《Heartless》


 1: Laina

    Beyond the streams that crosses the prairie of Dalia, and yonder over the glen of Edo is a small village like the others by the name of Musica. A small thriving village that has all of its villager content of their lives. The old people always fish by the lake and sell them at the market. The blacksmith handles all of the repairs in tools that the tailor and the builder use.


    Amidst the small village is a fountain where the villagers toss a single copper coin and makes a wish. It has been said that the fountain grants a wish if you meet the necessary requirements. But there are also times that a wish can be granted just by tossing a coin.


    Being a popular spot in the village, peddlers set up shop right next to it. Among such peddler is a young girl by the name of Laina. She is in no connection with the other peddlers. She appeared one day selling hearts in the town of Lenin. She wears an ashen colored blouse, and a yellow pinafore underneath her red cloak with yellow lining, and orange boots.


    Unlike all the other peddlers that either have a table or a carpet to place their products, she uses a basket. Hearts of different sizes and vibrant spectrum of colors inside small transparent boxes that can fit on ones¡¯ palm.


    ¡°Do you want to buy a heart?¡± Laina repeatedly ask with a smile on her face.


    Like any other day, villagers are going through the motions, going to the market, buying bread from the bakery as well as farmers heading out to cultivate vegetation.


    The girl¡¯s quiet voice fell deaf to the hustle and bustle sound of the village going about their daily lives. Her gentle voice could not be match to a merchant¡¯s call for buyers.


    After a short while, Laina sat down by the fountain and looks at her reflection. The reflection of light shines on her face while the coins down the fountain shimmers placing a glint in her eyes. She looks up and seeing that it was almost mid-day she went across the street from the market and rested at an abandoned food stall.


    From her basket she took out a loaf of bread and started eating it. Her eyes wander off to the people of the village, everyone seems happy yet she feels that something is missing.Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    She went to the tailor¡¯s shop to sell her hearts but she was kindly rejected, the same thing happened at the bakery as well as the library. Yet she never felt down, she still wears this kind smile on her face. To finish her day, she went to the blacksmith¡¯s workshop to set stall there.


    The blacksmith is inside his workshop talking to a customer. A man in black clothing is talking apologetically with the blacksmith, constantly scratching his head and having this worrisome look.


    ¡°Mr. Digor, thank you for the advice!¡± the man said


    ¡°Not at all Doctor. If there is anything else that I could help you with, please don¡¯t hesitate to ask¡± The blacksmith replied with a big smile on face.


    Digor notices Laina outside his shop sitting and day dreaming as she often does when she visits the workshop.


    ¡°Oh, she¡¯s here. Well doctor, I will leave you to gather your things. There is something that I must do.¡±


    The blacksmith left his workshop and went out to meet Laina. He smiled as he handed her a silver coin, he then went back to his workshop.


    The man notices what just happened and ask the blacksmith about it. The blacksmith smiled and said


    ¡°A simple favor for a hardworking lass.¡±


    Perplexed, the man left the workshop bidding his goodbye to the blacksmith. He notices that the girl has already left, he wanted to talk to her for a bit. He then makes his way to the other side of town where his horse-drawn carriage is waiting.


    He took out his pocket watch and looks at it and a surprise face expression are written on his face. With his bag on his left hand he hastily walks. Upon turning over a corner he bumps onto Laina. She fell down and her hearts scatters.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, are you hurt?¡± The doctor asked the girl collecting her stuff.


    He helped her collect the scattered hearts and helps her up. Another worrisome look covers his face


    ¡°Would you like to buy a heart mister?¡± Laina said with her eyes lit up.


    ¡°Are you hurt? I¡¯m sorry for running into you.¡± He said with an apologetic tone.


    Laina shakes her head then looks up to man. Her dress is still covered in dirt from the encounter yet she didn¡¯t mind.


    ¡°Would you like to buy a heart mister?¡± She asks again in the same pleasing tone.


    Confuse, the man just accepted her offer.


    ¡°How much is it?¡± he asks.


    ¡°A genuine smile for a heart¡± she replied.


    The man was surprise, he didn¡¯t know what to do. He gave an awkward smile while trying to understand the situation. The girl smiled back at her and handed her one of the hearts in her basket. The man still confused, accepted it. While the man is still contemplating, Laina had already left and rode one of the carriages heading to another village.


    When he came to himself, he was alone. He shook his head and placed the box inside his bag and then went his way towards his personal carriage.


    ¡°Is everything in order doctor?¡± The man driving the carriage asks.


    ¡°Yes Edmund, head straight to Lenin.¡±

 2: Hearts

    Lenin is on the outskirt of the main city. Unlike the village of Musica, the life on Lenin is much slower. The sun is already setting when they arrive, the carriage pass by the town where the villager¡¯s eyes are fixated on it.


    An old man approached the carriage when horses went to a halt. The man looks out his window to see the old man and smiled. He gets out of his carriage and hugged the old man.


    ¡°You¡¯re doing fine now?!¡± The man asks in surprise.


    ¡°All thanks to you doctor¡± The old man replied with tears in his eyes.


    After such encounter, the sun has already set and he rode his carriage home. Feelings began to stir up in this man¡¯s heart as he ponders the encounter he had with the villagers. He was in such deep thought that he didn¡¯t notice that they have already arrived at his house. Edmund opens the door and took his bag. A maid was waiting by the front door.


    The house looks well maintained with flowers blooming by the side walk and around the entire place. A cobblestone house that has vines growing from the sides adding more beauty to the place.


    When he came to himself, he got off the carriage and handed his cloak at the maid.


    ¡°What are we having for dinner Margaret?¡± The man asks.


    ¡°There is still food given by the villagers. It would be a waste to throw them out.¡± The maid replies.


    The man gave a weak smile and proceeded to the dining area. Various food is on the table, ranging from fruits and root crops to pastries and sweets. Edmund soon joined them at the table.


    ¡°I have placed your belongings in your room Doctor¡± Edmund said


    ¡°Thank you, Edmund. Please join us.¡±


    They filled themselves from the foods that were given by the villagers. Edmund and Margaret engage in conversation on how they days went. Continuously trying to engage the Doctor to join the conversation who seems too deep in thought and exhausted to participate.


