Chapter 12:The Towering Castle

I couldn't shake the feeling that something was off about Diago's sudden friendliness towards Oliver. I had known Diago for a while now, and he was usually more guarded around strangers. But now he was acting like they were old friends.

As we walked towards the nearest bar, I couldn't help but feel like something was off. Diago was being too friendly, and Oliver was too trusting. It was almost like they had met before, but I couldn't be sure.

"Hey guys, have you heard of the new bar that just opened up down the street?" Diago asked, while putting a smile on his face.

Oliver looked intrigued. "No, I haven't. What's it called?"

"It's called The Midnight Garden," Diago said with a smile. "It's supposed to have a really cool atmosphere and some unique drinks."

Oliver nodded in agreement. "That sounds like a great idea. Let's check it out."

As we made our way to The Midnight Garden, I couldn't help but feel like something was off about Diago's sudden interest in this bar. He was usually more into sports bars and places with pool tables, not upscale cocktail lounges.

As we entered the bar, I saw the reason for Diago's interest. The bartender was a stunning woman with long blonde hair and a tight-fitting dress. Diago had always been a bit of a ladies' man, and I could tell that he was interested in making a move.

"Hey there, beautiful," Diago said, flashing his trademark grin. "What do you recommend?"

The bartender smiled back, her eyes sparkling. "I recommend the 'Midnight Kiss.' It's a mix of vodka, blackberry, and champagne. Perfect for a special occasion."

Diago nodded, his eyes still fixed on the bartender. "Sounds perfect. Three of those, please."

I remembered that I'm still a minor and couldn't drink. "Actually, make that two," I said, putting a hand on Diago's shoulder. "I can't drink yet."

Diago rolled his eyes, clearly annoyed. "Come on, man. Don't be such a buzzkill."

I shook my head. "Sorry, Diago. It's not worth breaking the law over."

As they sipped their drinks and chatted, I couldn't help but feel like Diago was still acting strange. He kept glancing over at the bartender and making suggestive comments, even though she clearly wasn't interested.

I watched Diago continue to flirt with the bartender, I couldn't help but feel a sense of frustration. It was clear that he wasn't interested in spending time with us, but was only using us as a cover to hit on the bartender.

"God Diago your one perverted basterd"

But Diago barely acknowledged me, too busy trying to charm the bartender.

So I decided to make an excuse and leave, not wanting to be a part of this game. "Hey guys, I'm just goona take a walk. I said, standing up from my seat. "So I'm gonna head out."

Oliver looked at me with concern. "Do you need a ride or anything?"

I shook my head, feeling a bit embarrassed. "No, it's okay. I'm just gonna take a walk i wouldn't go that far besides these place is not for me."

Oliver nodded, still looking worried. "Alright, just be careful, "

I smiled, feeling grateful for Oliver's concern. "Thanks, man. I appreciate it."

As I walked down the street, I couldn't help but notice the incredible progress that had been made in repairing the city. The once destroyed buildings and shattered streets were now being rebuilt at an incredible pace, like a miracle was happening before my very eyes.

I heard workers were using a special type of magic called the Stone Elixir to aid in their efforts. The Stone Elixir was a rare and powerful substance that had been long sought after for its unique abilities.

Unlike other forms of magic, the Stone Elixir could only be used for construction and making tools. It was said to have the ability to transform raw materials into strong and durable structures, making it an invaluable resource for rebuilding efforts.

The Stone Elixir was created by combining a rare mineral found deep beneath the earth with a mixture of other natural ingredients. The process was incredibly complex and required a great deal of skill and knowledge to master.

Once created, the Stone Elixir was carefully applied to the building materials, imbuing them with a strength and resilience that defied explanation. The result was buildings that were not only beautiful, but also incredibly sturdy and long-lasting.

Even though the Stone Elixir was a powerful substance, it was not invincible. In fact, it was vulnerable to attacks from powerful monsters like the one who destroyed it in the first place.

