Chapter 11: The Royal Library
Chapter 11 : The Royal Library
After looking around for a while, Eren decided to go to the library.
The grand corridors of the Royal Palace of Stellaria resonated with the echoes of Eren's footsteps. The palace, with its high ceilings adorned with intricate frescoes and its walls lined with centuries-old tapestries, exuded an air of regal splendor. Yet, it was the palace's library that held a special allure for the young prince. Erin, the Prince of the Falling Star Empire, Today, he had decided to visit the library, a place he had not ventured into for some time.
As he approached the massive double doors of the library, crafted from ancient oak and bound with brass, Eren couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The library was one of the oldest parts of the palace, and it was said to house knowledge that spanned millennia. The doors were guarded by two imposing figures, clad in ornate armor. These were the Sentinels of Knowledge, the elite guards entrusted with the protection of the library.
The sentinels, recognizing Eren, stepped aside and saluted. "Prince Eren," one of them greeted, his voice echoing slightly in the cavernous hallway. "Welcome to the Royal Library."
Eren nodded in acknowledgment and pushed the heavy doors open. The library was even more magnificent than he remembered. Rows upon rows of towering bookshelves stretched as far as the eye could see, each filled with ancient tomes, scrolls, and manuscripts. The scent of aged paper and leather filled the air, mingling with the faint aroma of incense that burned in wall-mounted sconces.
The main floor of the library was open to all members of the royal family and select scholars. It contained books on history, literature, science, and the arts. Eren's eyes roamed over the titles, each one a portal to a different world, a different time. He wandered through the aisles, occasionally pulling out a book to glance at its contents.
At the far end of the main floor was a grand staircase, spiraling up to the higher levels of the library. These levels were restricted, accessible only to those with special permission. Eren knew that the higher floors contained rare and powerful texts on magic, alchemy, and ancient secrets of the empire. His grandfather, King William, had once shown him a few of these texts, but Erin had never been allowed to explore them on his own.
As he reached the base of the staircase, Eren noticed a figure descending. It was the head librarian, Master Alaric. Alaric was an elderly man, his long white beard and hair giving him a wizened appearance. His eyes, however, were sharp and penetrating, betraying a mind as keen as any blade.
"Prince Eren," Master brandon Sanderson greeted warmly, his voice carrying a hint of amusement. "What brings you to our humble library today?"
"Good day, Master brandon," Eren replied with a smile. "I felt like delving into some history. The library seemed like the perfect place."
Alaric nodded approvingly. "A wise choice, as always. Knowledge is a treasure, and this library is its vault. Is there something specific you are looking for?"
"I was hoping to explore the higher floors," Eren admitted. "I've always been curious about the texts up there."
Sanderson's expression grew serious. "The upper levels are indeed fascinating, but they also contain knowledge that is not without danger. However, given your status and your dedication to learning, I can grant you access to the second floor. But I must accompany you."
Eren's heart leapt with excitement. "Thank you, Master brandon. I promise to be careful."
The two ascended the staircase, their footsteps echoing in the vastness of the library. As they reached the second floor, Eren was struck by the difference in atmosphere. The air felt heavier, charged with an almost palpable energy. The books here were older, their covers worn but their contents priceless.
"This floor contains texts on advanced magical theory, ancient rituals, and alchemical formulas," Alaric explained. "It is essential reading for anyone who wishes to understand the deeper mysteries of our world."
Eren browsed the shelves, marveling at the titles. "The Essence of Mana Manipulation," "The Lost Rites of the Ancients," "Transmutation and Transformation: A Study of Alchemy." Each book seemed to whisper secrets, beckoning him to uncover their knowledge.
He carefully pulled out a book titled "The Chronicles of the First Mages" and began to read. The pages detailed the lives and achievements of the empire's earliest magicians, their discoveries, and the spells they had crafted. Eren was engrossed, losing track of time as he delved deeper into the text.
After a while, brandon approached him. "I see you've found something of interest."
"Indeed," Eren replied, looking up from the book. "The stories of the first mages are incredible. Their power and knowledge were truly unmatched."
"Yes,"Master brandon agreed. "But with great power comes great responsibility. Many of these mages faced dire consequences for their pursuits. It is a reminder that we must always use our knowledge wisely."
Eren nodded thoughtfully. "I understand. There is much to learn, and much to be cautious of."
They continued their exploration,Master brandon guiding Eren through the most significant texts and artifacts. They came across a large, ornate chest at the back of the Master brandon opened it to reveal an array of ancient scrolls.
"These are some of the oldest documents in the library," Master brandon explained. "They contain spells and incantations from the dawn of our empire. Only a few have been translated and understood."
Eren carefully picked up one of the scrolls, feeling the rough texture of the parchment. "It's amazing to think that our ancestors wrote these."
"Indeed," Master brandon said. "Their knowledge laid the foundation for everything we know today. It's our duty to preserve and expand upon it."
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