William is something of an enigma- he is gentle, very aware of his surroundings, and quiet— despite his hulking prescence and intimidating demeanor.
Though he doesn’t really put himself out there, he isn’t an introvert! William is an ambivert, much to his own chagrin. The people in town have mixed feelings about Will. Many of the older residents love him- he’s the quiet and helpful young man who cares for his grandmother; sequestered in a cabin located in the woods surrounding town.
Will inherited his grandmother’s apothecary business after she grew too frail to manage it. He’s a healer, using old plants imbued with the only magic he’s ever been welcome to use— the hidden magic of the earth. William takes great care with providing for his community, often found cutting firewood for his grandmother’s widowed friends. He likes chopping wood; the soft rhythm of the axe cleaving through the wood is quietly soothing. The sweat trickling from his hairline down, onto his nose is a familiar comfort. This is how he blows out steam— how he takes out his frustration and pain every time a new town-member pulls their child closer to their legs, whispering hushed warnings laced with comfort.
He understands the initial responses of these new residents. How could he not understand? The day his grandmother sat him down and gently, quietly informed him of why mothers hold their children closer upon encountering him was the worst day of his life. Who his father is, how his mother died, why no wizard will apprentice him, and most importantly— why he must always be more gentle and careful with others than anyone else. These are all questions she expressed to a young, heartsick Will after he suffered particularly hard day, drowning in his own teas and choking on his history— his inheritance.
So, he chops wood. He heals the sick and mends the wounded.
He can’t help it, who doesn’t crave connection? Love? He loves to see people smile, especially at him. The warm upward stretch of an individual’s lips as they see him, the gentle bunching of skin at the outward corners of their eyes signals a happy greeting. He feels welcome— more seen. He feels less like a monster with tusks and green skin, less like a quietly bleeding heart, and more like someone deserving of community. Someone deserving of love, friendship and a real chance at their dreams.
He has had friends, but they didn’t really stick around for very long. Often, travelers and adventurers move through the town on the way to whatever greater goal or destination they seek. They seem to be more accustomed to Will’s kind, having seen individuals like him on their travels. Will provides them with a hot meal and supples, provided they’ll accept his gifts. After a few days of listening raptly to their long, winding tales of magic and of the world beyond his pain-filled, duty-bound cage, he watches as they move on. Their departure always seems to echo hollowly in his chest, ringing out silently with loss— and a strange sense of curiosity and hope. Perhaps one day, he’ll depart on his own legendary journey. He’ll prove his worth, make lasting connections, and collect more of those precious smiles.