    After dinner the man went upstairs while the maid and the driver cleans the table. At lights out, they all went to their own room that was in the ground floor. The light inside the man¡¯s room is still lit.


    The room was filled with books, scattered on the floor along with papers that seems not important to him. On his table is a picture of a woman and a girl around his arms by their garden. He slumps on his table while staring at the picture then tears filled his eyes.


    He remembers the box that he receives from the strange girl at Musica. He took it out from his bag that was on his table. He stares at the glowing heart shape prism inside the box. As the hearts¡¯ different colors reflected in his eyes, the sorrow that he was feeling earlier disappeared and was overwritten with feelings of mystery.


    His thought was now filled of questions about the girl. Why does she sell hearts? Who is she? Where did she came from? He falls asleep with those thought floating inside his mind.


    When morning came, he realized he had just slept at his table again. But unlike the other times that he had woken up, this time he was being filled with unexplained exuberance. He went downstairs and was greeted by Margaret carrying a basket of bread.Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.


    ¡°Doctor, another gift from the villagers.¡± She greeted him with a smile.


    ¡°Margaret, please tell Edmund we¡¯ll head back to Musica as soon as he is ready.¡±


    The old woman was surprised. It has been a while when she saw the Doctor this happy. She talks with Edmund who is outside by the garden and informs him of what just happen. They were both filled with delight.


    ¡°May this peace continue to be with him¡± Edmund whispered under his breath.


    They arrived at Musica way before noon and went straight to the blacksmith¡¯s workshop. Digor was taking it easy while waiting for any customer who arrives. He was surprise when he saw the horse-drawn carriage. The man got off the carriage and Digor sighed in relief when he saw him.


    ¡°Ah Dr. Stine, it¡¯s just you. To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit today?¡± The blacksmith greeted politely.


    ¡°About the young women who was here yesterday.¡±


    ¡°Oh Laina? What about her?¡±


    ¡°Well I would like to talk with her, do you know where she is.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t say I do Doctor. You see, she goes from one place to another.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    ¡°If you must see her, I suggest you go to Edo, you¡¯ll have more chance of finding her there than here.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, sir. I¡¯m sorry for troubling you this morning¡± Stine said as he tips his hat in respect to Digor.


    Edo is a village right next to Musica, it¡¯s distance from Musica is much shorter compared to Lenin if you were to travel from there. Edo almost has the same town composition like others, from the fountain at the village square to the lake at its far eastern part. Except for the valley in which the village is built. Cold streams rush its parts and embracing breeze covers your body as you walk through the streets.


    Doctor Stine and Edmund arrives at Edo and had breakfast at a nearby inn. Stine talks with the owner to know the whereabouts of Laina. He was directed to go to the northern part of town where she¡¯s usually at during this time. He thanks the owner and briefly ate before heading out, as well as having Edmund to wait for him while he looks for the said girl.


    Laina was sitting casually at a barrel eating bread while overlooking the vastness and beauty of the valley. Stein approach the young lass still unaware of his presence.


    ¡°Excuse me.¡± He spoke softly.


    The young girl is startled and gave him a surprised look but then began to have cheerful expression when she saw his face.


    ¡°Ah! Mister from Musica¡± she gleefully said.


    ¡°Yes. Uhm, if I may, can you tell me more about the hearts that you¡¯re selling?¡±


    ¡°These hearts bring happiness, but only one heart per person.¡± She explains while showing her basket-filled hearts.


    Another thought came to his mind when Laina explains what the heart does. He¡¯s not entirely sure if he believes what she just told him, but somehow deep inside him he felt that what she had just said is true.


    ¡°Do you want me to help you sell the hearts?¡± He asks.


    ¡°That¡¯s a great idea.¡± She expresses. ¡°But I still don¡¯t know your name¡± She added.


    ¡°Ah of course. My name is Lionel Stine, but most people just call me Stine.¡± He replies with kind gesture.


    ¡°Nice to meet you Mr. Stine, my name is Laina, just Laina¡± She replied while slightly bowing her head and holding her dress.


    On they went to sell the hearts that Laina possesses. They went from house to house offering the hearts, yet they were all kindly rejected. Laina¡¯s smile never left her face while the weary Doctor expression seems to fall.


    ¡°How could you keep a happy face despite all those rejections¡± He asks.


    Laina looks at the worn-down doctor as if she didn¡¯t hear the question. She looks at him with this perplex face followed by a big smile.


    They have been going around the entire town trying to sell the hearts for the entire day. The sun was also about set, a gentle breeze passes through the town as if hinting of oncoming nightfall. Stine looks at his watch and was surprised that their little endeavor took the entire day.


    ¡°It seems to be getting late, we should call it a day.¡±


    The young girl smiles at the doctor and nod in agreement. Then the both of them went to the village square where Edmund is waiting.


    ¡°Are you staying nearby, we could give you a lift to your place.¡±


    ¡°Ah no, I travel with the peddlers going from village to village.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? May I offer you a place to stay. I have enough food in my house and plenty of room to spare.¡±


    The lass hesitantly accepted Mr. Stines offer. As they travel back to Lenin, Stine bombards her with questions of who she was and where she lives in which he didn¡¯t learn much. She became a little uncomfortable so Stine stops prying. But all of that uneasiness left her went she saw the setting sun and it seems as if her mind wandered somewhere.

 3: Stine

    They arrive at the house where they are greeted by Margaret who was surprise to see the presence of the young girl.


    For the first time of what seems to be a long time, Stine ate happily in which Edmund and Margaret was overjoyed. They didn¡¯t have to start the conversation, Stine would have Laina engage in the most light-hearted conversation even if her responses were as plain as they could be.


    After dinner, Marget shows her to her room. Across the door is a bed with sheets that have just been replaced. A closet full of clothes but nothing that fits perfectly for the lass.


    ¡°Tomorrow we¡¯ll head to Cynthia to get you some outfit¡± Margaret remarks.


    Unable to fall asleep, Laina walks towards the veranda holding a candlestick. She blows on it and the full glory of the moon shines on her. The wind encircles her and she hum to a tune in her memory.


