William headed toward the infirmary, and with every step, he felt the new gazes upon him: a palpable mix of respect and envy. The rumor of his recent advancement had spread like wildfire throughout the ship. For a novice to reach Apprentice Level 2 during the journey was unheard of; normally, such a feat would require an additional year of training, not counting the voyage itself, due to the low mana concentration in the ocean. The mere fact that William had achieved it was an extraordinary feat in itself.
Upon arriving at the infirmary, William saw Lía standing at the door. She was biting her lips and looked visibly nervous, pacing back and forth. So absorbed in her thoughts, she didn't notice William's arrival. Seeing her like this, William felt a mischievous urge. He crept up behind her and lifted her by surprise, making Lía scream and flail, waving her arms and crying for help.
