...
(In the reading room)
The night is getting old and the other house already turns off their light.
I was yawning when I read the book. There is a pile of books in this house.
"That's so much to learn. But it's not boring to read it." A sudden thought of joy.
I fell asleep reading those books and Ellis took me on the bed and put me beside my brother. I bring those magnificent stories into my dreams. It is unrealistic to believe all of that because it feels like I am living in a fantasy world. Maybe, I could accept this because it is not much different than how I could be reborn a second time.
Well, I should feel grateful I had this wonderful life that would only happen in my virtual games on Earth.
…
(The next day)
The village was already bustling early in the morning. I could hear the clatter of horse-drawn carriages and the cheerful greetings of the villagers as they started their day. I rushed to open the door and saw Elijah helping Lady Stewart prepare breakfast.
"Good morning," Ellis greeted me warmly.
"Morning, brother!" Elijah chimed in with a bright smile.
"Oh, good morning everyone. I'm sorry for sleeping in," I replied, feeling a bit embarrassed. Despite the extra sleep, I felt fully rested and rejuvenated. It has been a long time since I have enjoyed a comfortable bed after sleeping on the dry leaves for all this time.
"Don't worry. Young boys like you need enough sleep," Ellis said kindly.
"That's right, granny," Elijah added cheerfully.
"Hey, Elijah. Don't talk so casually," I gently admonished him.
"It's fine. I'm the one who asked him to call me granny," Ellis reassured me.
"Let me help you with that," I offered, noticing the breakfast preparations.
"No need. I want you to take a bath first with Eli," Ellis insisted.
She handed me a bucket to use at the river and gave us a pair of new shirts she had bought for us the previous day. After a refreshing bath, we returned to their house, ready to start the day. As we sat down for breakfast, I knew it was time to discuss our departure.
"Ellis, Arnold, Elijah and I need to leave soon," I said, breaking the news at the table.
They both looked hesitant, and Elijah's face fell with disappointment.
"Are you sure you want to go now?" Ellis asked, her concern evident.
"Well, the longer I stay here, the harder it will be to leave," I admitted.
Arnold cleared his throat, drawing our attention. "Alright then. I have a good offer for you."
Me: "If you need anything in return, I will do anything you want."
Arnold: "Ehem…" He's clearing his throat so suddenly.
"If you need anything in return, I will do anything you want," I responded earnestly.
"Ehem…" Arnold cleared his throat again. Ellis seemed a bit flustered but didn't interrupt.
"I want you to stay here for a week and help us with some hard chores," Arnold proposed.
"A week? But…" I hesitated. I feel troubled if I don't repay them. If that was his request, I need to do it, but it will contradict my plan. My goal is to meet with my parents, but looking at Elijah, he looks fine and no problem with it. But I don't want him to get attached to them. But a week wouldn't be hurt right?
"Fine. That would be okay," I agreed.
"Nice," Arnold said with a satisfied smile. Ellis's face lit up with happiness.
"Are you sure? You can refuse if it burdens you," she said, trying to hide her relief.
"I guess that wouldn't be a problem," I reassured her.
"After that, you can have a ride with my friend's carriage to the nearest place at the Capital. That would be safer for you and much faster," Arnold added.
"That… I am very grateful to you," I said, feeling a mix of gratitude and embarrassment at their continued kindness.
"Yeah! We can stay here. Hooray!" Elijah cheered, clearly delighted.
Ellis seemed overjoyed by our decision to stay. I didn't know how I could ever repay their kindness, but I was determined to do my best.
…
The week passed quickly as I helped Arnold with various chores around the village. Despite the hard work, it felt good to contribute and be part of the community. Elijah enjoyed playing with the other children and learning from Ellis, who continued to share her knowledge and wisdom with us.
Since that day, we have lived together happily in that village.
Elijah seems to be getting close with everyone here. There are many kids who stick together with him and come to Arnold's home to invite Elijah to play. He is also pretty popular with girls their age. Well, I can't blame him because he is the unique one to have bright purple hair like that. Meanwhile, I was busy helping Arnold with multiple tasks that needed to be done. He is not just a regular farmer, he also breeds a horse, hunting in the woods, and woodcutter. It is mid-year, and they collect wood for a winter season.
For me, it is so good to live in this lively village. They all are so polite and friendly to us.
They also would have a conversation with me. Sometimes, people would mistake me for a girl because of my long hair. It's also hard to wash it but I have to do it because I dislike when my hair smells. Thanks to Lady Stewart, she taught me how to tie my hair.
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