Hurry Now

Agatha awoke, struggling to breathe properly. She was drenched in sweat, so she stood up and changed her clothes. It was still dark outside the nearby window. She guessed it was past midnight. For a few minutes, she sat silently at the foot of the bed, trying to calm her heart and ease her mind.

Whenever she had a dream about her past, she couldn't seem to calm down or fall back asleep. So, although the sun had yet to rise, she and Aiden were already preparing to leave.

Agatha knew that Aiden was confused about why they were getting dressed while it was still dark outside, but he didn't question her. He followed her commands without protest and ate a lot, as she had ordered. Aiden also brought a few apples, even though she hadn't told him to. By then, Aiden seemed aware of what Agatha was planning.

Without speaking, Aiden must have known that they were about to leave. Both of them wore dark cloaks as they cautiously left the Slumber Shack. They didn't bring much, just a few Galleons she had saved and some food packed in their small bags.

In the past three days, Agatha had managed to work for at least two. Mr. Smith had told his wealthy friends about her great healing abilities. His cough had healed immediately, so he was delighted and spoke highly of her power.

Two rich, elderly Metamorphs had sought her services and paid her two gold coins each. It wasn't hard for Agatha to heal them, as their only problems were simple ailments like joint pain and muscle weakness. They didn't really need her services, but since they were wealthy, the gold they paid was nothing to them in exchange for relief.

Agatha wished she had done this a long time ago. Maybe she could have provided Aiden with a peaceful and prosperous life. He wouldn't have to wear clothes ruined by countless creatures or go hungry, and most of all, they wouldn't have to live in the middle of the forest.

As they walked, the cold breeze caressed their cheeks. There weren't many people on the streets, just a few Metamorphs and Goblins cleaning up. 

With Aiden's soft hand in hers, Agatha looked for Liam's horse, which was used for the carriage.

Silently, they traveled across Upper Escrima toward Lower Town, where the poor lived.

Three days had passed since Liam and Agatha had last spoken, and he hadn't shown up again. Liam had given her the time and space she had asked for. In those three days of his absence, Agatha had been able to think thoroughly.

Agatha wanted to go back to the Hidden Hollow Blood Exchange to ask the old lady about the sword with the mark of the Water Fae Kingdom. Unfortunately, she could no longer find it. She had tried multiple times to retrace her steps, but the shop was gone. So, she decided to find someone else to ask about it.

Agatha told Aiden to ask Leonel about Liam's sword, and she was relieved when Leonel answered. According to what the old lady had told her, the sword was passed down to the next King of the Water Fae and given on the day of the coronation.

Agatha was glad that Aiden knew how to act, and Leonel didn't seem to suspect a thing. Aiden had cleverly used the excuse that he admired the design of the sword's handle, which explained his curiosity.

The sun was about to rise when they reached Lower Town. Agatha knew that this decision was hard for Aiden, but it was the only option they had. She needed to get away from Liam before the Fate Bond became stronger and irresistible.

Agatha was aware that Liam had already recognized her as his Fae, but since she hadn't accepted it in return, the Fate Bond wasn't sealed yet. She knew she needed to take advantage of this.

She had to run away from him while she still could. Once the Fate Bond was sealed, escape would be impossible.

She couldn't stay by his side, knowing she might end up in jail, or worse, back in the dungeon. Being Fated to Liam didn't guarantee he would save her from the court if there was a trial, so she couldn't take that risk.

Besides, just because she was his Fate didn't mean Liam would want her. There were many women he could choose from, especially since he was a King. With all her current problems, Agatha didn't have the luxury of time or energy to compete for him. So why prolong the inevitable?

It was easiest to escape. It was more convenient to hide and be safe rather than face the uncertainties and potential consequences.

Agatha sadly glanced at Aiden, who was silently observing the area. She couldn't gamble with their safety. She couldn't risk Aiden's safety just because she was Liam's Fate.

If only she were rich, Agatha thought, she wouldn't have to run away or hide with Aiden. She could use her wealth for protection. She could give Aiden the proper childhood he never experienced but well deserved.

But since they had no Galleons, they were unimportant in this world. No one would mourn if they suddenly died, and no one would seek justice for them.

When Agatha reached the small cabin on the other side of town, they finally stopped. She pushed her worries to the back of her mind to focus on her plans. She couldn't even cry, even if she wanted to, because it wouldn't help them. It would only make Aiden sad to see her cry, and she hated that.

The small cabin's roof had holes, and the wooden walls were deteriorating. The whole neighborhood was similarly run-down, and it was eerily silent. Though still dark, the sky awaited the arrival of the glorious sun beyond the horizon.

Agatha tightly held Aiden's hand as she looked around. Once she was assured that no one was chasing after them, they finally entered the small cabin.

She sighed. They had to hurry now.