Epitome of a Hero

Where Aurora and Michael came from.

A break from Epitome part 2

Chapter one for the story she wrote.

Aurora was startled by the appearance of the young man on his brown linen cloth and black trousers, he—however was just astounded as her, looking at her with pure adoration.

“Princess.”

Michael immediately knelt down on one knee in respect to the royal’s presence. Aurora gathered her composure and held out her hand, completely embarrassed since she never liked it when someone bows down to her.

“Just, Aurora, dear sir. I am also a human being, not a saint.”

Michael looked up at her and gently accepted her hand. Standing up he spoke, “But you’re the princess, I am deeply overwhelmed by your presence, and you have my respect.” Looking as brave as he speaks, he never really seemed to be overwhelmed by the princess, rather, he was awestruck by seeing her this close.

“Then, when I am outside just call me Aurora, I am already sick of being called your royalty, your highness and all the other princess’--- puddles.” Aurora petulantly rolled her eyes.

“Puddles?” Michael snorted, completely amused by how Aurora acts as a princess. He always thought that princesses are composed and were always untrue to what they truly think, but she was different.

“Oh, for sakes! Good bye!” Aurora walked annoyed for Michael’s strong character, she immediately passed him by but was stopped by his hand holding on to hers. Her heart suddenly skipped a beat and she turned to glance at him—his eyes were sheepish and it was a beaut hue of eccentric brown.

“Forgive me, Aurora, it’s just that you are so— “Michael was hesitating to speak the words that Aurora felt like she wanted to hear, his eyes were soft and it was a mixture of gleeful tenderness.

“—feisty.”

“I meant beautiful! How awful Michael!”

Michael was filled with terror for his thoughts. Never would he have known that it will be the one coming out of his mouth. Aurora looked so eccentric, “feisty?” She laughed, no one has ever told her that before. She was completely and strangely fond by Michael since he was different from the others she’d met. He was real and true to what he says, on how he acts, unlike the other people who always bowed down to her feet, giving her overqualified kindness just because she is the princess. Michael laughed with her, but not because she laughed but because of how wrong his words turn out to be.

“Well, It’s been a pleasure to meet you, young sir.”

“The pleasure is all mine, Aurora. My name is Michael, I served this land as a humble farmer.”

“Michael.” Aurora smiled at the thought, it was really his name. “Thank you for taking good care of this lands, all the trees and the grasses seems at joy due to your care.”

“You really do say peculiar things most of the time.”

“Well, being locked up in the palace made my head a little dazed,” Aurora giggled.

Michael smiles at Aurora, “You are really beautiful, especially when you smile.”

Aurora tried to keep her merry at bay but she can never hide the involuntary flushing of her cheeks. “Well, I thought I was feisty.”

Michael continues staring at her with his calm, lovely brown eyes, “It is beautiful too.” He never removed his eyes from her, they knew there were some connection between them which seemed as close as a knitted cloth.

“Thank you.” Aurora held the side of her frock as she averts her eyes. “I—I have to go.”

“Yes, milady, the knights might throw me to the pits if you stayed.”

“No, they won’t.”

Both of them chuckled. Aurora started to wave her hand and started to walk on her way. However, Michael started to trail on her footsteps. Aurora beamed, taking her steps slower so that he can catch up.

“My father told me to never let a girl walk alone.” Michael caught up with Aurora and they walked side to side with few spaces apart.

“Your father must be very kind.” Aurora felt some unusual pang on her chest but she took it out with chuckles. “So, you walk all the lone girls home?”

“Well, my father also said to never let the girl you like, walk alone.” Michael uttered as they walk. She might take it as a jest so it may be fine.

Aurora sighed deeply and giggled,” Well, now I know where your smooth talking expertise came from. Michael grinned while shaking his head and Aurora simply takes short glances at him.

The two walked together, with every of their steps springing stories of knowing one another. They told each other tales, their hobbies and some parts of their lives that were so easy to disclose. They knew there were something but as much as their heart tell them of how a bond may form, they were wise to take it slow. Aurora was thrilled by their conversation—as Michael spoke of things, she never stopped looking at his eyes which she thought were very intriguing—there was never a hint of fraud but only of authenticity, of care. The more she looked at him, the more she understood him, his ability to speak to her without lowering his gaze was quite a charm.

After quite a while, they reached the commune near the palace’s gates. Aurora and Michael started to bid their good byes.

“Princess.” Michael uttered with a curtsy.

“Michael.” She replied back with the same act. Reluctantly, turned away to walk back into the palace. She was indeed happy, but the time seemed to past by so fast, and there was an unusual pain making her think that tomorrow may not be a better day than how it was today. She tried to look behind her, Michael was already gone. She smirked. Maybe I was the only one hoping for more. She sighed, continued walking until she reached her chamber.