    Stine notices her and stand right beside her and gazed upon the village in the cold night. The village is lit with lanterns from every street. No one in sight, just the cold breeze rustling through the trees that surrounds the place.


    ¡°This feels very nice.¡± She utters.


    Stine smiles as he looks at the distance, then he notices Laina looking down as if in deep thought. She plays with her fingers and the uneasiness is felt by Stine.


    ¡°Is something wrong?¡± He asks.


    ¡°Earlier when we talked¡­ I just learned that I know nothing about myself.¡±


    Stine looks upon the weeping lass. He gave her a small hug and said to her.


    ¡°It will be alright. I¡¯ll help you know who you are, after we sell those hearts. I promise.¡±


    The night pass while Stine comforts the girl. Promising her that she could stay as long as she wants and he will help her find out anything about her alongside helping her sell the hearts.


    The next morning, when Stine had woken up, she looks for Laina which seems to be not around. Margaret told him that after they went to get her some clothes, she wanted to stay and sell some hearts. Stine chuckles at the thought because that is how Laina usually acts.


    Stine went to the village to join her but she was nowhere to be found. He asks around and was told that the girl was last seen heading east where the cemetery is. Beyond the cemetery is a cliff overlooking the vast ocean.Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    He saw her gazing towards the stretching horizon lost in thought. He was used to it by now, seeing Laina looking randomly at wondrous sight while her minds wander off to a distant world. He sat next to Laina who is still unaware of his presence.


    When she came to herself, she finally notices Stine who is looking at a distance.


    ¡°Laina¡± He utters. ¡°How is it that the heart that you gave me brought me happiness.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure myself but I can see the ones that actually needs it. When I saw you, your heart has this lingering sorrow.¡±


    Stine didn¡¯t believe her, but he did entertain the thought the she could actually see the state of someone¡¯s heart. He wanted to believe for when he first saw her, his heart was truly in disarray but for him it¡¯s impossible to know someone else¡¯s thoughts.


    They went back to the house where Margaret prepares their lunch. She calls to them from the garden as they were approaching the house. She also mentions that the food prepared came from the villagers.


    ¡°The people here really love giving you food¡± Laina asks enthusiastically.


    ¡°That¡¯s because they adore the Doctor, dear¡± Margaret says with a smile


    Stine just replies with a gentle nod. Halfway through the meal a gentle gust of breeze flowed through them where Laina followed the leaves that went by leaving them again in her mind-wandering state, where they smiled pleasantly.


    ¡°The cemetery here is a beautiful place, far beautiful than any place that I have seen¡± Laina said when she came to herself.


    ¡°Just because they¡¯re dead doesn¡¯t mean they don¡¯t belong to a special place in our hearts¡± Edmund smiles while giving her a gentle wink.


    ¡°There were these two prominent tombs that I saw, covered in pearls.¡±


    The gentle feeling that surrounds them became weak by the second. Laina was not aware of the question that she asks, Edmund and Margaret turn silent and sip from their cup. Stine fell silent as well. A disconcerting feeling now grabs hold of Laina and she tries to change the subject.


    Stine stops her and said that it was fine. He wipes the tears were that were welling up in his eyes and with a sniff and cough, he tells the story that has been burdening him.


    ¡°They belong to my wife and my daughter. 3 months ago, I lost my daughter to an illness, my wife has been very feeble and the sorrow took toll on her body, she followed soon after.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡±


    The unpleasant feeling that filled the air was now gone, but was replace with sadness and pity for the man. A sad countenance can be seen on Stine¡¯s face when he tells the story, fighting back the tears from every word the he uttered.


    Laina walks towards him and gave him a hug. While she caresses the hair of the mourning man she hum a tune from her memories. The man¡¯s tears began to flow. It has been a long time since he have mourn, he felt hopeless but having someone to share his burden made his life much easier.


    The day went by without anything much happening. Night came and they finishing up. Margaret cleans table with Edmund while Stine and Laina are in the study. Stine asks again what the heart are and where she got them.


    Laina explains again like she did earlier that somehow, she knows who needs the hearts. That she can see through them, when asked how she could see them she said that those people that have a shadowy heart are the one she talks to. But she does offer it to anyone who may want it.


    Stine ponders about Laina¡¯s story, her identity became more mysterious to him. Her innocent stature shows that she really doesn¡¯t know much about herself and that she really wants to know who she is.

 4: Glen

    On the days that followed they went to villages where Laina plan to sell the hearts. Stine had her write down the people that she thinks needs the hearts, only to find out that she doesn¡¯t know how to read or write.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I guess I¡¯ll have you describe them to me.¡±


    Laina went on and bluntly describes the townspeople that she perceives that needed the heart. One such person she describes as a buff, tanned and have really large hands. They went to Dalia where she said he lives.


    After arriving at Dalia, Stine immediately tries to find the man to where Laina said to him that they will meet him shortly in the day. Instead they had lunch at a nearby tavern, it was a few hours past noon when they got there. As soon as lunch was finish, Laina wanted to go to the edge of town.


    At this point, Stine was already used to Laina going to edges of the town to sight see and such places are always a sight to behold.


    The praire of Dalia is covered with golden white fields. The wheat field makes stretch very far; beside it are crops that grows alongside it. The edge of the town has an abundant number of trees to relax in. Sycamore trees covers the area and left preserve to provide shade to any who would want to feel the breeze.


    Stine took a deep breath while basking in the beauty of the place and looks at Laina.


    ¡°This place is really beautiful, but shouldn¡¯t we look for the buff, tanned man with really large hands?¡± Stine asks.


    ¡°He usually comes here around this time.¡± Laina replies without looking back.


    Stine takes a look around the vibrant trees to see anyone who resembles Laina¡¯s description. They were not alone in the place, it¡¯s also not surprising to see anyone there during this time. It is not crowded but hardly anyone would waste their time going to such a beautiful place only to pay attention to the people around them. Most of them would lay on the grass and others would climb the branches of the trees and take a rest there.


    ¡°There he is.¡± Laina said softly while pointing to man at a distance.


