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"Ah, this is from when I was a child, when the overseer at the dock beat me. I used to go there often to help out and earn food... I was always covered in dust back then, and nobody thought I was actually a girl."
Seemingly worried that Ms. Vivian might misunderstand, Detrick explained somewhat awkwardly.
Fran nodded slightly, not delving further into the topic that might touch on the other person's unpleasant memories.
"Preparations for the physical examination are complete. Detricka, you can take a nap now."
As she spoke, she slowly walked to the head of the nursing bed, placed her hands on the pillow, and cupped her gloved hands around her ears.
Then, a captivating and drowsy humming began to play.
The sound was distant, faint, and ethereal, like a lullaby playing in one's mind. It was like a mother's gentle soothing voice to her infant, accompanied by a reassuring rocking motion... safe and warm, making one want to immerse oneself in it.
The innate skill of "Song of the Shepherds," combined with the songs of the Heir remnants, amplifies the effects of its mental interference.
Listening to the humming and feeling the fingertips gently caressing her earlobes, Detrick quickly drifted into a peaceful deep sleep.
Fran could sense that Detrica's situation was somewhat similar to that of one of his former patients—Elsa, a girl from a collateral branch of the Lois family and a member of the White Cup Order's natural history department.
The specific symptom is quite simple: the absence of a "mother" in one's life.
Elsa's mother died of the plague, while Detrick's mother... was probably just someone who gave birth but didn't raise her, and was irresponsible.
For such patients, lullabies will awaken some deep-seated instincts, making the hypnotic effect much better than usual.
After a brief sigh, Fran took out his Spirit Bone Scalpel and prepared to begin the medical examination process. Since Detrica was an ordinary human, her beloved little circular saw was not eligible to participate in this examination.
In fact, she had been dedicated to researching painless medical techniques. She already possessed her own system and understanding of how to perform anesthesia without side effects… but since Luya joined the clinic, the existing anesthesia procedures could be simplified once again. II
Her dream entry technique not only pulls the consciousness of the target into the dream world, but also greatly inhibits a series of their life activities without affecting their own vitality...
For example, nerve reflexes, muscle twitches, and other special reactions that may affect the surgery. 4
"It's truly peculiar. Her skin, flesh, organs, and bones are no different from those of a normal human. Where exactly does the strange 'aura' that Haida smelled originate?" Ling
Even after opening up Detrick's chest and conducting a thorough examination from the inside out, Fran could not observe any difference between her and ordinary people.
Whether it's bio-alchemy or any form of flesh-and-blood crafting, traces will remain. And as a true expert in this field, no subtle clue can escape her scrutiny. 3
Finally, after Fran had stitched up the dissected area again and used the alchemical process [Dissolving Bone and Blood] to remove the scars, she focused her examination on Detrick's skull.
"Let's check the pupils before performing the craniotomy," Liu said.
She used her fingertips to pry open Detrick's eyelids and examine her pupils and eyelids.
This was originally just a routine procedure that could be skipped, but she soon noticed that the special aura around Detricka's eyes was slightly stronger.
"Hidden in the eyes? No, it's near the tear ducts... It can be identified as some kind of spiritual influence, but it's extremely subtle and doesn't have any external manifestation. It's difficult to observe directly."
Fran lightly licked the corner of his lips, a smile of sudden enlightenment appearing between his brows.
She raised her thumb and gently rubbed Detrick's eye socket, then used a capillary tube to collect a few colorless tears from the thief's tear duct.
"Let me compare whether the tears of different races are really as similar as I thought."
Fran picked up the capillary tube containing the tear, held it to his lips, and then let a drop fall onto the back of his tongue.
Unsurprisingly, it's salty.
However, at the same time, that special aura also became much more pronounced.
After completing this action, she took out a crystal-clear, azure Heil's Tear from the pocket of her doctor's coat and licked its surface with the tip of her tongue, as if it were not a crystallization of tears and sorrow, but some kind of fruit worth savoring.
“Oh, the feeling is exactly the same… Although the aura in Detrick’s tears is so faint as to be almost imperceptible, its essence is the ‘spirit’ unique to the Abyss Familia. To some extent, people who possess this special aura can be called ‘hybrids’ of the Abyss Familia.”
"Such a large-scale bloodline fusion, and they managed to do it so discreetly. I really want to go to the lost city of Morion myself and see what kind of research the guys from the Star Abyss Society are doing..."
"Hopefully, the inchworm can do a good job of being the 'eyes and ears' and find things of sufficient value."
