Chapter 10
Tess
"Please, have a seat," I offered, my voice more cheerful than I felt. I hoped my enthusiasm would cut through his icy demeanor.
Kane remained standing, his tall frame imposing in the cozy office. His hands were tucked into the pockets of his immaculately tailored trousers. "I'd prefer to keep this brief if you don't mind. My father has entrusted me with assisting you on the Oral History Project, but I have many other responsibilities that take precedence."
Crossing my arms, I arched a brow at his dismissive tone. So much for first impressions—this guy clearly thought very little of me and the project I'd been tasked with overseeing. Still, I wasn't about to let his blatant arrogance rattle me. Not on my first day.
With a deep breath, I met his gaze head-on, refusing to be intimidated. "Look, I know this project might not seem like a priority, but it's important to me. If you're going to help, I'd appreciate your full cooperation and an open mind."
Kane's eyes narrowed, the blue-violet hue darkening like storm clouds. He seemed to consider my words for a moment. Finally, with a slight nod, he took a seat across from me, his posture still tense but more receptive than before.
"How did you get this position?" he asked, his voice devoid of the warmth that usually accompanied small talk.
I hesitated, recalling how the library itself had led me to Moriyana, and how she had unexpectedly offered me the job. It had been a moment of serendipity, but I sensed that sharing this would only fuel his skepticism. "The library led me to Moriyana, and she offered me the job," I said simply.
Kane's eyes widened, just for a moment, before his neutral expression returned. "I see," he said slowly, as if weighing my words. "You might want to keep the circumstances around your hiring here... quiet. Not everyone will take kindly to the library extending such a prestigious opportunity to a human."
A shiver of unease ran through me at his veiled warning. "Noted," I said, my voice softening. "And you? You’re a Dragon Rider, right?"
His expression hardened ever so slightly. "I'm a Dragon Rider applicant . My father is the Lord Protector at the Guild. I'm here to discuss the goals and procedures for your project and how it aligns with our broader objectives."
Kane leaned back, crossing his arms. The movement drew my attention to the breadth of his shoulders, the lean muscles visible beneath his crisp shirt. His posture was casual, yet there was an unmistakable tension in the set of his jaw.
"Alright," I said, forcing my gaze back to his face. "Moriyana tasked me with collecting oral histories from various species, emphasizing empathy and inclusiveness. I believe everyone's story is worth hearing."
Kane's eyebrows rose slightly. "Empathy and inclusiveness? That's quite... idealistic." His words dripped with sarcasm.
I straightened in my chair, meeting his gaze. "Why do you think that's idealistic?"
"Because this world isn't as simple as you might think," he said, leaning forward. His proximity sent a jolt through me. "People—Supes especially—don't always want to share their stories. And some stories are better left untold."
His dismissal stung, and I felt heat rising to my cheeks. "I understand that. But I believe that by listening to each other, we can foster understanding and build bridges between our worlds."
Kane's eyes narrowed, and for a brief moment, I saw a flicker of something—pain, regret?—before his cold mask slipped back into place. The vulnerability in that fleeting expression made my breath catch.
"You won't win everyone over with kindness, Tess," he said, my name rolling off his tongue in a way that sent tingles over my skin. "Some people—and creatures—respond only to strength."
"And empathy doesn't require strength?" I shot back, surprised by the passion in my own voice. "It takes a lot of strength to listen, to try to understand someone else's pain, and to connect with them."
Our eyes locked, and the air between us seemed to crackle with tension. The ticking of an old clock on the wall punctuated the silence, each second stretching out impossibly long.
Finally, Kane broke the silence, his voice softer but still firm. "You're naive if you think that's enough." He paused, and I found myself leaning in, drawn by some inexplicable force. "But perhaps we can complement each other's methods. Your empathy and my pragmatism—let's see how they work together."
I took a deep breath, willing my heart rate to slow down. The scent of his cologne—crisp and woodsy—filled my senses. "Fine. But I won't stop believing in the power of empathy."
Kane's lips twitched as if fighting back a smile. The sight sent a flutter through my stomach. "Fair enough. Let's move on to practicalities."
