《Library of Knowledge - A tale across worlds》 Chapter 1 - There is always a past Death. A concept recognized as an enemy undefeatable and unconquerable by any and all living under the skies. Facing it one may gain power, influence or knowledge that is expended to further lengthen the tiny miracle referred to as life. ¡°What this charade is supposed to be?¡± Asked the woman from the blade-wielding man before her. Because she was a head taller, it appeared as if she was looking down at him with disinterest. Her thin arm reached to her neck and pushed her long golden hair to the back revealing thin, long ears that of a magical being. The attire she was wearing was a rose-colored silk, one-shoulder dress with only a few adornments gifted to her in the past. ¡°We have already warned you. You present a danger to our homeland.¡± The man was wearing an iron chest plate and an officer¡¯s cape over the generic military protection. His only weapon was a short-sword hanging from his side, but the danger he represented did not stop at himself. Hundreds of soldiers stood behind him, denying her any chance of escape from her own home. They have come to kill her regardless of her innocence or guilt. ¡°Why?¡± She asked genuine curiosity. ¡°Why point your sword at one who helped you, gave you what you have and never demanded sacrifices in return?¡± Word by word, the soldiers who could hear her felt cuts in their hearts with each letter. The truth they all know. She wasn¡¯t an enemy yet, she has always helped them when they were in need, but she was no friend either. The compensations she asked for were nothing to them compared to the gains. Regardless. ¡°Fear. We fear you, who have so much power that cannot be controlled. We fear you who can decide whether thousands live or die on a whim. We are thankful, but we cannot live together. We are sorry. No. I am sorry.¡± The man raised his blade slowly in front of him. ¡°Hand over the library and leave. I give my oath that you will not be harmed in any way.¡± They stood in silence for minutes, looking at each other in a futile hope that this does not continue any longer. ¡°Lawrence.¡± -spoke the beauty upon the land. ¡°The first time I met you was when you were just 5 years old. You snuck out of the capital city to meet me, the witch living in the tree of knowledge. Every time you felt down, you made a mess looking around to find interesting books with a genuine curiosity for the unknown. To me, you were a precious friend. What changed you?¡± With a gentle swing of her arms, a chair appeared behind her from thin air. Like it¡¯s the most natural thing in the world, she sat down gracefully, willfully ignoring the killing intent aimed at her. They were still inside her home, a giant tree much larger on the inside than reality permit. Around them, within the enormous room without ends they occupied were thousands of bookshelves reaching from ground to the ceiling so high it cannot be seen. In this endless and infinite maze of books, they stood looking at each other wishing for the other to give up first. The words she aimed at the man hurt him visibly, yet he did not falter. His eyes were burning with desire and ambition from the beginning, something she appreciated with a revering expression. ¡°I have grown up, El. You may not be able to understand what us mere mortals feel, but if you truly have any morality and kindness in you, give up and live. If you truly see me as a friend, please choose to live.¡± When his speech finished the woman responded with a kind, yet sad smile. She reached into the air and a small vial appeared in her hands.Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere. ¡°Very well. Pour this on the blade before you strike at me or else my death would be very slow and painful. I suppose this isn¡¯t too much to ask for as my last wish? Even I detest pain.¡± The thin and fragile hand held out the crystal-like bottle before her as she awaited her fate. As if she had expected such an outcome, she had prepared beforehand. As if she did not even once think of retaliating or defending herself. ¡°You¡­¡± The soldier was flabbergasted at her decision. ¡°Why do you have to die! Why? Why can¡¯t you-¡± Before he could finish his sentence an arrow flew past his cheeks from behind and hit the heavenly woman before her in the chest, knocking the vial on the ground. He watched as it rolled a meter whilst pouring its contents all over the marble floor. ¡°Don¡¯t let her talk, she is trying to control you. Do you really think she would just accept death? It might be poison to kill you and your family. Don¡¯t trust her.¡± Whilst the woman just kept looking at him with a smile distorted by agony, a second female voice spoke from behind him. Her voice was thin and powerful, albeit far from the strength of the others. ¡°Olivia! Why?¡± The man asked angrily. ¡°What, why, we came to kill her. We all knew she would never leave because she cannot leave! Your hesitation almost gave her a chance to kill you.¡± The man called Lawrence was hit with a sudden realization. He slowly and quietly repeated in himself what her partner-in-crime said. ¡°She cannot leave.¡± ¡°You didn''t tell me. Why did you not tell me?!¡± He demanded the answer, not knowing from which of them. ¡°See, how much she has brainwashed you? She is a god damn walking weapon that has to be destroyed no matter what. Look around you! Do you know how many people we will be able to help with all this knowledge she hid from us? She hid from you?¡± The second woman pushed him out of the way and stood before the first. It was the first time the two saw each other as normally only those allowed inside could enter the library. This time the entrance was left wide open for them. ¡°So you are the one behind all this nonsense. I don¡¯t care what your plan is, but it ends here.¡± As she said that she reached forward and grabbed the arrow still inside the woman''s chest. The wound was bleeding slowly already but she jerked it out in the most damaging way possible. With the large hole gaping open the blood started pouring forming a small crimson river, dripping down under her into a growing pool of vile. Even though the woman was in pain, she kept her gentle smile as if the beauty of the world unfolded itself before her vision. This sight was too gruesome for the soldiers, they could only keep their eyes away in shame. Her killer wasn¡¯t unaffected either, her hands shook as she watched her bleeding out for minutes. ¡°As I said, I also dislike pain. Could you end this please?