Just in case some readers are unaware I'll be leaving new updates about coming chapters and character updates or world building in the authors notes. Thank you to all those who have added my book to their collections it helps out a lot on growth and development. Now back to the chapter.
The early afternoon sun bathed the orphanage in a soft, golden light, casting gentle shadows along the stone walls of the building. Selene and Christine had just returned from delivering invitations to the neighboring nobles for the upcoming charity ceremony. After sharing a few words, they decided to split up to finish the final touches for the event. Christine, still carrying the weight of organizing such an important fundraiser, stepped outside, her eyes scanning the courtyard for Alex and the children.
As she made her way toward the clearing, Christine noticed Connor walking toward the church, a mischievous grin on his face as he held the hand of a small child, another one caught in their game of hide and seek.
"Connor," Christine called out, making the boy halt mid-step, his grin faltering under her gaze. "Have you finished all your chores? I distinctly remember telling you all that you could only play once everything was done."
Connor's face flushed slightly as he straightened up. "Yes, Miss Christine. We finished all the chores! We even set up the banners, and the laundry for the children's clothes is all hung up for tonight," he replied, trying his best to sound responsible. "We also helped set up the church for the ceremony."
Christine raised an eyebrow, but seeing the sincerity in his eyes, she nodded, accepting his answer. "Thank you for helping, Connor. Now, where is Alex?"
Connor fidgeted under her gaze. "Alex is outside the church, near the forest, looking for the others who are still hiding."
Christine's expression darkened. "You know what I said about playing near the forest, right? It's dangerous, and I don't want any of you going too far or getting lost."
Connor's face paled as he scrambled to explain. "We stayed within the church's boundaries, I promise! We didn't go any farther than that. Everyone's safe, I swear!"
Christine's stern look softened slightly, and she gave Connor a pat on the back. "Alright. Just make sure that everyone who comes in from now helps Selene with the last-minute things for the ceremony. We're nearly out of time."
Connor nodded eagerly and hurried inside, leading the younger child by the hand. As Christine watched them go, she let out a sigh of relief, but her concern for Alex lingered. She set off toward the forest, her pace quickening as she headed to find her son.
Meanwhile, deeper in the forest, Alex and Melisa walked side by side, their eyes scanning the trees for any sign of movement. The last few children were still hidden, but they had managed to catch most of them. The forest was quiet except for the occasional rustle of leaves underfoot, and the two of them moved in comfortable silence.
"There!" Alex exclaimed, spotting a flash of movement. He and Melisa ran toward the sound, catching two children who squealed in delight as they were found. With playful laughter, Alex sent the last two kids running back toward the church, making sure they knew to head straight there.
As the children's laughter faded into the distance, Alex and Melisa slowed their pace, now walking back toward the church themselves. The forest around them seemed peaceful, bathed in the soft glow of the afternoon sun filtering through the leaves.
Melisa, her voice soft and thoughtful, broke the silence. "Do you remember the day you got those scars?"
Alex tensed for a moment, his hand unconsciously brushing the edge of a burn mark on his arm. "Yeah… I remember," he replied quietly. "It was when I found you in that alleyway near the haggling shops. Marcus Keal and his friends were trying to drag you back to the Keal estate for one of their 'private games.'"
Melisa shuddered at the memory. "I didn't want to go with them… I was so scared."
Alex's jaw clenched, the memories flooding back. "I couldn't let them take you. When I saw them, I ran in, trying to fight them off, but there were too many. They ganged up on me, knocked me to the ground. One of them… I don't even remember which, but one of them threw hot coals from a nearby barrel on me while they laughed." Alex's voice grew hoarse with emotion.
Melisa's eyes welled with tears. "But you didn't give up. Even when they had you on the ground."
Alex nodded, his fists clenched. "I grabbed a broken bottle from the alley floor and hit Marcus with it, cut his cheek. That scared them off. They ran, but… after that, everything went black." He glanced at Melisa, his expression softening. "I remember you trying to help. You tore strips from your clothes to bandage me up until help came."
