Reo's Story - Meet the Townspeople I

Three days had passed since their meeting at the Elenmoor clinic. During those three days, Reo underwent an intensive recovery process. Although his injuries weren't life-threatening, his body needed time to fully heal. Dr. Tiffany and the medical team diligently cared for him, ensuring he received the best treatment to speed up his recovery.

Meanwhile, every day Rikka diligently visited Reo at the clinic. She brought fresh fruits and flowers she picked herself from her family's garden, bringing a bit of cheer and encouragement to Reo's exhausting days. They spent time together, chatting about small and big things, sharing stories and laughter between them.

However, on this third day, Rikka was a bit late. Reo sat on the clinic bed, gazing at the door with undying hope. Every time a visitor came, his eyes lit up with anticipation, but when he saw it wasn't the girl he was waiting for, his face fell back into a frown.

A few minutes later, a middle-aged woman entered with her young child. Reo's eyes lit up momentarily, but once again, his hope was dashed as he realized it wasn't Rikka. He sighed softly, feeling anxious and a bit lonely.

Dr. Tiffany, who was busy attending to the mother and child, glanced over at Reo. After ensuring her patients were well, she walked towards him with a gentle smile.

"Reo," she said, placing a hand on his shoulder, "I have good news for you. You can leave the clinic today."

Reo lifted his head, slightly surprised but pleased to hear the news. "Really? That's great news, Doctor."

She nodded. "Yes, you've recovered well. Rikka might be a bit late today, but I'm sure she'll be here soon to pick you up."

Reo smiled, feeling relieved and more enthusiastic.

Dr. Tiffany gave Reo a warm smile and patted his shoulder before returning to her work. Reo gazed at the door with renewed hope, ready to welcome Rikka as soon as she arrived.

The mother and child paused, glancing around the room. The mother, a middle-aged elf woman with a neat and elegant appearance, guided her shy-looking child, who clung tightly to her hand. They walked towards Reo, who was still sitting on his bed, waiting for his friend.

The mother gave a thin smile, but there was a glint of arrogance in her eyes. "Good morning, young man," she greeted with a rather high-pitched tone. "I hear you're new to Elenmoor. My name is Maria, and this is my daughter, Kayla."

Reo stood up somewhat awkwardly, returning their smiles. "Nice to meet you. My name is Reo."

Maria gave a brief nod, her eyes scrutinizing Reo from head to toe. "How did you end up here? I heard you were stranded, is that right?" she asked, her tone not entirely friendly.

Reo nodded slowly, trying not to be affected by Maria's rather haughty demeanor. "Yes, that's right. I was stranded a few days ago. Luckily, Rikka found me and brought me here."

Kayla, still holding her mother's hand, looked at Reo with wide, curious eyes. "Are you alright now?" she asked in a soft voice.

Reo gave Kayla a warm smile. "Yes, I'm feeling much better now. Thank you for asking."

However, behind his warm smile, Reo felt something strange. There was a strong aura emanating from Maria and Kayla, something that made him feel slightly intimidated. He couldn't explain what it was, but their presence brought a sensation that made his hair stand on end.

Maria took a deep breath, her eyes still scrutinizing Reo. "Well, I hope you recover quickly and find your place here," she said, though her tone lacked sincerity.

Dr. Tiffany then approached, smiling at Maria and Kayla. "Alright, Mrs. Maria, Kayla, let's complete your check-up. Reo, don't forget you can leave the clinic today."

Maria gave a brief smile, turning back to Reo. "Goodbye, Reo. Have a pleasant day," she said formally before urging Kayla to follow the doctor.

"Thank you," Reo replied politely, feeling relieved as Maria and Kayla walked away.

As the pair walked away, Reo felt a strange weight lift from his chest. He sat back down on the bed, trying to process what had just happened.

Who are they, really?

The strong and mysterious aura still lingered in his mind, slightly unsettling him.

Reo sat back down on the bed. The encounter with Maria and Kayla made him realize that he would meet many different people in Elenmoor, and each meeting would be a part of his new adventure in this town. However, the shadow of the strange power emanating from the mother and daughter still haunted his thoughts, leaving a big question mark unanswered.

Amid his worries, the clinic door opened again, and this time Reo saw a familiar figure. Rikka entered with quick steps, her face beaming. A wide smile adorned her beautiful face, and her pink eyes sparkled with excitement.

Reo quickly stood up from the bed, his excitement evident in his voice.

"Reo! Sorry I'm a bit late!" Rikka said cheerfully. "But I have good news!"

Reo frowned, curious. "Good news? What is it?"

Rikka stepped closer, then said enthusiastically, "I spoke with my father, and he agreed to let you stay at our family cottage!"

Reo was stunned for a moment, unable to believe what he had just heard. "Really? I'm... I'm allowed to stay at your family's cottage?"

Rikka nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, that's right! My father agreed to let you stay there for as long as you need."

Reo was taken aback by the news. He glanced at Rikka, filled with doubt. "But, I haven't even met your father in person yet. I think I should ask him for permission directly."

Rikka smiled gently, sensing the hesitation in Reo's words. "If that's your concern, let's go meet my father today! It's perfect timing since Dr. Tiffany said you could leave the clinic today, right?"

In deep contemplation, Reo reflected on everything that had transpired over the past few days. He thought about Rikka, the person who had shown him incredible kindness and care. However, he also felt undeserving of her offer, believing he had nothing to give in return.

Despite feeling unworthy of asking for so much, he realized that as a newcomer, it was his duty to show respect and courtesy to the town's leader.

He knew that as a guest in Elenmoor, he had to honor the customs and traditions of the place. Meeting the Mayor was not just about requesting permission to stay at Rikka's family cottage but also about demonstrating respect and politeness to the local leader and community.

With this reasoning, Reo finally agreed to Rikka's invitation to meet her father. 

***

With a bright smile on her face, Rikka helped Reo out of the clinic door. The fresh and warm air welcomed them, radiating a revitalizing energy. Rikka stepped lightly, her eyes sparkling, ready to introduce Reo to the town of Elenmoor.

Reo breathed in the fresh sea air as his gaze wandered around the town of Elenmoor. Along the coastline of Elenmoor, rows of buildings stood tall, as high as the dancing waves in the distance. The roofs of the buildings, adorned with various colors and shapes, danced under the bright sun, creating a stunning array of colors against the clear blue sky.

From the hill where the clinic stood, the view of the town stretched wide before him. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the town, the bustling activities and murmurs filled the air, creating an endless symphony of life. Street-side cafes buzzed with patrons enjoying delicious meals and friendly conversations. Next to them, the colorful market offered all sorts of goods, from fresh seafood to beautiful handicrafts.

However, the most enchanting sight of all was the breathtaking view of the sea in the distance. The vast expanse of the ocean shimmered, its sparkling waters reflecting the unparalleled wonders of nature under the sun's rays. Reo felt as if he were being carried away by the pulsating energy flowing from this vibrant sea as if it were calling him to explore the hidden beauty beyond the crashing waves along the shoreline.

Rikka smiled as she observed Reo still captivated by the beauty of Elenmoor. With light steps, she approached Reo, who stood gazing toward the vast sea.

"Reo," Rikka called softly, her voice carried by the cool sea breeze. "Let's go!"

Startled from his reverie, Reo turned his body to meet Rikka. "Ah, yes."

Reo hurriedly followed Rikka's steps, ready to continue their journey towards the mansion, the residence of the Mayor of Elenmoor.