The air in the village square was thick with tension, the sun's harsh light casting long, wavering shadows on the cobblestone.
William stood beside Emily, his eyes fixed on the cloaked figure that loomed at the center—a Soldier of the Soul Star, his presence as cold and unyielding as the distant white sun he served.
The man's gaze swept over the gathered crowd, pausing briefly on Emily, who clenched her fists at her sides, her face pale but resolute.
The reality of her fate seemed to weigh on everyone's shoulders, each second stretching painfully as the Soldier's silence filled the space, unspoken judgments lurking behind his piercing eyes.
"Come forth," he ordered, as Emily hesitantly approached.
The Soldier raised his left palm, and closed his eyes in tiring concentration, as a gentle white glow engulfed his hand and Emily.
After a few seconds, in which silence loomed supreme, the man relaxed his palm and the glow faded away.
Emily had seemed perfectly comfortable and untouched by the man's magic, and so William hadn't done anything. He knew better than to go against his sister's wishes.
Wiping a few droplets of sweat from his forehead, the Soldier began to speak.
"Your identity has been confirmed. You must, as per your duty to the church, retreat with me to the nearest Lord."
Before anyone could voice any objections, the man swiftly continued.
"I know of the many thoughts lingering in your mind, however put them to rest. You will not be mistreated, you will not be permanently separated from your kin, and you will even be bestowed a noble house's title as soon as possible."
A sharp look of surprise, and relief, came upon William's face. He quickly noticed that he wasn't the only one with such a look.
This situation, though very much welcome, was truthfully unexpected. William had read many books and enjoyed various stories throughout his childhood, and so he expected a different outcome to today's events.
Nevertheless, Emily was the subject of this situation, and so she spoke out.
"I understand. I have already spoken with my family about this, however would you mind if I have a final goodbye?"
The man nodded in agreement.
Emily went around giving her father, mother, and William a hug. She promised them that she would be safe and that she would meet them again as soon as possible.
"We must depart," the soldier spoke, continuing, "Before we leave, it would be best for you to know that meeting your family once more will come as soon as three months from now, and you will be capable of doing so as much as you'd like thereafter."
Overhearing the man's reassuring comments, everyone was visibly pleased.
With a final wave goodbye, Emily took off with the soldier and headed out of the village's gate, sitting upon his sturdy brown horse and taking off into the woods.
Despite the reassurances, and William's apathetic nature, the reality of these moments struck him harder than he could have ever predicted.
Perhaps it was because he was so focused on surviving for the first day. Or perhaps it was because he placed this moment at the back of his mind a month ago, when they first met Rheala.
Julie glanced at her son, noticing a hint of emotion hidden beneath his brown eyes. There was a strange glint to them, something she had never before observed in him.
William was reminded of his dream. A flame grew stronger in his heart.
The family spent a few moments, each in their own deep contemplations, before retreating to the tower to discuss with Rheala, as they had agreed prior.
…
"I have noticed the dissatisfaction within yourselves. You are amongst the most unique families I have ever encountered. From the moment you arrived, it was clear that you are not like the people of this land. Whether you come from a distant corner of Vanalor or from humbler beginnings, your unfamiliarity with magic and traits speaks volumes. This is not a criticism but an observation—a recognition of the challenges you now face in a world that demands understanding of forces you have never known. I hope you will take my advice to heart, for it comes from a place of experience and care.
"This land, Vanalor, is bound by rules, traditions, and powers that are often harsh and unforgiving to those who do not understand them. You have been thrust into this place with no warning, and it is natural to feel lost, even resentful of your circumstances. But you have already shown resilience in surviving your first days here, and that resilience will be your greatest ally.
"James, you have a perceptive mind, and your ability to gather information will serve you well. In a land where knowledge often determines one's survival, your keen insight will be a powerful tool. But remember, knowing is only the first step; it is how you act upon that knowledge that will shape your path.
