Your Guise Is Slipping, Miss Pearl

Winona contemplated her father's words with a mix of shock and fear. Did he mean he wanted Pearl dead?

"Dad, I don't think that's necessary. Pearl hasn't done anything too extreme. Killing her seems-"

Martin's stern gaze silenced Winona mid-sentence, leaving her feeling unsettled. "You're too soft! You won't get anywhere with that attitude, nor will you keep a man by your side."

After a moment, he sighed, disappointed that his daughter lacked the resolve he and her mother possessed. "Just do as you please. But remember, you represent the Jesseltons. Always be prepared and avoid unnecessary complications in everything you do."

These words were like a reassurance to Winona. Feeling bolstered by her father's encouragement, she nodded determinedly. "I got it, dad."

"Good." Martin stroked the stubble on his chin with a satisfied smile.

if Winona couldn't do it. He was prepared to take

been Howard's apprentice for two

from what she had learned under Simon. While Simon focused on practical medical knowledge, Howard delved into peculiar cases. Simon's fame eclipsed Howard's due to his expertise in common ailments, with rare

get what I explained today?" Howard smiled, stroking his beard as he

Pearl found Howard's explanations

pensive. "I never imagined encountering someone so naturally gifted in medicine. No wonder Simon was so fixated on you. If he learns I've taken you under my wing, he might be furious." He paused, raising an eyebrow. "You've been here for

form on her forehead. "He's

who was miles away, suddenly

as he added, "Look at you, becoming his apprentice only to be neglected. With me, it'll be different. I'll do everything I can