mpanied by her family, joined the joyous gathering. The sight of her family was

ight of responsibility, etched lines on his face that spoke of a life devoted to tradi

tial role in their village. He was a figure who blended into the fabric of

her affluent nor impoverished, but rather found his place comfortably in the middle. His occ

ure of his responsibilities. While he did care for his daughter, he struggled to express

s lips. He viewed Alex as the embodiment of their family's legacy, and this favoured son could do no wrong in his father's eyes. The bond between fath

ir father's good graces. Alex's carefree attitude and penchant for mischief were balanced by his natural charisma, which drew people to him. While Ca

that aligned with traditional notions of masculinity, Al

espite their age difference, Alex frequently included Cassia in his adventures. Whether exploring the woods, teaching her games, or sharing stories, h

at radiated warmth and compassion, a stark contrast to her husband's stern demeanour. Isabelle's role within

ew her. Her soft and soothing voice often served as a

. She embraced her role as a mother and wife with grace and devotion, p

and encouraged her to pursue her interests. Despite her husband's sternness, Isabelle provide

towards her husband, James. She respected his authority and often deferred to h

lage square was alive with the sounds of laughter, music, and the aromas of delicious food wafting through the

ected in the community. Their grandparents were not originally from the villag

wishes for the occasion, celebrating the joyous spirit of the village celebration. The sense o

ity, where differences were set aside, a

conversation with another merchant family, the Hendersons, who were known for their vibrant fabrics and textiles. Th

s 'Good day, Samuel, Emily. How has

s a pleasure to see you. Business has been steady, thank

your fabrics are always so exquisite. I was just

in our work. Speaking of which, Alex, you've grown so much since

yet, but I like to watch a

our trade and traditions. He will be the next

preserving our customs is essential

a toast, 'To community, trad

own glass, 'To a

pers and murmurs spread like wildfire, drawing the attention of the villagers to a significant arrival. The Hig

eir conversations, and cast curious glances toward the village's entrance. The news o

ey exchanged titbits of information about the Council's purpose for attendin

llagers demonstrated their deep respect through subtle gestures. Heads nodded in ack

olemn respect. They exchanged words of welcome and offered their gratitude for t

that set them apart from the villagers. Their appearance, from their clothing t

y. Deep blues, purples, and dark greens were common choices, and their robes w

e. Ornate medallions hung from their necks, each bearing a unique symbol representing th

timeless wisdom and grace. Their faces were etched with lines that spoke of ex

s were deliberate and measured, evoking a sense

matter of great importance. Have there been any sightings of the Zura, the bless

sence honors our humble celebration. (Pauses, exchanging uneasy glances with fellow el

necks, a divine symbol. Our realm depends on you

have not encountered any such markings. (Averts her gaze)

ion is paramount for the realm's future. (Pauses) We trust that you

of the Zura's role. We shall remain watchful and a

re the presence of the Zura among us. To this end, we must verify the young g

igh Council, if it is your wish, we shall arra

essence. We must fulfill our sacred duty to identi

icipation and reverence filled the air. The High Council's decision to take matters into their own hands u