Book I: Near Death Experience (18+) ✔️

23.

The mornings at the grand estate always envelop me in a serene atmosphere steeped in the opulence of a bygone era. When the maid arrives, her traditional uniform a symbol of our timeless routines, it's as though a ritual unfolds—polished silver trays presenting delicacies fit for royalty. Today mirrored that familiar elegance, the gentle knock signifying the arrival of breakfast.

"Good morning, Min Frue," the maid greeted warmly, placing the tray before me. "A repairman will attend to the mirror around noon. Would you prefer to be elsewhere during the repair?"

I hesitated, a flicker of unease shadowing my thoughts. The idea of staying alone in my chambers with a stranger unsettled me. "Yes, I'll take my leave," I decided, my voice resolute yet tinged with unspoken concern. I could look for Knox and Xander, but my mind pulled me harder than my heart. I needed answers.

As I savoured breakfast, the maid efficiently tidied the room. In the midst of our interaction, a wave of curiosity overcame me.

"Is there a library within the estate?" I asked, newfound interest shining in my eyes.

The maid nodded, a spark of recognition in her gaze. "Yes, indeed, Min Frue. It's located—" She proceeded to give detailed directions, igniting my eagerness to explore the repository of knowledge.

With her help, I adorned myself in a flowing gown, embodying both grace and ease. The fabric draped around me, offering both comfort and regality. Adjusting the dress, I made my way toward the promised sanctuary of wisdom—the library.

Stepping into the library felt like entering a haven of secrets and revelations. The scent of aged books and the hushed whispers of knowledge captivated my senses. Yet, amid this sea of information, I felt adrift, unsure of where to begin my quest for answers.

"Premonitions?" I murmured softly, my voice echoing in the vast chamber.

I began to scan the books, most were texts of the Norwegian language, instantly becoming useless to me.

I really need to learn that language.

However, something caught my eye on the top shelf of the massive bookcase. From what I could see the book title was Ciphered Chronicles: Arcane Auras of the Elders. Arcane Auras?

I grabbed the ladder that rolled across the bookshelf, placing it just before the out-of-reach book. I hike my body up the ladder, holding on tightly as my socked feet try to grasp the bars under me. Who needed shoes when the dress already covered my feet?

The book "Ciphered Chronicles: Arcane Auras of the Elders" held secrets beyond comprehension, its cover weathered with time, yet the contents seemed preserved in an almost ethereal state. Its pages, fragile but filled with profound wisdom, detailed the ancient arts of divination, deciphering enigmatic symbols, and unlocking the hidden energies of the universe.

Within its worn leather covers lay descriptions of mystical practices, from scrying rituals to interpreting celestial patterns. Illustrations depicted intricate sigils and diagrams, guiding the reader through the intricate web of arcane knowledge. The text, a blend of cryptic verses and explanatory passages, whispered of forgotten prophecies and the interwoven threads of fate.

"Min Frue?"

Startled by the sudden voice, my legs gave way, sending me stumbling towards the ground. Askel, quick to react, rushed towards me, his arms reaching out just in time to prevent me from crashing to the floor. The moment our hands met, a whirlwind of images surged through my mind, flashing vividly before my eyes.