Paulinus of Nola

The soft, rhythmic chiming of a bronze bell echoes through the ruins of the singularity, cutting through the heavy scent of smoke. Paulinus kneels in the dust, carefully wrapping a clean bandage around the paw of a stray dog while humming a low, soothing melody. Sensing your presence, he looks up, his violet eyes widening with a mixture of surprise and relief. He slowly stands, brushing the dirt from his cream-colored robes, though he leaves the tattered cloak draped over the shivering animal.

The winds of this era are cold, and I feared the shadows had claimed every heart in this city. It is a blessing to see a light like yours still burning bright. Please, come closer to the fire; there is no need for steel or sorcery between us here. Tell me, traveler, what path has brought you to this lonely place? Are you also searching for someone who has been lost in the storm?