Pierce walked over to the unknown woman and looked down at her injured form; he wondered how she had managed to breach the Palace gates. But that didn't matter as he noticed the blood seeping from her stomach, a stark contrast against her pale brown skin. Pierce's concern deepened as he knelt beside her, his gruff voice carrying a hint of worry.

"By the spirits, what has happened to you?" Pierce muttered, his voice filled with genuine concern. With great care, he gently cradled the woman's limp form in his powerful arms, mindful of her still-bleeding wound. Determined to help her, he swiftly carried her through the dimly lit corridors of the Palace, guided by his instinct to seek aid.

As they navigated the grand halls and intricate passageways, darkness had fallen, casting an air of mystery over the surroundings. The usually bustling Palace was now hushed, with only the soft glow of lanterns lighting their path. The moonlight peeked through stained glass windows, casting ethereal patterns on the marble floors.

Finally, they arrived at the healer's quarters, where a wise and compassionate figure awaited their arrival. The room, illuminated by the gentle flicker of candlelight, exuded a sense of tranquility despite the urgency of the situation. Shelves lined with healing herbs and ancient tomes created an atmosphere of knowledge and healing.

The healer, Flora, entered the room with a grace that matched her slender frame. Her flowing robes, adorned with symbols of healing, billowed around her as she moved. Her bright gold eyes shimmered with an otherworldly intensity, reflecting a deep well of compassion and wisdom. Under her eyes, delicate Fae markings in intricate patterns glowed softly, a testament to her connection with the mystical realm.

Flora possessed an innate vibrancy that matched her physical beauty. Her smile was warm and comforting, instantly putting those in her presence at ease. Her gentle voice carried a melodic quality, like the whisper of wind through a tranquil forest. It was in her presence that hope and serenity seemed to bloom, her vibrant character emanating an aura of kindness and understanding.

Flora's delicate hands paused mid-movement, a flicker of surprise crossing her face as she surveyed the wounded woman lying before her. Her eyes widened ever so slightly, her golden gaze flickering with curiosity and intrigue. The woman's appearance seemed strangely out of place within the Palace walls, a stark contrast to the Fae and Orc inhabitants who usually sought Flora's aid.

"Pierce," Flora began, her voice tinged with astonishment, "who is this woman? She appears different from anyone I have ever seen. Her features... they don't resemble those of the Fae or Orcs."

Pierce, observing Flora's reaction, shifted uncomfortably, acutely aware of the woman's unique appearance. "I found her just beyond the Palace gates, injured and in dire need of help. I don't know who she is or where she came from, but I couldn't leave her there to suffer."

Flora's gaze softened, her curiosity tempered by her deep compassion. "I see. It matters not where she comes from or what she looks like. Every soul in need deserves our care and healing. We will do everything we can to mend her wounds and restore her well-being."

As Flora resumed her task of tending to the woman's injuries, her slender fingers moved with renewed determination, guided by her unwavering commitment to her craft. While her initial surprise lingered in the back of her mind, Flora knew that judgment had no place in her healing sanctuary. Her duty was to provide aid, regardless of one's origins or appearance.

The woman's presence, enigmatic and different, intrigued Flora. The healer's innate curiosity stirred within her, urging her to delve deeper into the mysteries that surrounded this stranger. As her compassionate nature intertwined with her quest for knowledge, Flora vowed to uncover the truth behind the woman's origins and the circumstances that had led her to the Palace.

"Rest assured, Pierce," Flora spoke softly, her voice a soothing melody, "I will use all my skills and resources to heal her. We may not understand her story just yet, but it is our duty to offer her the care she deserves. Let us focus on her recovery and trust that time will reveal the answers we seek."

Pierce nodded, a sense of relief washing over him as he witnessed Flora's unwavering commitment to her calling.

***

Lyra's eyes pried opened, her senses awakening one by one. Slowly, she took in her surroundings, finding herself in an unfamiliar place, a small and dimly lit room. Her body felt weary and tender, evidence of the ordeal she had endured, but a sense of gratitude washed over her as she realized she was alive.

Pushing herself up, Lyra took a moment to assess her surroundings. The room had a serene ambiance, with walls adorned in tapestries depicting scenes of nature. A soft, woven rug covered the polished wooden floor, providing a comforting touch beneath her feet. The warm glow of candlelight danced and flickered, casting gentle shadows across the room.

As her focus shifted, Lyra's gaze fell upon a simple wooden table nearby. It held a tray, adorned with a steaming cup of herbal tea and a plate of nourishing fruits. The sight of the thoughtful offering sparked a deep appreciation within her, a reminder that someone had cared for her well-being during her unconsciousness.