As I continued walking alone, lost in thought, a stranger disturbed my reverie. I felt a tap on my back. When I turned around, I came face to face with a familiar countenance.

I queried "Sophia,Maya what brings you here?"

Sophia was wearing a denim jacket over a white t-shirt, paired with black skinny jeans and white sneakers. Her hair was tied up in a messy bun, and she had a shopping bag slung over her shoulder.

"What do you mean what brings us here I'm the one who should be asking you that" Sophia said.

I was taken aback by Sophia's response. It seemed like there was some confusion between us. Maya, standing beside Sophia, looked just as perplexed.

I'm sorry, Lloyd," Maya replied, sheepishly. "She's angry because the store clerk refused to give her the discount she requested on her clothing."

On the other hand Maya was wearing a flowy floral dress, paired with a and white sandals and Her cropped hair hair styled in messy layers.

Lloyd chuckled, "Sophia, always trying to get a deal. I'm surprised the clerk didn't give in. Maybe he was intimidated by her."

Sophia glared at Lloyd, her anger turning into rage. "What's so funny? You think it's okay for people to treat me unfairly?"

Lloyd put up his hands in defense, "No, no, of course not. I'm just saying, you know how to get what you want."

Sophia huffed and crossed her arms, "I don't appreciate your jokes. I'm serious about my money."

Maya, sensing the tension between Sophia and Lloyd, decided to change the subject. "So, what brings you to this part of town, Lloyd?"

I smiled, while touching my backhead. "Actually, I'm here to get fixed."

Maya and Sophia looked confused at my statement. "What do you mean by 'get fixed'?" Sophia asked.

I realized my mistake and explained, "Sorry, I meant to say that I'm here to visit a nearby hospital. I got hurt during the incident."

"Oh, okay. Is it serious?" Maya asked.

I shrugged, "I don't think so, but I broke my arm and leg's, but it got healed."

Maya looked concerned, "how did it happen did the building collapse on you or some thing."

I chucked and said "If the building collapsed on me i wouldn't be here,

I smiled, trying to alleviate any concern. "Don't worry, Maya. It wasn't as dramatic as that. I was just in the wrong place at the wrong time and got caught in the crossfire of a monster attack."

Sophia looked sympathetic. "That must have been scary, Lloyd. I'm glad you're okay now."

I nodded, "Yeah. So where are you guys heading to?"

"I'm actually heading to the library," Maya replied. "I'm doing some research for my school project I'm working on."

Sophia chimed in, "And I'm just taking this clothes and try them on."

"Oh, that sounds like fun, Sophia. Did you find something you like?" I asked.

Sophia smiled, "Yes, I did. But that bastard didn't give me any discount. The dress cost me more than I could afford."

I chuckled and said, "Well, I'm sure it looks amazing on you."

Sophia widen her eyes like she was in a horror movie, "Ofcourse it will look good on me."

Trying to change the subject I quickly turned over Maya "Maya, do you mind if I join you at the library?" I asked.

Maya turned to me, looking surprised. "Of course not, Lloyd. Is there something specific you want to check out?"

I nodded, "Actually, there is something i neef to find and the library might be good start... "

"Yo Lloyd i thought you were going for a walk"

I turned to see Diago and Oliver coming. "Hey, Diago. Are done with your flirting."

Diago grinned, "What do you mean, Lloyd? I was just being friendly with the bartender."

I rolled my eyes, not believing him. "Yeah, sure you were."

Diago walked over to where we were standing and greeted Maya and Sophia with a smile. "Hey there, ladies. What brings you to this part of town?"

Sophia held up her shopping bag, "Just doing some shopping. I got this dress and some other stuff."

Diago looked impressed, "Wow, Sophia. You sure know how to shop. You must have emptied out the store."

Sophia rolled her eyes, not amused by Diago's joke. "Ha ha, very funny. Why don't you have self control when you're surrounded by people."

Diago chuckled, "Hey, I may have not self control but I can still exercise restraint. Just watch me resist the temptation of that pizza over there."