Although Fran has obtained the information she wanted, she doesn't intend to end the medical examination yet. After all, it's important to ensure the completeness of the process and prevent any potential omissions.
……
The next day, Detricka opened her eyes and gradually woke up.
However, her mental state was still unclear; she only gradually regained consciousness after uttering a few unconscious murmurs.
Derica pulled back the blankets and slowly rose from the clinic bed. At that moment, she felt an unprecedented relaxation in her muscles and bones, as if she had just woken from a long dream and washed away all the fatigue that had accumulated over time.
What exactly did Ms. Vivian do? Where did this indescribable feeling of comfort come from?
She checked her body, which was covered by her hospital gown, with a slight panic, and only breathed a sigh of relief after confirming that no parts were missing.
“Miss Detrica, you’ve slept all day. It’s already the afternoon of the 16th. Thankfully, there are still a few hours until the full moon, otherwise I would have to consider forcibly waking you up.”
Looking at Derica, who was still a little sleepy, Fran served her a glass of milk steaming with hot vapor, and a slice of buttered toast with ham, bacon and fried fish.
"I've been trying out Golmouth's culinary specialties lately, but I couldn't find any Modaway cheese when I went out today, so I'll just make do with something simple."
"Um... thank you very much, Ms. Vivian."
Although being in deep hibernation would cause the body's metabolism to almost stagnate, Detricka hadn't eaten anything when she entered the Fog Street Clinic, and now she simply couldn't resist the tempting meal that was still steaming.
Her expression changed abruptly after she picked up her fork and took a small bite.
The toast, pan-fried in butter, was perfectly fluffy and soft, while the bacon inside was seared to perfection, bringing out its natural meaty aroma and subtle smokiness. Add to that slices of rich, flavorful ham…
Detrika quickly finished her meal, and then sighed with a hint of lingering satisfaction.
"Even the head chef at the Dream Flower Hotel might not be able to match your skill in this area. I never expected that such a simple dish could be made to taste this good..."
For a thief who suffered from hunger in her childhood, expecting her to maintain a composed eating manner is unreasonable. In fact, the fact that she didn't lick the scraps off her plate is already a testament to her self-control...
"Hmm... This stems from my research on human 'taste.' Of course, it also relies on some homemade spices."
Fran has always been modest when it comes to praise for his cooking.
After all, this is just a minor hobby outside of my main job, one of many small interests I use to pass the time.
"Detrika, before participating in the Full Moon Auction, I need to make some simple preparations. I've put your old clothes in the closet by the bed; you can change into them first. I'll call you when it's time to leave."
"Ah."
Detrick nodded obediently and then quickly changed her clothes.
The patient gowns at the Foggy Street Clinic were soft, lightweight, and comfortable, but she wasn't quite used to them yet. She felt more secure in rough, thick leather clothing.
Fran then walked out of the clinic's examination room and slowly entered the main hall.
The clinic here is a branch of Mordway, located near the Ridge Palace where Sydia is situated.
At that moment, Vivian was grooming the downy feathers under the raven Munin's wings. Haida, on the other hand, sat upright on the newly moved-in plush sofa at the clinic branch, quietly studying the Ash Canon, "The Words of Silence."
She now fully understands the [Mechanized Spirit Body], a second-class superior secret technique, and only lacks the spiritual materials needed to complete the final construction.
However, this is no longer an insurmountable problem. After all, there is currently a living member of the Heir clan in Fog Street, and he is even a pure-blooded noble.
However, considering Shitia's current physical condition, it would be better to discuss this matter after her treatment this month is over...
Fran sat down next to Haida and then asked with a slight smile.
Are you getting used to staying at the clinic?
"Yes. The clinic environment is very comfortable."
Upon seeing Fran arrive, Haida put down her book and raised her eyebrows in response.
"It's just too stable, and I'm not used to it."
Although Haida Heihachi is quiet and composed, she is, after all, a burial maid of a hunter, and a fervent thirst for hunting evil creatures flows in her veins. She's the type who can't sit still...
This is why she chose to dedicate herself to the dangerous front lines instead of studying in the esoteric arts department as Master Zoparos had hoped.
"Hmm...that's true. Coincidentally, there's a rather dangerous operation tonight. I wonder if Sister Haida would be willing to accompany me?"
"It's what I should do."
Before Fran could finish speaking, Haida had already agreed.
