BlackRoseSiren

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Aurora Halliwell

Eye of The Beholder
Outside the Inn

---

As Aurora listened to Anora express her condolences, a gentle smile spread across her face. ”Thank you,” she replied, her voice soft yet sincere. She took a moment and took a deep breath, she felt a slight release of tension in her chest. ”You are the second person here that I have shared this,” she continued, her words laced with a hint of relief. ”It feels as though a small weight has been lifted.”

As Anora spoke again, sharing more about her own experiences, Aurora found comfort in their shared vulnerability. Hearing that Anora had lost her mother at an early age made her feel a strange kind of kinship; perhaps they both understand the ache of loss in similar ways. The conversation then changed, and Aurora felt a twinge of empathy as she said, ”I'm truly sorry for your loss, Miss Anora. It isn’t something I would wish upon anyone.” Her tone was sincere, a heartfelt connection forged in the shared experience of grief.

At that moment, Aurora noticed that Anora’s eyes were fixated on the pendant that was hanging from her neck. Aurora’s pendant shimmered gently in the light, a small, intricate locket, in the shape of a heart. Aurora’s expression softened as she smiled warmly, her fingers subconsciously brushed against the pendant. ”Yes, this pendant is very special to me. It once belonged to my mother; she gifted it to me for my 20th birthday,” she explained, her voice imbued with a mix of nostalgia and affection.

As Anora began to share her own story, Aurora listened intently, captivated by the lady’s recount of her childhood, from Anora’s birth to her adoptive parents. After Anora finished her narrative, Aurora took a moment before she responded, noting the elegant ring sparkling on Anora’s finger. ”Your ring is beautiful. It seems to carry a history of its own, and I’m really glad you still have it. I would guess that, like me, you wear it everywhere you go,” she remarked, a hint of admiration in her voice.

When Anora expressed her curiosity about whether Aurora may know her birth parents, a shadow of uncertainty washed over Aurora’s face. She shook her head gently, a sense of loss evident in her eyes. ”I don’t believe I know them, and honestly, I’m not sure I’ve ever heard that name before,” she replied, her tone laced with empathy. She parsed for a moment, and added, ”However, if you ever feel the need to search for information about your birth parents, please know that I wouldn’t mind helping you in any way I can.” The sincerity in her offer resonated in the space between them, creating a bond forged in shared experiences and understanding.

As Anora listened to Anora’s speculations about where her father might be, and what he might be up to at that very moment, a warm smile spread across Aurora’s face. ” He very well could be,” she replied, her voice filled with a mix of affection and understanding. The conversation shifted, and when Anora mentioned the mysterious letter that she received, Aurora felt a jolt of surprise. Her expression turned serious as she said, ”Please be careful, I genuinely hope you uncover whatever it is you’re searching for.”

The conversation shifted again, and when Anora extended an invitation to share tea, Aurora’s face lit up once more. ”I would love to meet you again,” she said enthusiastically, her eyes sparkling at the thought of indulging in delightful pastries alongside their conversation. The prospect of warmth, friendship, and sweet treats filled her with anticipation.

Anora @Dezuel

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Aurora Halliwell

Eye of The Beholder
Outside the Inn

---

As Anora pointed out that their names shared the same first letter, a warm smile spread across her face, and s soft giggle escaped her lips, she watched the graceful lady approach Storm, who stood patiently beside her. ”Of course, you can pet her! She’s incredibly friendly and adores when people shower her with affection,.” she said, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm.

Turning to Storm, she continued, “Look Storm! This lovely lady is eager to meet you,” her tone laced with encouragement and warmth. As she watched the two connect, felt a sense of joy.

Listening intently to Anora, she reflected on her own experiences, saying, “It’s evident that you’ve had lessons. My mother was the one who taught me how to handle these situations,” her words trailing off slightly as her smile faltered for an instant, revealing a hint of nostalgia. The fond memory of her mother momentarily overshadowed the lively atmosphere, adding depth to their conversation.

As Aurora watched Anora’s interaction with Storm, a sense of warmth filled her heart, creating a joyful smile to spread across her face. The way Anora gently petted Storm radiated a genuine affection that was impossible to miss. When Anora mentioned her brother and asked her if she had met him yet, Aurora shook her head softly, her eyes reflecting a hint of curiosity. “No, I have not had the pleasure of meeting him yet,” she replied, her tone warm and inviting.

She continued to listen intently as Anora shared her reasons for moving to Downhaven, her interest piqued by the desire to assist the prince. Aurora’s smile widened further at this revelation, feeling a sense of admiration for Anora’s selflessness. “It’s nice of you to want to help the prince,” Aurora said, her voice filled with sincerity. The two women exchanged smiles, a bond of camaraderie forming between them in the gentle atmosphere that surrounded them.

