Page 14 of Tempest Awakening
"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!"
