Chapter 5
Tess
The spiral staircase seemed endless as I descended from the Dragon Wing, each step echoing softly against ancient stone. Moriyana's offer consumed my thoughts—a position at the Dragonne Library, a chance to immerse myself in this magical world. To belong.
It should have been an easy decision, but doubt gnawed at me. Could I handle such responsibility? Or would I crumble, proving my mother right once again?
I shook my head, banishing Kendall's scornful voice. This wasn't about her. This was my chance, my path.
Lost in thought, I barely noticed as the staircase stretched on, far longer than it should have. When I finally looked up, I found myself not in the foyer, but before an ornately carved wooden door. Intricate scenes of human history adorned its surface, with "Humanities Room" spelled out in elegant script above.
"How...?" I murmured, glancing back at the now-fading staircase. A warm presence brushed against my mind—the Library itself, I realized with a start. It had guided me here.
Intrigued, I approached. The door swung open smoothly, inviting me in.
The room stretched before me, vast and cathedral-like. Towering shelves lined the walls, filled with books both ancient and well-loved. Above, the ceiling bore paintings of human achievement and culture.
In the center, a row of tables with cushioned chairs beckoned, promising comfort for long hours of study. Further in, I spotted two figures in conversation—a staff member in a purple robe and an elderly Asian man in a traditional yukata.
Not wanting to intrude, I browsed the nearby shelves. The books spanned the breadth of human knowledge—history, science, literature. It was both humbling and inspiring.
As I leafed through a worn copy of 'Pride and Prejudice,' snippets of conversation reached me.
"I'm sorry, but that subject matter is outside our scope," the staff member stated, her tone polite but firm. "We focus on supernatural knowledge here. Human fiction about our world isn't really relevant to our collection."
The elderly man's response was measured. "I understand your position, but wouldn't you agree that how we're perceived by humans is valuable information in itself? Especially given recent events?"
Their exchange piqued my curiosity. Before I could second-guess myself, I approached the pair.
"Excuse me," I said, my voice steadier than I felt. "I couldn't help overhearing. Maybe I can help?"
As I drew closer, I realized with a start that the staff member was an elf, her pointed ears now visible beneath her severely tied-back hair. Her ageless features regarded me with surprise and faint skepticism.
The man turned, his eyes sharp despite his apparent age. "Oh? And what might you suggest, young lady?"
I straightened, determined not to be intimidated by either of them. "I'm familiar with the kind of books you're looking for," I offered. "Human perspectives on the supernatural world."
A smile creased the man's weathered face. "Excellent. I'm interested in fiction written by humans about supernatural beings—vampires, fae, shifters, and the like. I want to understand how they view our world."
Excitement bubbled up within me, a sense of purpose taking root. "I think I know exactly the kind of books you're after."
I turned to the staff member. "Could you check for any novels in the urban fantasy or paranormal romance genres? Particularly those published in the last few decades. Authors like Charlaine Harris, Laurell K. Hamilton, or Jim Butcher might be good starting points." I paused, then added, "Oh, and do you carry any indie authors? They often have the most up-to-date takes on supernatural themes.”
She regarded me through narrowed emerald eyes for a beat before giving a curt nod and sweeping away, her movements almost preternaturally graceful. Left alone with the man, I extended my hand.
"I'm Tess, by the way. Tess Whittaker."
The man accepted my proffered hand, his grip firm and calloused. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss Whittaker. I am Takashi Tanaka."
We made small talk as we awaited the librarian's return, Takashi revealing he was a kitsune with a fervent passion for academics and research. His frequent visits to the Dragonne Library allowed him to research the relationship between humans and supernatural beings in the wake of The Unveiling.
"There have been...difficulties, shall we say?" He frowned, steepled fingers brushing his lips. "Prejudices and misunderstandings abound on both sides. By exploring your kind's fictional depictions of mine, I hope to better grasp your perspectives and find new pathways toward mutual understanding."
My heart ached at the hope in his words, an ache that only intensified when the librarian—Aurelia, according to Takashi—reappeared with a stack of books.
"Thank you, Aurelia," Takashi said.
Aurelia regarded him with a curt nod before turning her penetrating stare on me. Though she said nothing, her disdain was obvious.
