Chapter 7

Aeta’s thoughts meandered through the day’s events, from her visit to Castle Eradus and her conversation with the royal family, to the sudden attack by demons and the rescue of the otherworlder victims. She contemplated the unusual circumstances that had brought her old crush, Hikaru, to this world and their subsequent reunion. Her accomplishments in mastering various forms of magic, summoning spirits, and creating creatures filled her with a sense of accomplishment.

Despite the challenges and the chaos she had encountered, Aeta felt a deep sense of purpose and belonging in this world. She realized that her magical abilities were growing stronger, and she was making friends who shared her goals and values. Aeta knew that there was much more to explore and discover in Nirvalisium, and she was determined to make the most of her new life in this fascinating and magical realm.

With a sense of anticipation for what the future held, Aeta drifted off into peaceful slumber, her dreams filled with visions of the enchanting world she was now a part of.

The dream she had witnessed that night appeared to be reoccurring once more, as her dream-self visited the same library in the same forest. While Aeta wished it, her dream didn’t allow her to see the outside forest, just the glimpses, but she allowed her dream to continue and just went along for the ride.

In her recurring dream, Aeta found that she was once again in the mystical library nestled within the enchanting forest. The air was filled with an aura of ancient wisdom and serenity. As before, she couldn’t see the forest beyond, but it drew her to the knowledge contained within the library’s sacred walls.

She explored the library further, seeking answers or insights it might offer. The shelves were lined with countless tomes and scrolls, and the whispers of forgotten knowledge seemed to echo through the air. Aeta’s dream-self wandered through the aisles, her curiosity piqued by the secrets hidden within the pages.

It was a dream, yet it felt so vivid, as if she was truly in the presence of something profound. Aeta was eager to uncover what this dream might reveal or what significance it held for her in her new life in Nirvalisium and on the continent.

Aeta’s dream-self continued to move through the library, the blurred tomes on the shelves remained out of reach. It was as if her dream self was searching for something specific, but couldn’t quite grasp it. The dream maintained an air of mystery, leaving her with a sense of unfulfilled curiosity.

Aeta might have felt a yearning to discover what lay within those elusive tomes or to find the key that could bring clarity to this recurring dream. However, the dream seemed to withhold its secrets for the time being, guiding her on an enigmatic journey through the library’s hallowed halls.

Aeta’s dream had certainly taken an intriguing turn with the mention of the word “Ulavava” and the mysterious figure with antlers. As she awoke, the dream left her with a sense of intrigue and curiosity, wondering if it held any deeper meaning or if it was merely a product of her subconscious.

She might consider delving further into this dream, exploring its connections to her waking life, and keeping an eye out for any recurring symbols or themes. Dreams can sometimes provide valuable insights or guidance, and Aeta’s recurring dream might hold the key to something significant in her journey.

Eliyen arrived soon after and noticed Aeta was awake. “Oh! You’re awake. Good morning, my lady!” she said with a smile on her face.

“Good morning, Eliyen,” Aeta greeted with a smile. She briefly shared the details of her dream with Eliyen, and her curiosity about the word “ulavava” and the mysterious figure. “I wonder if it’s just a dream or if it has some significance,” she pondered. Aeta then got up and prepared for the day ahead, looking forward to exploring the possibilities of her magic and the new friends she’d made.

Eliyen blinked her eyes as she listened. “Ulavava, and you say you were in a library? I wonder if it’s the grand library in Pauklaran.” she said, then her eyes widened “If that’s so, then Nirvalise the continent itself wishes for you to go to there. My lady, has this been the first time you saw this dream, this place? As for Ulavava, that’s Deerkin, ancient Deerkin, rare few tribes still speak it.”

Aeta listened intently to Eliyen’s explanation. “That’s fascinating. I wonder why the continent wishes for me to go there, to the grand library. This wasn’t the first time I’ve had this dream, or at least the first time I remember having it,” she replied. The idea that it might be an ancient Deerkin language intrigued her.

As they got ready for the day, Aeta couldn’t help but think about the library and the potential significance of the dream. She made a mental note to learn more about Deerkin and their language, ulavava.

Eliyen looked over as she finished getting her lady’s outfit ready. “The grand library is a place lost to time and has been for nearly older than my eldest grandfather, who is the eldest of the elders to my people. For an earth example you might be familiar with, would be the library of Alexandra, or perhaps Atlantis, and now that I think of it, Sumeria too.”

Aeta’s eyes widened at Eliyen’s description. “The grand library is that old? It’s incredible that such a place still exists. I’ve heard of the Library of Alexandria and Atlantis, though they were lost to time, as you mentioned. If the grand library is anything like them, it must hold immense knowledge and secrets. I’d love to visit it and explore its treasures,” Aeta said, her curiosity piqued.