"Julie, your gift to improve what you touch, though humble, holds great potential. In a world that can often feel hostile and unyielding, even small acts of improvement can turn the tide in your favor. Do not underestimate the value of subtlety and patience. Your kindness and your ability to see beyond what is, to what could be, are powerful traits in themselves.
"And William," she said, turning her gaze to him, "you have told me of your ability to sense danger, and that in itself is no small gift. But I have seen something else in you—an eagerness to learn, to understand this world in a way that goes beyond mere survival. Use that drive, but be mindful not to let fear dictate your actions. Trust in your instincts, but also in your own strength to change what lies ahead."
Rheala paused, letting her words sink in as she looked at each of them. "This village may be small, and its people simple, but even here, we have learned the value of unity, perseverance, and the will to carve out a life amid uncertainty. You are no longer outsiders; you are part of this land now. And while Vanalor may not be kind to newcomers, it also rewards those who have the courage to make it their own.
"Take each step forward with purpose. Forge connections, learn from every experience, and remember that every hardship is a lesson. Your journey here is just beginning, and while the road may be fraught with challenges, it is also full of possibilities that none of us can yet see.
"Let your differences guide you, let your unity strengthen you, and above all, do not let the unfamiliar silence your will to strive. This world has a place for those bold enough to claim it, and you have already proven that you have the strength to do so."
James contemplated on the old mage's speech, a new resolve forming in his mind.
Julie recalled the moment her daughter left the village, she knew not of how she could allow such a thing, only that they were all changing—despite being here for only a month.
A strange cold emanated from the dark haired boy across the room. Despite all that was happening, a small smile found itself on William's face.
'So it's true after all…' he thought.
A theory had found itself in his mind, ever since their very first day.
This world, whether it be from magic, or from traits, or from whatever other unknown influence, was affecting their minds.
William was now colder, more collected, more calculating. James was more reserved, Julie more understanding, and Emily more responsible.
Their characteristics were being enhanced, their emotions more refined.
William knew without a shred of uncertainty that if events even remotely similar to what had happened here would have happened back on Earth, everything would be different.
He would have lost his composure more than once, his father would still be in denial, his mother would reflexively keep her children close at all times, never allowing them to even interact with other individuals, let alone leaving with them, and Emily would have accepted that protection without a second thought.
'If we must change, then so be it.'
William would not shy away from this 'gift', as he saw only benefits and minimal harms.
"What exactly, do you suggest us to do? We know little of where to go, and what to pursue," James asked, expectations forming in his mind.
Rheala sighed in understanding, however she responded in the end, "I suggest waiting for the Bear Merchants. They will be here in a days time, at most, and will gladly offer you a ride to the nearest city."
With a short pause, she continued, "From there, it would be wise to assist them until you raise enough coins to afford a journey to the capital. By the time you arrive at the capital, Emily would have met with the Pope, and your family will be announced as a new noble house, allowing you to enroll in the Criweth Royal Academy, from which you will amass all the knowledge you need to decide your futures."
It was a sound plan, and so, after a few moments of thought, everyone was satisfied with the advice.
"Thank you. You have been extremely hospitable to us, ever since we came upon this village, and we may never be capable of repaying this debt," Julie voiced out, her words being heartfelt.
Rheala shrugged the thanks off, reassuring them that they shouldn't think much of it.
With a clear plan, and enough thoughts for a week, the family retreated to their room in the second floor, and remained in silent contemplation for the remainder of the day.
"William." James called out, laying in bed.
William required no more words to understand what his father wanted to say.
"Yes, father?" He responded, feigning ignorance.
A short pause returned to the room, the father and son duo each in their own thoughts, with Julie soundly asleep.
"This world…it's affecting our minds, isn't it?" He said.
William stared at the roof, many ideas streaking past his conscience.
"Probably," he replied.
The middle aged man smiled unexpectedly. "I suppose it's for the best."
Glancing at his father, William returned the smile, "I suppose it is."
…
The Bear Merchants hadn't arrived that night, however they were well on their way.