My childhood Friend

Chapter 3

I was jolted awake as Uncle Meng came to a stop. Rubbing my bleary eyes, I looked around to see we had arrived at a small village nestled amongst the trees. It was dusk and the rosy sunset cast a warm glow over the humble settlement.

"Welcome to Lorencia Village, my boy," Uncle Meng said, lowering me gently to the ground. My legs wobbled a bit, stiff after the long journey. 

I gazed around in wonder at my new surroundings. The village was beautiful in its rustic simplicity. Small thatched-roof cottages dotted the landscape, wisps of smoke curling from their stone chimneys. Lush vegetable gardens and animal pens were neatly situated around each home. I could see cows ambling about, chickens pecking in the dirt, goats bleating as children herded them into their enclosures. 

Villagers milled about accomplishing evening chores, chatting amiably to each other as they worked. I saw a group of women washing clothes at the well, men repairing tools and equipment, and elderly folk resting on rocking chairs whittling wood. The atmosphere was so peaceful and idyllic compared to the hectic big city life I was used to.

Uncle Meng led me down a winding dirt path to one of the cottages near the edge of the village. It was slightly larger than the others with a pretty flower garden out front. He called out loudly, "Hong Wei! I found him!" 

The wooden door burst open and a man and woman rushed out, worry etched on their faces. "My son!" the woman cried out, throwing her arms around me tightly. My father - Hong Wei - gripped my shoulders firmly, his stern features softening with relief.

"Ran, you foolish boy! Do you have any idea how worried sick your mother and I have been?" my father scolded, though not unkindly. I lowered my head ashamedly under his intense gaze.

"I'm so sorry, Father, Mother. I won't go into the forest again without your permission," I said sincerely. The pain I had caused them made my heart ache with regret.

They ushered me inside where a hearty meal of roasted chicken, vegetables, and fresh baked bread waited on the table, filling the cottage with mouthwatering aromas. As we ate, my parents fussed over me, checking for any injuries or ailments. I reassured them I was fine thanks to Uncle Meng's help. 

"We owe you greatly, Brother Meng," said my father, clasping his hand. "It seems little Ran has much to learn still about responsibility and obedience." He shot me a pointed look and I nodded, knowing I would need to work to regain their trust.

After dinner, exhausted from my harrowing ordeal, I went straight to bed. Lying there in the dark on the sturdy handcrafted frame, I listened to the gentle sounds of the village settling in for the night - owls hooting, dogs barking, families finishing up their day. 

Marveling at how caring and devoted my parents were in this life compared to the cold, distant ones I'd had before, I felt immense gratitude. This cozy cottage already felt more like home than anywhere I'd lived in my past life. I fell asleep with a smile, excited to explore the village tomorrow.

Morning sunlight streamed through the shuttered windows as I awoke to the smells of frying eggs and smoked meat. After washing up and dressing, I joined my parents for a hearty breakfast, my mother fussing over how thin I was. 

"Eat up now, you're still a growing boy and need your strength," she said, piling more food on my plate. I didn't argue, happily polishing off thirds as my father looked on approvingly.

After helping clean up, I ventured outside, breathing in the crisp fresh air. Villagers greeted me cheerfully as they passed by on their morning errands, warm smiles lighting up their weathered faces. I found myself waving even though I had no idea who they were. Their friendliness made me feel like part of their extended family already.

I wandered aimlessly down the dirt lanes, watching the village come to life. Chickens scurried about, a cow bellowed to be milked, parents kissed their children goodbye as they ran off to school. Though small and remote, Lorencia Village had its own vibrant energy. 

As I paused to observe some young boys playing with a woven leather ball, a melodic voice suddenly called out. 

"Ran! You're back!"

I turned to see a pretty, raven-haired girl about my age bounding towards me, eyes sparkling with joy. She threw her arms around me in a big welcoming hug. 

"We were all so worried when you didn't come back that night! I'm so glad you're safe."

Laughing, I gently loosened her enthusiastic grip. "It's good to see you too...uh..." I faltered, realizing I had no idea what her name was.

She pulled back and stared at me indignantly. "How could you forget your best friend Lin Yan? I know it's been a few weeks since we played together, but still!" Pouting, she planted her fists on her hips. 

I rubbed my head awkwardly. "S-sorry, I must have hit my head harder than I realized. Can you remind me again?" 

Yan's eyes went wide with concern. She quickly launched into filling me in on our history together and all the fun misadventures we'd had in our short lives. I listened intently, soaking up these glimpses into who I was in this new world.

According to Yan, we had been as close as siblings ever since we were toddlers, getting into all sorts of trouble together. She delighted in sneaking me little treats from her family's bakery while I came up with ideas for games and make-believe quests. Her bubbly personality balanced my more cautious nature perfectly.

As we walked, reminiscing and chatting, I found myself completely at ease with this bright, energetic girl. Having a friend like Yan would make getting used to this unfamiliar life much smoother.