Illborn (The Illborn Saga, #1)

by Daniel T. Jackson

‘That’s correct, child. But if you’d like to understand what we do here, let me tell you a little more first. Do you know anything about Saint Helena herself?’ ‘No, Sister.’ ‘Well, our blessed Helena was born over seven hundred years ago, daughter to a powerful senator within the Republic. And she became obsessed about the appalling quality of healing provisions across Angall. Helena then devoted her life, using her father’s power and influence, to encouraging the Holy Church to take on the task of delivering healing to all of the faithful. ‘Before she died, the Church had agreed to support some of those from within the priestly order to become healers, and to retain and share that knowledge. She also succeeded in getting the Holy Church to agree to support a hospital and apothecary in all Colleges of Aiduel across the continent, and in all major cities. That is how The Order of St Helena was born, from one woman’s persistence and devotion, and now we have hundreds of ordained priests across the continent who can spread Aiduel’s word, hand-in-hand with the gift of His healing. Our Saint Helena was a truly marvellous woman.’ ‘That all sounds wonderful, Sister,’ Leanna replied. Leanna could see the attraction of a life such as Sister Colissa’s. ‘How very wonderful, to be able to devote one’s life to the service of The Lord, but also to do such practical as well as spiritual good for people, too.’