang looked at her with gratitude. "Thanks, Elaine. I appreciate it."
Elaine gave a curt nod and turned to leave, her irritation barely masked. "Just remember, this doesn't mean I like you any more."
Seraphina stayed behind, helping Kang settle into a more comfortable position on the couch. She looked at him with a mix of relief and concern.
"Promise me you'll take it easy for a while," she said, her voice softening as she sat beside him. "You're pushing yourself too hard."
Kang nodded, feeling a sense of relief not only from the healing but also from Seraphina's presence. "I promise. Thanks for being here."
Seraphina smiled, though her worry didn't fully fade. She knew that despite the healing, Kang needed to take better care of himself. The odd delay in Elaine's healing might have been a mystery, but for now, she was just grateful he was getting the help he needed.
As Seraphina left, she felt a mix of relief and lingering concern. She knew Kang was strong, but seeing him hurt like this made her realize just how far he was pushing himself. And she, along with their friends, would be there to support him every step of the way.
État de l’alimentation hebdomadaire
-- Classement
Power Stone 
-- Power
stone