¡± The magical being asked gently without any resentment in her voice. The murderer took a look at the arrow in her hands and threw it away. She turned to look at the man who stood still with a horrified face. His body was still stuck in the same spot, incapable of moving so she grabbed his hand and took his sword. ¡°I know you want to take responsibility, but I do not allow my future husband to kill the woman he loves. I would rather you hate me than resent yourself.¡± She stepped up again with the sword embedded with beautiful gems, gave one last look at the woman and stabbed her straight through the heart. She pulled the sword out slowly and carefully as the body fell to the side. However, unlike what she expected, the sound of a faint cry and whimpers came from the ground where only dead should lay. She kept staring at the beast before her whimpering on the ground fatally wounded yet still refusing to die. No matter how much hate she harbored against it such a torture was disgusting for her. Not one but several soldiers threw up from listening to her choking continuously in her own blood whilst crying to herself. ¡°What are you?¡± The tormenter asked inaudibly whilst raising the sword high into the air. She swung down in a wide arc with great power yet the shortsword simply wasn¡¯t enough to kill the target in one strike, no matter how big the wound it caused was. The sword clacked to the ground as the woman fell to her back in horror. The woman before her, her enemy simply refused to die as a human should. No, she wasn¡¯t human. That¡¯s why. That''s the reason why she was killed, wasn¡¯t it? How could she forget? She sat there and continued to stare at the misery she had caused for hours until the death throe finally ended and the monster gave out its final, last breath. A moment later they found themselves in the village in the empty spot of where once the home of the immortal witch, known as the Tree of Knowledge once stood for thousands of years. Chapter 2 Even though the Tree of Knowledge disappeared, it did not cease to exist. Only it¡¯s location changed back to its original state, a separate world of existence for it, and just it. A location safe from any outside harm and interference and good and peaceful quiet. While the Tree of Knowledge has no consciousness of its own and is not capable of feeling emotions, the mood within could be easily seen as dreadful and haunting. Unknown powers swirl back and forth like angry spirits on a path of revenge but never attempt to leave the place. They one by one find their places among the books, opening one after another and throwing unliked ones aside. They snugly fit themselves between the lines of words with cheerfulness as if feeling comfortable at the places they found they belong to. Suddenly small knocks resounded through the aisle and the spirits rush to hide and smuggle themselves into places they don¡¯t match just so that they aren¡¯t noticed. At the end of the infinite corridor, a door opened and a small figure stepped into the room. The large wooden gate shut itself behind her immediately and by the time she turned her head, the only things she could see were the infinite rows of bookshelves in every direction. Under the gentle light of the lamps, her figure emerged from the darkness. A young human girl no older than twelve was gazing around nervously with a hint of fear within her eyes. ¡°Is anyone there?¡± The tiny voice called out towards the books. No response came back. The girl put her hands together behind herself and straightened her posture in an effort to keep her calm as she walked forward what she felt to be the center of the place. Her sense of direction came purely from instinct, she had no other way to orient herself. The girl walked forward for minutes until the title of a book caught her eyes. She stopped for a second, contemplating whether it¡¯s worth to continue forward into the unknown or peek into the book. Life taught her that she should be careful and responsible, yet her eagerness continued to pester her. In the end, she decided to take the book with her for now in fear that she might never find it again in such confusing a place. The girl clutched the book between her arms and chest as she continued on her path with a renewed vigor. She had trouble telling the time but it wasn¡¯t long before she reached a counter with a single bell on top it. The girl laid the book on the counter and used her hands to check for dust or wrinkles on her beautiful white dress before clinking the bell cautiously. When she could not see it, the spirit-like entities flew out of the book she has been holding and floated behind a door on the other side of the counter unnoticed. A few seconds later the door opened and a short woman with mostly human features yet having cat ears stepped out, the door disappearing behind her instantly like the one she entered from. The cat-eared woman was extremely surprised at seeing the young girl before her. ¡°Hello there! I¡¯m Ele, but you can call me El. What¡¯s your name?¡± The young girl was extremely awed at the woman before her. She kept staring at her ears with clear interest and affection. ¡°My name is Emma Wulfhild Lyveryche. Wulfhild is my family name, Lyveryche is my given name and Emma is my chosen name. Please call me Emma!¡± The girl spoke very eagerly and honestly without doubting the other party. ¡°Well then, what brings you here?¡±This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. The woman while pretty, she looked more cute than beautiful with her cat ears. She took a look at the book on the counter between them and read the title with a gentle smile. ¡°The Feline Princess and the Human Knight. It is a very interesting love story, did it catch your interest?¡± The girl¡¯s cheeks were dyed in red. ¡°I- jeesh! Do you mind if I borrow it?¡± ¡°You cannot take it out, however, you are welcome to read it here.¡± The woman pointed her wrist to the side at a table surrounded by comfortable chairs a few steps away from them. Needless to say, they weren¡¯t there before. The girl raised the book before her face to hide behind to which the woman chuckled. She guided her to a chair and poured a cup of tea. ¡°Where did the-¡± The girl tried to ask but remembering the absurd place she was in she decided to not mind it. She took a sip of the rose flavored tea and put it back on the table. ¡°-a anyway. My uncle bought me a tiger as a pet from across the sea but no one knows what it needs. I want to learn how to care for it. My uncle said that if we have sincerely good intentions and enter the door of knowledge within our dreams, we can learn anything. Can you teach me, please?¡± The woman glanced at a book in a far away section for a brief second before patting the compassionate girl¡¯s head. ¡°I believe the book in your hands will provide what you came here for. Aren¡¯t you glad?