For the next hour, we discussed the logistics of the Oral History Project. Kane’s strategic mind became more apparent as he outlined the potential pitfalls and suggested solutions for each. Despite his initial aloofness, his intelligence and meticulous planning impressed me. I could see why he was a strong candidate for the Dragon Rider Guild.
As we talked, I found myself studying him more closely. There was a guardedness about him, a wall he had built up around himself, but every now and then, there were glimpses of vulnerability.
As our discussion about the Oral History Project wound down, an unexpected lull fell between us. Kane's gaze drifted to the window, his fingers drumming a restless rhythm on his thigh.
"Why did you apply to become a Dragon Rider?" I asked, breaking the silence. I tucked a stray strand of hair behind my ear, a nervous habit I'd never quite shaken.
Kane's eyes snapped back to me, his fingers stilling abruptly. For a moment, I thought he might not answer at all.
"It's... complicated," he said finally, his voice carefully neutral. His jaw clenched briefly before he continued. "There are expectations. But also opportunities."
I nodded, sensing there was more he wasn't saying. "Opportunities for what?"
He studied me for a moment, his intense gaze making me fidget with the hem of my shirt. "For change. For... something more."
His words resonated with me more than I expected. "I can understand that," I said softly.
Kane's eyebrow arched slightly. "Can you?" There was a challenge in his tone, but also a hint of curiosity. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees.
I took a deep breath, my hands clasped tightly in my lap. "I didn't exactly choose to come here," I admitted. "I had nowhere else to go when Moriyana offered me this job. But now that I'm here..." I paused, chewing on my lower lip as I gathered my thoughts. "It feels like a chance at something bigger than I ever imagined."
Kane nodded slowly, his expression unreadable. "We're both looking for more, then. In our own ways."
"I guess we are," I agreed, feeling an unexpected connection forming between us.
"Just remember," Kane said, his tone growing serious again, his posture straightening, "new opportunities come with their own risks. Be careful what you wish for."
I met his gaze steadily, resisting the urge to look away. "Some things are worth the risk."
A ghost of a smile played on Kane's lips, there and gone in an instant. "Maybe you're not as naive as I thought."
As he turned to leave, rolling his shoulders as if to shake off the conversation, I found myself calling out, "Kane."
He paused, glancing over his shoulder. "Yes?"
"Thank you," I said, surprising even myself. "For the advice. And for not giving up on me entirely."
He stared at me for a moment, eyes narrowed. "Don't make me regret it," he replied, his hand reaching for the doorknob.
Just then, a light knock interrupted us, and the door swung open before either of us could respond. A stunningly beautiful woman with long, crimson hair and almond-shaped eyes stepped into the room, her movements graceful and fluid.
"Oh, I hope I'm not interrupting anything important," she said. Her gaze flickered between Kane and me, a playful smile tugging at her lips.
Kane's posture stiffened slightly. "Akira," he acknowledged with a curt nod. "We were just finishing up."
The woman—Akira—turned her attention to me. "You must be Tess, our new human archivist. I'm Akira, liaison for the Far East supernatural communities here at the Dragonne Library."
I stood, offering my hand. "It's nice to meet you, Akira."
Instead of shaking my hand, Akira clasped it between both of hers. "The pleasure is all mine. I've been so looking forward to meeting you!"
Her enthusiasm was infectious. "I'm glad to meet you too. I'm just getting started here, so any friendly faces are more than welcome."
Akira laughed, a sound like tinkling bells. "Oh, you'll find plenty of those here, I'm sure. Especially once word gets out about your project. Speaking of which," she turned to include Kane in the conversation, "I understand that you're helping with the oral history project?"
Kane's eyes narrowed almost imperceptibly. "Yes, Tess will be collecting stories from various beings connected to the library."
"How fascinating!" Akira exclaimed, her eyes wide with apparent interest. "You know, I have extensive connections within the Far East supernatural communities. I'd be more than happy to help you find some unique perspectives for your project."
"That would be wonderful, Akira. Thank you so much."
Kane cleared his throat. "While that's a generous offer, Akira, we should be careful not to overwhelm Tess on her first day. Perhaps we can discuss this further once she's had a chance to settle in."
