Chapter 73: A New Quest
Riku, seeing the suffering of the people here, could not just walk away.
He approached one of the volunteers, a weary-looking woman. "Sister," he said in his disguised acolyte voice, "the suffering here is great. While the Sunpetal Draught offers some respite, perhaps a direct blessing of the Light might ease their immediate pain? With your permission, and theirs, I would like to try."
The volunteer looked at him, surprised, then a flicker of hope crossed her face. "Brother, if you have the strength and the skill... any relief would be a mercy. Please, ask them."
Riku moved to the nearest pallet, where a young woman was moaning softly, her skin flushed with fever. "My child," he said gently, "I am an acolyte of the Church. I wish to offer a prayer of healing, to try and soothe your discomfort. May I?"
The young woman looked up, her eyes dull with pain, but she managed a weak nod. "Yes, Brother... please... anything..."
Riku placed his hands gently over her forehead. "Light, grant thy solace."
Advanced Heal.
A soft, warm golden light emanated from his hands, visible to those nearby. The young woman sighed, her tense body relaxing slightly. The angry flush on her cheeks seemed to lessen.
"Oh... oh, the burning... it’s easing," she whispered, tears welling in her eyes. "Thank the Light! Thank you, Brother!"
Seeing this, others nearby began to stir, hope igniting in their weary faces.
"Brother, please! My son, he’s so weak!"