“Princess!” An innocent delighted face greeted her from the room, she was holding Aurora’s night gown, and it seems like she has been waiting for her return.

“Verlyn, I told you, it’s just Aurora. You have been with me ever since we were both young, even though you have been appointed as the Lady’s maid, you are still my one and only friend. You are family to me.” Verlyn smiled graciously to her princess. She thought back of the times when Aurora would always ask for her to play. She was a daughter of Cyrena, the Queen’s attendant, their family have been serving the royalty of Tenebris ever since it was founded. Even though the Queen and King were humane to them as well, no one was ever as generous as Princess Aurora.

“Thank you, Aurora. You will really make the best Queen.” Verlyn gave Aurora the night gown she prepared.

Aurora muttered, “I do hope I could, Mom was always so strict about her lessons, I can’t fail in my role.” Aurora took a change of her clothes inside the room divided on the corner. “I went to check out how the people were in the villages and on the nearby towns, they were living a good life.”

“Well, the King never let anyone starve in his rule, that is why there were no people against him leading the kingdom.”

Aurora went out of the divider on her pink satin night gown, while brushing her hair, “Do you think I can be capable of doing that too?” Aurora’s mind was restless, she loved the people outside the palace as well but she was scared that if ever she became a queen, she would lose her dream for their people since she will have to marry someday. I don’t want to get married— She meddled with the thoughts of Michael smiling at her, but, it can be taken account to, if it was someone I do like. Oh shut up Aurora, you haven’t known him that well! But if it did happen? Won’t it break the rules? Would I be a bad princess if I marry of love?

“But love is an important part of marriage!” Aurora’s thought escaped her mouth. Just as she was surprised, Verlyn smiled at her ridiculously, her eyes examining her very carefully like how a friend would.

“Y--you met someone!” Verlyn exclaimed thrillingly with and intrigue and fondness on her actions.

“N-no, I was just thinking that I don’t want to get married just to continue the royalty’s legacy.” Aurora answered in awe.

Verlyn, shook her head playfully as she continued to grin.

Aurora, snorted, Verlyn knew her well, She was right, I met someone. “Oh good lord, I did.”

Verlyn squealed, her feet tiptoeing like a kid, “Can you tell me about your prince charming?” She sat down by the bed, tapping the space beside her, urging Aurora to sit beside her.

“Do you remember about the young man I saw at the fruit stands in the commune before? The one with the brown hair, that most of the young women were talking about? I just met him.”

“Is he really that charming as you’ve heard?”

“He has this strong, arrogant yet— “endearing, Aurora added in her mind,” --agreeable character.”

“Agreeable?” Verlyn answered in confusion.

Aurora shook her head, rolling her eyes up, grinning like a fool which she thought she was, for being affected this much after thinking that she was the only one hoping for more.

“I’ll take that as something you really adored about him, his ‘agreeable’ character. You didn’t do anything romantic, did you?”

“Oh no no, of course not, we just met! We just talked and he walked me near the palace’s gates.”

“Uh-huh.” Verlyn was still looking at Aurora with a ‘oh okay?’ look with her lips sucked in her mouth, nodding like a kid.

“Why are you looking at me like that?”

“Nothing. I’m glad you’ve had a good time.”

The friends laughed together and both of them laid down. “There might be no other time as that one.” Aurora spoke as they lay their heads in the soft cushion of the bed, looking at her friend.

“You wouldn’t know that. Who knows what could happen next? Why would you even think that?”

“As I started to walk through the gates, I took a short glance back, he was not there anymore. It felt as if, he never really enjoyed the time together and as if he just rushed away. It was kind of— “

Verlyn patted Aurora’s head softly, “That doesn’t mean anything. But you have to keep yourself still, just like you said, it was only for one day. No one will know what could happen since not everything is written down the books you read every day, you may be infatuated or maybe, there was really something that’s going to open for the both of you. Just keep the river flowing in your life, you might explore some things more.”

Aurora found comfort at Verlyn’s word, like a kid, she snuggled towards Verlyn and Verlyn embraced Aurora, caressing her head.

“You can also be a princess; you always say the right words.”

Verlyn tittered, “I cannot do things you do, I am just being—I don’t know, a good friend. This is the only thing I can do after all you’ve done for me.”

“Don’t under estimate yourself, I know you very well and you are a brave, bright woman. When I am Queen, I’m going to make you a royal.” Aurora talked sluggishly then started to yawn and continuously dozed off to her sleep. Verlyn slowly let go of the princess, looking at her with warmth. She smiled and went out of the chamber, thinking how nice Aurora was to her.

“Aurora, wake up.”

The bright rays of sunshine met with Aurora’s eyes, she immediately covered it with her wool blanket. However, the blanket was lifted up by someone and as she scrubbed her eyes, she realized it was her mother.

“Mom.”

