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.