    There it was, a man that perfectly matches Laina¡¯s description. A man wearing an ashen colored tunic and pants with a belt. The countenance of the said main impresses Dr. Stine thinking that the man is a famous mercenary with such a body.


    Before he knew it, Laina was already walking towards the man. Stine caught up to her in a moment. The man notices the two and gave them a big smile.


    ¡°Enjoying this day¡¯s breeze?¡± the man asks wearing his big smile.


    Laina smiles and nod at the question then she asks.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    ¡°Would you like to buy some hearts?¡±


    ¡°Thank you, lassie, but no.¡± the man replies followed by another big smile.


    Stine who is still getting used to the situation tries to take some action to have the man re consider about buying a heart or even just stay for a conversation.


    The man looks confuse but was amuse of the Stine¡¯s attempt. He gives a sigh as he scratched his head.


    ¡°I have some time to spare for today, so let¡¯s just talk for a bit.¡±


    They engage in some casual conversation where the man asks and Stine just answers them. Laina was off to her own world again. The man then learns that Stine is a doctor, which he asks him to give him a quick check up.


    ¡°My things are at my carriage at the town square, I¡¯ll have to get it there.¡±


    ¡°Why are you sad mister?¡± Laina asks abruptly.


    Laina¡¯s question surprises the man as well as Stine. Stine tries to change the subject but then he saw the man¡¯s face tear up a bit. Laina looks at the man with her innocent face not knowing what she just did. She repeated her question again thinking that the man didn¡¯t hear it. Stine was still dumbfounded and he doesn¡¯t know what to do. The man brushes the tear that filled his eyes and looks at Laina.


    ¡°I will tell you, but will you hear my story lassie?¡± He asks wearing his big smile.


    They went back to the town and they went inside the townhall then another room in which the man explains as his office.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t know you are the mayor.¡± Stine said while he scratches his head in embarrassment.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, I¡¯m used to it by now.¡± He replied.


    He had them sit down after offering them some cold drinks. He then turns to Laina. He then told them his story. Apparently, he became the mayor not too long ago, the old mayor passed away and the seat was left vacant, he was then nominated.


    ¡°As much as I want to, I constantly feel that I can¡¯t. I miss the field; I was but a humble farmer trying to help the community.¡± He clenches his fist as tears began to fall down his eyes.


    He goes on about how he feels inadequate because the former mayor is an astounding man, telling Stine and Laina about the previous mayor¡¯s feats. He wanted to let up and step down, but the people looks up to him and couldn¡¯t let them down.


    Laina walks up to the crying man and gave him a hug like he did with Stine. She then puts her palm around the man¡¯s hands and looks at his eyes.


    ¡°I think you¡¯re doing great.¡± She smiles


    The man sat silently as Laina pats his back and tells him what she thinks why he¡¯s doing great. Simple things like talking to them and always wearing a big smile and how he gave them something to drink.


    The man let out a small chuckle about Laina¡¯s compliments. After a few more exchanges he asks about the heart. As did Stine, the man was surprised when he found out that heart cost nothing more but a smile. The man smiles as Laina handed her a heart from the basket.


    ¡°She¡¯s a good kid.¡± The man said to Stine as they were about to leave.


    Laina had already left the building and walks towards the carriage but was distracted by the pigeon by the fountain.


    Stine nod and smiles at the mayor in agreement to what he just said.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for the dragging the both of you here. I don¡¯t think I need the check-up now. Turns out I just needed someone to listen to me. Thank you.¡± The mayor said wearing his big smile.


    Stine tips his hat then left. He walks towards Laina who is innocently looking at the pigeon eating breadcrumbs. He calls out to her and then they went home.


    The day ended after dinner, Laina already went to sleep. But Stine couldn¡¯t feel like sleeping at all. His mind is filled with thoughts that had happened earlier. Not because it¡¯s the first time someone bought a heart from them but because of his conversation with the mayor or Dalia.


    Unable to fall asleep he walks towards the veranda and basks in the cool breeze as he looks towards the village. He was filled with joy about his experience and being the one in the giving end.

 5: Gesture

    The next day, Stine handed his heart that he receives from Laina back to her. She was confused at his actions.


    ¡°Yesterday felt really great. And if this heart will give someone as great comfort as I have and Ogden received, then this should go to someone else.¡± Stine explains.


    Laina just smiled at Stine and his thoughts as she accepted the heart and placed it inside the basket.


    When asks where they should go next. Laina pointed out someone in Lenin, the one who gave her clothes and she describes her a kind lady that always wear a straw bonnet with gentle hands.


    Stine thought to himself, that almost everyone wears a straw bonnet and he couldn¡¯t go around the village checking everyone¡¯s hands. Which reminded him that he could just ask Margaret for help.


    They went to the tailor shop with Margaret. They were greeted by the seamstress, the tailor¡¯s daughter, and thank the doctor for his services that he rendered in the past. Margaret offers to help her for the day as per the request of the doctor if is she would hear him out.


    While Margaret handles the seamstress work, Stine and Laina sat down with the seamstress as they were offered a cold refreshment.Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    ¡°So, how can I help you doctor?¡± The seamstress said as she sat down while wiping her hands on her apron.


    ¡°More like, is there any way we can help you Cynthia?¡± Stine said as he leans forward and clasp his hands.


    The seamstress looks at them, confused.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand. You have helped enough in the past doctor and I¡¯m very grateful for it.¡± Cynthia replies not knowing how to respond.


    Stine tries to think of a way for them to help the seamstress out as well as include the hearts in the conversation. But before he could do it, Laina was already at the edge of her seat asking Cynthia.


    ¡°Would you like to buy a heart?¡± She asks.


    ¡°Uhm, I¡¯m sorry, I don¡¯t have any money.¡± She replies with an uncomfortable smile.


    Another customer comes inside the store. Margaret was already occupied with some work.  Cynthia excuses herself to entertain the customer.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry doctor, maybe some other time?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright, maybe next time.¡± Stine replies as he walks towards the entrance.


    ¡°Margaret, you may stay and help Cynthia. Laina and I will go back to the house.¡±


    Margaret replied with a simple nod as well as Cynthia with an apologetic smile.


