The long-awaited day had finally come. The entire family stood outside their modest home, eyes fixed on the horizon as a grand carriage, flanked by armored knights, rolled into view. The air buzzed with excitement and a hint of nervousness. Liam’s heart raced as he clutched his baby sister, Amara’s, hand tightly. She giggled, oblivious to the importance of the occasion.

The carriage was an elegant sight, its polished wood gleaming under the morning sun. As it came to a halt, a man stepped out, his presence commanding yet warm. He was tall and broad-shouldered, with a full head of silver-streaked hair and piercing blue eyes that twinkled with mischief. This was Archduke Adrian Vallis, Liam’s grandfather.

“Ah, my family!” Adrian’s voice boomed with joy as he spread his arms wide. “It’s been far too long!”

Elric stepped forward, bowing respectfully before embracing his father. “Welcome, Father. It’s good to see you.”

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Adrian’s gaze shifted to Mara, Lilia, and finally, Liam and Amara. His face softened as he knelt down, opening his arms to the children. “And these must be my precious grandchildren.”

Liam hesitated only for a moment before running into his grandfather’s arms. The man’s laugh was deep and infectious as he scooped Liam up effortlessly. Amara followed suit, her giggles filling the air as Adrian lifted her into his other arm. “What treasures you are,” he said, planting a kiss on each of their foreheads.

The rest of the day was filled with laughter and bonding. Adrian came bearing gifts—exquisite fabrics for the women, a finely-crafted blade for Elric, and intricate wooden toys for Amara. For Liam, however, he brought something extraordinary: a set of ancient tomes, their covers adorned with mysterious runes.

“These belonged to me in my youth,” Adrian explained, placing a hand on Liam’s shoulder. “And now, they’re yours. I sense in you a spark, boy—one that reminds me of myself.”

Later that evening, Adrian spoke privately with Elric, revealing his plans to take the family back to the Vallis estate. Meanwhile, he shared whispered stories of Earth with Liam, his eyes alight with nostalgia.

“This is only the beginning, my boy,” Adrian said, ruffling Liam’s hair. “You and I—we’re going to change this world.”