Back in the village, I began to form alliances. Aria introduced me to a few trusted villagers: Kael, a blacksmith with arms like steel and a heart of gold; Mira, a healer whose touch could mend wounds both physical and emotional. Together, we began training, sharing knowledge, and preparing for the dangers that lurked beyond the Mist.
Even amidst camaraderie, tension simmered. Secrets lingered, whispered warnings, and unspoken rivalries. But amidst it all, I felt something I hadn't in my old life: belonging.