Chapter 21 - C:21

As I walked back into the house, the tranquil ambiance of the village seemed to welcome me with open arms. Aurora, ever the bundle of energy, had been waiting eagerly for my return. She rushed over, her face beaming with excitement, and leapt into my lap with the exuberance of a child who had missed a beloved relative. Her small arms wrapped around me in a tight embrace, and her eyes sparkled with curiosity.

"I missed you!" Aurora chirped, her voice full of youthful enthusiasm. "Guess what I did today? I helped Elara with the new flower beds, and we even had a little contest to see who could plant the most seeds. I won, of course! But that's not all—"

Her gaze shifted from my face to my arms, where the intricate tattoos were faintly visible. Her innocent curiosity piqued, she tilted her head, looking at the tattoos with a mix of wonder and concern. "Why don't you hide your tattoos like everyone else? They look so... different."

Her question, though simple, stirred something within me. It was a reminder that the tattoos were more than just personal markings; they were symbols of my identity and the power I held. Aurora's innocent question made me realize how deeply the tattoos were intertwined with my memories and abilities. Their visibility—or lack thereof—held significance beyond mere aesthetics.

I realized that delving deeper into my memories could provide me with crucial insights into the nature of these tattoos, their true meanings, and their connection to my powers. Aurora's innocent question opened a door to exploring the past more thoroughly, seeking answers about the ancient symbols and the powers they represented.

With a gentle smile, I reassured Aurora. "They're part of who I am, and they have their own special meaning. But I'll tell you what—they're also something that only the most trusted ones get to see."

Aurora's eyes widened with fascination, and she nodded, accepting my explanation with the wide-eyed wonder of a child. I gently patted her head, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. As I watched her chatter animatedly about her day, I knew it was time to delve deeper into my memories. Understanding the true nature of the tattoos and their role in my life would not only enhance my abilities but also deepen my connection to my new existence.

After Aurora's question, I decided to delve deeper into my memories. The tattoos were more than just markings; they were a part of my identity and the essence of my being. The curiosity sparked by Aurora's innocent question ignited a desire to uncover their true significance.

I gently set Aurora down and excused myself, heading to a quiet corner of the house where I could concentrate. My focus shifted inward as I closed my eyes and began to explore the depths of my memories.

As I submerged myself in the memories of the previous owner, I began to unravel the intricate history behind the tattoos. The memories revealed that these tattoos were not merely decorative but were deeply tied to the Lumera's powers and heritage. They were symbols of one's essence and their connection to the natural world and its energies.

Each Lumera was born with unique tattoos that represented their innate abilities and their bond with the natural world. These tattoos were living entities, evolving with their bearers and reflecting their growth and experiences. They had the power to channel and amplify the natural energies around them, influencing their abilities and strengths.

I discovered that the tattoos were also a means of control and concealment. When hidden, the tattoos became a part of the Lumera's soul, invisible to others but always present. This ability allowed Lumera to maintain their privacy and discretion, revealing their true selves only to those they trusted deeply.

With this newfound knowledge, I focused on making the tattoos invisible, following the practices of my family. I concentrated, and the tattoos gradually faded from view, merging seamlessly with my soul. The sensation was both freeing and grounding, as if I had gained greater control over my identity and powers.

As I emerged from the room where I had hidden my tattoos, the rain had finally stopped, leaving the village fresh and glistening. The clouds had parted, revealing patches of blue sky and allowing the sun to bathe everything in a warm, golden light. The air was crisp and filled with the earthy aroma of wet foliage.

Aurora was waiting for me in the living area, her eyes sparkling with excitement. She was dressed in a vibrant Voran , her hair tied back with a bright ribbon, and her face was flushed with the energy of a day well spent.

"Are you all set?" she asked, practically bouncing on her heels.

I smiled at her enthusiasm and nodded. "Yes, I'm ready. What's on your mind?"

Aurora grabbed my hand and pulled me towards the door. "Come on! I want to show you the garden. The rain made everything look so magical."

We stepped outside into the renewed beauty of the village. The grass was lush and verdant, and the flowers sparkled with droplets from the recent rain. The air was cool and invigorating, and the sunlight created a dazzling effect on the still-wet leaves and petals.

As we walked, Aurora chattered animatedly about her day, describing her explorations and the treasures she had found. "You should have seen the flowers I found in the garden! They're the most amazing shade of blue. I'm going to ask Mother if I can pick them."

She glanced up at my tattoos, which I had deliberately left visible, and tilted her head curiously. "You know, I noticed you don't usually hide your tattoos when you're around us. Is it because you like showing how powerful you are? I think it's cool that you're not afraid to let everyone see them."

I chuckled softly, touched by her innocent interpretation. "Well, I guess you could say that," I said, keeping the tone light. "But sometimes, it's just nice to share a bit of who you are with the people you care about."

Aurora seemed satisfied with my answer and continued to guide me through the garden, showing me the vibrant new growth and the effects of the rain. We walked among the blooming flowers and vibrant foliage, enjoying the renewed splendor of the village and the simple pleasure of spending time together.