"Of course, of course. No rush at all. I'm just excited to help however I can."
She turned back to me. "Tess, why don't we have tea sometime this week? I'd love to chat more about your project and maybe share some stories of my own."
"I'd like that," I replied, glad to be meeting potential friends.
As Akira bid us farewell and gracefully exited the room, I couldn't help but notice the tension in Kane's shoulders.
"Is everything okay?" I asked, concerned by his reaction.
Kane's expression was unreadable as he watched the door close behind Akira. "Just be careful, Tess. Not everyone's motives are as transparent as they seem."
???
Glancing at my desk, I took in the mountain of work that lay ahead. With a sigh, I ran a hand through my hair, my mind drifting back to the encounter with Kane. His aloof nature had been challenging, but there was an undeniable intensity to our conversation that left me feeling oddly invigorated.
A sharp rap on the door jolted me from my thoughts. Before I could respond, Pippa burst in, her energy filling the room.
"Tess!" she exclaimed, her high-pitched voice carrying a playful admonishment. "It's your first day, and you've been holed up in here long enough. Time to come out and see the world beyond these dusty old books!"
I blinked, feeling heat rise to my cheeks at the abrupt intrusion. "Pippa, I was just—"
"No arguments." She wagged her finger at me, cutting off my protest. "I'm dragging you to the dining hall in the Dormitory. You need food and social interaction. Plus, everyone should experience the glorious chaos that is lunch there at least once."
With a sigh and a reluctant smile, I set aside my notebook. "Okay, okay. Lead the way."
Pippa's face lit up with a triumphant grin. She looped her arm through mine, practically pulling me from the office. "It'll be fun, I promise!"
As we navigated the Library's winding corridors towards the exit, my earlier weariness gave way to a growing excitement. This was my first day, and the overwhelming grandeur of my surroundings still took my breath away. The air seemed to buzz with ancient magic, making the hairs on my arms stand on end.
We stepped out into the bright midday sun, squinting as our eyes adjusted to the light.
"The dining hall's on the ground floor of the Dormitory," Pippa explained. "It's where most of the social life happens around here, especially during lunch."
We climbed the steps and pushed through the heavy wooden doors. The buzz of voices and clinking cutlery grew louder as Pippa led me down a wide hallway.
"Ready?" she asked, pausing before another set of doors.
I nodded, taking a deep breath.
Pippa pushed the doors open. My steps faltered as I took in the sight before me.
"Welcome to the dining hall!" Pippa announced.
Long tables stretched beneath a ceiling so high I had to crane my neck to see it. Enchanted chandeliers floated overhead, casting a warm, golden glow that danced across the faces of the diners. The rich aroma of roasted meats and freshly baked bread hit me, and my stomach growled in response.
As we made our way towards the food, I couldn't help but stare. A hulking figure at one table made the chair beneath him look like doll furniture. At another, a woman with luminous skin and eyes like starlight delicately sipped from a goblet.
"Not too busy tonight," Pippa remarked, nudging me forward. "Most of the Dragon Rider applicants and instructors prefer to stay on the weekends for training and study."
"Who else eats here?" I asked, my eyes darting from one extraordinary being to another.
"Oh, you know, the usual crowd. Library staff, Dragon Riders, applicants," Pippa said with a shrug, as if it were the most normal thing in the world. "It's where everyone connected to the Library and the Guild comes together."
As we approached the food stations, the hairs on the back of my neck stood up. Whispers followed us, and I could feel curious glances like pinpricks on my skin. I kept my chin up, mimicking Pippa's confident stride as I ladled some hearty stew onto my plate and grabbed a chunk of bread.
"Don't worry, Tess," Pippa whispered, giving my hand a quick squeeze. "They're just curious. You'll be fine."
I nodded, not trusting my voice. My mother's voice echoed in my head, reminding me how I never quite fit in. I pushed the thought away and focused on following Pippa to an empty table.
"So, how was your first day?" Pippa asked as we sat down. "Did you get to explore the library much?"
I managed a smile, grateful for the distraction. "It's been... a lot. But amazing."