    They were about to go back but then thought that it was too early. It¡¯s not even noon yet so Stine asks Laina if she want to go around the village to see if there¡¯s anyone else there who might need the heart.


    They were greeted by every villager they meet, even by those who can only see them from a distance. Laina was able to sell some hearts easily as she was with the doctor who has a great reputation in the place.

 6: Lullaby

    By noon they returned to the house. Margaret is still not there so Edmund handled their lunch and they ate by the garden.


    The weather is as fine like any other day in Lenin. The clouds provide decent shade along with the trees that are planted near them.  The cold breeze brushes through them gently time after time.


    Stine went into his study and cleans up the place. He stacks the books they were on the floor on the shelves as well as the paper that was scattered.


    Laina was standing by the door looking at Stine cleaning the room.


    ¡°Do you want to help?¡± Stine asks.


    Laina gave him a nod and went into the room to help. There wasn¡¯t as much cleaning and dusting as Margaret comes in the room before just lightly dust the place but careful enough not to move things around too much.


    After cleaning they sat by the veranda and looks at the village. Cleaning the room almost took the entire afternoon. After a short while a thought pop inside Stines head.


    ¡°Laina, about the melody that you hum from the garden the other day¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Where did you learn it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure, it just came to mind.¡±


    ¡°What about it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a lullaby my wife used to sing back when we live in the city.¡±


    ¡°I must¡¯ve learnt it there.¡±


    ¡°Could you sing it again.¡±


    Laina began to hum the music. Stine chuckles at his request for Laina to sing when she began to hum. He thought to himself that she probably doesn¡¯t know the lyrics of the song. Towards the end of the tune, Stine hums and uttered under his breath.Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!


    ¡°I will be with you once more.¡±


    Laina stops humming and looks at Stine with a confused face


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s the last part of the song.¡±


    She gave a sigh and smiles at him. Then Margaret caught their eyes walking on a distance towards the house carrying a basket.


    They had dinner afterwards and Stine asks Margaret how it was working with Cynthia.


    ¡°She¡¯s stressed out even if she says otherwise. Losing her father is taking toll on her body more than she expects.¡±


    The night draws dark and Stine is left to his thoughts. He wonders how to help Cynthia without being tasteless as to mention her father¡¯s death.


    The next day she asks Margaret to help Cynthia out again. While he still doesn¡¯t know how to help Cynthia, he decides to find others who might need the hearts.


    One such person lives in Edo who Laina describes as a stiff looking man who looks slightly younger than the doctor, he has a prominent burnt mark on his face and a strange eye.


    Edo is the town between Musica and Dalia, the place with the beautiful valley where Stine offers to help Laina to sell the hearts. They arrived some time before noon. At the village square there was the caravan that Laina usually travels with. They called out to her grabbing her attention.


    Stine notices that she looks like she wanted to talk with them for a while.


    ¡°Go on ahead, I¡¯ll be by the tavern.¡±


    Laina¡¯s lit up then she went to the group.


    Inside the tavern there were almost no one there. The owner was at the counter and on the corner of the place is a man drinking like there is no tomorrow.


    Stine disregarded the drunkard¡¯s presence and reserve a table. But no matter how much he tries not to look at the man he became curious when he saw the cane right next to him. The drunkard wasn¡¯t making a ruckus and the owner is happily serving the man.


    After chugging another bottle of liquor, the man stood up and burps. He doesn¡¯t have his left arm and right leg and he wears an eyepatch over his right eye. He took the cane and walks out of the tavern where he bumps onto Laina who is going in.


    The man smiles smile at her and Laina apologize at the man with the red face. When Laina sat down she catch her breath then she looks at Stine with a glint in her eyes.


    ¡°You weren¡¯t gone long, did something happen?¡± Stine asks the girl sitting across him like she wanted to tell something exciting.


    The food just arrive before Laina could utter a word. They then talked about it while eating.


    During the conversation, Stine notices how different Laina is compared to when he first met her. He thought to himself maybe she is able to finally warm up to him.


    ¡°You look like you wanted to tell me something earlier¡±

 7: Support

    Laina looks down and grips her skirt then just smiled back at Stine while shaking her head.


    ¡°They just wanted to know how I was doing.¡± Laina replied with a smile at which point the excitement left her.


    They finished their meal and head out to find the man. The sun is at its peak yet the weather seems fair. A gentle breeze comes from the direction where the valley is.


    ¡°So where do find him?¡±


    ¡°I usually see him but I could never talk to him properly.¡±


    Stine follows Laina to an alley on the eastern side of the village. The path isn¡¯t littered but there were wild grass growing on the stone path as well as moss and mold growing on old unabandoned houses. The buildings are intact but there are holes on the walls that you could almost see inside it.


    ¡°How did you even come to know this part of the village?¡± Stine asks


    ¡°I don¡¯t remember, I was just walking to where I want to go and I found this place.¡± She replies


    When they turn on the corner ahead, Stine saw a man lying on the ground, face down. He immediately run towards him, turns him, and checks his pulse. Then he realizes that the man is from the tavern earlier. Laina walks towards them as if nothing is out of the ordinary.


    ¡°He¡¯s alive, just intoxicated.¡± Stine while checking the body for any injuries.


    He looks at Laina just standing by them with a confused face.


    ¡°Could you grab the cane there. We¡¯ll take him to an inn.¡±


    ¡°Ah. That¡¯s him¡± Laina pointed out.


    Stine looks at the drunken man and tries to remember Laina¡¯s description of him. Stiff looking, slightly younger than him, prominent burnt mark on the face and a strange eye. Only the burnt mark matches the description.Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.


    Stine looks at her not sure if she was joking or not.


    ¡°See! He looks stiff, has burnt face and a strange eye.¡± She said while pointing at the man¡¯s eye patch.¡± She describes


    Stine took another look at the man and just accepted Laina¡¯s description.


    ¡°I always see him here but he¡¯s always sleeping.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s drunk Laina. This is what happens when you drink liquor.¡± Stine explains.


    They engage in a little conversation while waiting for the man to wake up. Laina is eagerly asking questions while Stine is happily answering all of them.


