Analyzing the Creep (2)

It seemed like even this path was a dead end.

However, Riku did not want to give up. "Let's try a different approach."

He gently went to Elara. "Elara, how are you feeling?"

She blinked sleepily. "A little tired. But nothing serious." The earlier feelings of fear had receded after the afternoon's lighthearted moments, so she was not as distant from Riku as she was a while ago.

Riku held out the vial. "This is the Sunpetal Draught the Church gave us. I want you to take it. Tell me exactly how it makes you feel."

Elara nodded and carefully drank the contents of the vial. She sat quietly for a few moments, her expression thoughtful. Then, a slight flush rose to her cheeks.

"Well?" Lila prompted.

"I… I feel a bit warmer," Elara said slowly. "And… less tired. Like I have a little more energy." She flexed her fingers.