As Anora’s questions filled the air, Aurora felt her smile falter once more, a flicker of vulnerability broke her composure. She instinctively grasped the delicate pendant hanging around her neck, a cherished keepsake from her mother. She took a moment to steady herself. ”Yes, my father was Alistair Halliwell,” she replied, her voice a mix of pride and sadness. ”Yes, I am his daughter, and yes, both of my parents were merchants and healers.

With a deep breath, Aurora tightened her grip on the pendant, as memories surged forth. “It’s true they were taken from me just a few months ago, lost to a vicious pack of wolves. It was a tragic end that changed everything for me.” She paused, her heart heavy with the weight of her loss. “In their memory, I resolved to leave and find a new place to call home, somewhere different, just as they always dreamed I might.”

Her brow furrowed slightly as she regarded Anora, and a flicker of confusion crossed her features. ”Did you or your family know them?” she asked, her curiosity piqued. Aurora had thought she knew the extent of her parents’ connections, but now she found herself wondering if she had missed one of their connections.

Anora @Dezuel

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Aurora Halliwell

Eye of The Beholder
Outside the Inn

---

As Aroura finished her heartfelt performance to her horse, a wave of warmth washed over her, lifting her spirits as memories of her mother singing this very song flooded her mind. It was a cherished moment, one that brought both nostalgia and comfort. Just as she started to bask in these tender thoughts, a sound broke through her daydream, a soft, and pleasant voice singing behind.

With a quick pivot on her heels, Aurora turned to investigate the source of the singing. To her surprise, she found a young woman standing there, radiant and poised. The lady’s voice was enchanting, weaving through the air with a sweet, lilting quality that drew Aurora in like a moth to a flame. Instead of interrupting the young lady, Aurora chose to stand still, completely entranced by the unfolding performance.

As the beautiful notes wrapped around her, a wide smile blossomed on Aurora’s face, lighting up her features. She couldn’t resist the urge to join in, her soft humming harmonizing effortlessly with the lady’s song. The two voices melded together in a magical moment, creating an atmosphere filled with joy and connection, allowing Aurora to momentarily forget her worries as she lost herself in the song.

As the final notes of the lady’s song faded into the evening air, she swiftly moved toward Aurora, bringing a short gap between them. With a bright smile, the lady extended her hand in a friendly greeting, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. Aurora felt a warm glow of connection as she reached out to shake Anora’s hand. “Pleased to make your acquaintance, Anora. I am Aurora Halliwell,” she replied, her tone sincere and welcoming. After a brief moment, she released Anora’s hand, a smile still dancing on her lips as she turned her attention to Storm, who was grazing, on hay.

With grace, she approached the mare, her fingers brushing through Starm’s soft mane as she spoke fondly. “And this beautiful girl is Storm.” Aurora beamed, glancing back at Anora, who stood observing with intrigue. “If you would like to pet her you can,” she offered, gesturing invitingly towards Storm. ”And by the way, your song was truly lovely, she added, her eyes sparking with appreciation.

Anora @Dezuel

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Aurora Halliwell

Eye of The Beholder
Outside the Inn

---

In her moment of sadness, Aurora felt a gentle touch that she initially overlooked. It wasn’t until the monk’s hand settled under her chin, lifting her face to meet his gaze, that she became aware of his presence. A rush of warmth enveloped her, and she instinctively felt a blush rise to her cheeks. As he started to speak, he removed his hand, allowing her space but leaving her slightly disoriented. When he spoke about her name and of the northern lights, a sense of connection sparked within her. She smiled, and when he finally introduced himself with an array of titles, she couldn’t help but giggle, a sound that felt foreign yet pleasant. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Gadez Paladice. And yes I am named after the northern lights.”

As he continued to speak, sharing his thoughts with warmth and wisdom that captivated her, she listened intently, feeling an unexpected warmth emanating from his presence. Her cheeks flushed deeper when she noticed his thumb softly stroking her cheek, an intimate gesture that embarrassed her. Apart from her parents, no one had ever shown her such tenderness, and it left her feeling both vulnerable and curious. Yet, despite the rush of emotions, she was not afraid; instead, she felt a curious sense of comfort in his company. When he finally announced that he had to take his leave, a pang of disappointment struck her. She waved goodbye. Once he had gone the gentle glow she had felt slipped away, leaving her feeling lonely yet again.

