Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 1221

Andrew waved his hand with a smile and said, "Mr. Bates, I'm not worthy of being compared to those so-called prodigies you mentioned. I just don't like being pushed around, that's all."

Ronan gave a bitter smile and said, "In times like these, not being pushed around has practically become a luxury. A lot of folks just want some basic fairness and justice, but even that feels impossible to get.

"And someone like you, Mr. Lloyd, who dares to fight back against the big, powerful families—well, people like that are few and far between."

Andrew caught a deeper meaning behind Ronan's words. "Mr. Bates, did something happen to you and Janice? Something you can't face alone?"

"If so, don't hold back—I'm just one man, but I'm not afraid to speak up for what's right," Andrew said, his voice steady and firm.

Ronan hesitated, clearly torn, and after a long pause, let out a tired smile. "We are facing something we can't survive on our own. But I've been struggling with whether or not to tell you, Mr. Lloyd. Because this matter is serious, and once you're involved, the consequences could be… unpredictable."

Andrew let out a quiet laugh, his tone calm but tinged with defiance. "You don't have to worry, Mr. Bates. I may not have any strong ties in Blumedale... But if there's really something in this little Gabo Creek region that could stop me, I'd honestly like to see it."

Ronan blinked, caught off guard, and looked at him with deep admiration. "Mr. Lloyd, you carry the kind of righteousness and courage that generations of Holtrien's noble souls have always strived for.

"Alright then—I'll tell you the truth. My granddaughter and I… we're hanging by a thread."

Andrew was visibly surprised. "But Oak Apothecary's got a solid reputation in Blumedale's traditional medicine circles. You and Janice aren't short on money, and you don't have any major enemies, so how could your lives be in danger?"

Ronan's eyes held a complicated emotion. "That's right. It's a treasure map—a torn-up old scrap of paper, but it nearly destroyed the Bates family. Four generations, Mr. Lloyd.

"Four generations were nearly wiped out because of this cursed thing. And now, it's just me—an old man barely hanging on—and Janice, who has no idea what she's really guarding."

Andrew understood this map had to be the root of the Bates family's rise and fall. Nonetheless, he was wise enough not to press for more.

Instead, he said, "Mr. Bates, the fact that you're showing me this map means you trust me. I'm guessing you want me to help in some way?"

Before Andrew could react, Ronan suddenly shoved the map into his hands. His voice was filled with pain. "This treasure nearly shattered my family. From now on, it's yours, Mr. Lloyd. All I ask is that in the days ahead, you look after Janice. Help her find a good future… help her live a happy life."