209 Aunt Greta's Gift
“Usually, I would only need to visit the farm once a week for this purpose. But since someone decided to impregnate every woman around him without informing me first, I believe I’ll be quite busy for the next few months. And if I don’t receive additional compensation from the village, I might just have to deduct it from your own wealth,” she added, flashing a mischievous smile in Orion’s direction before returning her attention to Grandma Vivian.
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Greta’s smile widened as she responded, her expression now more composed, “Somehow, I had a feeling you’d say that, considering all the things I’ve heard about you.” Her gaze shifted to Grandma Vivian, who lay on the mat, her face contorted in pain.
Greta placed her hand gently over Vivian’s stomach, emitting a soothing wave of bluish light. Concerned, Orion approached them, his curiosity piqued. “What’s happening?” he inquired, eager to understand why Vivian, who wasn’t pregnant, was also among the women receiving care, as her child was no longer alive.
Greta responded with a knowing smile, her voice filled with assurance, “I am merging the tissue in her stomach with the rest of her body, strengthening her womb for the future.” Her gaze shifted from Orion to Grandma Vivian, emphasizing the seriousness of her task.
Orion’s eyes widened as he comprehended the implications of Greta’s words. “Is that even possible?” he asked, his scepticism evident, realizing he still had little knowledge of Aunt Greta’s abilities as a healer, despite her self-proclaimed title. Greta turned to him, raising an eyebrow, and responded, “Well, what do you think my gift is?” However, She quickly dismissed the question, aware that he was unaware of her true capabilities due to his lost memories and her lack of explanation. “Nevermind that question,” she quickly interjected.
“My gift grants me control over flesh and organs, allowing me to swiftly mend wounds and repair internal injuries. While my expertise may be somewhat limited when it comes to broken bones, with the aid of the right herbs and concoctions, even those can be healed without much trouble.” Orion nodded, now understanding why he had experienced such intense internal and external pain when he first awoke after being healed in this world.
“That’s quite an amazing gift,” Orion admitted, acknowledging the power of Greta’s ability to manipulate flesh. He couldn’t help but ponder the potential dangers that such a gift could pose if wielded by someone who chose a path other than healing. The thought sent a shiver down his spine, imagining what Greta’s gift could have become if she possessed the potential to be a warrior.
Curiosity getting the better of him, he asked, “Can you use your gift on yourself as well?” Seeking clarification on the extent of her abilities. Greta nodded, removing one hand from Grandma Vivian and placing it on her own arm, activating her gift. Instantly, her skin began to ripple and shift, resembling a watery, fleshy mass before settling back into its original form.
Meanwhile, Orion discreetly extricated himself from the midst of the women, reassured by their well-being and impressed by Aunt Greta’s live demonstration of her gift. Satisfied, he retreated to his previous position next to Mrs Shani by the door, patiently waiting for the conclusion of the procedure or the arrival of the village chief. However, a sudden change occurred as Gina tightly grasped his hands and whispered, “I’m not letting you go anywhere,” her face adorned with a feigned expression of anger.
………….
Three hours later
Although I didn’t mind waiting for several more hours, considering I was the one who arrived late, a sense of relief washed over me when the Village Chief finally entered the hut, accompanied by Mr. Thak who followed closely behind him.
After inquiring about my whereabouts during the night, hoping I hadn’t gotten myself into any more trouble, the Village Chief instructed me to follow him, accompanied by Mrs Shani and Mr Thak trailing behind.
Glancing at Gina, who reluctantly let go of my hand to create some space due to the presence of the Village Chief, I reassured her, “Take care of them, alright? I’ll be back soon,” before shifting my attention to the women who were now peacefully asleep, except for Aunt Greta, who was earnestly tending to my mother with a focused expression on her face.
Respecting their need for uninterrupted rest, as some of the women who had administered the herbal treatment had already left, with a few remaining at Aunt Greta’s call, I exited the hut and made my way towards the Village Chief and the others, eager to catch up with them.
Upon my arrival, I overheard the Village Chief involved in a conversation with Mrs Shani, and as I stood beside the Village Chief, I noticed a distinct change in Mrs Shani’s gaze. If before she regarded me with curiosity and doubt, her eyes now held a sharp cunning, as if gears were turning in her mind, visible through her piercing stare.
Nevertheless, even though I could somewhat predict the nature of their discussion, I walked calmly by the Village Chief’s side as we navigated through the bustling area.
With a nod to acknowledge my presence, the Village Chief spoke, “I have discussed matters with the farm’s caretakers, and we have come to a decision.” There was no need for me to inquire further, as he swiftly continued, “A new hut will be constructed deep within the farm for all the women who are pregnant with your child. This will keep them away from prying eyes and provide them with the necessary support.”
“They will be provided with helpers to assist them with any challenges they may face and ensure their well-being until the day of delivery. Additionally, Miss Greta, who is now aware of the situation, will be involved. Furthermore, all key figures responsible for influencing the village’s current state and livelihood are also informed, except for those at the strongholds, as this matter does not concern them.”