7 : Meeting the Neighbors
Hungry and eager to learn about her village, she steps outside, squinting as the bright sunlight hits her eyes. The village is small, surrounded by mist-covered mountains and thick forests. Simple huts and houses are scattered along narrow paths, with villagers going about their morning routines.
As she steps forward, she notices people glancing at her curiously. Her appearance seems familiar to them, but there's a wary distance in their expressions. Perhaps they knew the previous Li Mei, she thinks, recalling faint memories of being an outcast.
One of the villagers, an older woman named Auntie Wang, approaches her cautiously. Auntie Wang scolds her gently, "Li Mei, what are you doing outside? With your health, you should be resting. Are you looking for trouble again?"
Li Mei hesitates but then realizes this is her opportunity to gather information. She replies with a humble nod, pretending to be confused, "I… I must have forgotten some things. Can you remind me about this place?"
Auntie Wang's eyes widen in surprise, but she gives in, sharing that the village is called Willow Creek, a humble settlement on the outskirts of the kingdom. The villagers are mostly farmers or herbalists who live simple, secluded lives. Auntie Wang's concern softens as she continues, "Child, you've always been quiet and kept to yourself. People may not be friendly, but there's no need for you to be reckless."