With a sigh, she decided to seek solace in the tavern’s stables, longing to see her beloved horse Storm. As she stepped inside, the familiar sounds of the stable, hay rustling and the contented neighing of horses, greeted her like an old friend. When she spotted Storm. The majestic mare’s coat gleamed in the dim light, and Aurora’s heart filled with affection. “There’s my beautiful girl,” she murmured, placing her forehead against Storm’s. The horse nuzzled her affectionately, sensing the melancholy that lingered in Aurora’s heart. “I’m ok girl. Just remembering mother and father.” She confided with a soft sigh, the weight of her emotions pressing down on her.

As she embraced Storm, a flood of cherished memories washed over her, particularly the times her mother sang sweet lullabies that always made her feel safe and loved. Aurora took a deep breath, allowing the scent of hay and her horse’s warmth to ground her. Inspired by those cherished memories, she began to sing a song that her mother had taught her, her voice rising softly into the stillness of the stable, weaving a tapestry of love and nostalgia that filled the air around them.

“Lavender's blue, dilly, dilly,
lavender's green,
When I am king, dilly, dilly,
you shall be queen.

Who told you so, dilly, dilly,
who told you so?
Twas my own heart, dilly, dilly,
that told me so.

Call up your men, dilly, dilly,
set them to work
Some to the plough, dilly, dilly,
some to the fork,

Some to make hay, dilly, dilly,
some to cut corn,
While you and I, dilly, dilly,
keep ourselves warm.

Lavender's green, dilly, dilly,
Lavender's blue,
If you love me, dilly, dilly,
I will love you

Let the birds sing, dilly, dilly,
And the lambs play
We shall be safe, dilly, dilly,
out of harm's way

I love to dance, dilly, dilly,
I love to sing
When I am queen, dilly, dilly,
You'll be my king.

Who told me so, dilly, dilly,
Who told me so?
I told myself, dilly, dilly,
I told me so”

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Aurora Halliwell

Eye of The Beholder
Outside the Inn

---

Aurora took a cautious step back, positioning herself slightly behind the monk to grant the princess the space she needed. She stood silently, her attention focused intently on the princess’s words. When she heard the princess express her worries about her legs, a gentle smile tugged at the corners of Aurora’s lips, a silent gesture of encouragement and empathy.

At that moment, the monk beside her spoke up. His voice was calm and soothing, attempting to reassure Aurora that the man they were helping would be fine. Aurora’s mind churned with thoughts, her brow furrowing in concentration as she silently thought, I’m not worried about the stranger; I’m worried about the princess.

Suddenly her train of thought was interrupted by the monk’s unexpected comment, calling her “kitty cat.” Aurora’s eyes widened in disbelief-she had never anticipated that a monk would say that, especially in such a situation. The surprise left her momentarily speechless, and she could only listen to the conversations that were taking place.

After a moment, she gathered her composure and replied with quiet determination, “I will stay here as you said to my Lady.” With her voice steady, she turned her gaze to the stranger who stood nearby. A feeling of suspicion settled within her as she scrutinized him closely; something about him felt off to her, but she couldn’t place what it was. The unease lingered in her mind, a puzzle she was determined to solve.

Once again, the monk drew Aurora out of her thoughts. She heard his calm voice making a statement to the stranger, and in a gentle gesture, he ruffled Aurora’s hair. This simple act brought a rush of memories flooding back to her memories of her father, who would do the same gesture whenever she got lost in her thoughts and worries or when she stared into space, deep in contemplation.

The warmth of nostalgia filled her heart, but it was quickly overshadowed by a wave of emotions. Tears began to form in her eyes, and she instinctively looked down, focusing her gaze on the ground beneath her. Her hand clutched tightly around the pendant that hung around her neck, the one that held a small, cherished picture of her parents.

As she stood there, absorbed in her feelings, she noticed that the princess, her lady-in-waiting, the stranger, and the guards had quietly walked away, leaving only herself and the monk behind. The silence hung thick in the air, punctured only by the muffled sounds from the tavern. Taking a deep breath, Aurora felt the heaviness of her heart but resolved to break the silence. Slowly she lifted her head, her eyes glistening with unshed tears, and mustered the courage to introduce herself.

“Hello, I’m Aurora Halliwall. Who are you?” she managed to say, her voice steady despite tears threatening to fall. She fought to maintain her composure, hoping to shield her emotions from the kind-hearted monk standing before her.

