Chapter Text
It was a rainy day.
Of all the days he'd expected and imagined that Rin would come back, this was by far the least suitable day for it.
Haru was in his home, making plans for dinner, while suddenly his friends came by.
Rei mentioned something about the traveler coming back.
But Haru didn't pay any attention to that, because he was silenced by the others.
Since his friends saw that Haru was busy, they made plans to meet in the inn in the evening the same day.
The inn was the only inn in the village, where people go and celebrate.
When Haru entered the cottage, he went for their usual spot.
It was then, it occurred to Haru that; firstly, his friends weren't there yet, and secondly, there is someone new at their usual table.
It was a person in a traveling attire, with their hood on and looking out the window of the inn.
The person was beautiful, but also kind of mystical. He had an air of many travels that he did, ever since they have last seen each other.
Haruka sat at the table and got a closer look at the newcomer.
But it wasn't really a newcomer. He had met him before.
„Long time no see, Nanase.” the persons voice was melodic but also, certain of what he wanted to say.
It was then, it occurred to Haru that this person sitting in front of him wasn't human.
Which, in this world wasn't really anything unusual. Haruka himself probably had some merman ancestors because he loved water so much.
But it was not everyday, he'd met one of the royal elves.
Normally, they wouldn't just come by this village. While being situated at the sea, it wasn't a village with a harbor, and while picturesque, it wasn't really leading anywhere. One would have to specifically want to visit it, and there were more attractive places by the sea to visit.
So what was a royal elf doing in a place like this?
He wanted to know but he also didn't want to be rude, so he waited for the other to make conversation.
„Do you remember me?” the elf asked still looking out the window.
„Not particularly.”
„Ah well, I didn't think you would. But what would you say, if I told you to come with me?” it was then the traveler looked at Haruka, and something clicked in his mind.
„Who are you?”
The person removed his hood, and it took Haru a while to remember.
“Rin Matsuoka, of the royal Matsuoka's. We have met a long time ago.”
“I don't think I know you. Sorry but I'm waiting for my friends and this is the place we usually sit at. If you would mind...”
“They won't come here.”
“Excuse me?”
“Makoto, Nagisa, and even the fairy Rei. They won't make it here tonight.”
“And you know that because?...”
“It's because I told them not to come.”
“And why did you do that?”
“I am Rin of the royal Matsuoka's. So they obeyed me, but don't blame them, they also thought it was a bad idea. And you have to admit that it's better we met here than at your house.”
“Why?”
“I want you, to assist me in the search of the Legendary Sakura Tree.”
It was then Haru's attention shifted to the words he was saying, rather than trying to remember where would he have heard the name Rin Matsuoka, and how his friends would have known the traveler.
“And if you really were Rin, you would know what I think about such fantasies.”
“Stuupid. Cherry blossoms don't even exist.” Isn't that what you said before?" Matsuoka was doing a good job at mocking him, and Haruka wondered how did he remember even the tone of voice after so many years.
“Yes, and I still stand by this statement. No encyclopedias or reports claim to have seen a sakura tree up to date.”
“And that is why they are called Legendary. And precisely why you should come with me.”
“Why?”
“Because if you do, I will show you a sight you have never seen before.” said Rin with a broad smile.