CLEAVER OF SIN Chapter 676: The Fifteen Villagers

As Asher made his way through, an observable space formed around him; classmates and even senior students alike would instinctively step back as he passed, their gazes lingering for a moment before abruptly shifting away. It was as if prolonged observation of him carried an unknown peril, a risk they were unwilling to court.

Asher, however, remained unfazed. His exceptional intellect had already deduced the reason for this peculiar treatment. Such reactions typically coincided with prevalent rumors, much like the period when whispers of the Wargrave family’s eradication of the Assassin Guild had created a palpable atmosphere of unease and wild speculation.

Within moments, Asher reached the Healing Department. Upon entering, he proceeded directly to the receptionist stationed at the front desk. She maintained a composed stance and offered a welcoming expression, ready to assist any arrivals.

"Good morning, how may I help you today?" the receptionist inquired, her smile and gentle, professional tone unchanged as she greeted him.

Asher paused briefly before replying, "I had someone bring fifteen people here for healing from a mission. They are villagers who suffered trauma, malnutrition, and physical injuries," he explained, providing as much detail as possible.

The receptionist nodded thoughtfully, responding without hesitation, "Yes, they are here. We were informed by the Facilitator of the Logistics and Missions Operation Hall that someone would be coming for them within a few days."

Asher acknowledged her statement with a nod and a flat, "Lead the way."

Without a word, the receptionist moved away from her desk, allowing a colleague to take her place. She then guided Asher down the corridor. In mere seconds, they arrived at a stark white door, closed tightly and showing no signs of disturbance.

"They are inside," she announced with a bow, gesturing towards the door, before departing without awaiting Asher's response.

Asher pushed the door open without a second thought. As he entered, his gaze met fifteen individuals of varying ages—five women and ten men. They sat upright on their beds, engaged in conversation, exhibiting a semblance of normalcy as if they hadn't been rescued from a harrowing ordeal just three days prior. Faint echoes of their former lives resonated in their voices.

The instant the door opened, all fifteen turned their attention towards it. The sight of Asher brought their conversation to an immediate halt, their bodies freezing for a brief spell. Recognition dawned instantly; they knew him as their savior, an image indelibly imprinted in their memories.

Asher advanced with measured steps, his voice adopting the most pleasant tone possible as he asked, "How are all of you feeling?" He aimed to diffuse any awkwardness, deliberately softening his intonation.

They disregarded his question and promptly bowed in unison, their voices merging as they declared, "Thank you, benefactor." The collective expression of their gratitude was unrestrained and palpable, as if meticulously planned.

Asher remained silent for a beat, unsure how to respond. Before he could formulate an answer, a woman stepped forward, tears streaming down her face. "If it wasn't for you... I wouldn't have been able to see my son, my husband, my parents... thank you, benefactor," she choked out. Before Asher could react, he found himself enveloped in a hug, feeling the warmth of her tears soak into his shoulder.

Asher instinctively raised a hand, patting her back as he spoke gently, "I simply did the best I could, and I’m glad you were able to live through it all." His words carried a quiet sincerity.

Asher understood that while they had indeed been traumatized, the Star Academy had likely addressed both their psychological distress and physical wounds. However, the easing of their mental anguish did not erase the vividness of their experiences; these memories remained sharp, fueling their profound gratitude towards him.

'I believe this is the first time anyone has hugged me since my transmigration,' Asher thought to himself, a flicker of unfamiliarity crossing his mind.

He tenderly eased the woman away, who was wiping her tears. Just as he concluded with her, an older woman grasped his hand, her voice trembling with emotion as she offered a prayer to the stars for his bright future. Asher, comfortable with the gestures, responded with smiles and easy replies, adapting effortlessly to the outpouring of emotion.

The men observed with gentle smiles. Unlike the women, they did not rush forward with embraces or tears, but their appreciation was conveyed nonetheless—quieter, yet no less heartfelt.

"It's a pity our benefactor couldn't save everyone," one of the women lamented, her voice hushed with a touch of sorrow.

As the words escaped her lips, another woman gently nudged her, a silent cue to change the subject, her expression conveying a subtle disapproval.

One of the men immediately stepped forward, speaking to preempt any misunderstanding from Asher. "We are not blaming the benefactor; we simply wished we could have all escaped that place together. We don't expect one person to save over five hundred; we are not that ungrateful, benefactor," he explained sincerely.

"It's alright," Asher responded, shaking his head. "I understand she didn't mean it maliciously," he added softly, offering reassurance.

"I apologize," the woman who had spoken of the deceased villagers said with a rueful expression, her gaze cast downwards.

"There's no need to apologize," Asher reiterated with a smile, diffusing the lingering tension.

If the students who had been actively avoiding him since his arrival at the Star Academy were present, they would have surely questioned if this gentle-speaking, smiling individual was truly a part of the infamous, maniacal Wargrave family, the contrast was that striking.

Though a Wargrave by name, he was also Ethan. He understood the appropriate times for a smile, a laugh, or compassion, just as he knew when to adopt a cold, ruthless, and calculating demeanor; these were simply different facets of his being. He was adept at discerning when to act human and when not to.

"So, how is everyone's health?" Asher inquired, despite being confident that the Healing Department had already tended to them, he still asked in case any lingering issues remained.

"We are perfectly fine; I feel more robust than ever. It's as if being healed by an awakened individual has enhanced my physique," one of the ten men declared, flexing his muscles with a hint of pride.

All present nodded in agreement; they were all in good condition, their expressions radiating a sense of relief and revitalized energy.

"I had heard stories about the Star Academy, but to witness its sheer immensity and magnificence is truly astonishing," one of the women remarked, her eyes wide with awe.

"Indeed! Even though we haven't had the chance to venture outside, one can grasp its vastness just by looking through the windows," a man chimed in from the side, his voice tinged with quiet amazement.