    The man let out a small groan and notices Stine and Laina sitting right next to him. He thought no more of it and picks up his cane. As he was about to leave, Stine tries to stop him.


    ¡°Sir, can we have a moment of your time?¡±


    The man looks back at them from head to toe then he let out a disgruntled sound.


    ¡°What do you want?¡± The man asks.


    Stine run through his mind on what to ask the man. At first glance the man already looks irritated, add to the factor that the man is drunk as well. Before he could speak, Laina blurted out the same 7 words she asks everyone


    ¡°Would you like to buy a heart?¡± Laina asks with her light warming smile.


    The man stood still and turns around towards her.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright lassie, I don¡¯t need anything for the meantime.¡± The man replies then left


    After a couple of steps, the man fell down again. His face is still drunken red and he vomits on the ground. Before the vomit could eventually covers his face, Stine helps him up. He asks Laina to carry the cane while he handles the man.


    They went to an inn and lodge the man there. The inn owner, however, notices the man.


    ¡°Ah, Fergus.¡± The owner remarks.


    Stine had the drunken man slump on a table while Laina sat next to him carrying the cane with both her hands.


    ¡°Could you take care of him. I¡¯ll handle his fees.¡±


    ¡°Sure¡±


    Stine and the owner took him to a room across the desk. They laid him on the bed as he was snoring loudly.


    ¡°Are you a relative, perchance?¡±


    ¡°An acquaintance.¡± Stine replies.


    They took off his boots and went to the reception desk where Stine pays for the drunk man¡¯s lodging.


    ¡°He¡¯s quite a mess isn¡¯t he¡± Stine comments.


    ¡°Yeah, the war killed everything for him. Now he just spends his waking hours at the tavern.¡±


    ¡°Do you know where he lives?¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re heading towards Dalia it¡¯s to the left right next to the trinket shop. He owns the place.¡±


    Stine thought to himself and wrote something. He asks the owner to hand Fergus the letter when he¡¯s fine.


    ¡°Would you like to drop by his store and try to sell some hearts before we go?¡±


    Laina gave out a nod.

 8: Trinket

    They went to the trinket shop and Laina was amazed of everything that she saw there. They could only see past paned windows and could not fully grasp the inside.


    They weren¡¯t able to sell any hearts and the day went by quickly. They rode the carriage home. Stine notices something different about Laina. She does her usually thing of looking at a distance and having her mind wanders but Stine notices that her empty eyes has now a feeling of longing for something.


    ¡°Laina¡­¡± she whispers to herself.


    ¡°Is something wrong?¡± Stine asks.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Even though Laina brushes off Stine¡¯s concern, he was able to notice that something is wrong. But he didn¡¯t want to bother her that much, thinking that she will eventually tell him about it.


    Aside from what they did the entire day the night became uneventful. Margaret prepares their dinner as Edmund took care of the horses. Laina became more active in conversation but when the time comes that she is off to her own world again, Stine couldn¡¯t help but worry for her.


    With the same goal they had in mind yesterday, they went back to Edo to meet with Fergus. Stine had Margaret help Cynthia again since they will be gone for the entire day. Edmund had already prepared the carriage and is waiting to take them.


    Upon arriving at Edo, they notice Fergus come out of the tavern. They call out to him but his face makes it known to them that he doesn¡¯t remember them. Then as if he remembers something, took out a piece of paper that was written by Stine yesterday to meet them at the tavern. They sat inside and Stine orders some meals.


    ¡°So, you¡¯re the one responsible for yesterday. I¡¯m sorry but I can¡¯t pay you back.¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s fine we just want a moment of your time.¡± Stine repliesThe tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    Stine invited Fergus to eat with them and engage in some light conversation to get to know each other better.


    ¡°So how can I help you?¡±


    Stine looks at Laina who looks as if waiting for the opportune time to ask Fergus. Laina notices Stine stare and give out a smile.


    ¡°Would you like to buy a heart?¡±


    Despite Laina carrying a basket, and having that basket place right next to her. Fergus didn¡¯t seem to notice it until Laina mentions it.


    ¡°May I see it?¡± Fergus asks while stretching his remaining arm towards the basket.


    Laina handed him a heart and Fergus look at it meticulously.


    ¡°Extraordinary¡­¡± Fergus uttered underneath his breath.


    Stine was surprised of Fergus reaction. It was the first time someone was interested in the hearts upon first glance.


    Fergus invited them to his shop, the trinket store. He wipes the table that was filled with dust making Stine covers his mouth and Laina coughing. The table is filled with tools that a craftsman would use.


    Inside the store as Fergus tinker with the heart, Laina wanders from aisle to aisle being fascinated by every little ornament displayed. Stine let her be and walks towards Fergus observing what he is doing.


    ¡°This¡­ where did you get this?¡± Fergus inquired.


    ¡°Uhm¡­¡± Stine scratches his head then looks around for Laina.


    She was holding a miniature well inside a snow globe. Staring at it as if she¡¯s on to her own world again. Stine walks up to her after calling her a few times but she¡¯s not responding. When Laina came to herself she saw Stine¡¯s worrisome look and repeatedly asking her if she¡¯s alright.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Stine looks at her and became more worried than he was before.


    ¡°Lassie, where did you get this?¡± Fergus asks without looking whose eyes are fixed on the heart.


    ¡°I ¨C Uh, I don¡¯t know¡­¡± She replies with trembling voice.


    When Fergus finally looks up, he saw Laina clutching the snow globe.


    ¡°I forgot; how much is this?¡±


    ¡°Just a genuine smile.¡± Laina replies with a smile but she seems to be holding something back.


    ¡°Okay then.¡± Fergus smiles back at her.


    As they were about to take their leave, Laina placed the snow globe on a shelf right next to door.


    ¡°Take that thing with you, as a gift from me to you.¡±


    Stine was still worried about Laina and became uneasy with each passing moment. He took his coat and hat from the rack and they left Fergus who is still fascinated by the heart.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for asking again¡­Are you sure you¡¯re alright?¡± Stine fumbles through his words.


    When he turns to look at Laina she has fallen to the ground unconscious.


    ¡°Laina!¡± Stine shouted.