Melisa wiped at her eyes, nodding silently. "You saved me, Alex. I owe you my life."
They walked in silence for a few moments more until, suddenly, Melisa stopped. She turned to face Alex, her eyes filled with emotion. "Alex, you're my hero. You've always protected me… and I promise, I'll always be there for you, just like you've been for me."
Before Alex could respond, Melisa leaned up on her toes and pressed her lips to his. The kiss was soft, tender, and filled with unspoken gratitude. Alex's heart raced as he kissed her back, the warmth between them both overwhelming and comforting. For a moment, the world fell away, and it was just the two of them in the quiet forest.
Unbeknownst to them, Christine stood behind a nearby tree, her eyes wide in surprise as she watched the scene unfold. She hadn't meant to intrude but was too shocked to move. The kiss lingered a moment longer before the two finally pulled away, their faces flushed, and it was then that Christine decided to step in.
"Alex! Melisa!" Christine called out, her voice loud enough to break the trance they were in. Alex and Melisa sprang apart, their faces flushed with embarrassment.
"Hi, Mom!" Alex called back, rubbing the back of his neck nervously as Melisa smiled shyly beside him.
Christine approached them, pretending as if she hadn't seen a thing. "It's time to head back. Selene and I need help with the last-minute preparations for the ceremony. Let's go."
Alex and Melisa exchanged a quick glance before nodding, following Christine back toward the church. Christine, walking ahead, couldn't help but smile to herself. Though the kiss had surprised her, a part of her felt a quiet sense of pride seeing the bond between her son and Melisa grow stronger.
As they made their way out of the forest, Christine stole a quick glance over her shoulder, watching the two walk side by side. There would be time for conversations later, but for now, she was content to let them have their moment.
As Alex, Melisa, and Christine returned to the church, the sun was beginning its slow descent, casting warm rays over the quiet surroundings. Connor was waiting for them by the entrance, an excited gleam in his eyes as he waved them over. "Hey, you guys, come on in! The ceremony's about to start in an hour, and Mother Selene wants to hear everyone's thoughts and prayers for tonight."
They followed Connor inside, the familiar scent of candles and polished wood filling the air. The children were gathered in small groups, whispering excitedly about the upcoming event. Most of the younger kids were chattering about toys they hoped to see or the kinds of food they might be served. However, Alex, Melisa, and Connor—being among the older ones—had more practical concerns.
"The apprenticeship program," Connor began, "I think that's the best idea for everyone involved. Nobles get help from the apprentices, and the church benefits from the donations they provide for training the kids. Plus, we get to learn a new skill, something that'll help us later on."
Selene stood nearby, her hands clasped in front of her as she listened to the children's hopes and ideas. Her gaze flickered to Melisa, seeking reassurance in the face of her own doubts about the new apprenticeship plan. Melisa, sensing her hesitation, stepped forward to explain.
"There would be safety measures in place," Melisa said with confidence. "Time limits based on age, specific tasks suited to each child's abilities, and of course, supervision. It wouldn't just be work; it would be a learning opportunity."
Selene nodded thoughtfully, appreciating Melisa's mature outlook. "I like the sound of that," she admitted. "What about you, Alex? What's on your mind about all this?"
Alex, still caught in his thoughts, hesitated. He wasn't entirely sure how he fit into the grander scheme of things—especially after what had happened the previous year during a similar event. Sensing her son's unease, Christine spoke up.
"Perhaps it would be best if Alex helped out behind the scenes this year," Christine suggested gently. "He could manage the furnace, help with the food preparations, and keep things running smoothly. That way, we won't have a repeat of last year's… incident."
Selene smiled kindly, understanding the delicate situation. "That sounds like a fine idea," she said. "Thank you for being willing to help, Alex. I appreciate it." She then turned to the group. "Now, let's all get dressed and ready. The nobles and shop owners will be arriving soon, and we want to make a good impression."
