Ronan's Oak Apothecary had built a modest but respected reputation in Blumedale, so having him gather the herbs was a huge time-saver for Andrew.

However, the moment Andrew stepped into the shop, Janice Bates came running toward him in tears.

"Andrew! My grandpa… he got hurt! Someone beat him up!" she cried, sobbing uncontrollably.

Andrew's brows furrowed. "Janice, stop crying for now. Take me to him."

In the back room, Ronan was lying on a bed, clearly injured. Two red handprints burned across his cheeks, and his forehead was bruised and bleeding as if someone had shoved him hard against something.

"Mr. Lloyd… you came," Ronan said weakly, trying to sit up. "Forgive me, I've failed you."

Andrew quickly motioned for him to stop talking. "Don't waste your breath. Let's get you patched up first."

After checking him over, Andrew was relieved to find that Ronan had only suffered surface wounds and a badly twisted waist. He worked swiftly, massaging the injured muscles and ap