A Gifted Queen

Chapter 25

Chapter 25

Explaining

Now I have two stops to make before I leave. I told them I would be at the orphanage in an hour so I will stop there first, then I will see dad. I want to talk to him. Hi dad.

Micah how is the search going?

Dad I am going to be a little late I have to make an unexpected stop.

Where are you stopping?

I was asked to stop at the orphanage. It is only twenty minutes away. I will only be there about thirty minutes late.

Why are you going the orphanage? With everything you need to get done it is a waste of time. I know even coming here is taking up precious time, but I am selfish and want to see you.

The lady that runs the place said the kids are sad and miss Ray, they think she forgot them.

Ray has that effect on people, she gets under your skin.

She sure got under mine. I wish I could just hold her right now.

You will be holding her soon, Son. I have faith in you.

While I have you on the phone, we need your help. Can you lend us at least twenty-five men for the search. If not lend us as many as you can.

I could give you around thirty if you need them. I will get them together and send them to the castle.

Thats great dad, Ill be home soon. The orphanage is just ahead of me. Have you ever been here.

I am on the board that takes care of different projects. I havent seen it in person, but from what I heard at different meetings it is one of the best in the country.

If you didnt know better you wouldnt think it was an orphanage. I have never seen this place before, it is like a large apartment complex with gardens and outdoor toys of all kinds. I wonder why there isnt any kids outside playing?

That is unusual for a place that has that many kids. There has to be a reason, they might be in school. That place has a school built in the design. Do what you want to, I will see you when you get here. His father hangs up.

When I open the front door and walk inside, there are no sounds of children playing, no laughter of any kind. It feels so cold, like the place is under a blanket of sadness. Like the whole place is dark and gray, with no joy in it.

Your highness you made it. Follow me to the office, I will go get Ms. Pringles. Wait right here at the front desk.

The lady that came to see me earlier comes out of her office, all smiles and excited to see me. Your Highness, thank you for coming.

I told you I would talk to the children. We are in a hurry lets get started I have many other things to do.

I think you being here will help a lot, the children are in the classrooms. We will have them brought to assembly, so you can talk to all of them at one time.

She reaches for the microphone on the counter behind her, then proceeds to make an announcement. To all teacher there is an assembly today, bring all students to the auditorium.

Standing in the hallway I watch as they leave the rooms and walk quietly to the auditorium. Are they always this quiet, they are not talking or kidding around like most kids. Hell, they arent even holding their heads up.

That is what I was trying to tell you. The princess gave them hope, told them she would be here for them. They think she gave up because they are not worth anything and she was lying to them.

This is sad to see. They look like I feel. To be honest I thought you were exaggerating things.

Many of these kids come from hard luck stories. They come here and dont have a reason to smile. The princess would wiggle her way in and get them to smile and giggle somehow.

Most of the people that spend time with the princes feel hopeful and happier after seeing her. Micah smiles a small half smile.

You miss her a lot too your highness. I can see it.

He avoids the statement. Miss Pringles, how many children do you have here at the orphanage?

There are thirty younger ones under ten and then we have twenty-six of the older ones ten to fifteen and fourteen over fifteen and up. The princes can tell you all their names, what they like and dont. She can make each one smile, that is why they miss her. She has helped us find homes for a great many of them.

I see, as soon as youre set up, I will talk to them. Ray would not be happy that these children are this sad because of her. She was always happy, her smile made everything like sunshine. These clouds would break her heart.

The two of them walk up on stage. I think you are right, this would upset her. She takes the microphone and begins to talk. All right, children. Pay attention. Mrs. Pringles voice comes loud and clear across the auditorium. The prince has come to talk to you about the Princess.

Not the Princess. Her name is Ray. A small boy yelled out. She is my friend. I want her to come and visit me again.

I know, sweetheart. One of the teachers says as she holds the boy who looks like he is ready to cry, in a warm embrace.

Would you listen to the prince? Hes here to tell you what's going on, OK.

What I'm here to tell you is that the Princess needs your help. You see, the Princess has been taken by somebody. We don't know who has her, and it's very sad.

The room breaks out in whispers and ohs and awws. Listen, be quiet and let the prince explain.

I understand you all miss her. I miss her too, I know if she could, she would be here with all of you. She needs your love, and she needs you to send it to her. I came here for your help; I need all of you to stop being this sad and to be brave. Send her your smiles and love.

Don't forget giggles and your laughter. A little girl adds.

Of course, we cant forget that either. Without that, she will not make it. I promise you, I will do my best to find her. You have to do your best to send your love and hope to her.

Why did they take her? We need her.

I dont know why they took her. We all need her, you have to be strong for her, the love you guys share is so important to the princess, and I know she wants to be with you. Is there anybody who has a question?

How soon will you find her? A small voice calls out from the crowd.

I don't know. Only the moon goddess knows, but I will be as fast as I can, I promise.