BlackRoseSiren

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Aurora Halliwell

Eye of The Beholder
In the Temple & Outside the Temple

---

As Aurora sat in a trance, mesmerised by the dance of the candle’s flame, the serene atmosphere was unexpectedly shattered by the piercing sound of the alarm. It echoed through the stone walls of the church, sending a jolt of adrenaline through her. Instinctively, she sprang from her pew, her heart racing as she took in the chaos unfolding around her. Looking around she realises there isn't a soul near her, her brow furrowed, "I'm sure there were people here when I arrived." She pondered for a moment.

Her eyes landed where she remembered the High Priestess and another priestess were standing next to another woman who looked important. To her surprise, she realised they had already left the church, presumably to assess the situation outside or to guide the congregation. Determined to help in any way she could, Aurora felt a surge of purpose. With a deep breath, she made her way towards the heavy doors once again. As she pushed them open, a wave of cold fresh air hit her face, as she stepped outside, scanning the area for any sigh of the priestesses. She hoped to find at least one of them so she could offer her assistance, driven by a desire to help her community in whatever way was necessary in this moment of crisis.

As Aurora stepped outside, she quickly caught sight of the priestess and the other woman she had noticed earlier upon her arrival. A mix of curiosity and urgency pushed her toward them. They were deep in discussion, engrossed in their thoughts and animated gestures, yet Aurora felt a compelling need to interact. She patiently waited for a lull in their conversation, her eyes darting around the environment, seeing an undercurrent of unease that made her heart race,

Finally, seizing the moment, she approached the woman with a warm smile that contrasted with her internal tension. ”Hello! I wasn’t eavesdropping on your conversation.” she began, her voice steady despite the anxiety bubbling beneath the surface. ”Do either of you know what the alarm was about?” She paused briefly, gauging their reactions, before continuing earnestly, ”And is there anything I can do to assist you?

As she spoke, her gaze remained vigilant, scanning the surroundings as if expecting something to emerge from the shadows. The feeling of vulnerability weighed heavily on her, and she couldn’t shake the thought that if only she had her bow and arrows with her, she would feel much more secure. ”I just wish I had my bow and arrows.” she admitted, her voice trailing off, revealing the unease that was now visible in her demeanour.

Ranni @Queen Arya Céline @SkeankySnack

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Aurora Halliwell

Eye of The Beholder
In the Temple

---

As she stepped into the temple, she was immediately struck by its vastness and breathtaking beauty. The high-valued ceilings were adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant murals that depicted scenes of divine serenity and celestial beings. Compared to the humble temple in her village, this sanctuary felt like a grand cathedral, filled with ornate details at every turn. The flickering light from candles cast a warm glow across the polished stone floor, making the whole space feel alive with reverence.

She took a deep breath, her heart pounding with a mix of awe and nostalgia, she began to slowly walk down the main aisle. Her eyes darted from one beautiful feature to another, the elegant stained glass windows, that she knew if only there was sunlight, there would be a kaleidoscope of colours.

As she continued to move forward, a sense of peace enveloped her, momentarily easing the weight of her memories. It was at that moment that she noticed a small alcove to the right of her, illuminated by a cluster of candles, each flame flickering gently as if whispering prayers of their own. Drawn to it she approached and felt an overwhelming urge to connect with her past.

Kneeling before the candlelit space, Aurora closed her eyes and bowed her head. She took a moment to gather her thoughts, recalling the laughter and love of her parents. With a heart full of emotion, she whispered a silent prayer, I hope you are both in a beautiful and peaceful place, surrounded by all the things that bring you joy. I miss you both more than words can express and every day I think about the memories we shared. I want you to know that I am committed to working hard and making choices that will make you proud of me. Your guidance and love continue to inspire me as I navigate through life. She poured her gratitude and longing into every word. Afterwards, she lit a candle, watching as the flame ignited with a soft crackle, sending a plume of smoke upward - a symbol of her hopes and memories rising to the heavens. In that moment, the temple felt not just like a place of worship, but a bridge connecting her to those she had lost, filling her with a profound sense of solace. She then went and sat quietly on a seat near the candles, and watched the flame flicker and crackle.

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Aurora Halliwell

Eye of The Beholder
Tavern, then moving to the Temple

---

As Aurora pushed open the heavy door of the tavern, the warmth and lively chatter welcomed her in. Her eyes quickly found Syn, who was perched comfortably at the bar, and she offered a bright smile. ”Hello again, Sya! I hope you’re having a good time.” she called out, her voice carrying a friendly tone.

It was at that moment that Aurora noticed Sya’s snake form coiling gracefully around the seat, her scales glistening under the dim light of the tavern. The sight caught her off guard and she momentarily halted, her heart raced in surprise, yet she felt no fear. Instead, a sense of intrigue washed over her.

She continued her stride into the tavern, her demeanour relaxed, as if she were completely unfazed by the unusual sight before her. Aurora recalled her old village, where a few of the villagers were blood-born, she remembered a few of them saying that they could transform between two forms, this was so she wouldn’t be scared. With that knowledge in mind, the reality of Sya’s transformation felt familiar and somewhat comforting.