Clearly, my assistance hadn’t been appreciated.
"Miss Whittaker," Takashi said, his eyes twinkling with enthusiasm, "would you care to join me in perusing these volumes? Your expertise could be invaluable in finding the right variety of stories."
"I'd be delighted," I replied, moving closer to the stack of books Aurelia had brought.
We settled at a nearby table, spreading the books out before us. I ran my fingers over the spines, recognizing some titles and authors immediately.
"Let's see," I mused, picking up a worn paperback. "This one's a classic vampire romance. It might give you insight into how humans romanticize certain supernatural beings."
Takashi nodded, jotting down notes in a small journal he'd produced from his yukata.
Next, I selected a hefty tome with a wolf silhouette on the cover. "This is part of a popular werewolf series. It delves into pack dynamics and the struggle between human and animal natures."
As we worked our way through the pile, I explained the different subgenres and themes represented. We found everything from light-hearted paranormal cozy mysteries to dark, gritty urban fantasies.
As I reached for another book, I hesitated, feeling a blush creep up my cheeks. "Um, I should probably warn you about this one," I said, holding up a particularly steamy paranormal romance. "It's got some... well, let's just say some very detailed scenes of interspecies relations. You might want to skip those parts."
Takashi's eyes twinkled mischievously. "My dear, at my age, I daresay I've probably had more experience than these authors could dream of. A few spicy scenes won't make these old whiskers curl."
I burst out laughing, shocked by his candid response. "Well, in that case, you might actually find some of the more creative scenes... educational," I quipped.
"Indeed," Takashi chuckled. "Though I must say, if humans think vampires are that flexible, they're in for quite a surprise."
We continued our banter as we worked through the rest of the stack, our laughter echoing softly in the quiet library. I found myself thoroughly enjoying the process, my knowledge of the genre finally finding a practical—and unexpectedly amusing—application.
"Miss Whittaker, your assistance has been invaluable," Takashi said, genuine gratitude in his voice. "You've given me an excellent starting point for my research."
I felt a warm glow of pride at his words. For once, my passion for paranormal romance and urban fantasy wasn't being dismissed or ridiculed. Instead, it was appreciated and put to good use.
"I'm happy I could help," I replied, smiling. "If you need any more recommendations or insights as you read, please don't hesitate to ask."
Takashi nodded, gathering the selected books into a neat pile. "I may very well take you up on that offer, Miss Whittaker. Your knowledge is a resource I'd be foolish to overlook."
As Takashi carefully gathered his chosen books, a warmth spread through my chest. For the first time in what felt like forever, someone had not only listened to me but had genuinely valued what I had to offer. My knowledge, my passion—things that had so often been dismissed or belittled—had made a real difference here.
I watched him leave, the weight of the moment settling over me. In this magical library, surrounded by ancient tomes and beings out of legend, my expertise had found a home. More than that, it had found purpose. I had helped bridge a gap between worlds, however small, and the realization was exhilarating.
This, I realized with startling clarity, was what I had been searching for all along. Not just acceptance, but a place where I could truly contribute, where my voice mattered. The decision that had seemed so daunting mere hours ago now felt inevitable, right.
I could be me here. Flawed, uncertain, but willing to try.
The decision solidified, a weight lifting from my shoulders. I would take Moriyana's offer.
In that moment, the library itself seemed to shudder and sigh, as if releasing a pent-up breath. A rush of warm air suddenly filled the room, carrying with it the scent of old books and something wilder—smoke and magic.
I spun around, my heart leaping into my throat. There, where empty space had been mere seconds ago, stood Moriyana herself, her ruby scales gleaming in the soft light. My jaw dropped as I noticed Pippa hovering at the dragon's side, barely containing an excited grin.
"Moriyana!" I gasped, then winced at how undignified I sounded. "And... Pippa? How did you—when did you—?" I stammered, looking from one to the other in bewilderment.
"Well," Moriyana's melodic voice sounded in my head, tinged with amusement, "I'd wondered when you might get around to making up your mind."
"You..." I trailed off, still reeling from their sudden appearance and uncertain how to address the regal dragon.
"Yes, child?" One iridescent eye seemed to focus more intently on me.
