Sleeping Beauty: The Century Dream

When Aurora opened her eyes, a hundred years had passed. The prince stood above her, sword trembling, eyes wild. She smiled and thanked him — but outside, the kingdom was silent.

The people had turned to dust. The forests had devoured the cities. The only sound was the wind moving through vines that whispered her name.

Aurora wandered for years, searching for another living soul. None came. The birds sang in voices that sounded eerily human. The roses bled golden sap.

One night, she reached a ruined chapel. Inside was a mirror — cracked, ancient. In its reflection, she saw not herself, but the faces of everyone who had once lived.

“They’re dreaming still,” said a voice behind her.

It was the prince — but he hadn’t aged.

“We never woke them, Aurora. We just joined their dream.”

The truth sank in. She wasn’t awake at all. The whole world slept inside her mind, looping endlessly — a lullaby without end.

She closed her eyes again, and the vines began to bloom.