Chapter 979
“But the Three Titans–Driscolls, Phelans, and the most elusive of them all, the Drache family–you’d better be careful around them, Mr. Lloyd,” Phantom Eye said seriously.
He added, “From what I’ve heard, those families each have someone far beyond the martial king level hidden in their ranks.”
Andrew remained unfazed. “If they don’t mess with me, I won’t mess with them. So what if they’re above martial king? The world is vast–no one stays undefeated forever. There’s always a higher peak beyond the last, and just because they’re the Three Titans doesn’t make them invincible.”
Phantom Eye nodded, still concerned. “Maybe so, but the Three Titans have always held the reins there. So, Mr. Lloyd, it never hurts to stay cautious when you’re not on home turf.”
Andrew understood where Phantom Eye was coming from. Anyone who survived in Blumedale’s ruthless martial world had to have a sharp eye and a wide view.
Even a semi-martial king could build a reputation and live comfortably, but only if they knew how to pick their battles.
People like Phantom Eye had learned when to act tough and when to lay low. They could spot who was safe to challenge, who to avoid, and who to fear.
So, it did not surprise Andrew that Phantom Eye sounded dead serious when he brought up the Three Titans.
The man wasn’t being dramatic–he was being real.
Nonetheless, to Andrew, it made no difference. When things reached the point of no return, when swords were drawn and lines crossed, he would do what had to be done–no hesitation, no backing down.
“Morning, Dr. Lloyd!” Nyla had just arrived, her voice cheerful as ever.
She still looked bubbly and bright, flashing her usual sunny smile. However, Andrew noticed it instantly–the faint outline of a handprint on her cheek, barely hidden under her makeup.
He did not let it show on his face. Instead, he smiled and replied, “Good morning.”
Then, he walked with her into the back area of Moonlit Apothecary.
Francesca was in the middle of measuring herbs. When she glanced up and caught sight of Nyla, her expression instantly changed. “Nyla, what happened to your face?”
Nyla’s eyes darted nervously, and she tried to play it off. “My face? It’s fine. Nothing happened.”
Francesca set down what she was doing and stood tall. “Nyla. Stop. You’re lying again, aren’t you? That’s a slap mark–foundation or not, I can see it. Tell me the truth. Was it that snake of a stepmother, Camilla?”
Nyla immediately covered the side of her face and shook her head. “No, no–it wasn’t Camilla. Dr. Aicker, please don’t push me on this. I really don’t want to talk about it.”
Francesca’s temper flared. “You were like this yesterday too–clearly upset, clearly being mistreated, and still you kept your mouth shut. And now you’ve been hit, and you still won’t say anything?
“Tell me, Nyla–what’s the point of protecting people who treat you like garbage? Why keep shrinking yourself like this?”
Nyla bit her lower lip. Her eyes filled with tears again, but she stayed silent.
Francesca’s voice softened, guilt creeping into her tone. “Nyla, please understand–I’m not pressing you to hurt you. I just want to help. I’m worried sick about you. I can’t watch you go on like this–it breaks my heart.”
The words finally broke her, and Nyla burst into tears, head bowed low. “I know, Dr. Aicker… I know you mean well. I’m not mad at you. I really do understand. It’s just… There are things I can’t bring myself to say out loud.”
Francesca clenched her fists and said firmly, “Then let me say it for you. If I can’t stand up for you, then Andrew will. He has more authority in Jayrodale than anyone right now. If he wants to act, trust me–no one will stop him."
Andrew’s voice was calm and low. “Nyla, I’m like a big brother to you. So, if there are things you’d rather keep private, I won’t pry.
“But I want you to know this–if anything ever gets too heavy, if you’re in trouble or need help, just say the word. I’ll be there. Always.”