 9: Heartless

    He quickly run towards her, he removes his gloves and placed his hand on her forehead. She has a fever. Fergus notice the commotion and run to ask for help, while limping with his cane. Later Edmund arrive with the carriage and they placed her there. They immediately head back to Lenin.


    On the way, Stine was uneasy. He glances at Laina¡¯s box that has a few more hearts left compared when they first started. He places the snow globe inside her basket.


    Upon arriving at their house, they immediately settled Laina in her room. She is still unconscious so Stine had to administer the medicine little by little. He checks her pulse and temperature from time to time. Her fever settled down a bit and when Margaret came, she washes Laina and change her clothes.


    ¡°Doctor, have you had dinner already?¡± Margaret asks.


    ¡°I¡¯m not hungry¡± he replies.


    Stine is restless, he couldn¡¯t sit still and kept pacing inside the room. Seeing his state, Margaret had Stine leave the room and get some fresh air and that it might disturb Laina who is taking a rest.


    He notices what he has been doing and left the room. He went into the garden to settle down but he couldn¡¯t take his mind off of something. He became more and more concerned for Laina.


    Stine returns back to the room and saw Margaret caressing the unconscious girl¡¯s red hair. Margaret notices him enter the room but her eyes didn¡¯t leave Laina¡¯s face for a moment.


    ¡°She¡¯s a wonderful girl.¡± She commented.


    Stine sat at a chair right next to the bed and with silence observe them.


    ¡°In just a few days she changes the way she speaks with us.¡± Margaret remarks.


    ¡®Yet somehow we still don¡¯t know who she is or where she came from¡¯ Stine thought to himself.


    Laina wakes up after a few moments. She notices that she is already in bed with Margaret and Stine sitting right next to her. In that moment, Stine had Margaret get some food.


    ¡°Take it easy, you fainted earlier. Just sit still¡± Stine says as he adjusts the pillow so Laina could sit properly.This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    Margaret arrived with some food and fruits enough for the Stine and Laina to eat.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you go ahead and rest for the night Margaret, I¡¯ll take care of her.¡±


    Margaret left the room and they were left alone. The room was filled with silence as they eat their food. Laina is still feeling weak so Stine slices the apples and handed her the pieces. She took a small bite and chew slowly as if in deep thought.


    ¡°Mister?¡± Laina asks in her weak voice.


    ¡°Yes, Laina?¡±


    ¡°How do you know if someone is real?¡±


    Stine is caught in surprise. He doesn¡¯t know what to say


    ¡°Am I real? I couldn¡¯t remember where I came from or where I got the hearts? What are those hearts?¡±


    Laina cries bitterly asking questions that Stine doesn¡¯t have the answers. He got a hold of himself and comforted her.


    ¡°Shh, it¡¯s okay. You¡¯re just tired¡±


    She cries while Stine hugs her head.


    ¡°Mister¡­Do I have a heart?¡±


    Stine froze for a moment as Laina looks up to him and stares in his eyes. Without saying a word, he hugs the girl tighter and caress her hair.


    Morning came and there wasn¡¯t much for them to do. Stine plan to have Laina rest for the entire day. Margaret requested to help Cynthia to finish up the work that has accumulated. Edmund covered for her and took care of the horse and the garden.


    When Laina woke up she found herself alone in her room with a small amount of food on a table right next to her bed. She went down the stairs and to the garden where Stine was watering the flowers, helping Edmund. She is still wearing her pajamas with her hair braided by Margaret last night as she sat by the doorway and just watch silently while glancing every now and then.


    Laina remains silent and didn¡¯t further their conversation from last night even when they were left alone. Stine didn¡¯t inquire much further about the matter as he doesn¡¯t want to stress her. She was trying hard to be cheerful as she was before but Stine notices and know that she is somehow holding back.


    Night came and Laina was feeling better. They were joined by Edmund and Margaret at Dinner. The conversation is heart-warming especially for Laina and Stine. She went on to tell Margaret of how Edmund showed her how to take care of the horses.


    After dinner they heard a knock on the door. Margaret opens it and recognizes the straw bonnet, she then called for Stine.


    ¡°Cynthia, what a surprise. Please come in.¡± Stine offers.


    ¡°I just want to thank you Doctor¡±


    They sat at the living room with Laina while Margaret serve them some drinks and crumpets.


    Cynthia began to tell her story. Her father¡¯s death a few months back affected her so much than she expected. He wasn¡¯t her only relative but she¡¯s very close with him. She couldn¡¯t focus and work would pile up day after day. She was able to take a breather when Stine had Margaret to help.


    ¡°I would like to buy a heart. How much is it.¡±


    ¡°Just a genuine smile.¡± Laina replies with a big smile on her face


    Cynthia let out a laugh thinking that it was a joke, but was surprised when Laina went to her room, grab her a heart then handed it out to her. Still a little confused she thank them both and left while pushing the box against her chest.


    ¡°We made a difference in her life, Laina. Because she wasn¡¯t afraid of saying what¡¯s on her mind¡± Stine remarks while she glances at Laina who¡¯s looking at Cynthia who¡¯s getting farther away.

 10: Remnant

    The next day Stine had Laina stay and rest, he wants to make sure that she doesn¡¯t push herself too much. She was invited by Margaret to join her and visit Cynthia despite being there just last night.


    ¡°Will you help me sell these hearts?¡± She asks Margaret.


    ¡°Gladly milady.¡±


    On the other hand, Stine and Edmund went to Musica for some paper work that has been on his mind for quite some time.


    ¡°What do you think Edmund?¡± Stine says while anxiously compiling papers inside his bag.


    ¡°It¡¯s wonderful doctor, young Laina will be delighted.¡±


    ¡°I just hope that she doesn¡¯t feel like a substitute to my daughter.¡±


    He passes by the library and thought to himself to borrow a book for Laina. He browses one of the shelters and found a children¡¯s book then he went to the counter to have it check out.


    ¡°Is it for your daughter?¡±


    Stine replies with and awkward smile and just nods.


    ¡°You¡¯re very lucky to have one.¡± The librarian said as she tears up while covering the book.