With cautious steps, Lyra rose from the bed, feeling a lingering soreness in her muscles. As she stood, she noticed a small mirror hanging on the wall, reflecting her appearance back at her. She approached it with curiosity, her honey-brown eyes meeting her reflection.

Her warm brown skin glowed with a natural radiance, and her full lips curved slightly, hinting at resilience and determination. Her eyes shimmered like amber from a fire, carrying a depth of wisdom and compassion. Her tousled hair cascaded in loose waves, framing her face with an air of effortless grace.

As Lyra took a moment to gather herself, the door to the room creaked open, and a slender figure entered. It was Flora, her golden eyes filled with kindness and relief. A warm smile graced her lips as she approached Lyra.

"You're awake," Flora said softly, her voice carrying a soothing melody. "Pierce found you in the palace gardens, injured and in need of help. He brought you here to the healer's quarters.My name is Flora, what's yours" she questioned.

Lyra's gaze shifted towards Flora, her eyes filled with gratitude, but also guardedness. She appreciated their assistance, yet she was not ready to divulge the details of her ordeal just yet. "Thank you, Flora.My name is Lyra and I am grateful for the help I have received. However, the circumstances that led me to the palace gardens... they are a personal matter that I'm not yet prepared to share."

Flora's smile remained understanding, and she nodded gently. "I understand, Lyra. Your journey and the reasons behind it are yours to reveal in your own time. Know that you are safe here in the Kingdom of Valorian, and we will respect your need for privacy."

"Thank you, Flora. I appreciate your care. But forgive me for my lack of understanding. I have never heard of this place called Valorian before. It is all so unfamiliar to me."

Flora's smile softened, empathetic to Lyra's confusion. "Valorian is a realm that exists beyond the borders of the known lands. It is a kingdom steeped in history and magic, hidden away from the prying eyes of the world. It is possible that you have not encountered it in your previous experiences."

Lyra nodded, trying to absorb the information, though a sense of disorientation lingered within her. The name Valorian held no resonance in her memories, and she couldn't fathom how she had ended up in a realm that was so entirely foreign to her.

"I understand that this may be overwhelming for you, Lyra," Flora continued, her voice filled with compassion. "Rest assured, you are safe here. We will assist you in your recovery and help you navigate the unfamiliar territory that lies before you."

Lyra's brow furrowed as she contemplated the situation. The lack of familiarity with Valorian only heightened her curiosity, urging her to delve deeper into the mysteries that enveloped her. Though confusion clouded her mind, a glimmer of determination flickered within her eyes. It truly didn't matter where she was all she knew that she needed to return home and By the looks of it she would need to keep a low profile if she wanted to learn how to return back to her world.

The door swung open once again, and in walked Pierce, a broad smile stretching across his face. Relief washed over his rugged features as he laid eyes upon the now awake and conscious woman.

"You're finally awake!" Pierce exclaimed, his gruff voice carrying a hint of joy. "I was worried about you. How are you feeling?"

"Our new friend is doing well, Lyra was just introducing herself. Lyra this is Pierce, and Pierce this is Lyra." Flora introduced them with a kind smile on her lips.

The woman's gaze shifted to Pierce, her eyes widening with surprise and curiosity. In her world, orcs were a mythical concept, existing only in stories and legends. Yet here stood a living, breathing orc, and his presence in the palace of Valorian seemed incongruous with her understanding of reality.

"Thank you," she said sincerely, her voice tinged with a mix of gratitude and astonishment. "I'm grateful for your help and for bringing me to safety. Your kindness is... unexpected, given the circumstances."

Pierce chuckled, a deep rumble emanating from his chest. "I may not look like most people you've encountered, but appearances can be deceiving. I'm just a simple orc who happened to be in the right place at the right time. I couldn't leave you there wounded and defenseless."

The woman nodded, her eyes shining with appreciation. "Well, your actions have saved my life, and for that, I am deeply grateful. Thank you."

Pierce's smile widened, revealing his tusks. "You're more than welcome. In fact, I have something to offer you. You see, in Valorian, we believe in extending our hospitality to those in need. You are welcome to stay in the palace as long as you wish, and should you desire, we can find a suitable role for you here."

"I... I don't know what to say," she stammered, her voice tinged with a mixture of uncertainty and curiosity. "I never imagined such an opportunity would present itself. I would be honored to accept your offer."

Pierce nodded, his expression reflecting satisfaction. "Excellent. We can discuss the details later, once you've had a chance to recover fully. For now, focus on healing and regaining your strength. Valorian has much to offer, and I have a feeling your journey here is just beginning."