Return

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CHAPTER 32

Following through with her plan, Era and the others who Aeverie noted as trusted guards, all went down into the forest to get the kids.

They did not go immediately and they all left the palace separately, to avoid suspicious and prying eyes. The guards disguised themselves and went with the wagon while she and Aeverie did the same, going with another wagon and some straws in it.

On the other hand, Alyx and Azzura did as they were told. Alyx was asked to dress up like Era and lie in bed while Azzura tended to her, just in case something happens and someone insisted on seeing her.

Well that someone was for his majesty or in case Diona's prying eyes, called her spies came to check up on her.

By the time they got there, they found out that most of the children were all lying down. Indeed after the fruit meal, it was something satisfying and they had a good rest.

Mostly, it was Anna and two other children about her age that were up, keeping watch over the other children.

As soon as she saw Era, her face lit up and she rushed to hug her. Era opened her arms and welcomed her into her embrace.

"I missed you. I thought you wouldn't come."

"I am so sorry dear. Sorry for the delay but I did keep my word to you, right?"

"Yes," Anna replied nodding her head. She kept on looking at Era but the more she looked at her, she did not know when tears flowed down her eyes.

"Oh come, on, Anna. Do not cry, please. If you cry it would break my heart."

"I am sorry miss. But, I did not mean to hurt you. I am just happy we have someone who cares for us. And I am really glad you kept your promise."

"Okay, darling." She pulled her in for another hug before they separated and Era wiped her tears away. "It is alright. Beginning from tonight, no longer would you suffer again. I have found a place for you all to call home. You would love it, I promise you and by tomorrow, I would get you all a new set of clothes."

"Really? You mean it?" Her face lit up once more. It was like a light had returned anew.

She felt her heart leap for joy. Of course, not only her but the other children would feel glad and happy again.

"Yes, I mean it. I always keep my word. Now, wake up the others and let us leave. It is dangerous out here. I brought friends who would assist me in taking you children into the capital."

"Okay. Thanks."

"Do not worry. I am happy when you are happy." Era smiled charmingly at her as did little Anna before she went on to carry her own task.

Just then, Aeverie walked up to meet era and spoke to her. "Your majesty, may heavens bless you for what you are doing."

"Aeverie, no need for that. I am doing the right thing. My heart cannot stand for their suffering. And the honest truth, the person you should thank is Aquata, not me. I only brought them, while she is willing to house them. Having a shelter over their head is most important."

"God bless you both. Without the children, of what use would the house be? I just want you to understand, that is all."

"And I do. I am happy. Please help carry them into the wagon, so we can leave."

"Your majesty," Aquata called out softly so the kids would not hear.

"Yes, Aquata?"

"It is already getting dark. The sun has set. We must leave now. Who knows what danger lurks in the dark?"

"I agree with you. Assist Aeverie and I please."

"Definitely."

***

Luckily for Era, Aquata's house was located not too far from the town. It was a compound with a good enough fence that protected the house and the land thereof. It was obvious it belonged to someone who was very much okay before.

Era looked around, taking in the surroundings very well. Just from where she stood, she could already envision quite a lot for these little kids.

A place to play, a small building where they would go daily to be taught the lessons of life and to educate them, a little garden to grow veggies and another building, a duplex this time to cater for more children.

'Thank you, GOD, for this opportunity and the idea that was bestowed on me.' Era prayed within her.

She moved forward to catch up with the others and once they were in, the gates were shut behind them and everyone proceeded inside.

Although inside the house was dusty due to lack of use. It still looked very durable and okay.