In the days that followed, as Orion familiarized himself with the village, a growing realization nagged at him. Though it took time to truly take notice, none of the villagers exhibited even the faintest hint of cultivation. This struck Orion as utterly bizarre.

In the era from which he hailed, cultivation was as ubiquitous as breathing. People of all statuses, from nobles to peasants, cultivated to varying degrees. For some, it was a mere pastime, while for others, it was the crux of existence. It was interwoven into the very fabric of society.

He would observe the villagers — the blacksmith hammering at his anvil, children playing by the brook, the farmer tending to his crops. All of them went about their lives untouched by the dance of energy that cultivation brought. It was as though an integral part of their spirit was dormant, waiting to be awakened.

His curiosity piqued, Orion approached Thorne one evening as the village settled under twilight’s embrace. Thorne was overlooking the day's harvest, counting and making notes.

"Thorne," Orion began, choosing his words carefully, "I've noticed something... peculiar. None of the villagers show any signs of cultivation. Why is that?"

Thorne paused, looking up. His eyes, always sharp, seemed to narrow slightly. "Cultivation? That's an old term, one not often used these days. How do you know of it?"

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Orion hesitated. His past was not something he was ready to delve into, especially with someone he barely knew. "I've traveled far and wide," he replied vaguely. "I've witnessed many practices and have seen the art of cultivation firsthand."

Thorne studied Orion for a moment longer. "In this village, cultivation is almost a myth. Few know of it, and fewer still practice it.”

A moment of silence passed between them, filled only by the chirping of crickets and the distant hoot of an owl. Then, Thorne spoke again, "Would you teach us? The villagers, I mean. Cultivation could change their lives."

Orion hesitated. His arrival in the village was to escape, to find solace, and to rebuild himself. Drawing attention by reigniting the flame of cultivation in the village might not be wise. "I'm not sure that's a good idea," he replied, cautious. "I wish to keep a low profile."

Thorne nodded slowly, understanding the unspoken words. "Very well. It's your knowledge, after all."

Changing the topic, Orion inquired, "Would our current arrangement be agreeable for the next few months? I work for shelter and sustenance?"

Thorne smiled, extending his hand. "Of course, Orion. As long as you pull your weight, you're welcome here."

Orion gripped Thorne's hand firmly, gratitude evident in his eyes. The village, though vastly different from his past, was now his present. And as the stars twinkled overhead, Orion felt the weight of lost time and the hope of a new dawn blending seamlessly, binding him to this newfound home.