Maya looked at Diago, "What about you, Diago? What brings you here?"

Diago shrugged, "Just hanging out with Lloyd and Oliver. We decided to check out this new bar down the street."

Sophia raised an eyebrow, "A bar? You're not usually into that kind of thing, Diago."

Diago grinned, "Well, I'm trying to expand my horizons. Plus, there's a cute bartender there."

Sophia shook her head, "Typical Diago."

I chimed in, "Actually, I was just about to head to the library with Maya. Do you guys want to join us?"

Diago looked surprised, "The library? Why would we want to go there?"

Maya explained, "I'm doing some research for a school project. And Lloyd is looking for something."

Diago looked skeptical, "I don't know, Maya. I'm not really into studying. I think I'm gonna pass."

"What about you Oliver where are you heading to" I asked Oliver who was standing in the sidelines.

"Actually, I think I'm going to head home now,"

Sophia nodded, "Yeah, I think I'm going to head home too. I have some work to do."

Diago looked at Sophia, "Work? Come on, Sophia, why lie. I know you got nothing to do

Sophia rolled her eyes at Diago's comment. "Excuse me, Diago, but just because I don't want to go to the library it doesn't mean I'm lying about having work to do."

Maya stepped in, "Okay, let's not argue. We can all do what we want. Diago, if you don't want to come to the library, that's fine. Oh and Mister, if you want to head home, that's okay too. But Lloyd and I are still going."

Diago shrugged, "Alright, suit yourself. Just don't expect me to come running if you need help with anything."

Maya smiled, "Don't worry, Diago. We can handle ourselves."

I interjected, my voice calm and collected, "Maya is right, Diago. We don't need your help. We'll manage just fine."

Diago crossed his arms, a mischievous grin forming on his face. "Oh, I see how it is. You think you can handle anything, huh? Well, let's see if you can find what you're looking for without my expertise."

I rolled my eyes, refusing to let Diago's teasing get to me. "We'll manage, Diago. Don't worry about us."

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As I and maya are heading to the grand library.Im still fascinated by the library structure.

The library was located in Towering skyscrapers loomed The library itself is a towering structure that rises high above the city skyline.

It is made of a combination of ancient stone and sleek metal, with shimmering glass windows that reflect the surrounding cityscape.

At the entrance to the library, there is a grand plaza with a fountain at its center.

The fountain is a work of art, with streams of water that arc through the air, guided by a combination of magic and technology.

The plaza is surrounded by tall trees and lush gardens, providing a tranquil space for visitors to relax and reflect before entering the library.

The library is surrounded by a moat, just like in the fantasy world, but this time it is a high-tech moat with shimmering water that glows with a faint blue light.

The moat is guarded by a group of magical constructs that are part robot and part mythical beast, whose eyes glow with a fierce energy.

The library is also surrounded by a network of high-tech sensors and magical wards that protect the books and artifacts from theft and damage.

These wards are made of glowing symbols that pulse with energy, and they are maintained by a group of wizards and engineers who work together to keep the library safe.

The inside of the library is a wonder to behold, with a seamless blend of ancient magic and cutting-edge technology.

As we entered the library, they we are greeted by a grand entrance hall that is both majestic and welcoming.

The hall are adorned with intricate carvings and mosaics that depict the history of knowledge and innovation.

The main reading room is a vast space, with high ceilings and a combination of natural and artificial light.

The walls are lined with traditional wooden bookshelves, interspersed with high-tech holographic displays that showcase the latest research and discoveries.

The reading room are divided into different sections, each dedicated to a different area of study.

Visitors should be able to use the library's advanced search system to locate the books and information we need, and we should be able to access the books and data using a combination of traditional methods and high-tech devices.

In addition to the traditional reading area, the library have also have a high-tech study lab, where visitors can access the latest technology and software to aid in our research.

The lab are equipped with state-of-the-art computers, 3D printers, and virtual reality displays that allow visitors to immerse themselves in our research.