Aurora Halliwell

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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

Interactions @Qia Elara | @c3p-0h Amaya

Vellion Hurst

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Outside Eye of the Beholder.

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Vellion was well on his way to the tavern's front door, a portal to the merriment, warmth and music within, when he suddenly stopped. Something had caught his attention in the corner of his eye and tug furiously on his curiosity. For reasons unbeknown to him, he paused and twisted his head around to give it his full attention.

His keen eyes picked through the passing people where he soon found it again.
'That face.' Sure it was a pretty face, Lunarian too he guessed, soft features and pale eyes, but it wasn't just that which drew his attention like a moth to the flame. No. There was something more. Something distantly familiar about it.

As he tracked this fine woman's regal movements through the street, he welcomed the distraction this curiosity brung him. It was a riddle and a puzzle. She held herself well, even through the cold and during an odd interaction with a strange man. Vellion continued to studied her from a distance. Nobility for sure he decided. It was in her clothing, her mannerism, her stature. He would almost think her royalty if it wasn't for her casual nature and lack of entourage. She had no announcers and sat down on a dirty stool without a care. 'High nobility.' he thought to himself as he started to move away from the inn, following this familiar faced woman from a different world to him.

'What was she doing here?
Where had he seen her?
Had they met years ago?
Had she risen to her position?
Had he stolen from her?'

Despite nothing good coming from any of those questions being answered with a 'Yes' he still continued to stalk move in on her position. She had company, of course, which would make his approach harder. But then he saw his opportunity. He moved casually around blending with the crowd, a skill picked up from years on the streets. Gradually drawing in nearer. He could almost hear them conversing.

There were two Aurelian women nearby as he came up behind the brunette he was following. She was conversing with a Snow White haired woman across from her. Her hair almost blended into the background. Vellion could see what he guessed to be the hint of concern in her eyes as they spoke. He also noticed her eye the drinks.

And that would be his moment. As soon as she moved away he would fill in the empty spot. His plan didn't extend far beyond that but a foot in the door was all he needed. He would get a closer proper look at her face.

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^{Fade-To-Black Counter - 0}

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As the response from Sya rang in her ears, all else seemed to fade away to the young Priestess. Tia was here? Somehow, despite it coming as a great shock to her; Ranni also felt a complete lack of surprise at the development. Somehow... she'd simply known already that Tia was here. Moreso, that she was in the exact direction that had been indicated for the hotsprings. It was almost as if Ranni had... felt her being in that direction? Such a thing shouldn't have been possible, yet for the second time that day it was happening. First when she'd arrived in town and somehow known that her sister was at the tavern, and now with Tia. A heavy frown grew on her features as the girl tried to wrestle with what any of this meant. So lost was she in her own thoughts, that Ranni seemed to retreat away from the world itself, evening being unaware that they had a new visitor to their group nor that she was directly addressing both Ranni and Dyna.

Was it something to do with becoming a blightborn? She had heard tell that some of them developed... strange abilities. Yet, as far as the Priestess knew those were either just stories or had to do with their physical abilities. She'd heard nothing of the sort that she was experiencing now. Was Aelios reaching out to her, guiding her towards those she knew in her time of need? Maybe. Yet this feeling was... almost cold. Filling her with a sense of numbness she often associated with chillier climates, not like the warmth that would've spread from Aelios' touch. It was... strange. Yet another of the innumerable changes that'd happened to her since that dreadful night, and one of many more Ranni feared she would soon be discovering.

Her gaze flicked towards Dyna, as her sister seemed to be engaging with the newcomer to their group. Finally, Ranni seemed to come out of the shell she'd retreated into. Her gaze flicking about those around as if she were just noticing that they were still standing there. Yet, even as she did, her mind still clung to the fact that it could feel that Tia was in the direction of the temple. In this very town. Ranni chewed her lower lip, looking around the group for a long few moments as she settled for simply listening into the conversation; trying to ignore that inexplicable draw in the back of her mind. She tried to focus back in on the conversation, looking for the first time over the Lunarian woman who'd spoken to them. Ranni had, of course, missed her words and identity entirely. She felt a sort of shock as she looked over the woman, her first thought being impressed by both how beautiful she was and her regal composure... moments before the Priestess rapidly tried to shove those thoughts down in her mind. Not quick enough to avoid unknowingly blasting such feelings out to those around her in her continued telepathic barrage, but enough that she could force herself to think normally.

Well, somewhat normally. Part of her still seemed distracted even as Dyna moved to introduce both of them to the woman opposite. Ranni gave a polite bow and smile towards Amaya, even as her mind kept dragging her towards the temple. To go investigate, and confirm herself that Tia was truly in the town, whether that strange certainty she had carried some truth to it. Ranni was only able to resist it a few seconds longer before looking up towards the beautiful woman who'd joined them and speaking softly. "M-my apologies, b-but I think there is something I must attend to..." She said, cringing at her own excuse before rapidly turning and setting off at a near-run towards the feeling she was certain had to be Tia.

It wasn't terribly long before Ranni found herself approaching a familiar sight; a Temple of Aelios. Nearby, she saw the telltale steam rising from a hotsprings. Ranni paused for a few moments, feeling that similar tug pulling her towards the hotsprings instead of the temple. Why would Tia be there? She thought gently, before turning and quickly making her way into the hotsprings themselves...

Only to find herself staring at the aftermath of a chaotic scene no doubt. The nobleman from earlier; the who'd called her a goat, was in the bath alongside the Innkeeper and another woman she didn't recognize. There was some man, one she didn't recognize either... and Tia herself was there. Trying to help the nobleman out of the water. Ranni's heart pounded in her chest as a resoundingly strong feeling of shock blasted out from her mind, knowing now that somehow she had been able to sense exactly where her former mentor had been. Her tail flicked frantically as she stared in wide-eyed shock, softly speaking with a voice that seemed to carry every ounce of worry she'd felt for her mentor in the time since they'd last seen each other. "T-tia? Y-you're here too?" She asked softly, barely able to grasp at the proper words for the moment...

---

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Dyna wore an expression of shock at the mention of Ranni's for mentor, both from Ranni and Sya confirming her presence, seemingly out of nowhere. Her brows furrowed lightly as she cast a look over her sister, wondering for a long moment just what had inspired the girl to ask about Tia out of the blue. Dyna had certainly heard nothing to indicate the woman might be here before Ranni spoke up, and was even more certain that Ranni wouldn't have access to any more information to indicate that than Dyna did. Her mind tossed around the question of how this was possible for a long few moments before shaking her head. A problem for another time. Instead, Dyna's gaze was drawn to the newest visitor to their group. She didn't recognize the woman, apart from her clearly being Lunarian, but most certainly recognized the regality of a noble. A thought that put her slightly on edge, after the previous noble's rather... indignant attitude.

Yet, Dyna found herself being pleasantly surprised when the woman spoke. More casual, nothing like the peacock's flaunting of his feathers earlier, and polite. A welcome change, for certain. As she continued to speak, Dyna offered a hint of a smile and nodded in response to the comment about them having not met before. Yet, she hadn't a chance to respond before the woman from before... Elara, was it? Spoke up and addressed the woman as 'Your Highness'. A wave of shock slammed into Dyna as she realized that this wasn't just a noble but rather the Lunarian Princess. Immediately, the girl gave a respectful little bow towards the Princess; not particularly wanting to cause an incident by not showing the proper respect to members of royalty.

