While Alex ate, Jack's mother watched him carefully. She only spoke after a while.
"How's the war? Did you get good loot?" she asked.
"Yes, Mom, don't worry," Alex said. He slurped the soup.
"I earned enough to cover our bills. But I got something even better."
Jack's mother raised an eyebrow. She clearly did not believe that.
"Better than money?"
Alex set his spoon down. He met her gaze with calm confidence.
"I got a skill that might be able to heal you."
She blinked at him for a moment. Then she let out a soft chuckle and shook her head.
"Jack, that's not something you should joke about."
"I'm serious," Alex said. His voice stayed steady.
"It's still untested, but if it works, you might not need the healer anymore."
Her smile faded. Her expression turned complicated, a mix of disbelief, hope, and growing dread.
"Jack... what did you do to get this skill?"
Alex hesitated. He saw the fear in her eyes.
