'In this case, the solution is to just pull up the long small intestine underneath and connect it.'
The problem was that it was technically difficult.
He faced a crucial decision: opt for an easier yet riskier approach or choose a more difficult but safer method.
'Let's do it. I can do it, I need to trust myself.'
With determination, he carefully pulled up the small intestine situated beneath the duodenum.
Its convoluted nature made it more manageable to manipulate.
He excised a section of the small intestine and proceeded to attach it to the side of the stomach.
It was a suturing technique he had practiced countless times since awakening as a doctor.
Perhaps it was his accumulated experience, but Raymond surprisingly executed it with exceptional skill, even impressing himself.
And then.
"Ha."
With a long breath, the operation was over and the patient was alive,
[Your exams are over!]
[The patient survived!]
[Your exam evaluation is 'pass'!]
[Congratulations on passing the exam!]
[Your class rank has been elevated!]
[Your class has attained the status of 'junior specialist'!]
Raymond had finally become a 'specialist'.
***
"Thank you very much!" expressed Marquis Aiton, expressing his gratitude.
"I, Aiton, on behalf of the Marquis and the Kingdom of Clever, sincerely thank you!"
Regaining consciousness, Prince Enrique groaned in gratitude.
"T-thank you, I thought I was going to die of immobility..."
Raymond offered a wry smile.
"As a healer, there is no need for gratitude. I am content knowing that Your Highness has made a full recovery."
It was a familiar act of modesty, a technique that always seemed to work.
'When I say that, they're impressed and want to reward me even more.'
Both Prince Enrique and Marquis Aiton were impressed.
'A healer of such caliber?'
'I admire that.'
The prevailing greed among healers was a well-known fact. Given the prevalence of avaricious healers in the Kingdom of Clever, encountering someone like Raymond was a shock in itself.
"That's impossible. Please, tell me what you desire. I am willing to compensate you generously."
Raymond found himself torn.
Once again, it was a time for gratifying rewards, yet he struggled to determine what he truly wanted.
'The Kingdom of Clever is the weakest nation in the Twelve Kingdoms, and they have no money and are very poor.'
Being primarily engaged in mercenary warfare, the Kingdom of Clever relied on sending mercenaries abroad to generate income.
Their territories were often situated in remote areas, further exacerbating their financial constraints.
'I don't think I can expect much money if I ask for that. It's not every day you get to treat royalty.'
In such situations, it was essential to request something that money alone could not buy.
Although nothing immediately came to mind, if there was one aspect they excelled in, it was cattle ranching and the production of beef.
'They say the beef in the Kingdom of Clever is so good. I'll try it. It's mouthwatering.'
In particular, the beef derived from the cattle roaming the Mepons Mountains was said to be extraordinary.
Its reputation had spread to the noble circles of the Kingdom of Peninsula, renowned food enthusiasts within the Empire of the Twelve.
The beef from the Mepons Mountains commanded exorbitant prices, reaching thousands of pena per head.
Despite its cost, the scarcity of this delectable delicacy made it a rare indulgence even for most nobles.
'It used to be one of my bucket lists. To eat a mountain of beef from the Kingdom of Clever.'
With that thought, Raymond clenched his fist.
'Okay, I've decided!'
"I don't want anything else, except..."
Raymond trailed off.
"Except?"
"I find it challenging to acquire an ample supply of beef, a specialty food that my patients often require. I was wondering if you could assist me in this matter in the future?"
Marquis Aiton and Prince Enrique narrowed their eyes.
"You mean beef will help cure the patients?"
"Yes, indeed. Beef not only addresses nutritional deficiencies but also fortifies the immune system and alleviates the depressive emotions that hinder the recovery of patients. It is a natural remedy for both their physical and emotional well-being. In essence, beef is a walking, talking, natural herb!"
"Oh!"
"It is said that the quality of the meat directly impacts these beneficial effects. And as you are well aware, Marquis, the mere mention of beef evokes thoughts of the Kingdom of Clever."
Marquis Aiton nodded, his face full of pride.
"That's right, you know-it-all!"
He said pompously.
"Rest assured, you need not worry about it. In the future, whenever you require it, I shall ensure a generous supply of the finest beef is sent your way!"
"Thank you."
"No, it is I who should thank you. To learn that our kingdom's beef can contribute to the well-being of patients and healers is truly remarkable. I am delighted to witness it being utilized for such a worthy cause."
Then Prince Enrique said.
"That does not seem to be enough. Is there another reward you desire?"
Raymond was troubled.
'What shall I ask?'
He couldn't think of anything else, so he decided to hang it up.
"That won't be necessary. If the need arises, I would appreciate your support in the future."
With that, Raymond left to see another patient, leaving the Marquis Aiton and Prince Enrique to converse.
"What a good man, to have his patient's best interests at heart."
"Indeed, Prince. I deeply admire his selflessness in requesting beef for the betterment of his patients. The rumors about him were indeed true."
Both of them reflected on the rumors surrounding Raymond-a virtuous and honorable man whose unwavering dedication to his patients and others earned their admiration.