In the next moment, Dyna was hit by a sudden wave of emotion that didn't quite feel like her own... but was enough to influence her line of thought. For the briefest of moments, she found herself looking over the Princess and finding agreement with the thought that she was rather attractive. Yet almost as quickly as the wave of emotion had hit her, it also disappeared deep within her mind. Leaving Dyna momentarily confused, and with a slight blush to her cheeks, before she finally replied. "Ah, I don't believe we have, Your Highness. Dyna Soleil, Champion of Aelios. This is my sister, Ranni Soleil, Priestess of Aelios." She explained with another polite bow. "I arrived just before the blizzard hit and spent it in the Beholder there, Priestess Ranni arrived today..." She explained, trailing off her explanation as she lost how to explain things. Albeit, an attentive eye could likely figure out that a girl arriving in town, a blightborn, and just after the blizzard ended had likely been recently turned.

" 'Tis our pleasure to make your acquaintance, certainly with Dawnhaven comi-" Dyna started to say, before being cut off by Ranni offering a weak excuse and running off in the direction of the Temple. As composed as she had been mere moments before, Dyna's expression changed to one of pure shock at her sister's actions as she watched her retreat. She turned back towards the Princess with an awkward and apologetic expression on her features. "A-ah... my apologies Princess. My sister's... been through alot lately. She... likely felt overwhelmed and panicked." Dyna offered as an excuse. Offering a sheepish smile towards the woman. "I don't mean to be rude, your highness, but I should go after her. T-that is if its quite alright with you?" She asked, not even attempting to force a neutral expression and mask the worry she felt over her sister's sudden strange behavior.

Gadez Paladice

The monk offered a nod to Nyla as she introduced herself, he couldn't help but notice that there was something abit more exotic about her. Were she from a distant region of Aurelia or elsewhere? Was it her accent or her appearance which made him draw that conclusion, he couldn't quite pinpoint.

"I wear many hats indeed, yet I don't allow that to go to my head." He softly said in an amused manner. "Pleased to meet one such as yourself, Nyla. As for what drew me to Dawnhaven? Would revenge be the wrong answer? Well, or perhaps I should say justice? It depends from whose eyes you see things. But I knew the moment that Dawnhaven was made that I had to go. Because this is the only place in this world that can make my wish come true." He said and offered a mysterious looking smile, his eyes shimmering from the nearby fireplace light.

'The third kingdom...'

It was then a man rudely was heard, it was a bard. Ofcourse it had to be a bard. The blonde cringed in his entire body, as if struck by lightning. How he hated bards.

'These damnable illusionists and their made up tales and songs, the real world isn't as kind as the ones in your fairytales! Wait… I recognize this poisonous tune. It's that wretched performer who saw it fit to make camp just outside the circus grounds to snatch up coins while enthralling the crowds. Aldrick Corveaux. The famous performer.' Gadez gathered his thoughts, he didn't want to be subjected to his music, but at this moment it seemed unavoidable unless he went up there and broke the man's instrument or legs. Neither would sit well with the populace which seemed quite joyous over his music.

People had the right to chose their own path, even if that path was knee-deep in poison. Like the alcohol served, bards tunes would gradually seduce, enthrall and poison peoples minds until they would simply become a spectator for their own life and live in a world of dreams. Rather than set out and make that dream a reality. It did strike the monk that Aldrick had changed, not with his music but with his appearance. The blight had a way to bring out the best and worst in people. For the case of the bard. He thought this was the best. Though if he would have been able to pick, he would have chosen to make him a mute and unable to play those songs of his. But who was he to question the fate of things. Who was he indeed?

His thoughts were then interrupted by another rude man, this one seemed to be intoxicated and saw it fit to try his luck with a whitehaired young lady in the inn. Had it not been for what seemed to be a female guard or mercenary stepping in to deal with the man, he would have done it himself. Thinking of it. This was likely for the best. He wouldn't have been as gentle. It wasn't that he lacked tact when he needed to, but to send a clear signal. The guardswoman then made a remark to a kissing booth.

"Afraid you'd miss the opening hours? Lest you'd be shy? But good to know that my words are heard and memorable." He softly said towards Daphne and made a wink, the blonde man chuckled and turned his attention back to Nyla.

"Ahh.. disappointed? Well… I could show you more than a kissing booth, however you might become snake-charmed yourself and get more lost than that bard enthralled by his own tune." He chuckled again in an amused manner, then moving closer to Nyla. "However your lips say one thing, but your eyes say another… I saw how your eyes gazed upon that boy. They say the eyes are a depiction of ones soul and heart. As long as you'd follow whichever path your heart so choses, you'll never be wrong, neither regret it." He said softly as he reached out to try touch Nyla's cheek, but withdrew before coming into touch with it.

"I've been subjected to a sweet melody all my life, yet I've warded myself well against it. No matter how loud the tune may play, it's rhythm is not the same as my heart." He said in an even softer tone, then his facial expression changed completely into a more jovial and jesting one with his head tilting to the side and his eyes closing.

"As for puppetry, allow me to teach you the important steps." The man said in an enthusiastic tone, then he changed to a more soft and smooth one, speaking abit quietly to Nyla. Gadez took out one of the puppet heads he had carved out of the wood at Aelios temple during the blizzard.
"First you need to hold firmly, grip the head. Then you slightly slide up the fabric covering up your point of entry. Move your hand under the cloth and use your middle finger. Trace about til you find a narrow crevice, move the tip of your finger around to make sure you are at the right place. This particular one has been marked by a little decal at the top to assist in making certain you are where you need to be. See this here? If it is too tight for your finger, you may require something to widen the gap. If it on the other hand feels too loose, you may easily fit two fingers. Upon repeated use, the hole may gap a bit more as a result. And wood also tend to swell when subjected to moisture for an extended period of time. But unto the rest... You press the rest of your finger in as deep as you can go. Use your other fingers to reach into the folds at the sides."

The blue eyed menace explained and showed how his fingers slipped into the cloth folds that were the puppets arms, one finger each becoming an arm.

"Then you move your middle finger creatively and the whole thing suddenly comes alive. Flap the other fingers and the arms will move. Ofcourse it must be accompanied with sounds to make it believable, but you can manage such no doubt." He kept smiling in a playful manner.

"If you want to create a moment of intensity, simply vibrate and it will look like its shaking. In exhaltation, fear or anger. Got everything so far? Sometimes you also have to press down on the head, as it may try poke out too much through the cloth. Make sure everything is held firmly in place. You may of course have all manner of wood when doing this, I specifically had mine tended to in the temple, during the recent blizzard." He added and tapped his own cheek with his hand, drumming on it with his fingers.

"When you are not using these wooden heads, it may be good to place them in a chest, or shelf. Whichever one you prefer." The sly warrior-monk turned puppeteer smirked and looked Nyla's face over.

"But I'd best get to assemble to puppet-theatre." He nodded at the long and firm wood he carried. "Do feel free to continue to converse as I assemble it." He added and then began to construct the thing. It took abit of time, but the man had all the tools he needed to put it together. It didn't need to be looking fancy. He attached some linen cloths to act as curtains.

Sometime later...

He had finished, it was looking more like the home for a beggar than a theatre. But it would have to do. The man soon quickly arranged the puppets with their respective linen cloth. Then lastly he took a piece of linen and cut two holes into it, making himself a makeshift eye-mask. He looked more a bandit than a puppeteer no doubt. Gadez then moved over to the doorway of the inn.