Eliyen nodded her head. “Indeed, and the word you mentioned, ancient Deerkin word? Your people, the Deerkin, are likely the ones who have rediscovered it, but they share few secrets, and have not yet even mentioned finding it.”

Aeta nodded, her mind whirring with thoughts and questions. “It’s fascinating that my people, the Deerkin, have possibly rediscovered this ancient language and kept it a secret. I wonder what they know about it and why they haven’t shared it more widely. I should look into this more when I have the chance.” She then smiled at Eliyen. “Thank you for telling me about this, Eliyen. It’s given me something intriguing to ponder.”

Eliyen nodded “The language, and the library itself, My lady, fortunately, you are Deerkin, as Fauns are the female form of the race, but even so, if we are going to look into this, preparations should be done, and some things you might not like. For example, you remember what the younger Crown Prince Alaric’s comments were, about Fauns wearing clothes? Deerkin are ... naturists.” she said.

Aeta considered Eliyen’s words. “I understand that cultural differences can be significant, but if this library and the knowledge it holds are as important as they seem, I’m willing to adapt and respect their traditions, even if it’s different from what I’m used to. Knowledge and understanding are what matter most to me.” She paused for a moment. “However, I would appreciate it if you could help me learn more about their culture and traditions. And of course, help with any preparations that may be needed.”

Eliyen nodded her head. “Certainly, as a Wood Elf, it is likely I’ll be welcome. I will accompany you as we go on our journey. I do have both bad news and good news, the bad news is we will not be able to use a carriage, not even the dimension we used when we brought you to the Provincial Capital or the Capital of the Continent, we will be going on food, but good news, is Wood elves have outposts, throughout the forests so at least we will be safe, and warm.”

Aeta nodded in understanding. “Walking through the forest sounds like an adventure in itself, and I’m sure it will be a memorable experience. I’m grateful for your guidance and company, Eliyen.” She smiled warmly. “I’ll be sure to make the necessary preparations and ensure everything is in order before we embark on this journey. Knowledge, ancient languages, and understanding other cultures have always fascinated me, so I’m eager to explore the grand library.”

Eliyen nodded her head. “Once you’re ready, we shall first go to breakfast in the Manor dining hall, then we return here. Tomoe will get our food and water prepared, but unfortunately, she will have to stay back in the capital.” She said.

Aeta nodded in agreement. “Alright, let’s start with breakfast. I’ll make sure to get everything ready for the journey ahead. Thank you for your guidance, Eliyen. I’m excited to explore this ancient library and uncover more about it and our heritage.” She got up from her bed and began to prepare herself for the day ahead.

Eliyen thought silently about Aeta’s dreams, and about the fact that the lost library would soon be found was a surprising revelation, to be sure. She wasn’t worried about the predators that might be interested in eating them though, as Aeta’s Pan’s blessing would protect Aeta from them.

As they made their way to breakfast, Aeta’s mind was filled with curiosity and anticipation about the upcoming adventure. The prospect of discovering a long-lost library and uncovering secrets about her heritage filled her with excitement. She couldn’t wait to begin this journey and explore the mysterious library she had seen in her dreams.

As they entered the manor dining hall, they spotted Lord Augustus and Lady Emina, looking well as could be. “Your Majesties!” Tomoe and Eliyen said at the same time, pleased to see them up and about since the attack.

Lord Augustus and Lady Emina smiled warmly at Tomoe and Eliyen’s greetings. “Good Morning, dear friends,” Lord Augustus said. “It’s good to see you again. How are you all doing?”

Lady Emina added, “Yes, we’ve heard about your efforts during the recent attack. You have our gratitude.”

Aeta chimed in, “We’re all well, and we were just discussing a journey we’re planning to undertake to investigate a mysterious library that I’ve seen in my dreams. It might hold important information about our world and heritage.”

Lord Augustus raised his eyebrow. “A mysterious library you’ve seen in your dreams, fascinating.” He said before Eliyen spoke, “Forgive me my lord, the mysterious library she speaks of is the grand library in Pauklaran.” she said, which caused a gasp from everyone present. “But I thought that place has been lost to time.” Lady Emina said, looking surprised.

Aeta nodded, “Yes, that’s correct. The library is said to have been lost to time for centuries, but I saw it in my dreams. It’s a place of immense knowledge, and I believe that there might be crucial information within its walls that could help us in the times to come.”

