Elric woke up the next morning feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. Today, he would venture further into the village, exploring the areas he hadn't yet seen since his reincarnation. He was determined to find a way to help his mother and sister, and maybe even discover more about this strange new world.

After breakfast, Elda gave Elric a small basket. "We need more herbs and some wild berries. Can you go to the meadow and gather them for me?"

Elric nodded eagerly. "Of course, Mother. I'll be back soon."

With the basket in hand, Elric set off towards the meadow, the cool morning air invigorating him. As he walked, he couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of Elaria. The village, nestled within the barony's boundaries, was a picturesque place surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills.

The meadow was a vibrant sea of green, dotted with colorful wildflowers swaying gently in the breeze. Elric knelt down, carefully picking herbs and berries, his mind wandering between memories of his past life and the reality of his current one. The familiar act of gathering plants felt strangely comforting, bridging the gap between his two existences.

Suddenly, a voice broke through his thoughts. "Hey, do you need some help?"

Elric looked up to see a boy about his age, struggling to lift a heavy sack. The boy's face was flushed with effort, and beads of sweat dotted his forehead.

Elric stood up, wiping his hands on his pants. "Sure, I can help. What's in the sack?"

The boy sighed in relief. "It's just some grain. My father asked me to bring it to the mill, but it's heavier than I thought."

Together, they managed to lift the sack and carry it to a nearby cart. The boy wiped his brow, a grateful smile spreading across his face. "Thanks! I'm Finn, by the way."

Elric smiled back. "I'm Elric. Nice to meet you, Finn."

As they walked back to where Elric had left his basket, Finn asked, "Do you live in the village?"

If you come across this story on Amazon, it's taken without permission from the author. Report it.

Elric nodded. "Yes, with my mother and sister. We moved here a few years ago."

Finn's eyes lit up with curiosity. "I've seen you around, but we never really talked. Want to be friends?"

Elric felt a warmth in his chest at the offer. "I'd like that, Finn."

They spent the rest of the morning gathering herbs and berries together, talking and laughing. Finn told Elric about the village, the people, and the various places they could explore. Elric listened intently, grateful for the companionship.

As they wandered through the meadow, Elric learned more about Finn. He discovered that Finn was the youngest of three siblings. His older brothers, Tom and Jack, worked with their father on their family farm. Finn, being smaller, often felt overshadowed by his more robust brothers. He was frequently tasked with errands and lighter duties, which sometimes made him feel less important.

"My brothers are always showing off," Finn said with a hint of frustration. "They get to do all the 'important' work, and I'm stuck with the boring stuff."

Elric nodded sympathetically. "I get it. Sometimes it feels like adults and older siblings don't see what we can really do."

Finn's face brightened. "Exactly! That's why I'm glad I met you, Elric. You don't seem to look down on me like they do."

Elric felt a pang of understanding. In his past life, he had often felt overlooked and underestimated by his colleagues. He knew how much it meant to have someone who saw your potential.

"Let's show them what we can do together," Elric suggested with a grin.

As they made their way back to the village, Finn pointed out various landmarks. He showed Elric the blacksmith's forge, where a burly man named Brom hammered away at glowing pieces of metal. The air was thick with the smell of burning coal and the rhythmic clanging of the hammer.

"That's Brom," Finn explained. "He's tough, but he's fair. If you ever need anything fixed, he's the one to go to."

They passed by the bakery, where the sweet aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through the air. A cheerful woman named Miriam ran the shop, always ready with a warm smile and a generous slice of pie for the village children.

"She's the best baker in the village," Finn said, licking his lips. "Her berry tarts are amazing."

Elric's stomach rumbled at the thought. "We'll have to get some later."

As they neared the village center, they saw a group of children playing near the large oak tree Finn had mentioned. The tree was ancient, its massive branches stretching out like protective arms over the village square. It was a place of gathering, where stories were told, games were played, and friendships were forged.

When Elric returned home, Elda was waiting at the door, a gentle smile on her face. "I see you made a friend."

Elric nodded, handing her the basket. "His name is Finn. He invited me to join the other kids at the oak tree tonight."

Elda's smile widened. "That's wonderful, Elric. It's important to have friends."

Later that afternoon, Elric helped his mother with chores around the house. As they worked, he noticed how Elda seemed more relaxed, a lightness in her step that hadn't been there before. He wondered if it was because he was adjusting better to their life in the village.

Leila, Elric's younger sister, tugged at his sleeve. "Elric, will you play with me?"

Elric smiled and ruffled her hair. "Of course, Leila. What do you want to play?"

Leila's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Let's play hide and seek!"

They spent the next hour running around the house and yard, laughing and shouting. Elda watched them with a contented smile, her heart warming at the sight of her children playing together.

As the evening approached, Elric and Leila made their way to the oak tree, where a group of children had already gathered. Finn waved them over, introducing them to the others. Among the group were Sara, a clever girl with a quick wit; Peter, a tall boy with a knack for storytelling; and Emma, a shy girl who loved to draw.

Finn introduced Elric and Leila. "Everyone, this is Elric and his sister Leila. They're new to the village, so be nice."