"Ladies, gentlemen, children of any ages, the first act of the puppetry show shall begin shortly within the Eye of the Beholder! Come and let your young hear a tale of kings and queens, of war and peace, of love and deception! Set into a world not too different from our own! A moments respite in the everyday struggle of what we call life!" He made his butlerlike bow, which was something he also did at his time in the circus. After having made his announcement he went over to set up his wooden structure and sit behind the curtains, slipping his hands into the puppets he had made. Then he waited for some people to gather before he began the act.

"Welcome all, far and wide, from north to south, east to west. Leave to me... the rest."

The curtains would slowly begin to part and a single puppet would begin to take it's stage, it was a blonde prince-like figure.

"A long time ago, in a far away kingdom, in an age where the sun shone upon the world. There was a kingdom called Nova, in this kingdom were a king and queen and their son, a prince with golden hair. His name was Lauric.

The prince was a young man, even younger than our own prince Flynn. His family had ruled the kingdom of the stars for as far as there had been books and tales, they had in times past fought against another kingdom which worshipped something called 'The orb of night'. Both kingdoms were fierce enemies, but a past war had wreaked havoc on them both, causing them to sue for peace. However this were events of the past, and Lauric grew tired of his sheltered life in his parents castle, of their rules, their constant attempts to shape him... so he set out in secrecy!

He wanted adventure and to be more than just raised to be a king, and during his journey the prince came upon... let's hear some guesses? What did he come across? "

"A sword!" A boy cried out in the audience listening to the tale, who was soon shushed by his mother.

"Ah, the prince already had a sword! It was something else!" Gadez said in a playful tone.

"Maybe a girl?" A young girl asked with a shy expression on her face as she spoke up.

"That's right, he came across a girl! He fell madly in love! Love is when two people like oneanother so much to the point they are willing to abandon all other senses for that very thing. The prince and the girl met in secrecy, unaware of the king and queens knowledge! Oh they would have been so angry and disappointed if they knew!" The puppeteer said in a raised voice, moving the puppet to make it seem like it was tip-toeing and hiding on the stage, the girl puppet moving in to snuggle with him.

"There was a fight?!" The young boy asked loudly, followed by shushes by his mother, and pinching him in the ear.

"Now now, let's not get too far ahead!" The masked storyteller proceeded.

"But one day the girl had a secret to tell the prince, can anyone guess what it were?" Gadez peeked his masked head through the curtain to look at the puppets with a look of disapproval.

"She made a baby?!" Another girl squeeked out and jumped in her mother's lap before being passed over to her father who held her down to stop her from jumping.

"Indeed! She did! But the prince didn't know! The girl had kept it a secret from him for many years! For she was worried the prince would take the child back to the mean old king and queen. The prince was furious, he wanted to take the child to his parents and the castle even if the child didn't want to. Prince Lauric came to their home with soldiers, but before they could find the child the home was burning! It was on fire! The mother and child had both disappeared! Lauric returned to his home alone.

The young mother had survived the blazing inferno, but her child was nowhere to be found. She had planned to take him to the other kingdom, to the people who worshipped the orb of night!" Gadez had the two puppets move in two different directions.

"But it had been too late. The child of prince Lauric, the gilded child was gone. His royal destiny died that day. Both Lauric and the girl returned to their own homes. Angry with each other. Unable to forgive oneanother. The prince was so upset about it all, that he married a mean wicked witch. And the girl ended up marrying a mean old badger. Many years passed and then the skies turned dark! Much like how our sky is dark, it wasn't always like this. It was once bright and the skies were blue." He softly said, as if trying to explain things to the children listening.

"The dark skies had also made some people change into what some might call monsters. They could have fur, wings, many eyes… or just one. Or they could have blue skin, two heads or perhaps even legs of a spider. They were feared for how they looked, and some of them were dangerous, especially when other people would chase them with swords! But… they were still human underneath it all. Just like all of you. Just different. A blessing or a curse? We all have them. If you think about it. You have things you are good at, and things you are bad at. No one is perfect, and that is beautiful is it not? For the ones who struggle against hardship can still make it through, and all the more impressive it is if the road is difficult." He spoke to the audience as if trying to have them make up their own mind about it all.

"Now back to the tale! In the years that followed, The prince, Lauric, had become a king, and had gotten...guess what?" Gadez said in a teasing manner, waiting for replies.

"A new sword!" The boy in the audience chimed in.

"A baby!" One of the girls called out.

"That's right! A new prince had been born Ruddy was his name, his hair as golden as his father, he was in alot of ways just like his father. But the other kingdom had also gotten a child, it was a princess called Maise, and this time they were put together! They didn't even know or love each other, but for a single reason... anyone know what the reason were?" Gadez pressed the two puppets together, with their arms folded and facing away from each other.

"To save the world." He said aloud, the both puppets shook as he said it as if they were scared.

"A prophecy was uttered. It was said that if a child was born of both kingdoms then the terrible dark skies would go away but a sacrifice was to be needed. A sacrifice is when someone gives up their own life to save others, a generally selfless act. Ruddy and Maise were not given a choice in their role, they were chosen to sacrifice their own happiness for the fate of the world. However... unbeknownst to both of them. There was a jester in the deck of cards. A jester who would set up a play, and tell them of the future! But this…" Gadez said as he allowed the puppets to fall down on the little theatre he had put up, then he stood up.

"But this part of the first act cannot be told by mere puppets alone, it requires something special, something more genuine, something more real. So I shall call up two people from the audience here to aid in the second part of this act. And whose better to play it! Than our very own…" He smiled softly as his eyes wandered about for someone specific.

"Our very own brave Prince, Flynn Astaros of Aurelia! No! Of Dawnhaven! Come up upon the stage of tales untold!" He held out his arm, his palm facing upwards but outstretched. "Give him some support, no need to by shy, your highness! The children wish to behold their saviour in this particular act!" Gadez made another butlerlike bow, his blonde hair falling over his eyes as his mouth shaped a sinister smile.

'The time has come... gilded child. But can you discern the truth from the lies?' His memory went back to the chessboard of the inn, the white king piece standing amidst the pawns. The memory of a music box heard long ago echoing in his mind, it's tune slow and sorrowful. The two porcelain figures dancing together. The blue eyed woman. Then the monastery. The circus. The girl. The fire. Always the flame.

'Each prince needs a princess...' Gadez eyes set momentarily on Nyla, his plan was devious. Wicked. Vile. But boy did he love it.

Daphne

Eye of the Beholder

A vexing man

Daphne was enjoying a gelatinous cube jelly, a treat she enjoyed as a child. Daphne had lived a rather austere diet, mostly vegetable, plain means and the like. her ability to enjoy such things was a luxury she felt she had earned in her life. The soft texture, taste of sugar and the bright colours were fully a thing to enjoy and something to savour and slowly make the very most of.

This bakery idea looked like Sya would be making gold hand over fist if they kept this quality up, and kept their supplies throughout the winter, Blightborn yes, but she seemed to have an eye for business and what people wanted. She was smart, it really made you think… Things You're not meant to think in Lunaris.

Her musing was interrupted a minute or two later by the woman she had helped earlier thanking her, she nodded and looked at the well dressed woman in purple corsets and skirts etc. “Its quite alright, just doing my job.” Daphne gave a little blush on her pale skin at the compliment, she was still a Squire and had spent much of her short career doing very different things that were not always as popular. It was new that people were thankful more than grudgingly respectful than actively glad.

She kept an eye on the door in case he came back but it seemed that lessons were learned and he had not returned. The Inn Keeper had not returned so Daphne assumed she would have to keep an eye on things, people and too much to drink could be own worst enemy.