Gadez @Dezuel

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Aurora Halliwell

Eye of The Beholder
Outside the Inn

---

Aurora felt an unsettling tension in the air as she watched the injured man rise. Something was extremely captivating about the way he fixated on the princess, his gaze holding an intensity that made Aurora’s skin crawl. His eyes stayed on her like a predator studying its prey, and his hands wrapped around the princess’s as if he were trying to weave a bond that felt both sinister and unwelcome. Aurora’s instincts screamed that he was weaving a trap, drawing the princess closer with false charm and hidden intentions, and she was determined to thwart his plans.

Just then, the monk, who had been silently observing the unfolding drama with a frown etched across his brow, finally intervened. His voice was firm as he commanded the stranger to release the princess. In that charged moment, Aurora’s mind sparked with inspiration, an idea began to form.

Gathering her courage, she stood up with an exaggerated grace and then pretended to lose her balance, as though her leg had gone numb from kneeling for too long. In an instant, she grasped the stranger’s arms with both her hands, her touch gentle yet firm. She hoped that this would cause the man to let go of the princess’s hands. Aurora seized the opportunity; she steadied him with a kind smile and feigned concern. “Oh my goodness, I am so very sorry! Are you ok?” She asked, her voice laced with sincerity.

Turning swiftly on her heels, she cast a glance at the monk to ensure his support and then focused her attention back on the princess. With a graceful curtsy, she spoke softly. “Forgive me, miss. It seems that my leg has indeed fallen asleep from kneeling for too long. I hope you are unharmed.” Straightening up, she continued with conviction, “May I accompany you as you escort this man to the temple? I wish to ensure that he receives the proper care he needs.”

With that declaration, Aurora hoped to divert attention away from any dangerous agenda and keep a protective watch over the princess, all while placing herself in a position to safeguard the princess from the stranger’s potentially deceitful intentions.

@Dezuel @Dark Light @c3p-0h @Qia

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Aurora Halliwell

Eye of The Beholder
Outside the Inn

---

After she had finished asking her questions, a thick silence surrounded the space as she patiently waited for the man’s response. The stillness stretched on for a few moments before he finally broke it, murmuring that he was fine and that the discomfort was merely a result of a wild dog bite. However, his casual words triggered a flood of memories in Aurora’s mind, dragging her back to the haunting day she discovered her parents’ bodies.

The vivid image of them, lifeless and covered in gruesome wolf bites, swirled through her mind, stripping the colour from her cheeks. She felt her breath quicken, transforming into shallow gasps as an overwhelming tremor coursed through her body. Her heart pounded violently in her chest, each beat a painful reminder of that traumatic experience.

The desire to forget those horrid memories became a desperate plea within her. Amidst that turmoil, Aurora tried to remind herself Aurora, pull yourself together. This man needs your help. She drew a deep breath, wrestling with her emotions as she tried to regain her composure.

Just then, the soothing voices of the princess and her lady-in-waiting broke through the fog of her thoughts. Listening to their gentle conversation with the man seemed to anchor her, stopping the residual tremors and restoring a sense of calm. She concentrated on their words, allowing their supportive banter to ease the anxiety gripping her heart.

When an opportunity arose in their dialogue, she seized the moment, her voice steady and earnest “If you won’t allow me to heal you with my magic, please heed the princess’s advice. You need rest” She urged, her tone soft yet firm. “However, let me at least clean, treat and bandage your wound to prevent any risk of infection.”

As she spoke, she quickly opened her canvas bag, revealing an assortment of supplies: rolls of fresh, sterile bandages, clear bottled water, and a small jar of healing balm. Each item was neatly organized, a testament to her preparation and care. She hoped he would see the concern and sincerity in her eyes and allow her to help him.

Linked
@c3p-0h @Qia @Dark Light @Fetzen

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Aurora Halliwell

Eye of The Beholder

---

After savouring the lovely conversation she had with Daphne, Aurora stood, with a warm smile reflecting the joy of the moment. She was entranced by the performance unfolding before her—a dazzling display of music and movement that seemed to wrap the room in a magical embrace. Suddenly, her reverie was shattered by the abrupt entry of a guard, who burst through the ornate doors, his face taut with urgency. The flickering candlelight caught the wild look in his eyes as he swept his gaze across the crowd, searching desperately.

The atmosphere shifted palpably, anxiety hanging in the air like a thick fog. "We need a healer! Now!" the guard's voice boomed, rising above the melodic strains of the music, slicing through the festive air like a knife.

Aurora’s heart raced in response to his urgent call. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, she instinctively raised her hand, urgency flickering across her features as she navigated deftly through the throng of spectators, her focus unwavering. “I can help you! I am a healer!” she declared, her voice clear and resolute, a beacon of hope cutting through the chaos.