¡± El teased the girl before her causing the girl to start blushing again. She opened the book with one hand and flipped to the first page. ¡°A romance novel writes about pets?¡± ¡°Yes. You don¡¯t have to hurry about reading it, you have all the time in the world.¡± At her nudging, the girl took the book into her hands and began reading intently. El watched with great interest as her face changed several times and blushed on the more intimate parts. She enjoyed seeing the girl immersed within the story with great passion. Each time the tea ran out she refilled it and when the girl felt peckish she proved some snacks for them to enjoy. During the hours they spent together the cat-eared woman couldn¡¯t help but recall her memories of the contents of the book. The story was about a princess of a beastkin kingdom who wasn¡¯t born very bright but had a heart made of pure gentleness. No one feared for her wanting power nor was she needed as a tool so she was left with the freedom not many possessed besides her. Everything she had she used to help others, everything she did was for others and while in the grand scheme of things her actions were too small to be noticed, her name still became synonymous with kindness. One day the neighboring country who had bad relations kidnapped her from a village she was helping much to the surprise of everyone. This action did not make much sense at first, only later was the true reason behind it revealed. This kind girl not only did not resent her kidnappers, but she also fell in love with one of them regardless of their race which was a rare occurrence. In the end, the many who she helped along her life, including humans, have helped her, rescued the sister of the knight that was taken hostage to threaten him and brought peace and prosperity to the land. While she was captured the two teased each other back and forth fearing the other might despise them and in the end they finally became lovers. All in all, it¡¯s was a simple love story about sharing kindness and helping out each other, something extremely popular with all, especially young girls. The girl closed the book with tears streaming down her face. El handed her a handkerchief so she could clean her face. ¡°So, how was it?¡± ¡°It was very good!¡± The woman sighed awkwardly at the childish answer but still felt glad that she enjoyed the story. It is expected she would find it difficult to properly express herself. ¡°Which part did you like the most?¡± ¡°I liked when she turned into her primal form and carried him in her mouth because he was tired from fighting! It¡¯s strange but funny yet so touching!¡± ¡°Yes, it was certainly¡­ touching~¡± The two girls both broke out into giggles together. ¡°Oh no! I¡¯ll be late. How long was I here?¡± The girl asked in a panic. ¡°I told you not to worry. Here time does not flow. When you return you will wake up in the morning normally.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know what that means¡­ But I will back in time so it¡¯s fine, isn¡¯t it? El, can I come back to see you?¡± The girl embraced the woman before her while asking. ¡°As long as you have a kind heart and share your stories with me, my door will be always open for you.¡± Chapter 3 El waved goodbye to her new friend as she closed the entrance door with wonderful wooden carvings behind herself. She stood still looking at the girl¡¯s image even after she was long gone. Her motionless face revealed none of her emotions besides the subtle joy from before as she took the book the girl has read and grasped it firmly in her hands. What took the girl minutes, for her took only three steps to reach the bookshelf and return the item to the place it belonged to. With a tiny speck of tear hidden under her eyelashes, she returned to the room behind the counter. An unknown amount of time crawled past the shelves until a cheerful shout broke the eerie silence. A man wearing a red cape and polished plate armor walked resolutely the corridors, ignoring the main appeals of the place heading to a precise location. His physical appearance was on the better side, including his face. This person carried no weapon but a bouquet of exotic flowers of bright colors. The moment he reached the counter he stopped to inspect his own demeanor and finding no fault he used the bell. Slowly the door opened and the cat-eared girl walked out with her usual gentle smile. She greeted him politely to start the conversation. ¡°Welcome! I didn¡¯t expect anyone this quick after another.¡± The girl closed the book she was reading and still holding in her hands and put it under the counter in one swift motion so the man was unable to see the title. His smile faded a little seeing her and was rather surprised but he dared not to be rude. ¡°Excuse me. My name is Arnold Mon. Is El here?¡± The girl tilted her head at the strange question before answering. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m El. is there something you would like from me specifically?¡± The man visibly flinched at the response, his eyes darting between her and the door at her back. His hands shook a little and a drop of nervous sweat trickled down from his handsome temple. ¡°Right. The person I¡¯m searching for is an elven-like maiden, a little taller than me. Long ears and an easily recognizable mystic beauty. I met her here before. Can I talk to her?¡± ¡°There is no such person here. It is only I, alone. Is there anything I can help you with?¡± Arnold Mon did not respond for a while and stood like a stone statue. Then, his face warped into a forced smilelike a sudden realization hit him and as if the previous conversation never happened, he continued.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings. ¡°I have this gift with me and it would be a shame if it was thrown away. May I gift it to you? The flower in the middle is Libus Ent from the Great Emerald Forest of the Ashin continent. It is said that their dark sky blue color represents eternal beauty. The ones on the outside are blue roses from my own flower garden, they represent-¡± he stopped a moment there ¡±...my feelings towards the mystical and wish to learn. I hope you accept and care for them.¡± The young girl gracefully accepted the flowers he presented and placed them in a vase on top of the counter for all visitors to marvel at. The gaze she glazed at the flowers revealed her innocent glee receiving them even if she knew they were originally intended for someone else. ¡°Thank you!¡± Those words come from deep within her heart without any hidden intentions. ¡°My pleasure. Would it be fine by you if I talk about a story?