She had a stray thought and did best to avoid starting as she spotted the Princess enter, with her hand maiden and two women… why did they have to be attractive, and why did it seem the world was throwing said women into her path like it was snow flakes.

“Well met Aurora, just doing my best to do my job. I'm glad he left you alone and learned. What brings you to Dawn haven? i'm a Squire under Lord Coswain, keeping this place safe, and the eye on the drunks.

This place is a little overwhelming at times.” Daphne asked as she glanced around and spotted the Princess talking to her white haired quieter companion. The blonde sisters, the striking Auralian, the woman in front of her. So much colour and variety of people, it was a shock to someone who had spent their life in lands more grim and grey of stone and snow. also A little blush threatened, she was unsure why but she felt eyes on her too for some reason,

It was akin to going from vegetables to sweets and so on, a burst of flavour she never had a chance to explore. She said so before she could retract it and just had to deal with what came about.

She looked over her shoulder and caught eyes with the Princess. She gave a little awkward courtesy gesture and a slight smile. She looked so much like her rather famous mother who had been so popular among the people. She was there if needed but tried to keep a respectful distance.

“The Prince is about, as is the Princess, if you need help getting set up, Dawn Haven is rough now but has potential.” Daphne said, trying to help as she felt the vibes of the music, the tones were nuanced and much more skilled than the bards of her hometown who tended to be on the bawdy and less subtle kind singing of women, wenches and night's love under an open sky. She tried that, it was in reality, cold, itchy and not as fun as bards said.

Daphne had grown from an awkward and lanky child to a tall, attractive and amazonian Woman, but she still felt those same fears and comments of doubt that had felt so big before. Even her bright violet eyes were rarely ever found outside her native homelands.

The two blondes left rapidly, twin sisters seemed to vanish quickly as quickly as they arrived, one left in a raid panic and the other in a more controlled manner. She had orders to keep a eye on the Inn, and people not chase after and the woman a crusader of sorts had it in hand. A twin sister was likely not a threat to her soul soul sibling.

The rather.. . Charismatic man was about and he seemed to have an odd pull about him, drawing everyone freely into talking, flirting and engaging people in ways that they could not escape his charisma. “I might have to toss you in the lake to cool off, I'm sure I can find someone to kiss me freely.” Daphne Said with a slight blush and a laugh. The strange man just pulled you into his tune, she reached for another drink and used it as a distraction to compose herself.

“He is…somthing” Daphne said to Aurora as she shook her head to clear mind and get her attention back.

Eventually she joined the rest to watch the puppet show, something she recognised from her youth, a simple hand made puppet show, basic wooden frames and such made from offcuts and the spare parts.

The story and the intent of the show, Daphne was not as educated as the others, they might especially Persephone see the hidden meanings and try to remember as much as possible for the older woman to dismantle it, tease the meanings out and find out the secrets. She had a strange Idea that held more meaning than mere children's entertainment.

He spoke with a steady rhythm, a steady pace and one that people followed along like a bard playing a room with a master's work, a true wordsmith. This man was definitely one to keep a close eye on…

Nova…Prince's…Her head was a little spinning but she felt this man was more than he seemed to be. Her gut told her, and was rarely wrong.

The Amazonian woman's violet eyes followed him and his story closely as she could manage to decipher his story and its potential. Only it left her with many many more questions than answers.

Mentions
@Dezuel@Queen Arya@BlackRoseSiren@c3p-0h

Aurora Halliwell

Eye of The Beholder

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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

There was nothing quite like the silence of being beneath the waves. Especially in the icy waters of Selunite temples, it offered almost total isolation from the outside world and at the same time, invigoration that could only be had through sub-zero temperatures. No other place on the continent made Katherine feel so alive.

Many years of training under the clergy of Seluna in the capital had allowed the priestess to fall into a near meditative state within seconds. This was where she came to contemplate important decisions, to commune with her goddess, and most importantly, isolate herself from whatever blood magic kept her tied to the Inquisition. Whether it was the frigid waters or the protection of her goddess, something kept her protected from the voice inside her head and the invisible collar around her neck.

"Y o u r s e r v i c e s a r e n e e d e d"

A gentle smile spread across Katherine’s lips. It had been many moons since she’d heard anything from Seluna herself. It was a mere whisper, but it was enough.

She was still worthy, despite her faults.

With a practised thought, she produced a small tendril of pure shadow that raised from the water and picked up her thick, fur coat. It held it suspended between the priestess and the two new arrivals that had just entered, blocking their view momentarily. Katherine had very quickly become aware that wet, white fabric left very little to the imagination. As she stepped out of the pool, she slipped into the long jacket and wrapped it around herself before turning her attention to the newcomers.

“W-welcome to the t-temple of S-s-seluna.” Katherine smiled, her words shaky as she trembled beneath the fur. “Apologies f-for m-my lack of… p-p-preparation… I didn’t expect v-visitors s-so soon.” She buttoned up her jacket tightly before wringing out her long blond hair, now undone from it’s usual braid.

“A marriage c-ceremony? Of c-c-course! C-come with me to my chambers… I n-need to warm myself.” She paced around the pool of icy water, the open door of her bedroom letting out the dim light of a roaring fire.

“Please just wait here a moment while I compose myself.” She let out a nervous laugh before disappearing into her room and closing the door gently. Within a few minutes, the priestess dried herself off and changed into her usual casual-but-still-definitely-a-priestess attire. Just as quickly as she’d left, Katherine re-appeared at the door and greeted the couple with a warm smile once more. Her shivering was less pronounced than before but still ever-present.

“Please come join me by the fire.” She said softly before gesturing towards the chairs behind her.

Katherine took the seat closest to the fire promptly; it was a selfish decision but surely her current guests would understand. She then waited for the couple to take their seats before looking between them. “Lord Coswain and Persephone, welcome to the humble temple of Seluna. I’m honoured to have guests this quickly, and looking for a marriage nonetheless.” She smiled, her voice still slightly but much more controlled with presence of the fire next to her.

“I would be happy to arrange such a ceremony. What can I, and our Lady, do for you?”

"The ability to speak doesnt't give yout the right to- and what did you just say to me? I ought to-"  He said in a state of controlled rage, he was fuming, his body shaking from both the shock and the audacity that Sya and Kira dared speak to him so plainly. He may have been drenched, but he was still a noble, coming to think of it. He was almost royalty. Had Flynn's family members even been remotely as attractive as his own visage, he might have considered marrying into it. The idea of wearing a crown upon his noble brow was so sweet it made him feel lightheaded.

"Ayel the graceful, Ayel the Great, Ayel the flawless." He couldn't even pick between which legacy he would end up being remembered by. But even he knew that he wasn't immortal. It was unfair. Why did someone as beautiful as he be subjected to old age and die? To die... the very idea had made him shudder in the past. But if he had to die, then he wanted to be put in a glass coffin. So generations could enjoy the sight of him, like he had done his entire life.

But now it was time to smite the wicked beasts in the bath. The nobleman raised his hand to use his light magic to blow everything to dust. When someone had the gall to grab hold of him.

'Why you insufferable Monocycloplodyte- I'll... I'll- what?'

He shuddered. It had been years since someone else had touched him without him expecting it. He had seen s tailor dragged to the dungeon for poking his noble belly while taking his measurements for a new attire.

His concentration of his magic failed as his eyes turned on Tia, the one who had grabbed him. Didn't this woman have any respect for others personal space and boundaries.

He blinked quickly, it was a shorter than average woman. A priestess? She didn't strike him as rich, and being rich meant being smart. At least thats what he had always thought.

