Chapter 166
The last jar was sealed, the label neatly affixed. I stepped back, surveying the shelves. Every space was filled, every remedy carefully prepared. A wave of exhaustion washed over me, but beneath it, a sense of satisfaction. I had done my duty. The pharmacy was ready.
"I've done the medicine, Dr. Merill."
Dr. Merill emerged from the back room, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he smiled. He walked slowly, deliberately, running a hand along the shelves, examining the neatly arranged jars.
"So you have," he said, his voice raspy with age. He picked up a jar of cough syrup, holding it up to the light. "A fine job, Alayna. A fine job indeed. The people of this city will be well cared for, thanks to you."
His words were a balm to my weary soul. "Thank you, Dr. Merill. I tried my best."
"Best is all we can do," he said, setting the jar back on the shelf. "And now," he turned to me, his gaze sharp and knowing, "the mountains await, yes?"
