GameDev Reincarnated into His Own Creation

Chapter 6.1: Recovery

Mora turned slightly and gestured toward him. "This is Graham, the Vice Headmaster," she introduced formally.

Graham surveyed the group with an air of composed authority, his eyes briefly meeting each of theirs before resting on Mora again.

"Welcome to Elnor," he began, his voice calm but firm. "I understand the journey here was not without hardship. You have my condolences for what transpired in Oakhaven." His eyes flicked briefly to Vel, lingering for a heartbeat before moving on. "Now, let me explain what must be done."

He clasped his hands behind his back, posture straight as a soldier's.

"I'll need to confer with the lord before we can finalize arrangements. Elnor's stores are already strained... but I'll see what can be done. No one here should bear more than they already have. It is imperative that we handle this through proper channels."

Graham turned to Mora and Bestiel. "You two," he said, nodding, "have completed your tasks. You've safely escorted the survivors to Elnor. Report to the receptionist to log your mission details. Rewards will be handled later."

Bestiel offered a slight bow in acknowledgment, while Mora gave a curt nod.

Graham then shifted his focus back to the group, his tone measured yet commanding. "I will need one of you to accompany me to meet the lord and provide a firsthand account of what occurred in Oakhaven." His gaze settled on Von expectantly.

Von straightened, his arms unfolding as he stepped forward. "I'll go," he stated without hesitation.

Graham nodded approvingly. "Very well. Follow me." Without another word, he turned on his heel and began walking toward the road leading up to the lord's mansion. Von glanced briefly at Vel and Landre before following.

Vel watched them disappear into the bustling streets, feeling an odd mix of relief and unease.

As Mora and Bestiel approached the Guild doors, preparing to step inside, a sudden voice called out from around the corner of the building.

"Mora-san!"

The sound was sharp yet high-pitched, unmistakably that of a child. Everyone turned. A young girl stood at the corner of the building—about Vel's age, with long straight hair cascading down her back. She wore simple clothes that hung loosely on her thin frame. Her hands fidgeted in front of her, fingers twisting the fabric.

"Where is Clara-neesan?"

Vel's stomach dropped.

No one answered. Mora's gaze shifted to the ground. Bestiel's hand found his grimoire, gripping the worn leather.

The girl's eyes moved between them, reading their faces. Searching.

"Where's Clara-neesan? Did she come back?"

Her voice rose, sharper now. Still no one spoke. Bestiel shifted his weight. Mora's mouth opened, then closed.

The girl took a step forward, small hands clenching her tunic.

"She promised... She promised to visit me yesterday and bring me treats..." Her voice cracked. "But I couldn't find her anywhere! I went to her inn and the Guild three times! Three times!"

Vel stood up from the cobblestones. He should say something. Anything. But the words wouldn't come. What could he possibly tell her?

He glanced at Mora, then Bestiel. Neither moved. Their silence said everything.