Around Town

My name is Lydia Aera Fairfax. I was reincarnated into this world, yet I am still uncertain as to why. My introduction to this new life was awkward at best, and my older brother, Ryan, mistook my bewilderment for signs of a serious illness.

"She might have developed amnesia over time. Please bear with her," the physician said after my big fourth birthday.

Four years and almost four months have passed since that day, and I am enjoying my life quite well. Nobody beats me or treats me like a slave. Goodbye, violent life; hello, freedom!

Every morning I wake up and realize I am not in the past and I am not going to relive those horrible moments. I become very grateful. I regret leaving everything behind to focus on a husband who didn't even appreciate me. I left loving parents and a good future. I would have been a top doctor or a pharmaceutical scientist, but no, I decided to be blinded by love. Love that showed itself to be hatred. Every time, I always wished to go home.

I thank God my child didn't end up being born, or else it would have suffered like me. It's all in the past now. I shouldn't carry all the negativity from my past life into my current one. I must be vigilant in this life so I won't be fooled again.

"Sis, another book about herbs. I always wonder, do you even understand all the gibberish that's there? I don't think so." Ryan snatched the book from me and started preaching about how I needed to enjoy childhood before going to the Emperian Academy. This school was created by all seven countries, including the Empire of Celestia (the ruler of them all), for all nobles across these places to attend. It's said that the entrance exams are quite hard and it's like a boarding school, the location of which no one knows.

All that talk bored me. "Big brother, if I don't read about herbs and medicine, how do I get better? You think I don't see that face you make, like I might die any day. Be patient with me, okay?" I collected the book from him and gave him a tight hug.

From the moment I was reincarnated, I knew that this body might never last long. I've been trying my best and concocting all kinds of medications to keep me going. I need to strive further. I can't die now, for sure. Who knows, I might run into one of the people who got reincarnated with me.

Ryan patted my head back and forth and began to sob. "Brother won't disturb you from now on, Lia. I'm sorry, okay?" I know Ryan means well, but what must be done must be done now, because it will be too late when it's later. I'm sorry, big brother, but Lydia is going to be very busy from here on out. I had a very good childhood before, but now I want to live a good life beside you and Dad.

"Let's go to town. It's almost summer; a good ride around would lighten the mood." I flashed my best smile and dragged him with me. I don't want him feeling sad. He is now one of the people I have left, and I don't plan on losing him.

As we walked towards the stables, I felt the warmth of the sun on my face and the gentle breeze rustling through the trees. It was a stark contrast to the darkness and despair of my past life. This world, though unfamiliar, was filled with hope and new possibilities. I was determined to make the most of it.

The stable was bustling with activity. Horses neighed and pawed at the ground, eager to be out and about. The stable boys were busy grooming the animals, ensuring they were ready for any ride. I saw our favorite horses, a pair of elegant chestnut mares named Star and Luna. Ryan and I had grown fond of them over the years.

"Lia, which one do you want to ride today?" Ryan asked, his eyes still a bit puffy from crying.

"I'll take Star. She's always been my favorite," I replied, reaching out to pat the mare's neck. Star nuzzled my hand affectionately, and I felt a surge of warmth in my chest. These moments of simple joy were precious to me.

We mounted our horses and set off towards the town. The countryside was a picture of serenity, with rolling hills, lush green fields, and vibrant wildflowers. It was hard to believe that such a peaceful place existed. As we rode, I let my thoughts wander.

In my past life, I had been so focused on my career and my ungrateful husband that I had missed out on the beauty around me. I had been blind to the simple pleasures of life. But now, I was determined to appreciate every moment, every experience. I would not take anything for granted.

"Lia, what are you thinking about?" Ryan's voice brought me back to the present.

"Just…how different everything is here. It's so peaceful," I said, looking around at the idyllic landscape.

Ryan smiled. "Yeah, it is. I'm glad you're enjoying it. You deserve to be happy, Lia."

His words touched me deeply. In my past life, I had rarely heard such genuine concern and affection. It made me realize how lucky I was to have Ryan in this new life.

We reached the town, a bustling hub of activity. Market stalls lined the streets, vendors shouting out their wares. The air was filled with the scent of freshly baked bread, roasting meats, and blooming flowers. It was a sensory overload, but in the best possible way.

Ryan and I dismounted and handed our horses to a stable boy. "Let's explore!" I said excitedly, taking Ryan's hand. We wandered through the market, marveling at the variety of goods on display. There were exotic fruits, intricate jewelry, colorful fabrics, and so much more.

As we walked, I noticed a small apothecary shop tucked away in a corner. My curiosity piqued, I tugged Ryan towards it. The shop was filled with the earthy scent of herbs and spices. Shelves lined the walls, stocked with jars and bottles of various concoctions.

"Good day, young lady. How can I help you?" The shopkeeper, an elderly woman with kind eyes, greeted us warmly.

"I'm interested in herbs and medicines. Do you have any books or ingredients that could help me learn more?" I asked eagerly.

The shopkeeper nodded and pointed to a shelf in the corner. "We have a selection of books on herbal medicine. Feel free to take a look."

I browsed through the titles, my excitement growing with each one. These books could be invaluable in my quest to keep my body healthy. I selected a few and brought them to the counter.

"These are wonderful choices, dear. Are you studying to be a healer?" the shopkeeper asked as she rang up my purchases.

"Yes, I am. I want to learn as much as I can," I replied with determination.

"Good for you. Knowledge is a powerful tool. I wish you all the best," she said with a warm smile.

As we left the shop, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. I was not going to let this life slip through my fingers. I had the opportunity to make a difference, to heal not just myself but others as well.

"Lia, you really are serious about this, aren't you?" Ryan said, noticing the intensity in my eyes.

"I am. I want to be able to help people, to make a difference. And I need to stay healthy for that," I said firmly.

Ryan nodded, a look of admiration in his eyes. "I believe in you, Lia. You can do anything you set your mind to."

His support meant the world to me. In my past life, I had often felt alone and unsupported. But here, I had a brother who believed in me, who cared for me. It was a precious gift.

We spent the rest of the day exploring the town, enjoying the sights and sounds. By the time we returned home, the sun was setting, casting a warm golden glow over everything. It had been a perfect day, filled with laughter and new experiences.

As I lay in bed that night, I reflected on the day's events. I was grateful for the opportunity to start anew, to build a life filled with purpose and joy. I was determined to make the most of it, to not let my past define me.