As she drew closer to the guard, a surge of determination surged within her. “Please, take me to the person who needs assistance,” she implored, her tone steady and commanding despite the whirlwind of commotion around her. Without a moment’s hesitation, the guard turned sharply on his heel and sprinted back through the doors, with Aurora trailing closely behind.

Stepping outside into the dimming twilight, the cool evening air rushed to greet them. Aurora squinted as her eyes adjusted to the gloom, following the guard to a man lying crumpled on the cold cobblestones, his condition alarming and distressing. He was pale, the pallor of his skin stark against the darkening ground, and the pain was etched across his features like a grimace of agony as if he were engaged in a fierce battle with an unseen adversary.

Without a moment's pause, Aurora sank to her knees beside him, the fabric of her gown pooling around her. "Just breathe," she murmured, gently urging him to lie back, concern etched on her face. Her hands moved with practised grace, a healer's instinct guiding her as she began her examination, her brow furrowing in concentration. Each pulse that raced through his body felt like a quiet song of struggle, and Aurora’s heart ached to mend what was broken.

“Can you or anyone here tell me what has happened?” she asked, her voice soothing yet firm, cutting through the noise as she directed her attention to the man. ” Can you tell me exactly where you are feeling pain?" Aurora's focus was unwavering as she concentrated on the ailing man before her, her world narrowing to the urgent task at hand. Just then, a flicker of movement caught her eye, and she glanced up to see the princess standing nearby, her regal presence stark against the backdrop of chaos, watching intently with wide, concerned eyes.

Amidst the healing efforts and questions racing through her mind, Aurora felt a singular clarity: this man's well-being was her paramount concern, and she was determined to do everything in her power to help him heal.

@c3p-0h

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Aurora Halliwell

Eye of The Beholder

---

Aurora listened closely to Daphne and noticed that her words had made her blush. However, she chose not to say or do anything that would embarrass her further. Aurora observed that Daphne kept glancing at the door where she had previously escorted a man, which made her feel worried. Just then, she spotted the princess through a window. Aurora's anxious thoughts quickly shifted to excitement; she had heard so much about the princess.Wow, I can’t believe the princess is here, she thought to herself.

As soon as Daphne started talking, Aurora quickly shifted her focus back to her. When she heard the question, her expression changed. Taking a deep breath, she answered, “Wolves killed my parents while they were out gathering herbs. After their funeral, I tried to continue working at the clinic and the shop, but the memories were too overwhelming. So, when I heard about this village, I decided to move here and start a new life without them.”

Aurora chuckled softly at Daphne's remark about how overwhelming this place felt. In her mind, she recalled her old village—a bustling hub of chaos and noise that had been far more intense than this relatively serene environment. With a warm smile, she turned to Daphne and said, “They are starting repairs on my house now that the blizzard has passed. However, I will need help moving all the boxes I have here when it’s finished. Could I ask for your help, if you’re not too busy?”

Aurora suddenly noticed a strange man walking toward them. She felt an inexplicable attraction to him but couldn’t figure out why. Staying quiet, she listened, her mind clouded with confusion. Once the man had walked away, her thoughts began to clear. Hearing Daphne's comment, she replied, “Yes, he is,”but she blushed upon realising what she had said. Flustered, Aurora decided to leave. She turned to Daphne and said, “It was nice to meet you. I'm going to walk around and talk to some other people. Have a nice night, and I hope to see you soon.” With that, she turned on her heel and went to find someone else to talk to.

@PrinceAlexus

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Aurora Halliwell

---

Aurora felt a wave of relief wash over her when she saw the dark-haired woman place her hand on the man's shoulder. She felt even better when the woman began to escort him away. Aurora smiled and said, "Thank you so much, Miss Daphne." After that, she returned to searching for a closer spot to listen to the bard's music. As she glanced back one last time, she noticed that Daphne had indeed made the man leave the tavern.

As Aurora found a spot to settle in, she began listening to the music and quickly joined the crowd in clapping and dancing. While enjoying herself, she reminisced about her 16th birthday, when her mother took her to their local tavern to see Aldrick perform for the first time. From that moment on, she fell in love with his music. She soon felt a wave of emotions wash over her; however, it wasn’t sadness about what she had recently lost, but joy for the memories she still held.

Aurora continued dancing for a bit longer before deciding to get something to eat and drink. She made her way to a table, where she filled a glass with wine and picked up a small piece of pie. After satisfying her hunger, she looked around the room for a small group of people she could introduce herself to. Just then, she spotted Daphne in the distance. Aurora walked toward the lady who had helped her earlier. Upon reaching her, she said, “Hello. My name is Aurora Halliwell. Thank you again for helping me with that man.”

@PrinceAlexus