¡± As the young man raised a question the girl leaned forward from behind the desk and grasped his hands between hers with a speed he could not perceive. Her face exposed an emotion of delight much greater than the one before as her eyes bore deep into his. Arnold felt for a second that he has been grasped between the claws of an undefeatable predator, yet when he took notice of her hands touching his he slightly blushed. ¡°Please!¡± The girl pleaded smilingly with infinite curiosity. ¡°Alright, but would it be fine if walked for a while before?¡± El felt a bit ashamed at her overly excited reaction and let go of his hand. She made a fake cough and raised her arm towards the table with chairs on the right. He glanced at her, then at the table, then back at her again. He shook his head from left to right and walked to the end of the counter. The girl did not understand his intention at first but soon noticed him offering his left hand in a noble manner. His stance looked pretty dashing from her perspective. Recognizing the custom from a book she read, she placed her wrist on top of his forearm without any of her fingers touching each other to accept the invitation. The man led her forward through the infinite long and tall aisle of bookshelves as if he knew the place. She did not comment on him nor talk, they merely walked forward for minutes. He stopped. The girl looked at him, eager to learn more about the interesting person before her and watched him steal a glance at a book on his right. He then turned to face her. ¡°I¡¯m lost. Can you lead us back?¡± Whilst his tone was a bit embarrassed, he didn¡¯t mind as El chuckled at his expense. ¡°In this library, you always reach wherever you have to be regardless where you go. Perhaps we are in the right place?¡± He continued to look her in the eye with a slight smile. ¡°No. The past is past, the future is future, but we live in in the present. Please take me back and let me talk about myself a little.¡± ¡°So ambiguous- I will let you off this one time.¡± The girl laughed out loud as she let go of him and started walking in the opposite direction with the man following behind her in smaller but more resolute steps. By the time they arrived the tea sufficiently cooled down on the table and she poured a cup for him to enjoy. They both took a seat and placed themselves in a comfortable position readying themselves for the tale promised. ¡°Please, begin.¡± Chapter 4 - Death in sincerity The kingdom of Ibany has always been a country blessed by bountiful natural gifts from heaven. Green hills and icy mountains reaching above the clear blue sky surrounded it on all sides but one where the wide ocean protected and fed its already lavish wealth. Where rare metal, ore or other mines did not provide lifetime opportunities for many, the ever-fertile lands blessed by the Goddess or the deep fish-filled waters fed all those not favored by circumstances. No person willing to work has starved since the founding day. There was more land than people could divide amongst themselves and those in charge had no need to suppress the populace. The only enemy was the monsters roaming the lands and for the same reason as humans, reproduced faster than they could be defeated. This danger was always around, yet normally never too much of it. Sometimes, however, accidents did happen. The house of Mon, responsible for defending a large chunk of land on the border has been slowly overwhelmed during a decade. Even though the many help they received they could not hold themselves against these monsters until they slowly, one by one all fell in battle. The king and the government sent new, more capable individuals but even they could only hold the monsters at bay with great amounts of losses. The few remaining members of the Mon family were the young and weak, they could only return to the capital. The meritocratic system of the land was the only reason they did not disappear forever. One of them was a young boy named after his grandfather, Arnold. He showed talent from a young age both in swords and magical abilities, with these he became a student in the greatest military academy in the continent early in his life. While not a genius, he could be equal to the best of his peers and proved to be a future leader. During his time learning in the institute, he met many people he could call friends. Despite having only one single parent, he lived his life to be an example for others. As years went by he became stronger, older and wiser. He gained many skills and life experiences to reach his goal in life. When he reached the age of 16 however, everything changed. The territory once held by his family finally fell and all the country was forced to turn their head towards solving the crisis, but they could not solve it with power alone. Thus, the King gave a command. Any who can offer a solution to stop the enemy would be rewarded with a wish. Even for such a country, something of this scale was impossible by any means. Soon people wishing to be heroes emerged, scholars dwelt into research and everyone wanted to save those who were in danger more than before. Adventurers delved into ancient catacombs and dungeons to find relics that even remotely could help. Death surged and the population at first stopped growing, then started to sink. When the king realized the effects of his actions it was already too late. Arnold Mon was also a heated youth in his prime. He wished to honor his ancestors who died for him and the people and bring glory to her family once again. He had the ability and opportunity so he spent his time trying to find information any place he could.If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Then he found it. In his hands was an ancient book that promised to grant a path to any knowledge if given a reasonable sacrifice in exchange. He wasn''t the first nor the only one attempting opening the book. There was only one page in it with the promise and nothing else. It held no magical nor any mystical marks on it, yet some still attempted using it as a medium. At first, simple things were offered such as food, gold, and jewelry. Needless to say, there was no reaction. Some were more desperate, blood and animals lives were given. Not even the king could stop the craziness in time when a woman who lost all her family sacrificed her own life to it, yet still, nothing happened. The only relief the people had was that it wasn¡¯t a cursed item. Arnold had another idea. He felt others did not approach it from the right angle and he felt even if he was wrong nothing bad would happen. Against the restriction to read placed on it, he opened the book, took a quill, ink and started to write in it. At first, he didn¡¯t know what to write, but when he began words and sentences flew out of his pen one by one. He wrote about his life, his experiences and his