"I accept," I said at last. "If the offer still stands, I accept the position here at the Library."
For a heartbeat, Moriyana studied me, her penetrating gaze seeming to pierce straight through to the core of my being.
"Indeed," Moriyana's thoughts resonated in my mind. "The library has accepted you into its ranks, Tempest. You will begin your new duties the day after tomorrow—a grace period to allow you to settle in and become acquainted with our home."
Home. A simple word, yet one that sparked an ember of warmth in my chest.
"Thank you," I murmured, suddenly breathless. "For everything."
I sensed a deepening of Moriyana's approval as Pippa bounced eagerly on the balls of her feet.
"Pippa will show you to your living quarters and provide a tour of the grounds," Moriyana continued. "Your belongings and... companion have already been relocated."
Panic spiked, chasing away my tranquility in an icy rush. "Whiskey! Is he—"
"Your feline is perfectly well and awaiting your arrival," the ancient dragon assured me. "We understand the importance of such bonds."
I sagged with relief, offering her a sheepish grin. "Sorry, I just... he's the only real family I've got, you know?"
An unreadable emotion flickered across Moriyana's ageless features before she gave a regal dip of her chin. "Then we must endeavor to expand your circle, mustn't we? Now, off with you both. Pippa, kindly show our newest initiate the full scope of her new demesne."
"Oh, this is simply marvelous!" Pippa trilled, looping her slender arm through mine and propelling me forward. "I just know we're going to be the absolute best of friends!"
"Welcome to the Grounds," Pippa said with a flourish. "I'll give you the abridged version for now, but trust me, there's more than enough here to keep you exploring for days!"
As we strolled along the neatly tended pathways, Pippa pointed out key areas. The sprawling arena that served as the Training Grounds caught my eye, where dragons and their riders engaged in aerial maneuvers that made my head spin. Just beyond stood an imposing edifice of stone and wrought iron—the Dragon Rider Guild.
"That's where applicants and newly accepted riders are trained," Pippa explained.
I drank in every detail, my mind spinning with possibilities and the dizzying scope of it all. A dragon soared overhead, its crimson scales glittering like rubies in the fading light.
"Magnificent, aren't they?" Pippa murmured.
"I met one yesterday," I said, the words slipping out before I could stop them. "A dragon, I mean. And its rider."
Pippa's eyes went comically wide as I recounted the accident in Sacramento. By the time I finished, she was practically dancing from foot to foot.
"Wait," she gasped, a look of realization dawning on her face. "You're the one who got Theron in trouble! Oh, this is too delicious!"
Before I could ask what she meant, we arrived at the dormitories. Pippa ushered me through heavy doors into a warmly lit foyer. "This is where you'll be staying," she announced with a bright smile.
My suite was a dream. From its spacious living area to the small but efficient kitchen, every detail seemed meticulously curated to provide an atmosphere of comfort and elegance. A large picture window framed a breathtaking view of the distant mountains.
And waiting on the neatly made bed, whiskers twitching and tail swishing in lazy contentment?
"Whiskey!" I cried, scooping him into my arms and burying my face in his soft fur. He purred loudly as I cuddled him close, the familiar warmth banishing the last shreds of my lingering unease.
My meager possessions had been neatly arranged, lending the space a sense of familiarity. Little touches for Whiskey—a new cat tree, a plush bed, even a discreet litter box—made it clear that great care had been taken to make us both feel at home.
After Pippa left and I'd indulged in a luxurious bath, I settled onto the small loveseat with a contented sigh and the plate of food that had been left for me. As I ate, the events of the past two days washed over me. It felt surreal—yesterday, I was trapped in a life that felt increasingly suffocating. Now, I was embarking on an adventure beyond my wildest dreams.
Eventually, with my belly full and my muscles pleasantly lax, I stretched out on the plush mattress alongside my dozing familiar.
Just before sleep claimed me, a slight shift in the atmosphere sent an uneasy frisson down my back. My eyes flew open, and I found myself staring at a quivering shadow in the far corner—darker than it should be, almost... substantial.
Unease prickled along my nape, but it was quickly supplanted by an inexplicable sense of safety. Like I was being watched over, protected. As my eyelids grew heavy once more, I knew, with strange certainty, that no threat lingered here.