Lord Augustus exchanged a glance with Lady Emina before turning back to Aeta. “This is an extraordinary discovery, my dear. To think that you might hold the key to uncovering this lost library is remarkable. However, I must advise caution. Journeys of this nature are not to be taken lightly, especially into the depths of the forest.”

Lady Emina added, “Yes, the forest can be a treacherous place, and the library’s location is uncertain. You should prepare well and perhaps consult with the wood elves for guidance. They are the protectors of the forest.”

Aeta nodded, taking their concerns to heart. “I understand, and I will do everything in my power to prepare for this journey. I don’t wish to rush into it without proper consideration. It’s just that I have a feeling this library holds answers, and it’s important for our world and its future.”

Lord Augustus smiled. “Your determination and sense of responsibility are admirable. We trust your judgment, but remember, you’re not alone in this. Lean on your friends and allies when you need them. We’ll support you as well.”

Lady Emina added, “You have our blessings, my dear. May you find the answers you seek and return to us, safely.”

Aeta felt a warm sense of reassurance and gratitude for her parents’ understanding and support. “Thank you, Mother, Father. I promise to be careful and make you proud.” With the blessings of her parents, Aeta felt more confident about the journey ahead.

Lord Augustus nodded his head before turning to Eliyen. “Eliyen, I entrust my daughter to you once more, as I have previously. Keep her safe, and Tomoe, I’d like you to remain back and give our archers further training.” He said to her before he turned his head back to Aeta. “By the way, the Otherworlders are out of our medical centers. I’ve allowed them to inhabit a special area in the city, all to themselves. I’ve further permitted them to train new skills, other than the ones the demons forced them to use.”

Aeta listened to her father’s instructions and the news about the Otherworlders. “Thank you, Father, for your trust and the accommodations you’ve made for the Otherworlders. I’ll ensure that Eliyen and I take all the necessary precautions during our journey, and I promise to make the best of the time in the grand library.”

Eliyen and Tomoe both nodded in agreement. They were committed to their duties and to keeping Aeta safe.

Lord Augustus smiled at his daughter. “I have no doubt that you will, Aeta. You’ve already achieved so much, and I know you’ll continue to make us proud. Safe travels, and may the knowledge you seek aid us all.” With that, they continued their breakfast, discussing the journey ahead, and the preparation needed to venture into the depths of the forest in search of the elusive library.

With breakfast soon finished, they returned, and Eliyen began teaching Aeta the Deerkin language, patiently making sure she understood, though understandable, that it was difficult for her. Tomoe had left to prepare their food, as well as things they’d need on the journey.

Eliyen patiently guided Aeta through the basics of the Deerkin language, helping her with pronunciation and vocabulary. Aeta was a quick learner, and her commitment to understanding the language was evident. She repeated words and phrases, trying to mimic Eliyen’s pronunciation as closely as possible.

As they continued the lessons, Aeta couldn’t help but feel excited about the upcoming journey to the grand library, and the potential knowledge they could discover there. The dream she had experienced added an air of mystique to the adventure, and with Eliyen’s guidance, she made steady progress in learning the basics of Deerkin. She was eager to immerse herself in the culture and explore the lost library.

Eliyen continued the lesson for what seemed to be a few more hours before finally it was done. “I think that’s all I can teach you, my lady,” she said to the Faun.

Aeta felt a sense of accomplishment as she completed her language lesson. “Thank you, Eliyen. I appreciate your patience and guidance. I’ll do my best to learn more as the time comes, when we make it to the grand library,” she said with a smile.

As they prepared for their journey, she couldn’t help but think about the mysteries and knowledge they might uncover at the grand library. The dreams and visions she had experienced added an intriguing layer to their quest. With their provisions ready and her newfound knowledge of the Deerkin language, Aeta was eager to embark on their adventure.

The duo made their way to the City gates and walked out silently as they entered the woods. Eliyen took Aeta to a secluded spot, where they began removing their clothes. Eliyen had to help Aeta with some of the more troublesome parts of her outfit.

Now wearing nothing only in their skin, Eliyen continued leading, keeping her eyes out as they went. “I arrived like this,” Aeta couldn’t help but comment. “How I am now I mean, Faun, and no belongings.” She said to Eliyen as they continued to walk, thinking conversation might be appropriate to pass the time.

Eliyen nodded and glanced at Aeta as they walked. “Indeed, my lady. It is the way of your people, and we respect that. Many Fauns prefer to be closer to nature and embrace their natural forms. In the end, it’s about being in harmony with the world around you. The women, the Fauns, they have a unique connection to the forests and the earth, much like the Deerkin do. It’s a deep, spiritual bond.”