grievances in life. He wrote about the joys and painful moments of his life. He wrote about his loved ones and about the bright idealistic perspective he saw the world from. Four hours he wrote and wrote, his heart open like a flood pouring at the lands. Finally, he tried writing about his wishes, yet the quill stopped. He didn¡¯t know what his heart truly wanted. He felt extremely empty from realizing he did not have a single wish for himself. He actually didn¡¯t care about fame or recognition beyond he already had, nor the people he didn¡¯t know. He stopped to look deep within himself, trying to find any semblance of greed or darkness, yet it wasn¡¯t there. It was almost empty, except maybe for a little bit of envy. Envy for those who didn¡¯t have. Envy for those who knew what they wanted. He crossed out the last line he wrote and closed the book. Taking a deep breath, he chose to give up this charade that turned everyone, including himself crazy and return to his home and care for his one and only mother. The mother that took care of him since he was born yet he didn¡¯t visit her for years. The hands slightly dark from patches of ink, he put the book back into its place. The sky was already dark late at night, only one single magical lamp lit up dimly the underground library of the kingdom¡¯s most prestigious academy. Bookshelves looked down upon him from all walls which have always impressed him. In the middle was a single large marble table with the insignia of the county engraved within, surrounded by high-quality pattern-carved wooden benches. Before exiting the room he looked back one last time but found the book gone. While he was surprised, he already decided to not pursue the momentary harmful dreams fo his any longer. Still, he just couldn¡¯t take his eyes off the brand new door in the opposite wall which has never been there before. Arnold gulped large, trying his best to hold himself back, fighting an inner battle against himself and his curiosity for the unknown. The boy stepped once, then twice, then walked through the door he not long ago swore to himself he would never approach. He never regret making those steps. Within the new world, a tall beauty of mystic appearance, thin long ears and an aura of absolute understanding greeted him with a charming and welcoming smile. Inside, he found what he has been missing his entire life. Chapter 5 - New tale ¡°An interesting tale, it was.¡± El commented but withhold her opinion of the man over-glorifying himself. Her body leaned forward with her tiny hands propping up her rosy cheeks on top of the table. She took in his words and emotions with grateful warmth and enjoyed it just as much as he did while talking about it. ¡°With that done, I suppose you came for something. I am feeling generous so feel free to ask away.¡± Her pupils looked up at him from her position waiting for his wishes so that she may hear the next part of the story as soon as possible. ¡°My wish has already been granted, I cannot ask for any more.¡± ¡°Cheeky. Some beg for me to talk to them yet you brush off my offer? My knowledge is more vast than you can imagine. This is the library of knowledge after all.¡± The girl teased the man with strong words, if not for the slightly playful tone he would have felt threatened by her sentence. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare to refute that. Merely, the only thing I want is something that I already know of an I already am set on the path I choose for myself.¡± ¡°Good for you.¡± She stood up and turned her head away from his direction. The man followed behind her as they walked towards the counter. ¡°When will I hear the end of the story?¡± ¡°In the future.¡± ¡°Are you leaving already?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°Take care of yourself out there.¡± ¡°I will.¡± They stopped before the counter, the girl still facing away from him. Giving a slight bow to the cat-eared woman, the man turned away and left. The library stood still with only her in it, looking at the vase of flowers with dark amusement in her eyes. The nervous quiet between the rows was the greatest feature for any place for reading much delight to the lonesome readers, writers and El herself. The girl¡¯s weak left hand reached towards the vase and removed the withered roses from it one by one. Without thinking too much about them she disposed of the leftovers instantly. Her clean, petite hand poked the blue flower which remained alone, unchanged no matter how long she waited for it to perish. ¡°He does have a great sense for irony.¡± For a change, she decided to keep this gift on her desk for visitors to admire. Walking behind the counter she took out the book she hid there before and pulled the front page open. The large leather cover only held a single page, yet it was written on at everywhere. She brushed the last part where a sentence was crossed out and could not be read with a finger before returning the book to one of the many shelves of the infinite rows of the tall library. Behind her, the unexpected sound of cursing filled the air. ¡°To hell with this crazy place. Just where did that assassin go?¡± ¡°Calm down and help me find her!¡± ¡°But look around, there is nothing but books here. There are only books in every direction. I can''t see the end of it!¡± ¡°Shut up already.¡± El walked up to them. ¡°Welcome. Are you looking for me?¡± The two rugged men with eyes blue from sleep-deprivation turned towards her sudden call with murderous looks. One of them raised a sword while the other a spear, both pointed in her direction. Both took stance wary of an ambush and glaring a hole in her body.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. ¡°Who are you and what is this place?¡± The person who asked first was the spear-wielding man with brown hair and a beard. His clothes looked mostly clean and sturdy fabric. ¡°My name is El and this is my library. May I ask what is your purpose brandishing your weapon in another¡¯s home?¡± Looking confused at the lack of interest in their hostility, the second man with black hair and eyes signaled to his companion to lower their arms. He didn¡¯t care if the impudent woman was acting crazy but they had no time to deal with another problem at the moment. This time he had another chance to take a good look at her and saw her special features. ¡°It¡¯s a god damn beast. What is it doing here?¡± ¡°What?¡± Apparently, his companion did not notice it either before. His reaction was different from the other one though. ¡°A cat person, a rather cute one at that. I would like to stay and flirt but we are pursuing an assassin. Generic dark clothes, knives tipped in poison. Did you see him?