As the most senior member of the Fog Street Clinic, accompanying Fran on house calls had become a habit for the nun. As for the potential "danger"... to be honest, she had never cared.
"Oh, by the way, I need Vivian's help with a small favor this time."
As he spoke, Fran slowly turned his gaze to Vivian, who was still teasing the bird.
"Please speak, Dr. Fran. Whatever is within my power..."
Although she didn't know what this "small favor" meant, Vivian had a vague sense of unease.
Moreover, in the past few days, her intuition had been sending her inexplicable warnings of danger, such as sudden eyelid twitching or a chill running down her spine, without any apparent reason. If she had to describe it, it would be the feeling of being "watched."
Although it was probably just her imagination, she maintained the caution expected of a Secret Service agent, greatly minimizing her outings and contact with others. She spent most of her time in Fog Street.
"Don't worry, Vivian, it won't be difficult for you. I need you to participate in the 'Full Moon Auction' at the Six-Eyed Raven Order's First Habitat in my place, as a 'Hermit'. I'll write down the details for you."
Fran's amber-gold eyes revealed an undisguised smile, brimming with a peculiar charm.
"Ah, me?" Vivian's lips parted slightly, her surprise barely concealed in her eyes.
Although I don't know the specifics yet, just from the description, I can tell that this won't be an easy task...
Fran nodded, then took a delicate light brown veil from the pocket of his doctor's coat and handed it to Vivian, who was still in a daze.
"Yes. Of course, I will provide you with assistance and an advance payment... This veil grants you the ability to mimic the appearance and physique of others, so make good use of it!"
In addition to the Mimicry Veil, Fran also prepared many other measures for Vivian.
For example, clothing imbued with the scent of shell-like downy feathers, the [Swinging Heart Bell] which can shield against spiritual prying, and some little surprises that are unknown and inconvenient to reveal...
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soup!
Chapter 103 The Shadows of Oak Leaves Meet
"Make your expression more natural, and tone down the smile. Um... remember not to look up at people, try to look directly at their faces, but avoid eye contact."
In the few hours before departure, Fran meticulously instructed Vivian on how to use the mimicry veil.
Clearly, the child didn't know her well enough, which made the mimicry less precise.
Fortunately, this can be made up for through personal guidance.
Moreover, Vivian herself was a Secret Service agent who had undergone a complete and meticulous disguise course in the Hunter system and possessed a certain talent in this area... so she quickly achieved a level of similarity that could be mistaken for the real thing.
Once Vivian's aura and expression resembled Fran's by seven or eight points, Fran stood beside her, struck the same pose, and then asked Heida, who was standing next to him.
"Well, Sister Haida, can you tell the difference between us?"
"If it were just by 'looking,' even I wouldn't be able to see the clues at a glance."
After examining it for a moment, Haida cautiously expressed her opinion.
In fact, given the nun's gifted ability to empathize and profile, distinguishing between the two would have been incredibly easy. After all... she might be the one in the world who knew this doctor best.
Vivian blinked her amber eyes occasionally, then touched the black stitches on her neck. She then asked Fran with slight unease.
"Dr. Fran...do I have any specific mission to carry out at the Six-Eyed Raven's first roost?"
"No, all you have to do is stay there."
Fran twirled her slender index finger and gently comforted him.
"And I'll provide you with some funds so you can buy any items at a reasonable price you see at auction."
Upon hearing her description, Haida lightly touched her chin and roughly guessed her thinking and purpose in doing so.
"Is it to create an 'alibi'?"
"Hmm~ Haida, you always manage to pinpoint the crux of a matter. If you weren't a Hunter of Secrets, perhaps you'd be better suited to be a detective?"
Fran maintained his usual smile, subtly acknowledging the truth.
The identity of the hermit might still have value later, so it's important to minimize any potential suspicion. Of course, this isn't actually necessary... the reason Vivian was sent was more out of Fran's personal whim.
At this moment, Vivian was studying the information about the "hermit" intensified. After understanding what this identity represented, a deep sense of surprise gradually spread through her.
Moth Apostle, High Priest of the Misty Society... she actually has this other identity?
After clearing her mind, she suddenly thought of a rather important question.
"By the way, Dr. Fran. When maintaining this disguise, should I call myself Fran, or Flamel? Or should I only acknowledge the title 'The Hermit'?"
After asking the question, Vivian saw Fran purse her lips and her eyes slightly curved, as if she wanted to laugh but held it back.
"In most cases, others will address you as 'The Hermit.' At other times, you may use your real name."