Vaelen Village: This is a really beautiful main theme and definitely captures the aesthetic of an RPG main town/main theme. I really like your extended chord progression of the modified Pachelbel’s canon going into a similar progression with the borrowed major chords. You have a very well-written melody over the top of it that is simple enough to be memorable and interesting enough to want to listen to over and over again.
Adventure Begins: The melody works very well hopping around from the flute to the violin to the oboe and finally to the bassoon. I hear harmonic tropes pulled from classic RPGs as you describe and also some from Mario games which fit very well (like the chromatic passing chord at 1:19 and melody/harmony at 1:29).
Vaelen Castle: Small chamber string ensemble with harp is an excellent fit for a castle theme. I like how playful and peaceful you kept this track.
Vaelen Woods: The flute instrument used reminds me of the one used in the Lost Woods theme from Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time. Your use of 3/4 time makes this area also feel more laid back and not dangerous which would make me excited to explore it!
Dark Tidings: This is a nice shift to a somber and sinister tone. This would accompany a cinematic about being warned about the danger quite well. Use of low instruments in this track highlights the danger being conveyed.
Vaelen Crown: The first phrase sounds so victorious right out of the gate! Use of march-like rhythms and heavy use of the first and fifth scale degrees in the melody help achieve this vibe. The lullaby version of the main theme is a great addition as part of the ending credits - I also love the chord substitution from the main theme. And in classic fashion, ending with the fanfare is a must! This is a very well-written soundtrack. I would love to hear the rest of the story if this is something you ever decide to flesh out more! Great work and thank you so much for sharing! Also thank you so much for rating so many entries and leaving meaningful and engaging comments- it is noticed and greatly appreciated by many! Thank you for being a part of this community!