part 3- Manna Spills the Beans

In the days since Lillia's condition had worsened, every resident of Mineral Town had visited with Lillia. They all realized that each time they saw Lillia could be the last.

Today's visitor was Manna. She told Lilia all the gossip as she knitted an X-wool scarf for Duke. Lillia was opening her mail and only half-listening to Manna's prattling.

"...I just don't know how we're going to manage without Zack on the job," Manna was saying.

Lillia dropped the letter she was holding. She was very pale.

"What!" she gasped" Zack's leaving!?"

"You didn't know?" Manna said slowly. "Didn't Zack tell you?"

Lillia shook her head.

"Well," said Manna, "Zack is leaving to find that legendary flower that will cure you."

Lillia stood up. "Zack can't leave--he can't!" she whispered.

"Lillia, sit down--!" Manna cried, but Lillia was rushing out, showing more energy than she had in years. The display of energy was short-lived. Lillia had not even reached the road when she collapsed.