Chapter 1345

"His friend?" Dominic mused. "Austin feels different from others since childhood, smarter even. He dislikes making friends and refuses to do so." Dominic continued his internal monologue, "Because of that, Austin has no friends and only speaks to those seeking his medical expertise." Therefore, it was a poor explanation to offer.

"Granduncle," Austin began, addressing his concerns, "I'm genuinely curious. Does Lily know how to numb someone's nerves? Who is she? How is she so capable?"

Dominic smiled. "Capable? You think women are incapable? Do you think she's impressive now?"

"I... it's not that I think she's great. I just think numbing nerves isn't scientifically proven. If it exists, it's amazing," Austin reasoned. Dominic knew he was nearly convinced.

Was Lily incapable? Dominic considered. If she were, Thompson wouldn't trust her so implicitly. If she were, she couldn't have numbed Austin's nerves with a few pokes. If she were, she wouldn't have succeeded where Austin's long efforts failed. These instances suggested he'd underestimated Lily.

"Not scientifically proven?" Dominic sighed, shaking his head. "Many things defy scientific explanation. Everything's possible, so why be surprised? Lily's grandfather is Wilfred Lodge; they've been a kickboxing family for centuries. How much do you know about kickboxing? How would you know their capabilities?"

Austin remained silent, listening. This was unusual; Dominic usually mocked or dismissed him. He seemed unusually pleasant today.

"Kickboxing families are declining in this technological age," Dominic continued, "It's hard to say how much younger generations inherit. You'd think those amazing moves only exist in comics and movies." He shook his head, finding the loss regrettable.

Austin, slightly curious, asked, "Granduncle, how do you know so much about Lily? Do you know her well?"

Dominic's demeanor shifted. Coughing, he said, "Absolutely not! How many years since I've left? How would I know her? I don't know her at all!" Awkwardness flickered across his face. Frowning, he abruptly changed the subject, "Why do you have so much time? Shouldn't you be continuing your experiment? Giving up halfway? You're still immature, I see!"

Austin, after a moment, replied, "Granduncle, the experiment succeeded."

"It did?" Dominic's eyes lit up; he straightened. "You succeeded? You completed it?"

Austin, unsure of Dominic's excitement, honestly said, "It wasn't me. It was... Lily."

"Lily?" After a stunned moment, Dominic slapped his thigh. "I knew it! I knew you weren't capable of that!"

Austin was once again speechless.