Demah paused, seeming to reconsider his words. His expression softened as he looked at me, perhaps realizing that I didn't fully comprehend the situation.

"Yes, your family," he said gently. "They'll want to know you're awake and recovering."

I struggled to find a sense of belonging with this new "family". As far as I'm concerned, the only family that I have is back on Earth, God knows what happened to them. This new family? No, they're not my family.

"I... I don't remember," I murmured quietly, my voice barely above a whisper.

Lienad exchanged a glance with Demah, their concern palpable. "It's alright," Lienad reassured me. "Sometimes, after a fainting spell, memories can be a bit fuzzy. Give it time; things might come back to you."

Niasuh nodded vigorously, his eyes wide with sympathy. "Yeah, don't worry. We're here to help."

Despite their comforting words, a gnawing unease settled in my chest. Having a whole new family felt like a missing piece in a puzzle I couldn't quite assemble.

Demah placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "We'll figure this out together," he said firmly. "For now, rest. I'll go and inform the village elder that you've woken up. He might have some guidance for you."

With a nod, I watched as Demah left the room, leaving me alone with Lienad and Niasuh. They exchanged another look, silently communicating before Lienad cleared his throat.

"So, um, do you feel up to sitting outside for a bit? The fresh air might do you good," he suggested tentatively.

I considered his offer. The room felt stifling despite its simplicity, and the idea of feeling sunlight on my skin was oddly appealing. "Yes, I think that would be nice," I replied, surprised by the croakiness of my own voice.

Lienad and Niasuh helped me to my feet, supporting me as I steadied myself. Slowly, we made our way outside into the village square, where the day's activities were winding down. The air was cool and carried the faint scent of woodsmoke and wildflowers.

As we settled on a bench beneath a spreading oak tree, Lienad and Niasuh began to fill the silence with stories of Chesapeake Village—its history, its traditions, and its people. Their voices became a soothing backdrop to my thoughts, helping to anchor me in this unfamiliar place.

With each passing moment, I felt a bit more grounded, a bit more connected to the world around me. The darkness that had surrounded me earlier was beginning to dissipate, replaced by a growing sense of curiosity and determination.

"I'm glad you're awake," Niasuh said suddenly, breaking the comfortable silence. "We were worried there for a bit."

The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

I offered him a small smile, touched by his sincerity. "Thank you, Niasuh. I appreciate your concern."

Lienad nudged Niasuh playfully. "Yeah, you should've seen his face when you collapsed. Thought you were a goner for sure."

Niasuh blushed furiously, but his eyes sparkled with amusement. "I did not!"

Their banter brought a genuine smile to my face, easing the lingering tension in my chest.

As the sun began its descent toward the horizon, casting long shadows across the village square, Demah returned accompanied by an elderly man with kind eyes and a weathered face.

"This is Elder Soren," Demah introduced him with a respectful bow. "He's the wisest person in Chesapeake Village. He's been looking forward to meeting you."

Elder Soren was old. Very old. He was the oldest-looking person I've ever met in my life. His eyes had crinkles upon crinkles, his face sagging, almost below his long, white beard. I felt awkward at first, not knowing what to do, but I rose and clasped my hands.

"I am pleased to meet you, sir."

Elder Soren laughed, a wizened laugh. Like the voice of one who has experienced countless memories and years of their lifetime, he cracked a smile. "No worry, young man. You can call me Elder. I hear that your family is worrying about you?"

I glanced at him from my slight bow. "Yes, I suppose they are."

"Hmm." Elder Soren stroked his long, white beard thoughtfully. "Family is important. They ground us, give us a sense of belonging. But sometimes, family isn't just about blood relations. It's about the bonds we form with those around us, the people who support and care for us."

His words resonated with me, stirring a mix of emotions. I couldn't deny the kindness and concern I felt from Demah, Lienad, and Niasuh. They had been there for me since I woke up in this unfamiliar world, offering their help without hesitation.

"But... what if I can't remember my family?" I asked quietly, my voice barely audible. "What if they're... gone?"

Elder Soren's expression softened even more if that was possible. "Memories can be elusive, my boy. Sometimes, they return with time and patience. And sometimes, we create new memories with the people who become our family."

I nodded slowly, taking in his wisdom. "I want to remember," I admitted, feeling a knot tighten in my chest. "I want to know who I am and where I come from."

"That journey will unfold in its own time," Elder Soren said gently. "For now, focus on healing and adjusting to your new surroundings. The Choosing Ceremony is ahead, and it may provide you with clarity and direction."

The mention of the Choosing Ceremony brought a flicker of curiosity. "Sorry to ask again, but what exactly does the Choosing Ceremony entail?" I asked, eager to learn more about this tradition that seemed integral to Chesapeake Village life.

Lienad leaned forward, eager to explain. "It's a ceremony where each person chooses a god to serve, based on their beliefs and aspirations. The gods of Arandore guide and protect us, and choosing a god is a solemn commitment. It provides you with boons and skills, power you could only dream of."

Niasuh nodded enthusiastically. "It's a big deal here. The whole village comes together to celebrate and honor those who make their choice."

As I listened, a mix of awe and uncertainty filled me. The idea of choosing a god seemed weighty and significant, especially in a world I was only beginning to understand. Yet, it also sparked a glimmer of hope—that through this ceremony, I might find a path forward, a purpose to anchor myself in this unfamiliar existence.

Elder Soren regarded me thoughtfully. "You'll have time to decide," he assured me. "Rest now, and when you're ready, we'll guide you through the preparations for the ceremony."

With a nod, I sank back against the sturdy oak tree, feeling the cool bark against my back. The evening breeze rustled through the leaves, carrying with it a sense of peace and possibility.

I awaited for what was to come. And as I slept, I felt my memories slowly come back.

And my soul resonated.