chapter 17: parting ways

The day of adoption had finally arrived, and the orphanage was buzzing with excitement and anxiety. Children were neatly dressed, their faces filled with a mix of hope and nervousness as they waited for the families to arrive. Lady Emma, with her kind yet discerning eyes, oversaw everything with the utmost care. She had always made it a point to only allow families with enough money, reputation, and the ability to provide proper education and love to the children under her care.

Standing at the front of the orphanage in her usual simple but elegant attire, Lady Emma looked every bit the protector she had always been. Her long black hair, tied in a neat bun, gave her an air of seriousness, but her warm smile reassured the children that everything would be fine.

"Remember," she said, addressing the waiting families as they arrived, "the children here deserve love, care, and the opportunities to thrive. Only those who can provide them with these things will be considered."

Families trickled in—some wealthy merchants, a few noble families, and even a couple of well-off townsfolk. Each was scrutinized carefully by Lady Emma before they were allowed to meet the children. She had always been strict when it came to the future of the orphans, ensuring that none of them would end up in homes where they would be neglected or mistreated.

Raven stood to the side, watching as family after family was introduced to the children. His mind was elsewhere, though. He glanced at Elara, who was standing next to him, looking as nervous as he felt. She was biting her lip, her eyes darting from one family to the next.

Raven knew she was thinking about what she had asked him a few days ago—whether they would be separated. He had promised her they wouldn't, but now, as the reality of the adoption day sank in, he felt the weight of that promise more than ever.

"Do you think we'll be chosen?" Elara whispered, her voice trembling slightly.

"I don't know," Raven replied, his eyes scanning the families. "But whatever happens, remember what I said."

Elara nodded, though her hand tightened around his, a silent plea that they wouldn't be torn apart.

As Lady Emma continued to introduce the children to the prospective families, she remained firm. She turned down more than one family who, while wealthy, lacked the warmth and compassion she knew the children needed. For her, it wasn't just about money—it was about the ability to provide love, stability, and a future.

"Only the best for my children," Lady Emma had always said, and today was no different.

Several children were chosen, their faces lighting up with joy as they were introduced to their new families. Raven watched silently as the group slowly dwindled. Each time a child was chosen, it felt like the noose of uncertainty tightened around him and Elara.

One wealthy merchant family had approached them earlier, but after a few minutes of discussion, Lady Emma had gently declined them, sensing something off. Raven was glad. He didn't like the cold, calculating look in their eyes.

Hours passed, and the crowd began to thin. Raven could see Elara's hope flickering as fewer and fewer families were left. He squeezed her hand gently, a silent reassurance that he was still there.

At last, just when it seemed like the day was winding down, a well-dressed couple approached them. The man was a distinguished scholar, judging by the way he carried himself, and his wife had a kind smile that reached her eyes. They looked like they could provide everything Lady Emma required—wealth, reputation, and most importantly, love.

They spoke with Lady Emma for a few moments, and then she motioned toward Raven and Elara.

"This is Raven," Lady Emma said, her voice warm but firm, "and this is Elara. Both are bright and capable children."

The couple exchanged glances, nodding as they smiled at the two. Raven remained still, keeping his emotions in check, but Elara's eyes widened with hope.

Lady Emma looked at them both, a protective glint in her eyes. "They deserve the best," she said softly but sternly, "and I expect nothing less if you choose them."

The couple smiled, and the man knelt to Elara's level, speaking gently. "We're looking for a girl child who will be part of our family, not just to be adopted but to be loved. Do you think you'd like to be part of that?"

Elara's eyes welled up with tears, but this time they were tears of hope. She looked at Raven, seeking his approval. He nodded, his face calm but his heart racing.

"Yes," Elara whispered, her voice shaking with emotion. "We'd like that."

Raven stayed silent, his mind racing. If this family was the one she'd go with, they looked like they would make sure to watch over Elara, just as promised. He knew it was important for her to have a new home, but he also couldn't shake the feeling of being separated.

As the man and woman helped Elara into their arms, preparing to take her with them, Raven squeezed her hand once more.

"Elara," he whispered, "you'll be alright. You deserve this."

"But... what about you?" Elara asked, her eyes wide, her voice trembling.

Raven smiled faintly, his heart heavy. "We'll meet again. I promise. You'll be strong, Elara. I know you will. And when we do meet, I'll be stronger, too. So don't worry. You'll be just fine."

Elara's face crumpled with emotion, but she nodded, biting back her tears. She hugged him tightly, and Raven hugged her back just as fiercely. He knew this was the right thing for her, even if it was painful for him.

"Take care of yourself," Raven said, his voice barely a whisper.

"You too, Raven." Elara wiped her tears away, taking a deep breath. "I'll be waiting for the day we meet again."

Lady Emma watched them with a knowing look, her hand resting on Elara's shoulder. With a final glance at Raven, Elara was led away by the couple, disappearing from his sight.

Raven stood there, still and quiet, as the orphanage fell silent around him. His heart ached with the knowledge that he had to let Elara go, but he also knew that this was the best thing for her. Now, it was time for him to focus on becoming stronger. He had to become stronger, not just for himself, but for the day they would meet again.