She moved through the crowded room, weaving between guests still caught up in laughter and conversation. Her heart raced with the echoes of the dance she had enjoyed earlier, but a sense of purpose guided her back to the table where she had left her cloak. The fabric was soft and familiar as she slipped it around her shoulders, the cool air outside reminding her of warmth within.

With her cloak secured, she headed toward the buffet table adorned with an array of delectable foods. The aroma of fresh bread and savoury fillings wafted temptingly as she scanned the assortment. She selected a few sandwiches, their crusts golden and inviting, and carefully wrapped them in a handkerchief. Once secured, she tucked the handkerchief into her bag, filling it with a sense of adventure for the journey ahead.

Then the monk’s words echoed in her mind, the promise of serenity and wisdom calling her to visit the temple. She had not visited the temple he spoke of, since she had moved here. With a firm resolve, she set her sights on the exit, eager to visit the temple.

Now that she had her cloak draped securely over her shoulders and a small bundle of food tucked under her arm, she approached the door she had just exited moments before, she turned and called out cheerfully, ”See you later! I’m off to the temple.” As she stepped outside, the cool evening breeze brushed against her face, invigorating her spirit. She took a deep breath, filled with anticipation, and set off along the winding path that led to the temple. The sound of her footsteps echoed softly in the quiet surroundings.

As Aurora approached the temple, a deep sense of wonder enveloped her. Towering above her, the ancient structure was adorned with intricate carvings and weathered stones that held stories of the past. She paused at the entrance, her eyes wide with amazement as she took in the majestic architecture that seemed to touch the sky. The air was still, yet a sudden chill swept through, ruffling her hair and breaking her trance. With her heart racing, she gathered her courage and moved toward the heavy wooden door, its surface smooth and cool under her fingertips.

Pushing the door open, Aurora stepped inside, hoping to find warmth enveloping her like a comforting embrace. The dim light illuminated the space, revealing polished wooden floors and serene alcoves that housed statues of the deities. As she ventured further, her mind buzzed with anticipation. Would she encounter the monk she had met before, whose wisdom had left a lasting impression on her? Or perhaps she would meet someone new. The possibilities excited her as she walked deeper into the temple’s tranquil heart.

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Aurora Halliwell

Eye of The Beholder
Stables. Heading back into the Inn

---

Aurora stood attentively, her posture relaxed yet engaged, as Anora shared her thoughts. A gentle smile spread across her face as she responded. ” They’re both such precious Items, each carrying its own story.” Her gaze dropped to her open hand, where the delicate locket rested in the centre of her palm, glimmering softly in the light. ”Ever since my mother presented it to me, I haven’t taken it off. It feels almost like a part of me now,” she continued sincerity.

Aurora’s eyes sparkled with nostalgia as she glanced back at Anora, warmth radiating from her smile. ”To be truly honest, I don’t think I could ever bring myself to remove it. It holds too much meaning.” She paused for a moment, contemplating the memories tied to the locket. Then on hearing from Anora to be careful, she smiled and answered, ”I promise I will try to be careful.”

As Anora posed her next question, Aurora took a moment to gather her thoughts, her brow furrowing slightly in contemplation. Finally, she replied with a sense of resolution, ”Well, I think I’ll be staying here for another week or two until the roof of my house is fixed.” Her voice carried a mix of disappointment and hope, as she imagined the repairs that weren't completed yet.

After Anora had responded to her, Aurora added, ”I will be eagerly waiting for your letter.” Her anticipation lingered in the air as she noticed Anora preparing to leave. A warm smile across her face, as she raised her hand to wave, calling out, ”Till next time, Miss Anora!” The sound of her voice echoed softly on the stable, imbued with a hint of newfound friendship.

Once she was alone, Aurora turned he attention back to Storm, her loyal horse. She stroked the mare’s muzzle and whispered, Well then, girl, I think I may have made a new friend.” A genuine smile brightened her face, reflecting her excitement about her budding connection. ”She seems nice, doesn’t she Storm?”

As a chill from the air began to seep through her clothes, Aurora realised it was time to return to the inn. ”I should head back before I freeze out here,” she chuckled softly, giving Storm one last affectionate hug. With a heartwarming pat on the mare’s side, she made her way back along the well-trodden path.

While walking briskly, thoughts raced through her mind. I wonder who else I will meet, she mused, her imagination flitting to the possibilities of new encounters and friendships waiting to be discovered.

Upon reaching the weathered wooden boor of the Inn, she took a deep breath and pushed it open. The inviting warmth of the interior enveloped her instantly, a comforting contrast to the biting cold outside. Aurora stepped inside, shaking off the chill, she then felt a wave of contentment wash over her as she settled back into the cosy atmosphere of the inn.

Realms of Sun & Shadow

Aurora Halliwell

Eye of The Beholder
Stables

---

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
Stables

---

As Anora pointed out that their names shared the same first letter, a warm smile spread across her face, and a 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
Stables

---

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