The Queen sat by her bed and smiles at her. “Good morning, dear.” Her eyes were brown and calm, and her blonde hair was always braided down her waist. Aurora have always thought how elegant and simply beautiful her mother was, but there is really something in her eyes that really felt so melancholic—It’s hard to stare at.

“Is there anything wrong, Mom?” Aurora asked her mother as she sat down.

“Nothing is wrong child, the sun has already shone its brightest and I was looking for you downstairs, then I found out you were still sleeping like a little log.” She smiled weakly.

“Why do I feel like you are sad, Mom.”

“Just having a little cold, that’s all.”

“Are you sure you are alright; I can call our doctor for you.”

“Hush child, I’m fine and well, now get up now and meet me and your father by the dining table.” The Queen kissed Aurora by her forehead and headed out, Verlyn went it after the Nerissa left the room.

Mom would always look so lethargic and I never knew why. I only see her eyes sparkle whenever she sees me, but every time, she’s just—not happy.

Aurora went ahead, with Verlyn picking her gown for the day, she took a grey dress with silver linings, making Aurora look plain yet elegant at the same time. Verlyn helped fix Aurora’s hair in a high bun, then curled some strands at the side of her face.

Aurora went outside her room to meet the King and Queen. After passing several doors and going down the wide staircase, she found them both sitting at the royal dining table.

“A good day, father, mother.” Aurora greeted them in curtsy and sat down the table. She was greeted by several meals which included prawns, salads, glazed chicken which filled her nose such an appetizing smell.

“How are you, Aurora?” The king asks as he dines. His eyes were grey as Aurora’s dress, he was looking at her with such a mellow ambience.

“I am good, father. I’ve been studying more about the politics than how you’ve heard; I am becoming the book itself.” Aurora answered in jest.

The Queen smiled and the King let out a small laugh, “speaking of learning—Aurora, we have been invited by the King of Elmuth for a banquet, celebrating the birth of their newborn”

“Elmuth!?” Aurora exclaimed. That nation has always been known for their best land cultivation and high agricultural aspects. There have been Elmuth purveyors, selling high quality goods at Tenebris’ market and it was so incredible for Aurora. She loved nature and its crops too much that she was excited to see what Elmuth looks like in her own eyes. “I would love to go there,” she added, beaming.

The King was delighted for Aurora’s answer and turned to the Queen, “My love, I could have you take my place so you can visit Elmuth’s lands as well, you would also love it.”

The Queen replied softly with an invigorating gaze, “You are much more of an important presence than having me go there, and else, I would like to be here, watching our Kingdom for you.”

“I am very much grateful to you, but you are just as important as me. Without you, I can never be a King that I am now.” The King leaned to kiss the Queen’s cheek.

They have always been as sweet and calm as this moment, but even their love shows up in their eyes, there’s still something that seemed so cold deep with their hearts.

Aurora’s mind went on speaking to herself as she watches her mom and dad. After she had eaten, she decided to go to the library to study, she gave her parents a peck on their heads.

Aurora went to the library and took a peek outside before closing the door.

“Chris!” The young knight guarding the library got startled by Aurora’s voice.

“Your highne-“Aurora was looking at him straight faced, he immediately knew why.

“Aurora, are you ready to go out?” Chris smiled at the Princess. He had been stationed at the library for 5 years, ever since he got there, Aurora had always been a talkative princess who never let him feel out of place. He was a lone wolf from his ancestry, his father died from the war and his mother followed after becoming ill from grief. He had always been a non-talker but Aurora changed it.

“You won’t tell anybody about it, right? If mom asked where I am, tell her you don’t know.” Aurora and Chris laughed, then continued to walk towards a large bookshelf. Aurora pulled the fifth book from the third shelf and it opened a passageway.

“Take care, I’ll be guarding your spot for you.” Chris jest and Aurora waved like a kid, wearing a dumb smile. The young man loved her, but he never dreamed of pursuing his feelings since he infused it in his mind that he knew where he belongs and serving her will be the way of taking his love into action. With every small things and small talks, he was already contented. As long as she continues smiling the way she always does, he will too.

Aurora wore her plain white cloak and headed through the passageway, pulling one of the torchlight from the steel sconce. Excited on how the day can turn out on her new day adventure, her grateful grin never left her face.

What am I going to visit first? Am I going to see him again? Aurora shook her head in dismay. Of course not.

Aurora put the torch light on the sconce near the exit of the secret passage. When she opened the passage, there were plants hanging by the wall, and there were flower pots on every corner.

“Triezia!”

Aurora ran to embrace a woman who was in the same age as her mother. She was wearing a white apron under her brown laced long dress. It wasn’t elegant like how the other classes dressed, but Aurora looked at her with such fondness.

How can a woman be so ravishing at her age? She is like my mom but livelier. Triezia and her husband Khyle have been plants caretaker for long. When the king decided to lessen the area of the palace so that other people can live within the vicinity, the secret passageway opening in this place, became the home for them. I have been acquainted with the couple for years now and they are a part of my family.

