Mirra enthused over her new home while Ellese unpacked her supplies and Tallis lighted a fire, preparing tea. Ellese smiled at Mirra’s delight at the simple abode, wishing this was nothing more than a routine placement. The abbeys took in girls with talent and trained them to be healers. A village that needed a healer applied to an abbey, and were usually sent a youngster, whom they undertook to house and feed in return for her services. The lack of a welcoming crowd to greet a new healer was abnormal, however, and the desolation of the nearby village boded ill for anyone who stayed here. Usually, healers were highly respected, and in no danger of mistreatment, even from the likes of robbers and bandits. Their simple sleeveless white gowns and silver necklaces marked them, keeping them safe in their solitary abodes.
Not from Bane and his army, however. Already, three abbeys had fallen beneath his troops’ tramping feet, the healers and their pupils slaughtered in horrible ways. The tales of rape, torture and burnings were enough to turn a healer’s blood cold. No one in their right mind would willingly settle in the path of that fate. Ellese feared for Mirra, but this was as it had to be. The girl rearranged the few items of furniture, chattering about her first customers, and Ellese hoped she had done the right thing. She whispered a prayer to the goddess, begging her protection for this innocent girl.
That night at dinner, Mirra put down her spoon and looked at Ellese with a determined air. “What is it really, Mother? Why have the people left?”
Ellese sighed, knowing she could prevaricate no longer. She had to offer some explanation, even if it was incomplete. “There is a war, my dear. They flee from an invading army, trying to find safety.”
“Oh.” Mirra stared at her spoon. “I am to heal soldiers, then.”
“You must help any who need it. That is our way.”
Mirra nodded and ate her vegetable stew. This she would accept, Ellese knew, for Mirra had been taught that none would harm a healer. The gravity of the situation seemed to sober the girl somewhat, however, and she finished her dinner in silence.
The next morning, the seeress and Tallis left after many hugs and kisses. Mirra smiled and waved in the doorway as the cart rattled away down the road. As soon as they were out of sight, Tallis gave in to the tears that had been threatening all morning. Ellese put her arm about her, patting her back.
“She will be all right, Tallis. Do not weep. The goddess will protect her.”
Demon Lord Page 7