We followed the lady, and I asked Noura,
"Noura, what is this place called?"
"They usually call this place a hospital, but in the past, it was known as a temple, where people with a special angelic blessing that could heal others used to reside. However, there are very few of such people left now because many were killed. They often asked for too much in exchange for their healing."
"Noura, what is this place called?"
"They usually call this place a hospital, but in the past, it was known as a temple, where people with a special angelic blessing that could heal others used to reside. However, there are very few of such people left now because many were killed. They often asked for too much in exchange for their healing."
I asked Noura,
"What was the issue with that?"
Noura responded, a blend of sadness and joy in her tone,
"Well, the problem was that making a living back then was challenging, even for knights. However, in two countries, they found a solution. We happen to be in one of those countries now. Are you interested in learning how they addressed it?"
With genuine interest and a smile, I replied,
"Yes, I'm curious about how Ambrosio tackled this issue."
Noura, Ambrosio, and the priestess all smiled, and Noura answered,
"We're not currently in Ambrosio's home country. We're in the realm of the second knight, Dylan. Here, people are free to follow their beliefs, regardless of the country they move to. They resolved the problem by allowing those who survived and possessed strong healing abilities to stay here. These individuals receive free food and accommodation, but with advancements in technology, we no longer solely depend on them. They still handle severe injuries and are compensated through a taxation system managed by the Astorian country. Everyone is required to contribute to this system for the healing they receive. For instance, you'll need to pay locally to ascertain your 'Non' and God blessing. We've also explored alternative healing methods. However, I won't delve into details since you likely won't need that knowledge."
As we strolled, I noticed an abundance of illustrations featuring angels and a deity. Miss Marris commented,
"Yes, what Miss Aziz mentioned is accurate. Unfortunately, I, too, was pursued, though I never sought much compensation. Miss Aziz, who serves as the deputy of this country, shielded me. However, she was young at that time."
I was taken aback that Noura had no formal role as Ambrosio's deputy, so I inquired of Ambrosio,
"What faith does Ambrosio's country follow, and where does he rank in the hierarchy?"
Ambrosio chuckled and responded,
"My country ranks fifth in the hierarchy of nations, and I hold the title of the fifth knight. Others are ranked higher due to their proficiency in leading knights. Conversely, I can single-handedly vanquish countries ranked seventh and beyond."
Though it seemed implausible, I contemplated,
"After witnessing what I did this morning, I can now imagine it."
We continued our journey, encountering numerous patients. Among them was a room filled with slumbering individuals, the reason for which eluded me. Miss Marris halted, and we followed suit. She explained,
"Alright, we've arrived. This mirror reacts to your 'Mana' and will disclose your 'Non' and God blessing."
With an inquisitive expression, I questioned everyone in the room,
"What is 'Mana'?"
Noura shot Ambrosio an angry glance, and Miss Marris chuckled before asking Ambrosio,
"Did you truly not instruct him about it?"
Ambrosio replied somewhat sheepishly,
"Well, I, uh, never broached the topic. I focused on 'Non,' God blessing, angel's blessing, and 'Non aura.' Alexander doesn't possess 'Non aura' yet. Is that an issue, Miss Marris?"
Miss Marris reassured us,
"It's not a significant concern. I will teach him the fundamentals of controlling 'Mana' within his body. Listen, Alexander, I'll only explain this once. "Place your entire palm on the glass and clear your mind. Imagine the flow of blood within your body. Once you've done that, tense the muscles in your entire arm. If this method proves unsuccessful, there's little more I can do."
I grasped the instructions and began following them. A peculiar sensation washed over me, one previously foreign, now confined solely to my arm. Ambrosio patted my shoulder and encouraged,
"That should suffice, Alexander. Now, let's see what the mirror reveals."
I then noticed the mirror's captivating beauty, not merely because it was my first encounter with such a device but due to its unique allure. Displayed on the mirror were the words 'Non Darkness/Shadow' above 'God Blessing Erebus Darkness/Shadow Manipulation.' Ambrosio clapped his hands, and Noura marveled at his foresight. With a blend of distaste and jubilation, Miss Marris addressed Ambrosio and me,
"Inheriting the power of a primordial deity is exceedingly rare, and such an occurrence has never happened in history. Practically, you are now the most formidable. Although I've heard whispers about a child believed to possess no 'Non,' you will lead as one bearing God's blessing. However, you won't lead with 'Non.' Congratulations, Mr. Skandev."
Ambrosio was elated, almost leaping with joy. He quickly resumed his composed demeanor and queried Miss Marris,
"So, Miss Marris, why didn't his 'Non aura' manifest, yet he can still control 'Mana'?"
"I'm not certain; I've never encountered someone with two 'Non.' In reality, he possesses only one."
Ambrosio and I both expressed our gratitude,
"Thank you, Miss Marris."
After that we are heading out.