As I recounted my day, I felt my shoulders start to relax. But then—
"What's a human doing here? Seems like the standards really are dropping around here," a silky voice cut through the air, followed by a ripple of laughter.
My words died in my throat, heat rising to my cheeks.
"Must be lost," another voice chimed in. "Humans don't belong in places like this."
Pippa's usual vibrant smile faded, her brows knitting together. She leaned in close. "See the woman with the raven hair? That's Selena Nightshade."
I turned slightly, my gaze landing on a figure that seemed to draw light into herself. Midnight hair cascaded down her back, framing a face of ethereal beauty. Her eyes, a piercing blue, met mine. One perfectly sculpted eyebrow arched in challenge, her lips curving into a smirk.
As if summoned by our whispers, Selena and a towering man beside her began to move towards us. They glided between the tables, their very presence parting the crowd.
"Well, well," Selena's voice cut through the air, sharp as a blade and dripping with false sweetness. "What have we here? A new face amongst us mere mortals. And a human, no less."
I met her gaze steadily. "I'm Tess Whittaker, the new librarian," I said, my voice clear and firm. "And you must be Selena. It's a pleasure to meet you."
Selena's eyes narrowed slightly, perhaps surprised by my composure. "A librarian... honestly, I'm surprised they let you in here. A magicless human? It's almost cute."
Her words hit me like a splash of cold water, reminding me of my outsider status. I felt my confidence waver, but I pushed through. "Magic isn't everything," I replied, aiming for a casual tone but hearing a slight defensiveness creep in. "Knowledge has its own power."
The man next to Selena let out a low chuckle. "Listen to her, Selena. She thinks she belongs here."
I swallowed hard, feeling my earlier bravado start to slip. "And you are?" I asked.
"Valen," he growled, his red eyes gleaming. "Remember it, human. You'll be hearing it a lot."
I took a deep breath. "Well, Valen, Selena, I'm here to work, same as anyone else. I don't see why that should be a problem."
Selena's laughed. "Oh, it's a problem because you're out of your depth, little human. This isn't your world."
Her words struck a nerve, echoing my own doubts. "Look," I said, hating the slight tremor that had crept into my voice, "I just want to eat my lunch in peace."
"Peace?" Valen sneered. "You'll find precious little of that here, human. Not when you're pretending to be something you're not."
"Why don't you pick on someone your own size?" Pippa's voice cracked like a whip, startling me. Her usual cheer had vanished, replaced by a steely edge I hadn't known she possessed.
Selena's eyes glittered with malice as they flicked between us. "There's no need. Little Tess here needs to learn the pecking order before she gets hurt."
"You don't get to decide who belongs," I managed to say, but the words came out as barely more than a whisper.
"Oh, Miss Whittaker, you really are something," Selena sneered. "Thinking you're equal to us."
I felt myself shrinking inward. I was acutely aware of every pair of eyes on us, every whisper, every judgmental glance. It was as if all my fears of not belonging were being confirmed.
Suddenly, from the corner of my eye, I noticed something strange. The air seemed to shimmer slightly, and I saw a wisp of shadow move across the floor—subtle yet distinct. It coiled around Selena’s ankle with an almost sentient fluidity.
Was I imagining things? I blinked hard, trying to clear my vision.
A moment later, Selena stumbled, losing her balance and crashing into one of the tables, sending plates and cutlery clattering to the floor. Gasps and murmurs rippled through the dining hall as all eyes turned toward the scene.
Selena's face flushed a deep crimson as she scrambled to regain her composure, glaring daggers in my direction. "You'll pay for this," she hissed. "See you around, Tess."
With that, she and Valen stalked off, leaving a tangible chill in their wake.
I sat there, stunned, my mind racing. What had just happened? That shadow... had it been real, or just a product of my stressed imagination? And if it was real, who or what had caused it?
Pippa's hand on my arm brought me back to reality. "Are you okay, Tess?" she asked.
I nodded slowly, remembering Selena’s final threat. "I think so. That was... intense."
"Don't let them get to you," Pippa said firmly. "They're just bullies. You have every right to be here."
But despite Pippa's reassurances, I couldn't shake the feeling that I’d just made some very dangerous enemies.