¡± El tilted her head a bit looking at them, thinking for a second before answering. ¡°I haven¡¯t met yet the person you are looking for. What is the problem?¡± At the innocent question, the swordsman sneered back in ridicule. ¡°Assassin. Knife. Poison. Stabby-stabby in the back person. What the hell do you think, you mindless beast?¡± While the other man was annoyed by the remark, he chose to ignore it. ¡°Forget the idiot. We were lost here while following a murderer who more than likely already ran away by now. Can you show us the way out?¡± Trying to act nice, he smiled at her while already on the move. The girl pointed behind them and when they turned in that direction they found a door just single step away from their faces. With an awkward laugh, the man wielding the spear thanked her and left in rush, chasing a person without any idea where they might be. Gritting his teeth in disgust the other man followed behind and left the library, ending their short and abrupt visit as fast as he could. ¡°Well, that was fun. Now, you should come out before I get angry.¡± Spoke El without looking anywhere in particular. A shadow dropped from the bookshelves behind her and a person wearing black disguise fell on the floor onto their stomach without strength to move. The woman stepped up to them and pushed them over with her feet. As the assassin turned to their back the cloak hiding their face folded away and revealed the assassin to be a woman with small devil-like horns. El crouched down and grabbed the horn, feeling it up with her skin. She enjoyed the touch of the smooth keratin surface for a second before letting go and talked. ¡°Still alive?¡± Her partner couldn¡¯t answer, only groaned. ¡°Fine, fine. I¡¯ll help you.¡± The girl crouched down and a brush of cold air flew out from her hands towards the person on the ground. In the blink of an eye, the small pool of dark blackish puddle of blood disappeared from under the victim along with any previously visible wounds. She crouched down next to her and watched as the other person was amazed by their own sudden miraculous recovery. The assassin examined her body and finding no problems she looked at her savior with gratitude and a hint of fear. ¡°Thank you.¡± She spoke genuinely. ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± The cat-eared girl brushed the gratitude off with a disinterested reply. ¡°Since you have recovered, I will see you off.¡± She urged the unwelcomed guest to leave without shame knowing how much trouble she might bring. The demoness felt despair thinking about the dangers that currently threaten her life. Throwing away her shame she crawled forward and hugged into the girl¡¯s legs. Tears flowing silently she whimpered. ¡°Please don¡¯t throw me out, they will kill me. I will do anything.¡± El looked at her consider her offer. ¡°Anything?¡± ¡°Anything.¡± She could swear she saw a murderous yet almost innocent glint in her eyes. ¡°Fine. Talk about the outside world and yourself and you can stay.¡± The assassin did not question her intention, merely nodded in agreement. To her, it didn¡¯t matter if she leaked out secrets for free because she has always worked alone. Something like that was worth nothing compared to her own life. Pushing off the pathetic woman from her leg, El walked towards the table to take a seat. Forgetting her previous actions instantly the woman followed her like an obedient cub and seated herself diligently next to her. When both of them felt comfortable the host poured her guest a cup of ginseng who was quite surprised at the gesture and thanked her profusely. ¡°Let¡¯s start with introductions first.¡± ¡°Yes. My mother gave me the name Golde, but feel free to call me Goldy. A professional thief by trade. I will make sure to return the favor of saving my life so feel free to ask me anything.¡± ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m expecting. You already heard my name, but shall introduce myself properly. My name is Ele and this is my library of knowledge.¡± She waved her hand towards the bookshelves which shook in delight at the attention. ¡°Now please, tell me something interesting.¡± Chapter 6 - First in a while Between two bookshelves a young child walked slowly with an expression of broken grief. Her large puffy eyes were unfocused as she took lonesome steps almost unconsciously forward. The rare books holding a treasure of information next to her did not concern her in the slightest. Pulling the end of her previously elegant and expressive dress on the floor, she paid no heed at her careless actions. Her hair was disorganized and unfitting of a young lady of any lineage. Sweat and blood patches dirtied the unclean piece of cloth on her, but none of them came from her self. Not even when El greeted her from behind the counter did she raise her head, she kept staring into the abyss as if it was what she was meant to do. El stepped up and patted her head gently. With a simple swipe of her hand, the grime and filth disappeared but the emotion of a person was not something she could fix that easily. ¡°Sit down.¡± She commanded the younger girl and pulled her towards the table by her hand. Just like last time, she poured a cup of tea for the gentle girl and watched her sitting silently by the table. The suffering child didn¡¯t even notice the third person sitting in a chair opposite to her during the whole time. ¡°Drink and rest a little. If you feel like talking, I am here.¡± With this El stepped back and returned to the other person. As a young girl, her reaction to the events she had experienced was justified. While the librarian did not say anything, she already knew everything about what had happened to the girl. Quietly shivering, the girl raised her chin to take a small glance at the only person she longed to see. Finally, she learned that they were not alone. Her interest in the third member was non-existent and she dismissed any thoughts regarding them. The big watery eyes only looked into the direction of El with a sense of longing for comfort and loneliness. El sat down at the end of the table granting her a good view of both visitors who were facing each other. On her left sat a self-proclaimed thief who refused to leave her home and has been called an assassin. On her right, a young heartbroken child sat was crying tearlessly in despair. The situation felt slightly comical to her and she would have smiled if the situation allowed dark humor to be appreciated. Many thoughts crossed her mind in the past few hours, calculating and processing what she learned from the woman named Golde and other knowledge inherited by the library. The action she took could be regarded as the silence of the wise but she honestly only faced them with sheer apathy and a bit of longing for interesting events in general. Whatever mind she possessed decided to be impartial and wait and see. Golde could not sit still and watch the child in such a state for a long time. She kept glancing at the librarian pleading for help who just ignored her attempts. Her face wrinkled up gradually in an emotional response and her left hand kept rubbing the back of her head. Out of the three, the silence was the most unnerving for her mind. Soon, she gave up and began talking. ¡°I can¡¯t endure it! Girl, spit it out, what¡¯s the problem?