After hearing the second knock, James's heart skipped a beat as a third knock could be heard. His eyes darted around the moonlit room, searching for any sign of Bella who was there just moments ago.
A creak echoed through the air as the door slowly swung open, revealing a young maid with a soft, apologetic smile. "Master Caleb," she said, her voice gentle, "dinner is ready, and your presence is requested in the dining room."
Confusion washed over him, his heart still pounded in his chest. He nodded, got out of his unfamiliar bed, and followed the servant out of the room, his mind racing with questions.
As they walked down the dimly lit corridors of the Silvercrest manor, Bella appeared beside him, her eyes sparkling with amusement bringing comfort to his racing thoughts.
"James or rather Caleb," she began, her voice echoing in his mind, "let me give you a rundown of your family."
Caleb frowned, the name unfamiliar yet strangely fitting. He listened intently as Bella continued.
"Your father, Baron Elias Silvercrest, is a man of few words but has sound leadership. His presence commands respect without uttering a plethora of words. Standing tall with a sturdy build, he carries himself with the confidence of one who knows the weight of responsibility.
His facial features are chiseled, portraying a determined countenance softened by wisdom acquired through years of leadership. His hair, a shade of silver, frames his face bringing the unwanted attention of the ladies. While his piercing eyes, the color of deep sapphire, hold a gaze that can discern the nuances of any situation." Bella said with an amusing tone to her voice.
"Despite his imposing stature," she continued, laughing as she said this, "there's a gentleness in his demeanor, evident in the subtle curve of his lips, often hidden beneath a well-kept beard."
"What sets Baron Elias apart," Bella said with genuine respect. "Despite lacking magical ability, especially in a world where magic often reigns supreme, his prowess in leadership and strategic thinking surpasses the need for arcane powers. He leads with an iron will tempered by compassion, guiding his domain through turbulent times with unwavering resolve."
Caleb's thoughts now pictured the man Bella described as they continued down a corridor lined with spectacles of tapestries and wall ornaments. Although, some had seen better days.
"Your mother, Lady Eveline Silvercrest," Bella continued, interrupting the imagery playing in his head, "is a portrait of grace and vitality, with a spirit as vibrant as the blossoms she tends in her gardens. Her love for her family is matched only by her passion for the natural world, particularly the enchanted flora that flourishes under her care."
"With an ethereal beauty that seems to mirror the delicate petals of her prized flowers, Lady Eveline possesses a warmth that envelops those around her. Her hair, a cascade of black waves, is often adorned with blossoms plucked from her gardens, framing her face like a crown of nature's design. Her eyes, the color of an earthly green meadow."
"It might be wise to see why she's so interested in the flora and fauna." Bella stated with a playful purr resonating in his head.
"While she delights in the tranquility of her gardens," Bella continued, "Lady Eveline's heart truly belongs to her family. She is a devoted wife and mother, and her love for her husband and children is evident in every smile and gesture. It's in the embrace of her family and the beauty of her gardens, that Eveline finds her greatest joy and fulfillment."
Caleb began imagining the Baroness with petals oriented on her head giving even more beauty to the Baroness. "What about siblings?" Caleb asked nervously with a hint of curiosity.
"You have two older brothers, Alden and Marcus, both strong and brave, always trying to outdo each other." Bella purred.
"Your older sister, Livia, is elegant and sharp-witted." "Though she is a bit timid." Bella stated before leaping out of the shadows and rubbing against his leg. Caleb tried to absorb the information, his mind swirling with more questions than answers.
It was strange to think of himself as Caleb Silvercrest, the third son of a Baron. Just moments ago he was James Simmons. An average teenage kid who loved video games and fantasy novels. A teen who shut the world out and replaced it with endless nights of video games, longing for more of an adventure. His life had always felt ordinary. Now it seemed to take on a new dimension.
As they neared the dining room, Bella continued, "Remember, Caleb, only you can see me. I'll be here, weaving in and out of the shadows, guiding you. When others are around, I'll speak to you telepathically."
Caleb nodded, feeling a strange mix of excitement and apprehension. The grandeur of the Silvercrest manor still felt overwhelming to him, even though everything looked familiar, it was still new to Caleb.
Opening the door to the dining room, the servant, who seemed not to hear Caleb's questions from moments ago, disappeared, leaving no trace behind.
The dining room was a large opulent space, with high ceilings adorned with intricate chandeliers. A long polished table stretched across the room with gleaming silverware and fine china. Tapestries decorated the walls, depicting scenes of historical battles and serene landscapes. The room exuded an air of timeless elegance.
Caleb took a seat and glanced around at his family. His father sat at the head of the table, his stern gaze softened by a hint of a smile as he looked at his children. His mother, seated beside him, radiated warmth and grace. Alden and Marcus were already deep in conversation, while Livia sat poised and composed.
Caleb nervousnessly wondered how he fit into this picture. Would his new family notice a change in his behavior, as the son they knew was no more? He barely had time to gather his thoughts when his father's voice broke through the chatter.
"Caleb," said Lord Elias, his voice steady and commanding, "how was your day?"