On the other side — earlier that morning…
The sun had only just risen, casting golden light through the tall windows of the observatory. The air buzzed with a quiet urgency, like the calm before a storm.
Stella, unaware of her fate, had just begun her first day of school.
Meanwhile, in a place hidden from ordinary eyes—
"Guys," Ray spoke, standing with his arms crossed and gaze fixed on the horizon beyond the window."We've been idle for a while. Starting today… things will get busy."
"Chief," Elias sighed dramatically, lounging on a nearby couch. "You say that like we were enjoying a vacation. You should've said, 'The main quest begins now!' or something cool like that."
Wandy chuckled, wrapping an arm around Elias' shoulder."Come on, Elly, you know he didn't mean it like that."Then, turning to Ray, she asked, "The girl… her name's Stella, right?"
Ray gave a quiet nod. His expression unreadable."We still have a little time. I'm heading out first—there are some things I need to take care of."He turned away, his coat fluttering behind him like a shadow—and in the blink of an eye, he vanished.
"Still as mysterious as ever, huh?" Joseph muttered, watching the spot where Ray once stood.He adjusted his glasses with a sigh."No matter how many times I see that, I still can't get used to it."
"Well, that's our Chief." Wandy shrugged, a playful smirk on her face."Now let's get moving, shall we? Wouldn't want to fall behind before the real story even begins. Oh and where's Von?"
---
"Stella, calm your head down, okay?" Ray knelt beside her, his voice low and steady."Just focus on breathing. In and out."
Stella's eyes darted around the unfamiliar room, wide with fear. Her breath came in sharp gasps."Where's Mom? Who are you people? Where… Where am I?!"The questions tumbled out of her mouth like a flood.
"Hey, kid—relax."Elias sat beside her, gently placing a hand over Stella's chest, feeling her frantic heartbeat."I know you're scared. Anyone would be. But you're okay now, alright? You're safe."
"No! No, I want my mom!"Stella shook her head, tears brimming in her eyes. "Where is she? MOM!"
Elias cupped her small face gently, guiding her gaze toward her."Stella, look at me."Her voice softened to a near whisper."I know this is hard. I know how it feels to be lost like this. But I promise you—your mom is safe. She's not gone. So please… try to calm down, just a little bit."
Stella sniffled. Her breathing slowed, trembling with each inhale, but the panic began to ease. Slowly, she nodded.
"…Miss?" she asked, voice barely above a whisper.
Elias smiled, brushing a strand of hair from Stella's face."Just call me Elly. That's what everyone does."She gave Stella a wink."From now on, you're part of our family. Welcome, Stella."
A flicker of comfort sparked in Stella's heart. She nodded again, a little stronger this time."But… where am I?"
Ray, who had been silent, finally spoke again."Elias, show Stella around. Help her get settled. She deserves to get some explanations."He turned to the others."The rest of you, with me. We've got missions waiting."
"Hmph, so cold as always, Chief," Elias teased, standing up with a dramatic sigh."'Elias, do this. Elias, do that.' Would it kill you to call me Elly like the rest? Show a little warmth?"
Ray didn't even glance back as he walked off.Elias turned to Stella with a grin."Well, he just doesn't show his emotions. Come on, kiddo. I'll give you the grand tour. I'll explain everything... well, not everything, but I'll do my best. Sound good?"
Stella nodded once more. The fear hadn't left her completely, but she felt a little bit at ease… she didn't feel alone.