¡± At the sudden rude yell, the girl finally broke and started sobbing loudly. Tears kept streaming down her face as and she could only weep uncontrollably. Since the thief did not want to instantly regret her words, she repeated her question. ¡°C¡¯mn! We can¡¯t help you like this. Tell us already what you want.¡± Like a child she was, she answered still crying between sobs.Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. ¡°Mother¡­everyone was killed. They are all dead.¡± The annoyed assassin kept opening and closing her mouth voiceless. She did not expect such an answer let alone it being related to her. The woman turned towards El with a question clearly written on her face. ¡°Emma, 10 years old. Single child. She had come here a few times to read, a very nice girl with a pure heart.¡± When the librarian told her what she has been curious about, she could swear she could see a tiny dark smile on the corner of El¡¯s lips which caused shivers to run down her spine. The unexpected on-point honesty scared her even more. ¡°Right. That¡¯s horrible. Do you have any family you can turn to as help?¡± ¡°No.¡± The answer was simple yet effective in silencing her. As a person with a dangerous illegal work, Golde came from a difficult background and had no experience with neither children nor comforting people. Her opinion wasn¡¯t worth much either. She glanced at the other adult in the room and asked. ¡°Could she stay here as well for a while?¡± El showed only her expressionless face without a single twitch of a muscle. Even without a reaction from her, the thief could tell that she greatly disliked the idea of anyone staying there for an extended period of time. The bargained time for herself was short which already displeased the woman more than enough. With the deal between the two of them so vague, the librarian promised to let her stay there until she became too much trouble or if she got bored with her. Before a refusal could be given, a slight cough interrupted them from the side. The child and the thief were both startled and turned their necks towards the noise instantly yet El did not even react as if she already knew who was there. ¡°Good evening. Forgive me for interrupting, but it seems I came at the perfect time.¡± A tall, elegant woman wearing a breathtakingly beautiful sea-blue evening dress stepped out from the shadows with an elegant atmosphere. The charming smile on her face was more seductive than the seemingly perfect face of El which she wore proudly. A pair of red irises looked at the three people before her, as if evaluating them each. Even the poor thief could tell that the new addition to their party was neither human nor a simple person. Her upper-class training caused Emma¡¯s body to react to the aura the noble lady was emitting, the sobbing child instinctually withdrew her tears. ¡°Pardon me to enter your conversation so rudely, but I feel you should accept the proposal, El.¡± Her words were directed straight at the person and soon the two ended up in a staring contest. A girl, a woman, a librarian and a lady waited for fate to roll and set on a fixed path after a time of swelling discord. ¡°Why do you believe so?¡± ¡°Among many reasons, I believe it would do much progress towards your goals.¡± The look she threw with the words implicated the El should already know everything she could say. Rather, the displeasure stemmed from the fact that even though every reason and knowledge pointed the librarian to say yes, she still wanted to refuse. Not waiting for another excuse, she continued. ¡°You know your worst enemy is yourself, as it always has been. This is for your sake.¡± El closed her eyes and did not respond anymore. For the other three the fact that she did not refuse equaled to her reluctant agreement. The thief stood up and took the girl¡¯s hands into her own. ¡°Camn¡¯. Thank her for letting you stay.¡± Crushed between emotions, the young girl bowed elegantly and thanked them profusely, albeit with a still sobbing voice. ¡°Thank you!¡± The librarian did not respond and continued to sit calmly. Send, the girl turned to the unknown lady. ¡°Thank you!¡± The third time, she turned to the assassin who was fidgeting while nervously looking at her. ¡°Thank you!¡± Such as, the girl resumed sobbing, albeit this time not simply out of despair. The lady took the opportunity to step closer, took the girl¡¯s chin between her palms and introduced herself. ¡°My name is Ol''ma''k Eliza. You don¡¯t have to try to pronounce my family name, just call me Lady Eliza. What is your name, sweetie?¡± ¡°Emma. Emma Wulfhild Lyveryche.¡± Her weak voice barely reached the ear of the lady whose face distorted into hateful resentment. Chapter 7 - Re-Acquainted Like the frightening sound of fireworks disappearing into the night sky, the unsightly mask was replaced by a strained smile. Eliza¡¯s presence was as kind as ever and two shocked onlookers almost didn¡¯t believe their own eyes. Neither dared to mention the small mishap from before but to avoid any misunderstanding the lady spoke up the clear any doubts from their hearts. ¡°Excuse me, my actions were extremely unbefitting of me. Hearing these words reignited a deeply unpleasant memory of mine and caused me to overreact even when I am perfectly aware that you have little to do with them. I beg you to forgive me for this.¡± Scared out of her wits by the monsters besides her, the thief retreated any questions and accepted the apology without any negative thoughts. While El enjoyed the fact she was not the target of discrimination anymore, her feelings about the subject were still unfavorable. She stood up silently while Emma innocently responded to the explanation. ¡°No, I¡¯m sorry that I reminded Lady Eliza of something bad. I hope you can forgive me.¡± ¡°Absolutely.