Also, a divinity in the kingdom of Houston who had done so much good.
And... The king's bastard.
Prince Enrique lowered his voice.
"What do you think of Baron Penin's future?"
Marquis Aiton did not answer easily.
'Most likely not good.'
As the king's illegitimate son, he was likely to meet a miserable end under the scrutiny of the princes.
But why?
Another thought kept coming to mind.
'It's said he has the support of the common people. Many of Houston's soldiers support the bastard prince.'
He also remembered Raymond's words from today.
"Baron Penin is not a man devoid of ambition; he carries a deep aspiration. An aspiration for the betterment of his people, perhaps."
It sounded like something Raymond would have said.
"I felt the same way, which is why I asked for a later date."
'That won't be necessary. If the need arises, I would appreciate your support in the future.'
Those were Raymond's last words.
The Kingdom of Clever, renowned for its formidable mercenary forces, possessed considerable military strength in proportion to its national power.
Thus, contemplating seeking their aid in the future implied preparing for a potential conflict.
"What do you think, Prince?"
"I don't think it's an easy decision. We'll have to be as cautious as possible, but I don't think there's a chance against Baron Penin."
"Why is that?"
"Charisma."
"...!"
Marquis Aiton was stunned.
"Didn't you just realize, too, that Baron Penin has charisma, a virtue essential to a monarch?"
Incredible. It sounded absurd somehow.
Raymond had charisma?
But Marquis Aiton nodded.
"You are correct, Your Highness. There is an undeniable warmth and dignity exuded by Baron Penin through his gentle smile."
Marquis Aiton used the word warm dignity.
Not only did Raymond possess a unique and gentle charisma, but it was a type of charisma that surpassed the more common forms originating from authority or fear.
This gentle charisma, emanating from a place of warmth, was both rare and immensely powerful.
"It's not the kind of charisma that a normal person would have, and I'm definitely looking forward to the future."
"For now, I think we should be on as friendly terms as possible with Baron Penin."
And there was a reason they felt that way.
Something had indeed changed in Raymond.
It was a rise in class.
***
After becoming a specialist, messages came to mind.
[After undergoing rigorous training, you have proven your worth!]
[Congratulations on attaining the rank of "junior specialist"!]
[You are now capable of standing on your own as a skilled physician!]
[The following changes accompany your promotion!]
[Your skill, Heart of Steel, has ascended to Rank C.]
[Heart of Steel]
[Classification: Attribute Skill
Rank: Legendary
Proficiency : D → C
-Gain a 'stronger' iron will and a steadfast heart. These attributes are maximized when dealing with patients.]
He had a stronger will than before. Not only that.
[Gained the skill, 'Doctor's Charisma'.]
[Doctor's Charisma]
[Classification: Attribute Skill
Rank: Legendary
Skill Level: D
-You gain a warm sense of dignity as a specialist.
-This charisma is maximized when dealing with patients!
-You will become a more trusted and respected figure!]
'...I'm dignified?'
Raymond looked puzzled.
Dignity. Was there any word that seemed less fitting for Raymond?
It was typically reserved for individuals exuding authority, overwhelming confidence, and power-qualities not typically associated with a timid person like him.
Yet, something about the newfound title of "specialist" transformed his demeanor.
Just as a position shapes a person, Raymond's newfound status as a specialist bestowed upon him an inherent majesty, lending him an air of credibility that couldn't be denied.
But that wasn't the only skill he acquired.
[Gain the skill, 'Specialist's Judgment'.]
[Specialist's Judgment]
[Classification: Attribute Skill
Rank: Unique
Proficiency: D
-As a specialist, you are able to make clearer judgments.
-Increases your intellect stat by 5 when making decisions regarding diseases!
-Once a week, you can make an even more lucid judgment, boosting your intellect stat by an additional 5!
-As your proficiency grows, the cooldown time decreases, and the increase to your stamina stat amplifies!]
What an amazing skill!
When he's treating patients, it's often hard to make a judgment call.
'I like being a specialist, but what's my next job class?'
During residency, there was a clear progression from "first-year resident" to "senior resident" and eventually "chief resident." Surely, a similar path awaited specialists.
But then an unexpected message popped up.
[By becoming a specialist, you've reached a fork in the road!]
'A fork in the road?'
[A specialist stands as a doctor in their own right. It is now time for you to determine your future!]
[You must choose between the 'Golden Road,' the 'Tower of Medicine,' and the 'Third Path'!]
Raymond was speechless.
'I have to decide my future?'
***
Raymond understood why the bifurcation occurred.
'There are different paths for the same doctor.'
During residency, every physician undergoes a similar training regimen.
However, once they become board-certified, their professional paths diverge, leading to different possibilities.
'I can either focus on making money from medicine, or I can stay in the ivory tower and dig deeper into medicine. Or I can use medicine to do something other than be a doctor.'
The Golden Road, the Tower of Medicine, and the Third Path seemed to describe each case.