Chapter 188 Going Out
Lucia considered the question and responded, "I believe Daniel may be overly grateful. However, consider this: he has likely explored many ways to cure the curses and illnesses affecting everyone in this room, but he has not found a way to cure them all. And he has been doing all that while raising a group of children. Then we arrive and offer proof that we can heal everyone. So, it's understandable that he would express considerable gratitude towards us."
Aleshia reflected on Lucia's words and said to Daniel, "For now, all we need is lodging and food, which you have already provided. So please consider most of your debt paid."
"Thank you," Daniel replied, rising from his bow. After checking on everyone in their beds, he left the room. A short while later, Aleshia heard a voice from outside and guessed that Ren had approached him.
Aleshia remained in the room, overhearing the conversation, when she heard footsteps heading to another room. She contemplated her next move and said to Lucia, "I don't think we've been outside this house since we arrived. Let's go outside."
With that, Aleshia left the room and walked toward the door that led outside. As she was about to step outside, a child approached her and said, "I don't think you should leave alone. If you wait here, I can gather some others, and you can help us find a way to earn some money."
"Uh, alright. Sure, I guess I can do that," Aleshia replied, fumbling a bit. She waited near the entrance for a while and noticed a group of four kids gathered around the boy who had asked her to stay.
"Alright, I've brought a few of the other kids with me, so I think it will be safe to bring you outside with us," the boy said, satisfaction shining on his face. He then introduced himself and the others. "You're the talk of the camp right now, Aleshia. It's mighty nice to meet you," he said enthusiastically. "Let me introduce myself first. I'm Tristan," he said with a bright, toothy grin. "And the lovely girl next to me is Rey," he added, pointing to a girl with dirty blonde hair styled in a curly mess.
"Hi, I'm Rey," she said, extending her arm for a handshake, which Aleshia accepted.
"Nice to meet you, Rey," Aleshia replied.
Tristan watched with enthusiasm, then introduced the others. "To my left is Tray, and to my right is Miya."
Tray and Miya approached Aleshia and shook her hand. Finally, Tristan gestured to the last girl, and Aleshia recognized her immediately—it was Em.