Cyber Chronicles 2: Prime Voyage

Chapter 29: Present

Lincoln stood in awe at the entrance of the Library of Archaia. It was unlike any other he had heard of, a testament to the ancient Alvanian love for knowledge and the extraordinary lengths they went to in its pursuit. Its architecture was a mesmerizing blend of ethereal shapes and shimmering materials, and it felt like stepping into another world.

Gigantic crystalline structures reached for the heavens, their surfaces adorned with intricate patterns that glowed softly with shifting colors. The air inside held a noticeable aura of knowledge, a living entity of thought and intellect. Books, or what appeared to be books, were displayed in a manner he had only dreamed of. Some were encased in translucent orbs, radiating a soft, inviting glow. Others were housed within intricate glass cabinets, their contents visible yet untouchable.

But what truly set the Library of Archaia apart was its mystical nature. It existed on every Guardio Island, and each island held the entrance to this one library. 

A unique aspect that had also earned it the nickname "The Library of Escape." was that here, there was no monitoring, no violence, and its sheer vastness ensured that one could wander for hours or days and never encounter another soul unless they desire it or had arrived together. Lincoln had been told that this library was a haven for those seeking refuge, a sanctuary of knowledge and solitude.

As he walked deeper into the library's ethereal labyrinth, he extended his hand, brushing his fingers against the surface of an ancient tome encased in an illuminated sphere. Instantly, images and words flowed into his mind, like whispers from the past. These were the few readable books. He marveled at the wealth of knowledge they held, their words and images seeping into his consciousness, expanding his understanding of Alvanian history and culture.

However, amidst the accessible volumes lay others that defied comprehension. These books, while tangible, bore an alien presence. Their covers seemed to ripple with hidden energy, and the words within were an intricate puzzle that resisted his understanding. They beckoned to him, offering secrets yet daring him to unlock their enigmatic depths.

As Lincoln delved deeper into the library's arcane treasures, he realized he'd even forgotten why he had come here. He knew he was on the brink of revelations, standing at the ridge of knowledge that could unravel the mysteries of Obsune, the Titans, and his own connection to this world.

Intrigued and determined, Lincoln started looking around the vast expanse of the Library of Archaia. He wondered if there would be a librarian here to guide him but then questioned whether such a figure would exist in a place where solitude was cherished above all. With a sense of anticipation, he decided to rely on his own instincts.

Lincoln concentrated his energy, channeling it into his legs. To his astonishment, it flowed effortlessly, propelling him forward with a grace that seemed otherworldly. It was as if the library itself acknowledged his extraordinary abilities, granting him this exceptional form of access. This was surprising since he had heard that abilities or any form of charge usage were typically ineffective within the library, a measure taken to maintain the sanctity of its peaceful ambiance.

He dashed through the library's endless corridors and alcoves, his senses alert for any sign or clue that could lead him to the knowledge he sought. The absence of traditional guardians or librarians made him wonder if this place operated under different rules. 

Lincoln's exploration of the Library of Archaia led him to some intriguing spots, each filled with its own unique wonders. Amid all this, he couldn't help but notice some lectern-shaped structures, each with a soft glowing orb on top, placed at the corners of the library.

Intrigued by their presence, Lincoln approached one of these lecterns. He hesitated for a moment, not entirely sure what to expect, but curiosity drove him to place his hand gently on the glowing orb atop it.