The Rise of a Master It Starts With Rejection novel Chapter 952

"Ma'am, I'm truly honored by your offer, and I'll never forget your kindness, but I've already sworn allegiance to a mentor. I'm afraid I must decline," Felix said with an apologetic bow.

Delilah had expected as much. Felix's young age and his remarkable attainment of Physical Refinement Realm clearly indicated that he was not self-taught.

"It's fine," she replied with a smile. "Your mentor can't possibly be an expert in every field. The path of learning never ends, and truly talented individuals often have more than one mentor. I would only be guiding you in pill cultivation and nothing more."

Before coming to Martial City, Gerald had mentioned that Felix could consider taking on a mentor for pill cultivation, as Gerald himself was not an expert in the field. However, Felix had too many unknowns to deal with right now and did not dare rush into such a commitment.

"I appreciate your understanding, ma'am," Felix said politely, bowing again.

Delilah felt a pang of regret but decided against pushing further. She had thought about revealing Felix's actual martial artist rank to sway him, but after some consideration, she held back.

She replied, "Very well. Take this token and head downstairs. Someone will guide you from there. Congratulations on joining Harmony Clinic!"

"What a remarkable young man—respectful and grounded! I won't give up on him just yet," Delilah thought.

As Felix stood to leave, he paused. "Ma'am, one more question—does Harmony Clinic offer any protection for its members?"

Delilah chuckled lightly. "Not under normal circumstances. In the city, violence is rare, and you're relatively safe here.

"However, if you need to leave the city, you can request protection from the clinic if you've made sufficient contributions as a healer or if you're an alchemist with High-grade talent or above."

Felix nodded, inwardly relieved. He had initially thought the clinic might provide constant protection, but this system made sense—there simply were not enough experts to act as bodyguards at all times. Even having protection for trips outside the city was already generous.

"Thank you for clarifying, ma'am," he said before heading to the elevator.