    She went on a small discourse about her miscarriage about 3 weeks ago. Stine didn¡¯t know what to do so he just stood there as this woman cries in front of him while placing a cover on the book


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, you don¡¯t even know who I am and I just ranted about my life.¡±


    ¡°No, not at all.¡± Stine replies to comfort her.


    They talk for a bit; he didn¡¯t want to pry on her life but she was more than willing to share her story even to a complete stranger like him.


    ¡°My husband, the blacksmith told me about a doctor from Lenin who had a similar story to ours.¡±


    ¡°How did you know it is me?¡± Stine asks anxiously


    ¡°I just know¡± She replies


    He left Musica and return back to Lenin. Margaret and Laina arrive much earlier than they and he notices that there are only two remaining hearts. Stine talks with Laina about the Librarian to which she replies that she had been there for a couple of times.


    ¡°Oh, and guess what, Ada is Digor¡¯s wife, she is really excited to see you.¡±


    When they went there the next day, the librarian is already familiar with her. But this time she bought a heart from her. She looks upon the heart with delight and tears fell down her eyes. Laina hugs her and she cried with the weeping woman.


    ¡°Your daughter is wonderful¡±


    After some time, they emerge from the library. It is a little bit past noon and they have plenty of time left for the day.


    ¡°Mister Stine, can we go to Edo?¡±


    ¡°Is there someone there who needs the last heart?¡±


    ¡°No, I just want to go look at the valley¡±


    ¡°Of course, we could visit Fergus while we¡¯re there¡± Stine added.The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    Stine obliged to Laina¡¯s request so they went. When they got there, they headed straight for Fergus¡¯ shop. Fergus saw the carriage and saw them got off of it. He walks towards them with his cane, limping with joy as he saw their faces.


    ¡°Lassie, how are you doing?¡± Fergus¡¯ asked with a smile on his face.


    Laina replies with a faint smile towards him.


    ¡°Still getting better, but I learned something while you two were away.¡±


    They are both surprised and followed Fergus inside the shop. They took a seat across Fergus who is having a hard time adjusting his chair.


    ¡°This heart is magical and it fits mine. It gives of a feeling that only the individual who fits it can recognize. I was reminded of my time before I got drafted¡±


    He went on and tell them his past. Before the war, he is very skilled in crafting, from ornaments and trinkets to jewelry and small mechanisms. The result of the war is as they can see, he lost his left arm and right leg along with his right eye and a burnt mark all over his face.


    ¡°I thought I lost everything. I couldn¡¯t do much with only a right arm who¡¯s busy supporting the rest of my body. But deep down, a rekindled hope that I could still become the greatest craftsman despite my circumstances.¡±


    He looked down and wept while fiddling his fingers with the heart at the table.


    ¡°Thank you¡± He repeatedly whispered while trying to hold back his tears.


    Laina grab hold of Fergus hand and smiled at him while weeping herself.


    Stine¡¯s heart felt warm by the experience. He looks at Laina and at how she grows from the girl who repeatedly asks anyone to buy a heart to someone who empathize with everyone.


    They left the store shortly and went to the edge of town to look at the valley, per Laina¡¯s request. The entire event is silent. Stine didn¡¯t want to bother the young lass who is still looking to a far distant hoping of something that he might never know.


    Laina¡¯s face is filled with a roller coaster of emotions that she couldn¡¯t express but Stine was able see some of it.


    They day ended fast. When they returned to Lenin, Laina wanted to drop by Cynthia and gave her a hug. Back at the house she gave Margaret and Edmund a hug to which they were surprised as she had never done that before. All the while Stine looks at her and her peaceful pace.


    The night falls and Laina is at the veranda. Stine walks up and gazes at the village with her.


    ¡°One more left and we could focus on finding out who you are.¡± Stine remarks.


    Laina stood silent and her face remain unchanged.


    ¡°About the other day, I¡¯m sorry for lashing out like that. I didn¡¯t mean to.¡± Laina wept.


    Stine walks up to Laina and hugs her.


    The next day arrives and something was different. Stine left with Edmund and Margaret is left to look after the house. They went to Musica and handled some documents for the plan to move there. He passes by the library and something caught his eye. A transparent box with a prism heart shape inside. He goes inside the library and asks the woman at the front desk where she got it.


    The Librarian replies that she doesn¡¯t remember, but that it was given to her by someone she knew. The librarian thought for a moment as if there was a gap in her memory, as did Stine.


    He went back in his carriage and talked with Edmund and asks if something is amiss. Edmund mentions that something did feel different.


    ¡°Just a few days ago you were a total wreck.¡±


    Stine tries to search his memory but he couldn¡¯t recall anything. They went back to Lenin immediately. Margaret was outside the house watering the plants but she¡¯s staring into spaces. Stine inquires of her if there is anything different what it is. Margaret replies the same as Edmund¡¯s


    He went to his study in hopes that he remembers anything. But what caught his eye is similar box that the librarian owns, a transparent box with a heart shape prism inside and underneath the box is a letter. He couldn¡¯t recognize the handwriting as he didn¡¯t write it himself. Right next to it are adoption papers already filled out.


    The letter is as follows


    Dr. Stine,


    Thank you for taking care of me, despite being a stranger you took me into your home and even treated me as one of your own. I can¡¯t express how grateful I am for all of your help specially to help me find who I am. But I¡¯m very sorry to have lied to you. Every time a heart is sold, a fragment of my memory returns to me, turns out I really did know how to write. Back in Edo, one of the peddlers asked me if I finally remember anything. It was then that I realized that I¡¯ve been remembering pieces of my past one by one. I was so sure at the time that I wanted to tell you but when I saw your face, I couldn¡¯t bring myself to say it and I don¡¯t know why. I have learned that these are pieces of my own which is why none of them fits me. I am meant to give these happy hearts to those that needs it. I may not live, but a piece of my heart rest with you.


    Signed,


    Laina


    P.S.


    I¡¯m sorry I couldn¡¯t tell you everything, I really am heartless.


    He went down the stair and outside the garden where Edmund and Margaret are taking a rest. His is weeping but he doesn¡¯t know why.


    ¡°Edmund, Margaret¡­ who¡¯s Laina?¡±