Everyone dispersed to get ready for the evening's ceremony. Melisa helped the younger children into their clothes, ensuring they looked presentable. Meanwhile, Alex and Connor stood by, trading playful banter as they put on their best outfits. The clothing wasn't much—simple, clean garments made by Christine—but to Alex, they were special.
Connor, never one to miss an opportunity to tease, nudged Alex with a grin. "So, when are you gonna pop the question to Melisa?" he asked, half-joking but with a knowing glint in his eye.
Alex rolled his eyes, chuckling as he adjusted his collar. "When are you going to stop crushing on that noble's daughter? You know she's out of your league, right?"
Connor laughed, unfazed. "Not for long. Once I get good at blacksmithing or leatherworking, I'll have enough coin to stand a chance. You'll see." His grin widened as Alex shook his head in amusement.
Once everyone was dressed, they gathered in the church hall, waiting for the event to begin. Alex noticed the absence of Sister Irene and asked Mother Selene where she was. Concern tugged at him, knowing Irene's usual involvement in such events.
"Sister Irene isn't feeling well," Selene explained gently. "She's resting for tonight. But don't worry, Alex—she'll be fine. She's stronger than you think. She's been through much worse."
Alex let out a small laugh, her reassurances easing his mind. "Alright," he said, "I'll stop worrying."
As the hour passed, anticipation grew, but a sense of disappointment lingered in the air. Only a few shop owners had arrived, and instead of nobles, only a couple of servants sent by noble houses affiliated with the church had shown up. Selene, watching the dwindling daylight outside, realized that no more guests would be arriving. Still, the ceremony had to go on.
Taking a deep breath, Selene gathered everyone together, the soft glow of candles illuminating the modest hall. She stood at the front, the children seated on the pews, their faces expectant. Alex, Melisa, Christine, and Connor sat together in one row, watching as the ceremony began.
Despite the small turnout, Selene's voice was filled with warmth as she spoke. "Though not many have joined us tonight, we are grateful for those who have come. Let us now offer our prayers and thoughts for the year ahead, and for the continued support of our church and community. May we be strengthened by each other's presence and look forward to brighter days."
The small group bowed their heads, and the ceremony began. Though fewer people were present, the sense of togetherness among the children and the caretakers filled the room, giving the event a humble but heartfelt atmosphere.
The prayer was just about to conclude, the warmth of Selene's voice wrapping the congregation in a sense of calm, when chaos shattered the serenity. A sharp crash sounded as the first torch flew through one of the stained-glass windows. Within seconds, a line of torches followed, crashing through the church's windows in rapid succession. Flames erupted almost instantly, licking the walls and spreading with terrifying speed. The congregation erupted in panic.
Screams filled the air as smoke began to curl and thicken, filling the church with the acrid stench of burning wood and fabric. Selene, always the calm in the storm, raised her voice above the chaos, trying to guide everyone toward the front entrance. "Stay calm! Everyone, to the front! Follow me!" she called, moving swiftly to the heavy wooden doors.
But as Selene reached the front door and pushed against it, her face twisted in fear. The door wouldn't budge. "It's blocked!" she shouted, pounding against the door with both hands. Panic escalated as people realized they were trapped.
Smoke billowed in thick clouds, making it hard to breathe, hard to see. People began to cough, some dizzy from inhaling the fumes. Alex and Connor exchanged a quick glance, fear reflecting in both of their eyes, but neither hesitated. They bolted for the two side exits. Connor ran to check the one leading towards the kitchen, while Alex dashed to the adjacent door that opened into the garden.
Melisa, thinking quickly, rallied the younger children, guiding them toward the kitchen in the hopes they could escape through the back door. "This way, stay close to me!" she shouted, her voice strong despite the panic around her.
Christine, terrified, spotted Alex struggling with the garden door and rushed toward him, trying to help force it open. "Alex, we have to get it open! We can't stay here!" she cried, pulling at the door with all her strength.