¡± Albeit the one step distance gaping between the two told a different story to her words.The librarian started to walk away from them and none of them tried to stop her. While all three felt that such a cold treatment was over the top, it wasn¡¯t entirely unexpected. They kept looking at her back as she stopped at the end of the room reaching a wall only 10 meters away. Considering the endlessness of the space around them, this was more contradictory of the place than the usual bizarre events happening all the time. El pulled her hands into a fist and brought them to her chest. They were completely oblivious to the painful grimace on her face as her power gathered around her, visible by the naked eye. Like a thin smoke cloud, spirits surrounded her skin glowing faintly. The wind blew exclusively around her in a miniature storm, raising her hair into the air as her eyes glowed in a menacing azure light. Space ripped apart and folded before her opening and closing at her command. Sweat trickled down between her eyebrows as forces that could kill any of the spectators in milliseconds danced according to her strict guidance. A new door was born at that moment and materialized itself like a good child before her mother awaiting praise. It shook slightly as if nudging towards the woman, trying to get closer and seek her attention desperately. At a moments notice, all the strange powers dispersed, returning to their homes and the woman took a weakened step backward. Her face was filled with a smile of accomplishment but was warped by the feeling of tiredness and pain coming from straight within her soul and its connection to the library. She leaned forward a few degrees then kneeled down feeling the loss of her might for seconds. After gathering herself she stood up and walked back to the other three and sat among the others who silently watched her actions from behind. ¡°So¡­ What was that?¡± Acting as a cushion, the thief asked. ¡°I have created a room for you to stay. It will disperse around tomorrow noon so I advise you to leave before that.¡± ¡°Are you that eager to get rid of us?¡± Asked the lady from her. ¡°Yes.¡± The answer came not hiding the truth. The young girl¡¯s head fell down in sadness. Emma didn¡¯t wish to bother her but knew she had nowhere else to go, no one else to rely on. Seeing her brokenhearted expression, the lady leaned closer to whisper into her ears. ¡°She is just not honest to herself, don¡¯t mind her. If she really disliked you she would have not let you into her home.¡± As a dutiful host, the librarian showed off her creation to them. While it wasn¡¯t a luxury hotel, she never intended her library to be one. Two wide and comfortable double beds and a washroom was more than a weary traveler could ever hope for and the three guest were extremely thankful for whatever they were given. El opened the door herself and let the curious thief and runaway princess discover their accommodations. Both rushed in vigorously, touching and feeling the unknown items and materials they have never seen before as they disappeared into the separate world of existence. Stolen novel; please report. Lady Eliza stayed, arms reaching to hug the other woman¡¯s waist from behind who never acknowledged nor denied the closeness. Her body stuck to the other¡¯s warm skin while she buried her face into the fluffy silverish hair. Lips parting next to her ears, she whispered. ¡°What¡¯s with the ears?¡± El¡¯s smile became uncomfortable by the subject. Not knowing how to answer and not wanting to lie, she stayed silent. ¡°I don¡¯t mind, it¡¯s just that I was lonely without you around. Sorry for being so childish all the time.¡± A slight chill ran up the librarians back as the woman¡¯s hands moved to her stomach. With stirring emotions of rejection, she spoke viciously without moving an inch. ¡°I do not owe you anything.¡± ¡°But I do owe you. I owe you everything.¡± The curse of sweet words turned the air around them partially black as El in a single motion broke away and caught the woman¡¯s throat. Her grip was tight enough to kill any human yet it only caused pain to the captive as she gasped for air. Due to the difference in height between the two, she wasn¡¯t raised into the air, not like that mattered when her face turned from greenish to a greasy chalk color. She didn¡¯t have the opportunity to choke as her magical heritage extended her suffering. ¡°I really want to just remove you.¡± Started a monologue El. ¡°Your impulses are uncontrollable.¡± From utter disgust which wasn¡¯t aimed at the woman, she sighed. ¡°But that would be just another mistake.¡± The small, weak and fragile hands let go of the woman who fell down towards the ground in a half-conscious state. ¡°Whether you live or die are both great mistakes so I better just do what I do best and watch.¡± Turning her back, the librarian attempted to return to her desk in the middle of the infinite room when her legs were suddenly grasped from the back. Most of her body still paralyzed, Eliza hugged into her legs with tears in her eyes, not letting her go. ¡°Th-. Than-k. You.¡± El stopped and looked at her, eyes filled with nothing but disappointment. Her hand reached down and she took the woman into her embrace and resumed walking. Finally reaching her beloved spot, the desk in the middle with a single strand of flower in a vase, she sat down with the Eliza still laying in her bosom. Gently, her hands stroked the hair of the woman who enjoyed the soothing care again after a very, very long time. At first, small hums started to come out of the librarian''s throat by mistake. Soon the dark noises became more numerous and like chains, they joined together into a melody the two could only reminiscent faintly from small flashes of memories that should have never existed in the first place. From behind a pillar and two bookshelves, a thin shadow spied at the two, never approaching nor speaking. The librarian didn¡¯t indicate that she knew about them and didn¡¯t stop showing affection to the tearful woman in her arms like one would soothe a hurt child. Fearing for discovery, the shadow crouched into a location where their eyes could never find her and her hands opened a book from the shelf next to her. The shadow read, just like most people who entered library by their own volition. It wasn¡¯t a particularly interesting book, it told the true history behind an empire facing many difficulties and being held together only by a few strands of hair and the tears of sweat of a princess. By volume, it was longer than most others similar to it, but the length didn¡¯t indicate the failure or success of the story. It took a decent time until the shadow finished the book, far longer than it would take an average person to get through it. The shadow put the book back to its place and left a new book next to it before taking one last look inside the library and leaving the place for good. The shadow smiled at the sight of the beautiful adult woman sleeping soundlessly in the arms of the librarian who kept looking at her dreaming face with a loving expression.