The Myth - The Fading Eden

Chapter 4 - Ika

The infant stopped crying, going completely still in the healer's arms. A deathly silence fell over the room. No one could tear their eyes away from the tiny head.

"Now, take your first breath, Pallassa,"(Breath) whispered the woman hidden under a wide hood. With focused intent, she lifted her hand above the baby's bare belly. A rune of the United Triangle, previously invisible, glowed blue on the back of her hand. She traced the same symbol on the child's cool skin. The rune flickered faintly before vanishing without a trace. Everyone held their breath, awestruck by the sight.

The healer felt the Power coursing through her body, a gentle stream pulling her life energy to breathe it into the child she held. She waited tensely for a few long seconds, watching for any sign of reaction.

"Pallassa," she said with emphasis, her trembling finger drawing the rune again. The room grew colder, and a chill ran down her spine. She had little time before Death would arrive.

From the corner of the cramped room came the quiet sobbing of the mother.

"I know you can do it. Pallassa."

The healer struggled to control her emotions, allowing the regulated flow of Power to transform into a rushing river ready to sweep her away in its current. She clenched her jaw tightly, focusing on the warmth leaving her body. Her mouth felt dry, and sweat began to bead on her temples.

"Pallassa," she gasped, once more concentrating on performing one of the most powerful runes of the Full Sirius. Two crescents of moons inscribed on the sides of the triangle. Between them, she drew a circle representing the full moon.

Gently, she placed her hand on the baby's small belly. Beneath her fingers, she felt the tiny chest move in rhythm with calm breaths. With relief, she listened to the heartbeat. No murmurs, no irregularities. She allowed herself a slight smile.

"Feed him and both of you rest," she whispered.

She approached the mother, who tenderly cradled her child. The scene before her eyes began to blur. She blinked, trying to chase away the swirling specks. She hated the weakness and limitations of her body. There was still so much to do.

"How can we repay you, healer?"

"Tell us what we can give you."

She ignored the family's questions. The air felt stifling, and the pressing bodies blocked her from getting a breath. Fighting the faintness, she pushed a small pouch of herbs into someone's hand. The ringing in her ears distorted the voices.

She needed to leave immediately.

She bowed her head, watching her steps. Without a word, she left the house and stepped onto the street. Trying to concentrate, she began counting how many vials of reagent she had consumed that night.

Nine or ten?

She mentally recounted the visited homes but kept losing track. Despite the bone-chilling cold that gripped her body, a burning flush scorched her cheeks. She resisted the urge to pull down her hood and feel the refreshing night breeze. It was already late, but many townspeople were still rushing home after a full day's work in the mines.

She continued along the narrow road. The cobblestones were covered in a layer of fine white sand. Even the slightest gust of wind pushed it into every crevice of the high tenements surrounding her. Paper lanterns swayed on stretched strings, casting a pale glow over the cramped alleys. The woman licked her dry lips, fully aware that she needed to restore her life force before heading to the orphanage. She would be of no use if she fainted along the way.

Cursing her pathetic state, she stopped at a shadowy, empty alcove. She pressed herself into a corner, leaning her back against a rusty gate. Clumsily, she fished out a leather case from under her cloak, struggling to untie the cords. She opened it.