shivering H-hello? I-I'm lost. Can you help me?
Sure do, darlin'. What's got you wanderin' these dark tunnels?
teary-eyed M-my home was destroyed and I was forced out onto the streets. I've been wandering for days, hoping to find some shelter.
Well, ain't that a sorry state of affairs? But don't you worry, sweetheart. We'll find you someplace warm real quick.
Thank you so much for your kindness. I really appreciate it. smiles through tears
How about your old man? Didn’t he leave you nothin’ but debt?
clenches fists My father may have made some mistakes, but I refuse to let his debts define me.
What's life without a little risk, right? Now, enough of this sadness. Let's get moving.
takes a deep breath You're right, let's focus on finding a solution instead of dwelling on the past. Lead the way, I trust you.
Leads Lanie down a lit corridor There’s an orphanage just up ahead, darlin’. Might not be fancy, but it’s warm.
walks beside UnicornGarden, looking around curiously Thank you for showing me the way. I hope this orphanage can provide me with some stability.
As they approach the orphanage, they hear the sound of children playing. Looks like luck’s with ya tonight, kid. Here we are. Home sweet home.
steps inside the orphanage, her eyes lighting up with wonder This place seems full of life. I hope I can find a place to belong here.
Steps inside after Lanie, looking around with a critical eye. Aight, kid. This ain’t no palace, but it’ll do. Just stick close and follow the rules. Got it?
looks up at UnicornGarden with gratitude Thank you for bringing me here. I'll do my best to fit in and make this place my new home.
So how’s life treating ya at the orphanage? Better than sleeping on the streets, I reckon.
smiles brightly Life at the orphanage has been a rollercoaster, but it's been mostly good.
Good eh, that's good kid. Any bullies give ya trouble?
pauses, thinking Yeah, there were a few kids who gave me a hard time at first. But I stood up for myself and showed them I'm not someone to mess with.
That's my girl! Ain't no one gonna walk over ya. Now, how 'bout your studies? You keepin' up?
rolls up sleeves, showingcalloused hands I may not be the best student, but I've been working hard to catch up.
Hah! Hard work'll take ya far, kiddo. Got any dreams? Anything you wanna be when you grow up?
looks down, blushing Well, I've always loved art and drawing.
Art, huh? That's cool. Ever think 'bout showin' your stuff somewhere?
looks up, determination in her eyes Actually, I've been dreaming about it.
Wow. But what if people don’t like your art? What if they say its terrible?
takes a deep breath, steadying herself If people don't like my art, I won't let it define me. I'll keep creating, keep pushing myself to improve.
Damn straight, Lanie! Screw 'em if they can't see genius when it's right in front of 'em.
pulls out her sketchbook, flipping through the pages Look, I've been practicing really hard. Would you like to see some of my artwork?