He had for a moment wanted to chastise and withdraw his arm but he felt...calmer...he felt good.

The nobleman gasped as he tried to make sense of it all. Then it struck him. He had underestimated her. Not the priestess. But Aelios! His goddess had descended from the sky and possessed this meager temple attendant with her light, to deliver him out of the purifying pit that was the hotspring. Ofcourse! It all made sense to him now. The water was clean no matter how many of those filthy blightborn were in it. They couldn't contend with Aelios light!

She had specifically reached out to aid him, she had been watching him, it made the nobleman blush. The goddess wanted him as her consort perhaps? Now that was even beyond royalty. Had he limited himself to the boundaries of the mortal world? He could become divine! A god of grace and unyielding beauty! His eyes began to almost get teary eyed. There would be temples of him, pilgrims wandering to see his statues... he would be justly worshipped.

Before the nobleman knew it he had gripped Tia's arm carefully and helped himself out of the bath. He seemed to look right past the priestess as if he had received a vision of his own. After all, when it came to visions, he was clearly the best suited to have thwm.

"Thank you my lady of light, Aelios the eternally bright." He said in a monotone as if enchanted and completely enthralled by his seemingly divine experience. "Your most favoured child shall do your great work." Ayel said as he slowly began to walk up the stairs, his face blank as he stared out into nothingness.

Thonk! He walked face-first into a wooden pole, hitting his face, causing him to quickly snap out of it. "Ah? What?" He said aloud and then in a panic reached for his face, making sure he was allright. He was such a gentle creature, like the fabled unicorns or majestic griffons. Except that he was completely real. The judgemental nobleman looked down the stairs to the water which harbored the two wicked beasts, there was a man close to where they were. His noble mind then recalled, he had dtood next to the priestess upon his arrival.

Of course! That was it. This man was some beast handler, seeing how he quickly had risen to calm the wild beasts. Perhaps he worked at a menagerie or a circus? Or was he aiding some reasearcher by subjecting the blighted to Aelios purifying pond? Ahh, he was trying to cleanse them. Thats why they were in the bath.

He had misunderstood the entire thing. But of course he wasn't to be blamed, he hadn't been informed by his lessers. So how could he had known?

"Yes yes, keep those beasts at bay! I have to get changed!" Ayel said aloud as he nodded his head towards Orion.

'He looks abit odd. Must be using some cheap skin lotion and those eyes don't look healthy. Clearly lack of sleep. Perhaps this beast tamer could deal with my dear sister? Oh good grief... no he couldn't.' Ayel chuckled softly, holding a hand before his mouth as he did. It was improper to allow his lessers to see him amused so plainly.

But he soon grunted. His boots were drenched. Then he saw someone he recognized. It was the goat girl. That made sense. That pale looking man was definitely her shepherd. But as his eyes wandered over the blonde girl, he suddenly felt... strange again. His thoughts wandered to how Aelios possibly would look like if she visited him in his mansion-to-be. He pinched his cheeks and softly slapped thwm to clear his mind. What in Aurelia had gone over him? His relationship with Aelios were...

Relationship? The nobleman got flustered and dramatically gestured with his arms as he passed by Ranni. "Bah, bah, bah. I don't have time for some sheep business!" He held his nose high, even as the wet noises of his clothes could be heard loudly.

He had to get to his carriage and get changed before he would be spotted. Wait... was that the goat's unhorned twin getting closer?

'Chosen of Aelios my noble rear! Haha! You sister of a goat! Peasantborn!' He mentally hurled his insults as he thought of his recent experience. But he was looking like a  mess. He couldn't let her see him like this. A smug commoner was one of the worst things imaginable.

He hid behind a nearby tree which was abit too thin to fully cover him.

---

_{Location: Outside the Inn}

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---

Amaya had failed to anticipate how maddening it would be to finally spend time with Elara but only while trapped by the eyes of strangers. She didn’t want her handmaiden, she wanted her friend. But Amaya had never known how to hold both the titles of Princess and Person at once.

She glanced over at Elara – her silver hair that glowed like moonlight, her pale eyes, the small, tentative smile that pierced through her careful walls and made Amaya want to burst into tears because her mother was dead and she wanted to be held –

Amaya’s hand is a light, chilly touch on top of Elara’s. It was just a slight pressure, and then it was gone. It was a thoughtless motion, to any onlookers. She looked back to the two Aurelian women, a puff of white air escaping her lips.

But before she could address the two women any more, she was overwhelmed with the feeling of not being in her own body – of looking at it from the outside. Suddenly she saw herself as others might. Beautiful. Regal. Composed.

Impenetrable.

And then it was over, and she was Amaya once more, fractured and nervous beneath her careful façade. Both of the Aurelians were stammering and then one all but fled the scene. Amaya fought to reorient herself. From the dissociation, to the panicked sisters, she tried to maintain composure without reacting too much to all these new factors.

Psychic magic, she realized. Uncontrolled, at that. Amaya cursed herself. Psychic magic was Lunarian. She’d received countless lessons as a child on all manner of Lunarian magiccraft, and while she’d never quite taken to psychic magic, she’d at least been taught how to shield properly.

Careless.

The remaining sister – Dyna, Ranni and Dyna Soleil – practically danced in place, so eager was she to follow her sister. It was easier for Amaya to hold herself together when at least there were others present who were so horrible at it. But still, something melancholic bubbled up in her at seeing Dyna’s obvious distress and concern for her sister.

Amaya dismissed her with a soft wave of her hand, giving Dyna the permission she was all but begging for. “She needs your company more than I do.” She hesitated – she was being too cold. The image of herself flashed in her mind again – beautiful, but aloof. Ornamental. She was here to learn about people and start building relationships, not sit here like a statue carved from ice. She offered Dyna a soft smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “I hope she’s well soon.” It was true – Amaya didn’t wish any strife or struggle upon any of the citizens of Dawnhaven, not when the world was difficult enough to survive as it was. But the words seemed to fall flat to Amaya’s ears. Her voice was smooth, the warmth well-practiced, but it felt so… hollow. Like she no longer knew how to play the role of gracious Princess that she’d practiced at for so many years.

And then Dyna was gone, and it was just Amaya and Elara.

She let out a slow, billowing breath. “I swear I used to be better at this.” The words were a low, decidedly un-princesslike mutter. She glanced at Elara, meeting her friend’s eyes. Words piled up on the back of her tongue, blocking her throat. I missed you. Were you alright during the storm? I don’t know how to stop grieving.

“I am glad to see you.” It was a pale whisper, the words too small to encompass all she wanted to say. The corner of her mouth quirked up into a fragile smile, mimicking the one Elara had offered her mere moments earlier.

Then Amaya took a steadying breath in, pulling herself back together. It was easier this time, with her friend finally beside her. Even if they didn’t have the opportunity to properly talk yet, having Elara with her as she braved the crowds was a familiar, comforting sensation.

“Perhaps you’re right,” she finally said, at a more normal volume. “A drink might do me good.” Truthfully, Amaya didn’t want Elara to leave at all. But she recognized the offer for what it was – the urge to be helpful, to care for Amaya as she had for so many years. And who knew? Maybe the warmth would chase away the chill that built under her skin, in her lungs. “Thank you.”

---

_{Interaction: Elara Moonshadow @Qia, Ranni and Dyna Soleil @Queen Arya}

Interactions @Qia Elara | @c3p-0h Amaya

Vellion Hurst

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Outside Eye of the Beholder.

