© 7ARS 2001 (t.santitoro)
PORTENTS OF CHANGE by t.santitoro
The large Crojan sun reflected off the turquoise sea, as it dipped closer to the green horizon. A large crowd had gathered on the beach, and the gentle murmur of conversations mingled with the sound of the ocean.
tidal ebb and flow
many sounds converge as the
sun touches waves
As dusk fell, a hush came over the gathering. They were waiting for the mutant. The Healer. His reputation had preceded him, and the people were there, eager to witness a miracle.
above the surf
bonfires and discussions
hopes rise with smoke
He descended from the bluff, an empath with the rare ability to heal others. Aside from his green complexion, however, he looked normal enough. Some of the people began to wonder if the rumors were true, after all.
warming the beach
sparks of arguments
and doubt
There was an air of confidence about the Healer. His stride was casual, despite an odd distraction, and he wandered down from the cliffs toward a particular knot of people. There was one among them who needed his attention.
empathic
senses primed and ready
the need to heal
Blocking the Healer's path, however, was a man, his forearm laid open by a cutterfish. Blood streamed between the man's fingers, his face tight. The Healer stopped, compassion overcoming him. He offered a quick prayer to the Creator, then touched slender fingers to the man's appendage.
a gasp of surprise
overwhelming eruption
of healing energy
A ripple of excitement surged through the crowd, like storm tossed water. Others began to clamor for his attention, but he was still focused on that one person. The one who needed him the most. The man who had once stolen something from him, and now simply and sincerely wanted forgiveness.
pardon given
perplexed onlookers mumble
ripe for the teaching
When questioned, the Healer smiled patiently. This had happened before, and he knew that this planet was about to be changed dramatically. He was more than a healer of bodies, and he began to preach.
