Extraer

After JR finished his schooling in 1884, he found himself unsure of what path to take.

"Well, well," Manuel began, his voice gruff but kind. "What brings you to my humble abode once again, young doctor?"

JR, awestruck, stumbled over his words. "I-I... I was just missing you, my friend. Tales of your craftsmanship were heard anywhere, and I couldn't resist to participate."

A gleam of recognition sparked in Manuel's eyes. "Ah, I see. The craving is a powerful thing, my boy. It drives us to explore the unseen and create wonders. Tell me, are you here to continue your apprenticeship?"

JR's heart leaped with excitement. The thought of learning from such a master was a dream he had hope for. "Yes, I am!" he exclaimed, barely containing his enthusiasm.

Manuel chuckled, a deep rumble that echoed through the workshop. "Very well, Doctor JR. I could use a sharp mind and nimble fingers like yours. But remember, this work requires dedication and perseverance. Are you prepared for the challenges that lie ahead?"

Without a moment's hesitation, JR nodded fervently. "Yes, sir! I am ready to learn more, to create more, and to immerse myself in the world of mechanics."

Manuel's eyes softened, a hint of pride shining through. "Then welcome once again, my young apprentice. From this day forth, you shall delve into the lost secrets of gears, the art of steam, and the wonders that lie within mundane contraptions. Together, we shall create marvels that will astound the world."

And so, Doctor JR's life took a different turn. He put aside the elegant corporate medical career that awaited him and embraced the grime and oil-stained hands of a mechanic. Days turned into weeks, weeks into months, as JR soaked up every bit of knowledge that Manuel imparted. He became familiar with the art of crafting intricate clockwork mechanisms, the science of harnessing the power of steam, and the finesse of combining the two. He then upgraded his El Indio into a more comfortable airship that could now carry two persons.

As time went on, JR discovered not only the joys of creation but also the joys of a genuine friendship. Manuel treated him like family, sharing stories of his own adventures and passing down his wisdom. Their conversations often lingered long into the night, fueled by cups of strong coffee and the warmth of the workshop's roaring hearth.

Together, JR and Manuel built incredible contraptions, each a testament to their collaboration and ingenuity. Their workshop became a hub of innovation, attracting the attention of fellow craftsmen and curious onlookers.

The year 1884 will fade into history, but the spirit of imagination and exploration continued to blaze within JR's heart. He realized that staying with Manuel in Taller Mechanica was not just a career choice; it was a lifelong commitment to the transformative power of mechanics, where dreams took shape and imagination reigned supreme. In this eccentric and fantastical world of steam and gears, JR had found not only his purpose but also his true home.

One morning, Manuel, his face weathered with experience, greeted JR with a warm smile. "Buenos días, Doctor JR. I've watched you struggle with your choices and dilemmas. Perhaps, within the realm of steampunk, you'll find the healing you seek."

JR's eyes widened in surprise. How could Manuel understand his innermost desires with such clarity?

"Sit, my friend," Manuel gestured to a worn-out leather chair. "Let us talk about destinies and the unknown."

JR listened intently as Manuel shared details of his mysterious ailment, a disease that could not be diagnosed nor cured by conventional medicine. The Mechanic had spent years experimenting with various contraptions, attempting to find a cure for himself, to no avail.

Moved by Manuel's plight, JR felt an instinctual connection. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small vial filled with an herbal concoction. "This is a remedy I stumbled upon during my travels in my homeland, the Philippines. It's made from rare herbs, known for their healing properties. I cannot guarantee it will work, but it might hold a glimmer of hope."

Manuel's eyes filled with a mixture of gratitude and skepticism. He took the vial from JR's outstretched hand and studied it carefully. "Herbs, you say? Well, the world is filled with unexplored possibilities. What harm could trying this do?"

As days turned into weeks, JR assisted Manuel in his workshop, continuously learning the intricacies of steampunk mechanics while also monitoring the effect of the herbal remedy. Slowly, Manuel's disease began to retreat, and his energy blossomed anew. He was astounded to find that JR's instinctual remedy had given him a second chance at life.

Deeply moved by this experience, Manuel urged JR to manage Taller Mechanica, passing on his legacy to the young doctor. He saw in him the potential to bridge the gap between medicine and steampunk, to explore healing through innovative means. He believed that JR possessed the rare capability to blend the two worlds. And then, they decided to change its name into - "Clinica Mechanica".

And so, also in that same year of 1884, JR took over the reins of Taller Mechanica, now known as Clinica Mechanica. With his medical knowledge and newfound understanding of steampunk mechanics, he embarked on a journey to redefine healing in this world of cogs and gears.

Together, JR and Manuel delved into experimental steam-powered contraptions that could diagnose diseases, soothe pain, and restore vitality. They tried to combine herbal remedies with steam-powered creations, forging a path of healing previously unseen.

As the years passed, their efforts paved the way for an entirely new branch of medicine. JR's name became synonymous with innovation and compassion, while Clinica Mechanica flourished as a haven for both the curious and the ailing.

The herbal remedy became known as "Extraer," a blend of rare herbs that stood as a testament to the power of nature and human ingenuity. The cure saved countless lives, offering hope to those who had previously been deemed beyond help.

And in this grand tapestry of steampunk medicine, JR's true purpose was woven. He had found his calling in the fusion of his passions, forever grateful to Manuel, who had opened his eyes to a world where healing was not only found in traditional medicine but also in the artistry of steam and gears.

Perhaps, it's time to return to the Philippines. Maybe, only maybe, for the best is yet to come.