3 Chamber of Secrets

Lucian entered the hidden chamber, finding it filled with a variety of items. On the right side, there was a bookshelf with a collection of books.

To the left, an expansive shelf stretched the length of the chamber, holding an assortment of glass containers gilled with mysterious herbs, liquids, unusual rocks, and metals

In the heart of the chamber stood a dust covered chair paired with a table. On the tabletop lay a silver knife, clearly used for intricate rituals. Scattered around it were candles of various colors, including pure white. Beside them, a revolver, its metal surface carved with sigils that seemed to pulse with a faint, golden glow. The grip, made from what appeared to be ancient bones.

Lucian paced slowly, his gaze sweeping over the left shelf.

Merlow's roots, Graveyard dirt, Moonflower petals, Moonwater, Moon quartz, Devil's black clover, Sunfire orchid...

Each container held unknown herbs, liquids, and rocks. Lucian was captivated, his mind whirring with possibilities.

Lucian realized that his pursuits went beyond mere study; this was a place of active ritual and years of dedicated collection.

Approaching the center, he examined the table, contemplating the utility of the revolver. The grip, crafted from ancient bones, sent a shiver of cold through his hand. His eyes traced the intricate sigils etched into the metal. With a click, he opened the cylinder, revealing a chamber full of bullets. This weapon was clearly extraordinary, and he wondered about its potential.

Securing the revolver at his waist, Lucian turned his attention to the ritual knife. A subtle spark, like static electricity, danced at his touch. He positioned it alongside the gun.

Moving to the bookshelf on the right, he carefully selected two volumes. Their titles, "Diverse Devotions" and "Chronicles of Sun," intrigued him.

As he lingered, a whisper reached him, softer this time, devoid of the previous shivers.

"Retrieve the ritual ingredients. You'll need them," advised an unknown female voice.

Lucian inquired cautiously, "Is there any risk in performing the ritual?"

"No need for concern," reassured the voice.

With a nod, Lucian gathered moonwater and a white candle, intending to acquire salt from the kitchen later.

His mind still dwelled on the shadowy figure from the previous night, and he reasoned that this ritual might hold the key to his survival.

Opening "Diverse Devotions," he delved into its pages, absorbing fresh insights and concluded.

In Valoria, the dominant faith centers around the God of the Sun; Luna is a kingdom with various faiths. Truss places faith in Goddesses of Nature and the God of Knowledge, while Wales holds steadfast belief in the God of Seas.

Each kingdom has its own places of worship.

Sailors revere the God of Seas, while doctors lean toward the Goddesses of Nature and the God of Psyche. Among scholars, faith is vested in the God of Knowledge.

People in each kingdom follow their own faith. Some may believe in more than one deity while still respecting their homeland's religion.

Additionally, there are deities of Prophecy/Fate, Death, Love, Craft and Psyche, who lack formal churches yet hold significant sway. Curiously, the texts do not explain on the absence of dedicated places of worship for these deities.

Citizens are obligated to attend church on Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays. Neglecting this duty results in a fine of seven valka notes. For the privileged nobles, tycoons, and high-middle-class, the fee is a small bother, but for the low-middle and lower classes, it becomes a substantial burden, compelling their regular attendance.

If they wish to temporarily leave the kingdom, they must promptly pay a fee of seven valka and are allowed to stay outside the kingdom for a maximum of one month per year.

Merchants and other businesses receive a physical item, a business-pass that exempts them from the fine for leaving the kingdom. They are also permitted to stay outside for a maximum of three months per year.

In every town, no matter its size, a church is present. Larger towns tend to have multiple churches. In villages, the lower classes are responsible for constructing a church, and the church sends a bishop apprentice.

Upon reaching the age of 18, every citizen is obligated to attend the designated prayer days. They undergo baptism in their respective church and are granted an amulet. These amulets vary in appearance across different kingdoms. If an amulet is destroyed, the penalty is death.

The inner workings and systems of the church remain a mystery, as nobody knows how they monitor prayer attendance. However, it is evidently an effective system.

The complexity of it all is overwhelming, I've only read a few pages and my head had started hurting.

I'll set aside the "Chronicles of Sun" for tomorrow.

Closing the book, Lucian retrieved his golden pocket watch and checked the time. It read 12:17.

A breath of fresh air sounds inviting. I'll take a walk through town, perhaps even have a cup of coffee.

Lucian carefully extinguished the gas lamp, then ascended the ladder, encountering a few clinging cobwebs and a layer of dust. He secured the trapdoor, returning everything to its rightful place.

Lucian made his way back to his room, thoughts still swirling from the discoveries below. As he approached his door, he felt uneasy; he distinctly remembered shutting it before he left.

He stopped, senses on high alert. "Someone is in my house, I'm sure of it," he whispered to himself.

With measured caution, Lucian drew his revolver from his waist, finger steady on the trigger. He inched towards the open door, ready for any threat. Stepping inside, he was met with a disheartening sight. His once neat room was now a mess.

Surveying the chaos, Lucian determined that the intruder had vanished. He carefully returned the revolver to his waist.

The wardrobe stood ajar, its contents thrown across the floor. Papers littered the room, books spread out, some on the desk, others on the floor. It was evident that the intruder had a specific mission.

His bed, once nestled in a corner, had been shifted. Lucian's heart sank as he noticed the the hidden journal missing. It had been taken by the intruder, leaving behind a void of questions.