“Aurora! Are you going to visit the lands again?” Triezia held Aurora in her arms as she asked.

“Yes! Where is Khyle?”

“He is picking some herbs by the river, he’ll be back soon,” she answered.

“What are these once called?” Aurora sat down in front of a small violet flowers shaped like a lily pad but smaller.

Triezia sat down beside her, “This, is called the butterfly pea flower, it grows in a vine type structure and is found in neutral soils—meaning, not too much acid and not alkali. And, the best thing about this flower is that it tastes good.” She grinned while Aurora’s face showed amazement.

“I can eat it?” Aurora asked.

“No silly,” Triezia chortled. This can be made into tea, it’s actually suited for you, to keep the brain stimulated and energized while you read your books.

“I would very much want that!”

“I know you’d say that. Come with me, let’s make you some tea.”

Aurora willingly followed her through the kitchen, their walls were made of brown bricks, it was so nurturing to the eyes, everywhere you look, there are flowers, there are plants, but never looked so dirty, rather, it was refreshing to the soul.

Triezia continued making the butterfly pea tea as she reminisces the first time they saw Aurora.

Aurora have always been a free soul. One day, Khyle and I were moving some plants through the wall side when suddenly, the wall opened up with the little Aurora blinking in bewilderment. She never got scared but instead, she gave a bow to us and introduced herself like a little brave kid would. Khyle and I knew she was the princess but Aurora made us feel how it is to have a kid. She would always come here through the passage and bid her farewell to us when she flees to roam the towns of Tenebri. Just like a kid of our own, we loved her, watched her grow, taught her about the plants, flowers, nature. Like a mother and daughter bonding time, she would always help me make some dishes, sometimes ornaments for the jewelries sold to the merchants and we enjoyed it. She changed our lives and I am grateful she came just right when the times were dark.

“This is delicious! How can the flower taste so sweet? Spill me some magic.”

“Well, aside from boiling the pieces of flowers, I added some honey.”

Aurora was surprised, “I thought there were no honey introduced in Tenebri! Now I know who to bother next.” Muttering as he sips on her tea.

Triezia laughed at the taught, “Mr. Brandon befriended a merchant from Elmuth and every time he is here in Tenebri, he would always bring him jars of honey.”

“Oh, I forgot to say! The King and I will go to Elmuth for the next few days, he said it’s about a banquet—anyways, what would like me to bring home?”

“That is good, dear. Don’t mind us, just enjoy your time there, you will definitely love Elmuth.”

Aurora pouted.

“Am I bothering the girls?”

A man’s voice appeared and it was Khyle carrying a basket filled with thymes.

“Hello Khyle!” Aurora waved with joy at him. Khyle have been a fatherly figure to me, both of them have also played a role as my second parents.

Khyle patted Aurora’s head and went to Triezia, kissed her on her lips and embraced her.

Aurora watches them as they talk with another and it made her think about her parents. This is what I don’t see in them, the sparks in their eyes. Is it because you are a royalty that is why their emotions are too contained?

After spending time with the couple, Aurora set to go out to the town once again. Triezia packed her some sandwiches and also the powdered form of her butterfly pea flower tea. Khyle looks at the two woman with satisfaction in his eyes. Aurora came after Trieza and I realized that we can’t bear a kid. My wife has been diagnosed with sickness by the town physician and that is why, no matter how hard we try, she can’t bear any kid. But with kids or even without, I love my wife and I promised her that I would do my best to make her happy. And around that time, the heavens were gracious, Little Miss Aurora found us and brought us with light at our dark days.

Aurora wandered the town square, taking a look at how people live their lives outside the palace. She greeted people, ask them how they are, buying some fruits in the store but ended up having them for free. Some free fruits however, she just gives them to the kids that she finds playing in the streets.

“Princess! Princess!” a young kid run to her carrying a rose.

“Oh, why, thank you, sweet boy,” she knelt down so that she can embrace the kid. The kid embraced her as well and whispered, “It wasn’t from me.” The kid pointed at the man looking at them, sitting at the top of some hay beside two stallions, with coats shining in black and white.

Michael.

The young man looked at her sweetly, nodded his head as a form of greeting. Aurora did the same, rolling her eyes off him as she grins. Aurora walked towards Michael who get his feet back to the ground after jumping from the hay where he’s been sitting.

“Aurora.”

“Michael.”

“Can I take you somewhere?” Michael asked Aurora with plea in his eyes. Aurora looked at him with warm blue eyes, curious at that comes next.

“By the horse?”

“By the horses,” Michael held the rope where the horses were tied.

Aurora giggled at the thought. I never expected how days can get any better. Aurora agreed and both of them started to walk until they’ve reach the exit of the town, where the green fields are awaiting.