"First, I really love traditional medicine." Charlotte lifted her lashes, her eyes bright and steady as she spoke, every word clear and certain. "Second, the things our ancestors left behind deserve to be passed on. I want to be the one who does that."
Glenn just stared at her, stunned. His tired old eyes seemed almost young again with surprise. He never thought someone so young could say something like that, something with real depth.
Carrying on the legacy of traditional medicine, making it shine... That had always been his dream.
"Not bad." Glenn smiled, truly pleased. "It's good for young people to have dreams."
It had been years since a student talked about carrying on traditional medicine. Having dreams was wonderful, but...
He looked at Charlotte, elegant and proud, and couldn't help but worry a little. He hoped she wouldn't get scared and break down when she got on stage.
...
Monday.
The annual medical exchange was being held at The Cabinda University. Students from all over Eldoria crowded the campus, making the place buzz with excitement. But the traditional medicine majors were just a small group, barely a fifth of the crowd.
Before the event started, Charlotte followed her classmates into the lounge. Just as she reached the door, she bumped into Letty, who was leading The Cabinda University team inside.
Letty caught sight of the Kingswood University Traditional Medicine Class sign—and Charlotte standing among the group. Her lips pressed together and something unreadable flashed in her eyes.
The students behind Letty shot over looks full of disdain.
"The traditional medicine class showed up again this year?"
Someone whispered, "They come in last every year. How do they not feel embarrassed?"
The students nearby snickered.

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