Could it be that he was looking for the ritual paper? Was this why 'She' had urged me to remove and secure it?

Lucian trembled at the idea of what could have happened if he hadn't heeded the urgent warning from that mysterious voice. This room might have been his final resting place.

Sitting on the tilted bed, he addressed the empty room. "What would have happened if I didn't listen to 'You'?"

Silence blanketed the space until his eyes once again turned pure white, drawing him into a dream-like realm. Illusionary images flowed and told a story in case the warning was ignored.

In that realm he saw himself absorbed in his study, the figure emerging at the door, moving stealthily toward him.

He saw himself turn around, felt his heart pounding, but the figure moved quick, striking him down in what seemed like an instant.

So 'She' is protecting me.. If I hadn't done what 'She' said I would be surely killed during the intruder's search for the ritual paper

Crack

A resounding crack shattered the vision, returning him to the waking world, lying flat on the bed.

"Thank you," Lucian murmured, his gratitude sincere.

Yet, the presence remained silent, leaving him alone with his thoughts.

He stood determined, working to tidy up. He didn't want Henry to see the mess tomorrow.

Afterwards he swung open the wardrobe doors, selecting a pair of well-tailored black trousers and matching shoes. He opted for a white collared shirt, complemented by a sleek black jacket adorned with subtle light blue accents. To complete the look, he reached for a black tie and a top hat, elegantly adorned with a tasteful touch of light blue.

Outside the house...

As Lucian Wright stepped out of the house, his eyes traced the cobbled streets. They curved gracefully between the interconnected houses. Carriages passed by, each wheel echoing against the stones. On "Verona 6th" people of various ages walked about.

The residents wore elegant attire, a harmonious blend of refined fashions for women, children, and men alike. It was evident that "Verona 6th" was a street of thriving middle-class, a community that took pride in their shared surroundings.

As Lucian strolled along, his gaze swept from side to side, absorbing the exceptionally clean streets. In this neatness, he spotted a couple of people, dressed as laborers, diligently cleaning the streets.

Every now and then, he caught glimpses of inviting cafes and charming restaurants. However, Lucian opted to delve deeper into his exploration before settling into a cafe.

He checked his suit pockets, unsure if he had brought his valka notes along, fingers grazing the folded notes. His golden pocket watch found its way into his hand, revealing the time: 14:57.

The air felt different, with a slight difference from the pure quality he was used to on Earth.

As Lucian continued his exploration, he came across a small stand where a man offered cigarettes and matchsticks. Almost instinctively, he proclaimed, "Praise the Sun," accompanying the words with a closed fist placed over his heart.

A moment of realization washed over him. He couldn't deny it.

Original Lucian, indeed, really was a devoted follower of the God of Sun.

He approached the stand and asked, "Can I get a pack of cigarettes and some matches?"

"That'll be one valka," proclaimed the seller.

Lucian retrieved a valka note and handed it to the seller, who promptly exchanged it for the requested pack of cigarettes and matches. He carefully stowed them in his suit pockets.

He walked forth, entering a charming place that doubled as a restaurant and café. Inside, some people were having dinner, while others chatted over coffee and tea. Soft, muted lighting created a calm atmosphere around him. Here and there, distinguished gentlemen puffed on pipes, their fragrant exhalations drifting their way through the air, adding to the cozy atmosphere of the establishment.

He chose a corner seat in the café, avoiding the spotlight. The furniture had a dignified, old world charm, featuring dark mahogany tables and high-backed chairs. Walls adorned with warm lamps cast a gentle glow, illuminating paintings of countryside scenes. The place combined Victorian luxury with enduring coziness.

The waiter approached with a nod. "Good evening, sir. May I take your order?"

Lucian met his gaze. "Do you serve coffee? If so, I'll have a cup, please."

Following his order, Lucian took the pack of cigarettes and matches from his pocket, placing them on the table. He selected one, bringing it near his nose to savor the unfamiliar scent.

"This doesn't hold the same fragrance as the cigarettes back on Earth."

With a careful strike of the match, he ignited the tip, inhaling the smoke. A brief cough escaped him.

Cough Cough... "This is strong."

Upon inhaling the potent smoke, a gentle buzz filled Lucian's head, leaving him pleasantly light-headed. All previous thoughts and stresses melted away, replaced by a sense of detachment.

The delicious scent from a passing waiter's tray stirred Lucian's hunger. He signaled a waiter.

"Could I please have the same dish as that one over there?" he inquired.

After a short wait, both his steaming cup of coffee and the meal arrived. Sipping his brew of coffee, Lucian felt a surge of energy course through him as he savored the flavors of his meal, raising his hand once more to ask for the bill.

"Could I settle the bill now?"

"Of course, sir. That will be one valka," the waiter promptly replied.

Satisfied and with the bill settled, Lucian left the restaurant and made his way back to his house, full.

...

19:40

As night fell, Lucian delved into a history book, eager to uncover the secrets of this new world.

Beside him rested a small pouch of salt, a white candle, and a glass container filled with shimmering moon water.

So, three millennia ago, the kingdoms engaged in battles, eventually leading to truce. However, the Kingdom of Luna remained a persistent source of conflict for the others.

Then he heard a resonating voice instructing him, "It's time. Find an open field outside."