As they ventured deeper into the forest, Eliyen explained more about the Deerkin, their customs, and how they had remained hidden from the outside world for centuries. The journey was long, but they kept moving, seeking the grand library that had appeared in Aeta’s dreams, hoping it would hold answers and perhaps even more.

Aeta nodded as she walked with Eliyen. “Think I’d be able to learn more about my people? I’m an otherworlder, but I am still a Deerkin, though the female form of them.” She said to Eliyen as she looked around, and then stopped. “I think I saw something in the trees. “ She said, and as they looked, they saw the Wood Elves, Eliyen’s people. Aeta wondered if Eliyen knew the members of this group.

Eliyen glanced at the group of Wood Elves and smiled. “These are my kin, my lady. I know many of them.” She approached them and exchanged words in their native language, welcoming her companions. The Wood Elves seemed curious about Aeta, but showed no hostility. They offered fruit and clean water to refresh themselves and allowed Aeta to rest briefly.

Aeta felt a sense of serenity in this tranquil part of the forest, surrounded by the Wood Elves and the lush, ancient trees. She could sense the harmony between the different races that inhabited this forest, and it was a beautiful sight to behold. The Wood Elves shared some of their forest wisdom and stories with Aeta, and she absorbed every word with great interest.

After their brief rest, they continued their journey, guided by Eliyen’s knowledge of the forest. As they ventured deeper, the trees became more ancient and mysterious, and Aeta couldn’t shake the feeling that they were getting closer to the library that had appeared in her dreams.

Aeta felt honored to learn what Eliyen’s kin wanted to tell her, and as they continued their journey, they thought of what she had learned. The important of which she knew was where a tribe of Deerkin was located. In addition, this tribe was much more open to guests than the other tribes were. She hoped that this tribe could tell them where the library they sought was.

As they ventured deeper into the forest with the navigation of Eliyen, Aeta couldn’t help but feel a growing sense of anticipation and excitement about the mysterious library from her dreams. She hoped that the tribe of Deerkin they were headed to would have the information they needed to locate the library and uncover its secrets.

The ancient forest was rich with wildlife and enchanting sights, and the presence of Wood Elves, and now the prospect of meeting Deerkin filled the journey with a sense of adventure and discovery. Aeta knew that they were stepping into the unknown, and she was eager to learn more about her own people and the hidden knowledge that awaited her in the ancient library.

As they continued their journey, the forest seemed to grow denser and more magical, creating an atmosphere of wonder and enchantment. Aeta felt grateful for the guidance and companionship of Eliyen and her people as they embarked on this extraordinary quest to uncover the secrets of the lost library.

The group soon came to a stone structure, which seemed to Aeta to be an altar. The Wood Elves set down packs that appeared to be similar to the ones Eliyen and Aeta had, and Aeta watched as they placed plants over the altar and placed their hands together to pray. “That’s the altar to the God of Nature, Pan,” Eliyen whispered to Aeta before she too placed her hands together.

Aeta observed the solemnity with which the Wood Elves approached the stone altar, understanding that it held a deep spiritual significance to them. She couldn’t help but be drawn into the reverence of the moment, despite not sharing the same beliefs. The connection between nature and the divine was universal, and she respected the Wood Elves’ faith in Pan, the God of Nature. With Eliyen beside her, they both paid their respects to Pan, embracing the unity and sacredness of nature. Aeta felt a sense of awe at the tranquil surroundings and the harmony that existed in this ancient forest.

As the Wood Elves completed their rituals, Aeta couldn’t help but wonder if their journey would bring them closer to understanding the connection between the ancient library and the natural world. The forest held its secrets close, and she was determined to unveil them in her quest for knowledge.

Aeta also remembered one of her species’ special skills was Pan’s Blessing, and as they completed the ritual, she felt warmth and a welcoming feeling. And with the feeling of the warmth and welcoming embrace of Pan’s Blessing, Aeta found herself deeply connected to the natural world, as her faun heritage allowed her to tap into the divine energy of the forest. It was a profound experience, a reminder of the unique bond she shared with the environment.

With a newfound sense of reverence and harmony with nature, Aeta felt that she was on the right path, guided by something larger than herself. As they continued their journey, she carried this connection with her, aware that it might play a pivotal role in their search for the ancient library.

The forest’s secrets were still veiled, but Aeta had faith that she was moving closer to uncovering them, with the help of her companions and the guidance of the Wood Elves.

As their journey continued, night began to fall, and the wood elves turned towards the tree before vines came down and whisked them up into the boughs of the trees. Eliyen took Aeta’s hand and led her to the tree before the same thing happened, and they soon found themselves in front of a literal tree house. “Wood Elf Magic,” Eliyen explained, as she led Aeta towards it. “We’ll stay here tonight.”