The moment the fruit left the ethereal tree and was firmly in their grasp, it dissolved into a shower of tiny particles, each glowing with a soft, shimmering light. Soon, they all felt a sudden coolness spread through their bodies, cleansing away the heat.
"Everyone, stop activating your gifts!" Orion commanded, withdrawing his hand.
The villagers promptly complied, deactivating their gifts and lowering their hands.
To everyone's bewilderment, the massive ethereal tree, which was supposed to retract into the giant sundial, remained in its place, its presence even more conspicuous.
Orion's countenance darkened with a deep frown as he observed the unusual scene. "Everyone, step back to the crowd," he ordered firmly.
The young awakeners immediately sensed something was amiss upon hearing Orion's words. They nodded in understanding before swiftly stepping backwards to join the rest of the villagers behind them.
