The forest grew quieter as Auriel and Princess Evelyn made their way back to the village. The oppressive atmosphere left by the illusion still lingered in Auriel's mind, and her worry for Evelyn hadn't dissipated.
The princess walked beside her in a subdued silence, her usual confident demeanor replaced with a thoughtful, almost distant air.
Auriel glanced at her companion, her concern getting the better of her.
"Evelyn, are you alright? What happened back there—it wasn't easy to face"
She said softly, breaking the silence.
Evelyn hesitated for a moment, her steps slowing as she considered her response. She let out a deep breath and gave Auriel a small, strained smile.
"I'm fine. "I'll pull myself together. I won't let something like that shake me again."
She said, though the slight tremor in her voice betrayed her true feelings.