Before either could make headway, another row of bags came crashing through the windows, landing dangerously close to the fire. One of the bags made contact with the flames, and in an instant, a massive explosion rocked the church. The blast knocked Alex backward, flinging him out of the door he'd been trying so hard to open.
Dazed and groggy, Alex struggled to pull himself up from the dirt, his ears ringing from the explosion. His vision blurred, but through the smoke and haze, he saw Christine pinned beneath a large, flaming beam from the ceiling. "Mom!" he screamed, rushing back toward the church.
His heart pounded in his chest as he reached her, and he frantically tried to lift the beam off of her. But no matter how hard he pushed, it wouldn't budge. Christine, coughing and in pain, tried to reassure him. "I'm okay, Alex… Just go… Go!"
Before Alex could protest, Selene appeared, her right arm badly burned, her hair singed and smoking. She grabbed Alex by the shoulders, pulling him away from the wreckage. "Alex, you have to get out of here!" she shouted, her voice hoarse from the smoke.
"No! I can't leave her!" Alex cried, tears mixing with the soot on his face as he looked desperately between his mother and Selene.
"I'll get her out, I promise. But you need to go! Run, Alex!" Selene ordered, her grip tightening painfully on his arms. The fire roared louder, flames licking higher as the smoke thickened around them.
Alex's heart clenched. He didn't want to leave. His mother was trapped—how could he leave? But Selene was unyielding, forcing him toward the door he had been flung out of earlier. "Run, Alex! Go to the forest and don't look back!" she commanded, her voice cracking with urgency.
Alex hesitated, his mind and heart at war with each other, but Selene's patience had run out. Desperation filled her voice as she screamed, "GO!"
And then, without warning, Selene slapped Alex hard across the face, the sting of it shocking him out of his stupor. Her tear-streaked face, burned and pained, burned itself into his mind as she stared him down with raw determination. "For the last time, RUN!"
Tears blurred Alex's vision, but he nodded shakily, finally understanding. With one last agonizing look at his mother and Selene, he turned and ran. His legs burned as he bolted from the burning church, his breath hitching as smoke filled his lungs, but he didn't stop.
The forest loomed ahead, dark and quiet in stark contrast to the blazing chaos behind him. As Alex ran deeper into the woods, the sound of crackling flames and distant cries began to fade, but his heart pounded louder in his chest. He didn't know if he would ever see his mother again. He didn't know if they would make it out alive.
All he knew was that he had to keep running.
As Alex ran, tears streamed down his soot-covered face, the weight of the world crashing down on his young shoulders. The sound of crackling fire and the distant cries from the church still echoed in his mind, but his legs wouldn't stop, carrying him further into the shadowed embrace of the forest. Each step felt heavier than the last, as if the earth itself was pulling him down, begging him to turn back, to save them.
But he couldn't.
The sky, dark and foreboding, suddenly released its fury. Rain poured down in sheets, drenching Alex's clothes, plastering his hair to his forehead. It felt cold, almost like the sky was crying along with him. His breath came in ragged gasps, his lungs burning from the smoke he had inhaled and the exertion of running so far, so fast.
And then, despite everything Selene had told him, despite the command to keep running, he slowed to a stop. His heart screamed louder than his mind as he turned around one last time, hoping—praying—to see his mother and Selene emerging from the flames.
"Please," he whispered into the rain, his voice trembling. "Please, let them be okay…"
But as his eyes scanned the burning structure in the distance, a loud bang shattered the air. Another explosion ripped through the church, sending debris and smoke into the sky. Alex's heart plummeted as he watched in horror. The flames surged higher, engulfing the last remnants of the building he had called home.
The church collapsed in on itself, unrecognizable now—just a fiery ruin, swallowed by destruction. His breath hitched, the finality of it sinking deep into his chest. There was no way anyone could have survived that.
The rain mixed with the tears still streaming down his face, soaking his body to the bone as he stood there, rooted in place, staring at the burning wreckage. His world had just been torn apart, and all he could do was watch.
Knock knock knock ...