The Dragons Heir

Arc 2/Part 3: The Library&Bonding (RW)

ALEX

"And that's about the gist of it," Puck remarked as they stepped out of the steaming baths, the warmth still clinging to their skin. Alex was taken aback by the Great Spirit of Fire's unexpected offer to guide him through the intricate corridors of the mansion. It seemed that Puck had taken a liking to him, a curious twist in their unusual friendship.

Hours had drifted by since they indulged in a hearty breakfast, and the sun now hung higher in the sky, signaling the approach of lunchtime. In stark contrast to the lively atmosphere, Emilia had secluded herself in her study, deeply engrossed in what she claimed was a revisitation of the kingdom's history—whatever that may entail. The mystery surrounding her study sessions only thickened his curiosity.

"So let's see if I have this right," Alex began, his brow furrowed in concentration. "The east wing is designated for visitors, complete with elegantly furnished rooms and various amenities for entertaining esteemed guests and the nobility. Meanwhile, the west wing houses the servants' quarters, alongside a storage area for spare furniture and a collection of common books that don't require archival attention. As for the permanent residents, they reside in the main wing. Starting from the top: on the third floor, you'll find the sleeping quarters for the primary residents; the second floor is home to Roswaal's and Emilia's offices, and on the first floor, you can locate the kitchen, baths, and dining hall, correct?"

"Indeed," Puck confirmed with a nod, a slight smile tugging at his lips. He continued with a wave of his hand, gesturing grandly as they strolled through the mansion's vast hallways. "Now regarding our daily schedule, breakfast typically commences around nine in the morning, followed by lunch, which is served at two in the afternoon, and dinner at seven in the evening sharp."

"This place is truly immense," Alex replied, a mix of admiration and disbelief in his voice. "But I think I've managed to commit most of it to memory." He glanced at Puck, who seemed genuinely impressed.

"Indeed, you have a remarkable memory," Puck affirmed, studying Alex with a contemplative gaze. "Since you'll be residing here at the mansion for a while, it would be prudent to acquire several more outfits. Your current attire is quite suitable, don't mistake me, but you can't roam about in just one set of clothes indefinitely. When you have the chance, find Ram; she'll take your measurements and arrange a selection of new outfits for you."

"I'll make sure to do that," Alex replied with a determined nod. His gaze shifted toward a familiar door he had seen earlier, drawing him in with an irresistible curiosity. Just as he was about to step closer, Puck interjected, a hint of mischief in his voice. "Oh, I almost forgot—there's one more resident you haven't had the pleasure of meeting yet."

I tore my gaze away from the intricately carved door and focused on him. "There is?" I asked, struggling to recall if I'd heard any whispers about such a thing. "She is the mansion's librarian, and she..." Puck's words abruptly hung in the air as he broke into a mischievous grin. "You know what? I'll let you discover that for yourself." He began to float gracefully toward the grand staircase, leaving an enigmatic trail behind him. "Anyway, that's all you need to know about the mansion. I'll check on Lia now. Have fun!" And just like that, he vanished, leaving me in a swirl of curiosity.

Chuckling softly to myself, I turned back to face the door, determination bubbling within me. *Well, time to unveil the mystery.* My hand instinctively reached for the ornate door handle, but I hesitated. *Wait, wouldn't it be rude to barge in without an invitation?* Internal debate ensued before I decided to knock gently. "Come in, I suppose," a voice chimed from within.

As I pushed the door open, I was greeted by a sight that left me breathless. Alex stood momentarily frozen; he had encountered libraries of various kinds before, but nothing could have prepared him for the expansive, ethereal space before him. Towering bookshelves formed a labyrinth of knowledge, crammed with tomes that seemed to whisper secrets of their own. The room was illuminated by the soft glow of flickering candles, casting warm shadows that danced across the walls. But it was the girl standing in the center that truly captivated him. Her eyes sparkled like distant stars, rich with curiosity and depth.