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Suddenly, there were not so many people around the familiar face he had been following. It was now or never and Vellion felt the nervous excitement of anticipation flutter in his chest. How familiar it was to when he stalked game. Preparing himself, he ran his fingers through his dark hair, pulling it back neatly, only for it to fall back to its usual charming mess not a single step later. What was he even going to say or do. Before he had come to the conclusion of that thought, his feet had betray him, taking him around and placing him beside the moon-haired women and directly before the brunette, interrupting their conversation.

'Greetings my lady. Fine evening for celebration is it not.'
Was the message his brain tried to relay to his mouth, but it was railroaded by the train of emotion coming in through his eyes.

"Uh, Gree... greetings."

Was all he managed to utter instead as his wide eyes took in the strangers unfamiliar face. Her expression reflecting the same lack of recognition back at him. All of sudden it hit him like a tidal wave. An ocean of loneliness and disappointment crashing down upon him and slamming into his chest. He hadn't realised just
how much he had hoped,
how badly he wanted,
how much he needed,
for her to be someone he knew. Anyone.
Just to have at least one person left alive who knew him, connecting him to his past, connecting him to who he was before all this.

But it was not to be her, she wasn't it. As he looked into this strangers confused eyes he saw no one he recognised. It was just a coincidence... or perhaps a delusion. He could almost hear fate laughing at him, again. In that tumultuous moment, he felt the overbearing emotions rise from his chest and press against the back of his eyes, pressing against them like water presses against a dam threatening to break. But he would not let himself cry, not in front of this beautiful stranger.

People often talk of wearing a mask but few could literally do it as well as Vellion. With little thought and mostly subconscious desire, he drew on the mana previously consumed and made subtle changes to his flesh. His body reacting to his will in ways it shouldn't be able to. He sealed shut his tear ducts. Disconnected the muscles required to tilt his brow and locked his lips from frowning.
He did this all in a manner of seconds, but his eyes.... he forgot the eyes. While dry, deep within them the tumultuous waves of sorrow and regret still swell and crash behind them.

After what had been an stammering shameful attempt at a greeting followed by a brief momentary awkward pause, he shook his head, flashed his most charming apologetic smile, avert his gaze down and open his lips to speak again.
'Your beauty makes a fool of me. It is even more breathtaking up close than from than afar.' He prepare to offer as a recovery explanation...

"Uaagh!" He suddenly yelps instead as his leg gives way and he heavily crumbles to the floor, falling forward and instinctively grabbing at anything for support. A myriad of emotions flash across his half self-paralysed face. Confusion, embarrassment, pain, realisation.

He had overdrawn from his limited pool of mana. Recklessly consumed more flesh than needed, and his left ankle had reverted.
Beneath his pant leg, if a persistent person ignored his attempts to fend off aid, they would see what appears to be a messy, untreated, old injury. Bruised, torn and swollen flesh wrapped around his ankle, spreading up his shin and down his foot. A perceptive and intelligent person might also note the unnatural nature of the aged wounds which could only resemble an animal attack.

Sya was making herself small as things took a turn, Orion, Tia and Kiara intervened in different ways, as a calming force, the One seeking to help and the one who seemed to want to eat him. She curled up behind Orion and hid herself deeper into the water and tried and failed to gain traction to slither away from the situation in her unfamiliar limb. She was stuck ans they where her protection right now.

The Lord had pushed her too far and her instincts chose flight too worn down to fight this time for a second time. It hurt too much, no where to run but Jo will to fight.

Her panic overwhelmed Sya even as people arrived and she remained in a state of panic as emotions she suppressed in a neat little box exploded out and she felt everything all in one go. The Lamia-like woman had tried to control it all and the dam broke loose. “Thankyou… for Helping, protecting …me.. You good eggs.” she looked round at the two blightborn and the priestess with her emotions written plainly on her eye and body. She was deeply thankful for their aid, and promised to repay it when and if she was able.

“I….” Sya lost her words and found the nearest safe person and latched onto them Awkwardness and modesty be damned, her head fell onto them and she cried and sobbed deeply, her tail instinctively holding close as she gave up hiding how much damage she felt.

Sya had gravitated to Tia and her calming aura, shifting and letting her emotions go Sya began to shift and loosen as she realised the mess her tear streaks left on her robes, her wet self marks left behind and long dark hairs where it had caught white visible. The deep brunette could not hide her signs of her desire for support and human comfort.

“Ssssorry….I… “ Sya tears kept coming somehow, she had water left in her somehow as she realised she had snuggled her into her and wrapped her up like a snug bread roll… Sya Just needed this.

“Sorry… I …I get used to my life and life throws rocks at me, its…so much. My friend cannot look at me. It just hurt too much…too much too fast.. Blightborn seen monster.but we hurt. I hurt, i can only take so much. Am i just want people to gove me a chance, and maybe ssssomeone to care for me... Treat me with kindness...”. Sya took several minutes to fully settle, her aura was deeply calming, the snake turned hybrid of a woman. She babbled out and without really thinking, her emotions just flowing freely.

“I ruined your robe, im …ssssorry. ” Sya said sadly as she pulled back finally, eye sore and red, shaky but a little more composed than before. “Thankyou truely, I'm…going to take a short ssswim and try to… return to the Eye when i feel ready, i'll send someone over to bring you some of our sweet treats, the Bakery is just starting out. Thankyou for your ssssancttury and care. He… He egg with rotten yolk. No sssshiny shell can hide it.” Sya said with genuine thanks and good faith, fresh cookies would make Tia happy right…

Sya unsure what to say pushing off from the rock into the deeper waters, to try and avoid not knowing what to say. Her powerful tail pushed naturally through the water and she found a spot nearer the spring centre where it bubbled up feeling the hot water push over skin and scale alike sighing how it was like a water massage. The current pushed her about and Sya did not mind as she circled the centre, she could even laugh a little as the water tickled the end of her tail.

Testing things a little more she dived into the clean and supposed to be healing waters moving under it with surprising speed and agility. Letting her instincts take over she found swimming came easily, her muscles moving with little effort and understanding what she needed to do on a level without conscious effort.

All good things must come to an end as Sya beeched herself back on the rocky edge, reaching back to squeeze the water out her hair and stretching her long glistening tail out into the moonlight with a soft sigh. Getting out the water was harder as her ability to push her new form out was different to when she had two legs.

The one thing she could say, her cold immunity was rather a gift right now as she was fully comfortable. “Maybe they were right About this place being healing…” Sya said to herself, why would a god extend any Form of blessing to a blightborn…embarkin, curses to die, live and be considered monsters by many? Or just maybe for once a Goddess cared?

Mentions
@c3p-0h@Qia@Dezuel@The Muse

Adonis and Persephone gave the woman her chance to cover, she was rather exposed wet from the water and a quick glance told that they clung tightly to everything along her skin, plus the cold… thankfully the priestess was not one of the cursed and those raised by the blight born unlike others who seemed to earn and work in the town.

“Get yourself warm, we waited 20 years, we can wait a few minutes.” Persephone said as they took a place and sat down on the bench while she sorted herself and got into some dry clothes that did not cling to every curve, nipple and muscle. “I remember you catching me doing that in a lake” Persephone said with a light chuckle and a rather happy memory.

“Pretty sure that's how we ended up with 3 on the way home rather than two.” He said with cheer, they had nor really been in a Temple like this together waiting since… he forgot, that was a bad thing but life had been rather bad in the last few years Duty, bandits, blightborn, and more. You name it, you found it as a threat in the last few years.

