Even in a world filled with magic and sorcery, there are strict laws. And the main law is: everything has its price.
Being a hereditary healer, Viridian always knew this. He saw the price his parents had to pay for each life they saved. He silently and humbly watched as his family members withered and faded, giving up their health for the opportunity to help others.
And Viridian embarked on this path, perfectly understanding how it would end sooner or later for him. The young man walked along this road paved by his ancestors, giving himself completely to his noble but dangerous cause.
Until one day his world turned upside down.
It was a quick, impulsive decision. Viridian quickly sold all his fortune, cut off all contacts and went to live in a small house in the mountains.
Winter comes very early in the mountains. While autumn is raging on the plains, the mountain roads are already covered with a thick blanket of snow. A quiet, peaceful time. The sounds are muffled, and the nights are long and drawn out.
A small stove crackled softly, and a black cat named Coal dozed curled up on a soft chair. Viridian stood by the wooden counter, thoughtfully selecting herbs for his tea.
Snow, a large white dog lying by the threshold, raised his head and pricked up his ears, uttering a quiet growl. Viridian turned his head in his direction, and a moment later there was a knock on the door.
Viridian frowned and glanced out the window, where a blizzard raged. He was not expecting visitors, especially in this weather. Putting the herbs aside, the man headed for the door. His eyes widened in surprise when he saw a familiar face from his distant past on the threshold. But his face immediately became stern and distant again.
“I am no longer accepting patients,” he said coldly by way of greeting.