“And I swore it would be the last, that it was broken.” Persephone laughed and they were talking good natured as the door opened again and entered the room. They were not concerned she took the warmest spot, the pool was likely barely warm enough to not freeze unlike the heat and fires burning of the Temple across town.

“We are looking to get married under the light of selene. We got married under an old ceremony, but the Temple at the Royal guard was always busy, and the young needed it more than we did. We intended to ask, then we ended up helping out with a newborn Grandchild.” Adonis said with a slow and calm pace, the old chapel was maintained by a old grey bearded veteran who lost a leg and was unable to meet standards but had kept their morale and faith up, serving in a different manner. Normal priests did not manage so well, they saw too much that the light of selene did not cover, places that the light of the moon nore the sun did not bless. “Honestly Seph is more religious, I've seen too much, but this feels right.” Coswain said honestly and Persephone seemed entirely fine with the familiar term.

Persephone took the lead as she followed through on the statement and did not interpret, holding her partner's hand feeling the warmth and comfort. “We got Married by a lord and hand fasted, it was a last minute thing, right before Adon had to leave, we wanted it and no priest was available.” Persephone remembered that late night on the tower overlooking the cold mountains, they had nothing but the most basic ceremony and honestly it was not the ceremony but the person and commitment.

“So, we want to do it properly, Selene seems to have looked after us though, despite everything.” Persephone said with a smile on the older woman's face, her red hair marked with greys. “Seeing as we are stuck in Dawn Haven together we might as well make the most of it.” Persephone finished with a lighter comment, an lighter mood.

“Welcome to Dawnhaven, My wife is more likely to see you than me regularly, hopefully Selene can help her. I have to keep the town safe, and her kittens.” He said kindly with a little hope, Persephone dreams and missions could be rather tough and he had held her to try and help her sleep.

Persephone gave a nod and a small Yawn, the visions She got definitely were rather uncontrolled. Everyone said oh it would be great to get a power boost, to be so blessed… Persephone disagreed. “We would like to arrange a wedding, we tend to follow capital customs, but I have a slightly sour taste about that place nowadays.” They would leave and knew enough Sometimes you had to delegate or trust others to do their jobs. This one was one of those times.

“know enough to know what makes the lady happy.” He said lightly getting a tap to the arm harmless against the leather and warming his hands In the heat.

“I'm only a few decades too late,” Persephone laughed. “We met when he was a Knight, somehow he charmed me, somehow I never changed my mind. We were sent together.” Persephone commented jokingly as a couple who have been together for 2 decades did without effort.

“You were flirting with me” Adonis replied and teased her good naturedly. “Sorry, we got distracted.” He nodded to the priestess.

Mentions
@SpicyMeatball

Daphne

Eye of the Beholder

White hair and Sages.

Daphne jolted a little mentally as she mentioned her mood, she had lost family and wanted a new life. The new life bit Daphne could understand, she left Cadia as soon as she was of age. “I'm sorry, I hope you find a new home here, and can make a new start. I left the Temple Orphanage the moment I could and never really looked back.” Daphne said, she did not know who her dad was but she was fine, she had lived this long not knowing, some things were not meant to be.

“I'm staying at the Eye if you need help” Daphne said, trying to skip over the dead parents' bomb. “Just ask Sya, she is hard to miss, one eye and a snake tail.” Sya… Yeah hard to miss that lady.

Much as Daphne wanted to help, she had her orders and duty to keep a eye on the town and the gathering, someone had to deal with the drunks and the petty Peacocks if they returned to bother, she least could detain him with…all due force needed. “I have to keep a eye on the Inn, Lord and lady have business of their own so they left me to keep an eye here. Just ask, the guards would love a change from snow duty.” She said cheerfully.

“No shame in admiring the view” Daphne said before she could think and a blush, but she laughed and brushed it off, damn she was being really too horny today. “Stay safe, and ask for me if you need help” Daphne offered, she could maybe make a friend and she did not want her bothered by that drunk again.

Daphne spotted the sage heading away and towards one of the backrooms of the Inn, towards what she was sure was a large wing of storage, kitchens and such. “Sorry to interrupt, but you know Sya when back, she seems to have left, and Lord Coswain Left me to watch out for everyone here. Kinda do not want to step on her.. tail.. unnecessarily as it goes. It's only trouble for trouble's sake.

Blight born only changes once im right…I'm sure? Not twice? Seems she left for baths and staff just say she was upset.” Daphne asked, and she heard that the woman was a kind of friend of hers so might know if she regularly went to the baths or so… Daphne was raised Lunarian, they were much more open than she was used to about such things.

“Anything you know to help me plan ahead would be most appreciated. Im Daphne, Lord Coswains squire, don’t want to make him look bad by extension.” Daphne added with a little concern, she was working solo and much as she had, with Prince and others about how she would be looked to if things turned ugly and be the one who took responsibility for failings or success and by extension the family she served greatly respected.

Mentions
@SpicyMeatball@The Muse

---

_{Location: The Hot Springs}

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Tia’s eyebrows drew together as her magic searched and spread through the nobleman’s body. He was… fine.

Well, maybe ‘fine’ was not the appropriate word. He was still clearly distraught. And loud. And each successive word out of his mouth seemed to only incite the blightborn women more and more. But there was no wound to heal – nothing for her waning magic to fix.

Then his hand gripped around her arm, just as her hand had around his. Tia froze, cutting off the flow of her magic. She looked up at him. He wasn’t looking back.

Then, in a bizarre turn of events, he pulled himself out of the pool and walked forward in a trance. Tia scrambled backwards to get out of his way. Her confused gaze met Orion’s, where he stood between the humans and blightborn. Tia’s eyes darted back to the nobleman though, when he spoke in a monotone voice, distant and entranced.

…‘Aelios?’

Was… was he having a vision?

Tia could only watch, breath caught in her throat at the sight of this odd man. If he was having a vision too… if Tia had some way to verify that the visions she’d been having were true, and –

The noble slammed his head into a wooden pole, breaking his trance. Then he was back to being… ‘awful’ wasn’t a very kind word to use. Distressing? Afflictive? Tia found herself looking back at Orion, if only to verify that someone else was also experiencing this scene.

But instead of Orion, it was Sya that met her eyes, her new serpentine body weaving its way out of the water to descend on Tia. Before she could even register what was happening, she was trapped in the heavy coil of Sya’s drenched tail, the innkeeper’s arms thrown around her frame as she sobbed into Tia’s robes.

Panic was thick in her chest, the overwhelming feeling that she was prey, trapped and helpless against the weight of Sya’s tail – but something stilled in her at the sound of Sya’s crying. The fear began to melt away.

Still held in place, Tia tried to twist her neck to look over at Sya, where she’d all but collapsed into her. Her words were a mess of heartbreak and frustration, and all Tia could do was give her the space to let it out. She raised a tentative hand to place it on the back of Sya’s head, combing her fingers through the woman’s damp hair. The babble of words washed over Tia and her heart clenched. She leaned more into Sya’s hold, offering what silent comfort she could.

When the innkeeper had finally composed herself enough to pull away from her, Tia offered her a small, encouraging smile. She reached a hand up to cup Sya’s cheek, swiping away a tear with her thumb.

Her robes were damp where Sya’s tail unwound, but at least it seemed she was draped in enough fabric that the water and chill hadn’t reached Tia’s body yet. She’d have to change before heading out into the town proper.

She looked up again, taking in the scene one more time to ensure that disaster had truly been averted – only to freeze when she saw a figure in the distance.

It was a familiar silhouette: layered robes, blonde hair blowing like wisps in the wind. It was distorted, though. There were shapes that did not belong. Horns. A flicking tail. But Tia couldn’t tear her eyes away from the figure. She couldn’t stop the way emotion clawed up her ruined throat, or how tears were sudden and warm in her eyes.

She’d been right. This specter from her past, this echo of shame and heartbreak and failure had followed her to Dawnhaven.

Was she real?

Tia didn’t dare take her eyes off of her, lest the figure disappear, another vision that Tia didn’t know how to trust. Her body started to move on its own. Step after spellbound step, she walked through the snow towards the last person she’d expected to see in Dawnhaven. And then finally, after a lifetime of walking, Tia stood in front of the young woman she’d promised to train and guide before abandoning.

She looked the same in so many ways, like no time had passed at all. And Tia supposed none had. Two months shouldn’t have had much impact on either woman – and yet both were so different from how they last knew each other. One voiceless and sun-bleached, the other twisted and inhuman. Both unable to recognize their own reflections.

The stars stayed anchored in the sky. The hand that reached towards the figure was her own.

Her lips moved to form Ranni’s name, even as no sound escaped her.

Her trembling fingers finally reached Ranni’s cheek, warm, and soft, and real.

Something shattered in Tia as it finally sank in that this wasn’t a vision. She didn’t know how or why, but Ranni was here. However it happened, it’d been traumatic – her new blightborn traits were evidence enough of that. And where was Dyna? Tia had rarely seen the twins apart, Dyna acting as their watchful shadow as they’d moved through the capital.

Tears finally rolled down her face as she took in the sight of the young priestess. Then it was like something clicked into place. Tia threw herself forward, arms wrapping tightly around Ranni. She clung to her like this connection was the only thing keeping her from drifting away into a storm, body trembling as she burrowed closer.

For whatever horrors she’d witnessed, or pain she’d experienced, Tia was selfishly, wholly, thankful that they’d brought Ranni to her again.

---

_{Interaction: Ayel Raunefeldt @Dezuel, Sya Leela @PrinceAlexus, Ranni Soleil @Queen Arya
Mention: Kira Rykker @The Muse, Orion Nightingale @Qia}

Once having left its chimney, smoke had a tendency to adapt to the outside temperature quite quickly. Today that meant that it was very cold, but that did not make it any less acrid. Whoever was feeding the hearth down there had apparently little clue about how not to waste wood, otherwise he or she would not have allowed so much of it to escape in the form of sut.

Clearly one of the downsides of being a raven was not having any arms of fingers to rub one's poor eyes. Batting the eyelids frantically did help but only somewhat as the oncoming air pressed the tiny foreign objects firmly into every corner. Hadn't he spotted some sort of lake before circling over this town ? A dip into the water would certainly fix this problem. Hell, he didn't even know yet whether this was the place he actually wanted to go to. Signs were not exactly designed to be easy to read from high above.

Just as Valthyr was about to begin his little diversion towards the lake, he spotted another source of water. This one however was in stark contrast to the almost abyssmaly dark looking pond: almost crystal clear and, more importantly, steaming! Were these people crazy and heating an exterior pool of their own in winter or what was this ? It did look almost disturbingly luxurious though. Only problem was there seemed to be people, albeit from above they also looked rather similar to each other. What if they'd make a fuss about a harmless animal wanting to wash its feathers a little ? He didn't feel ready for a proper introduction yet!

Anyway, Valthyr decided, and so down he went in a steep dive that was only halted a few feet above a rock overlooking the scene. The raven's claws made a distinct sound as the two hard sufaces made contact with each other. The druid counted six people, it didn't raise his comfort level. What if any of them would mistake him for a fresh piece of lunch ? Yet had he come in as a wolf they might have thought he was mistaking them for lunch!

The raven released the usual sound these birds used to communicate with each other, but the actual intention was to alert those people here at these hot springs. He wanted to see their faces, judge their initial reactions before actually taking the splash dive into the water. And then he needed to figure out whether this was Dawnhaven or not.

---

_{Potential interaction: Anyone at the hot springs.}

---

_{Location: Outside the Inn}

---

---

It wasn’t a moment after Elara left Amaya’s side that a stranger filled the space. Amaya had to crane her neck to look up at him, looming above her like an evergreen. It was the second time this morning she’d found herself in a man’s shadow – and the second time a man’s sudden approach set her on edge.

He looked at her with such… anguish. Like she’d broken some part of him, simply by not being what he’d hoped for. It cut through Amaya, freezing the blood in her veins. Even as he seemed to put that part of himself away, smothering his panic with something more expressionless, Amaya was still captivated by his eyes – and how desperate he seemed to want something from her that she didn’t know how to give.

His smile was charming. And hollow. She knew the shape of it like it was her own.

And then with a shout he was crumbling in on himself. Amaya pulled away instinctively, gasping to her feet. At the same time, Elara jumped forward, helping to steady him and sit him down on a stool.

Elara, with all her quiet compassion and patience, whose first instinct always seemed to be to move towards those in need. Not Amaya, though – no, where Elara moved to embrace, Amaya withdrew, always looking for who she needed to guard herself against. And something about this man set her on edge.

There was the clatter of armor, as a few guards standing at the perimeter of the square hurried towards their Princess, in the face of some potential threat. But Amaya glanced at them, her hand raising slightly at her side. Amaya would not be the source of a commotion, not on her first real outing amongst the public, and certainly not after she’d assured Flynn that she could be left alone. The guards stilled. Then they approached at a more casual pace, stopping when they were close enough to act, should they be commanded.

“Perhaps some space would be best,” Amaya said, her fingers touching the side of Elara’s arm lightly, over the thick cloth of her sleeve – a quiet signal to step back. She wanted Elara away from this man. “So that a healer might see to him properly.” She met the eyes of the nearest guard. He gave her a short nod, then turned towards the inn in search of someone who could provide care.

Flicking her gaze back to the man, Amaya looked him over. Her magic seemed to rise in her chest, awakening bit by bit. Something about this man, his demeanor, didn’t add up. The way he’d looked at her. How his entire expression had dropped, like he was a puppet whose strings had been cut. How suddenly he’d collapsed, revealing an angry, fetid injury that even now he tried to hide. Amaya couldn’t get a good look at it, but even still she could tell it was something garish, all slow oozing blood and colorful flesh. How had he even walked on it?

“You must be in tremendous pain,” Amaya said, soft and soothing. But she caught Elara’s eye for a heartbeat. And then she slipped back into her role again. “I assure you, the feast was not so important that you needed to risk further injury to yourself to attend.” Her mouth quirked up into a half-smile, practiced humor staining her voice, even as she looked on with an expression of concern.

* * * * *

* * * * * * * *

_{Location: Inside the Inn}

The guard entered the inn, pausing as he saw some sort of performance taking up everyone’s attention. He glanced around, eyes scanning for someone familiar, but it was difficult to move about the crowd without disturbing the festivities. Finally he settled on approaching a large Aurelian man with a red nose, tilting in his seat and oddly entertained by the show.

“Is there a healer in the vicinity?” the guard said in a low voice, trying to not disturb the performance or draw too much attention. “No cause for concern, but there’s been an incident outside.”

The man looked up at the guard, seemingly annoyed at having his attention pulled. He shrugged.

---

_{Interaction: Elara Moonshadow @Qia, Vellion Hurst @Dark Light, Aurora Halliwell @BlackRoseSiren}