Chapter 7 The Library

With a trembling hand, I placed my fingers on the iron rings of the door. A shiver ran down my spine, and my heart began to beat faster, each pulse echoing in my ears like the drum of a funeral march. I took a deep breath, trying to calm the frantic beating of my heart. Slowly, with a strength I didn't know I possessed, I pulled on the rings. The massive door emitted a sinister creak, as if it resisted the idea of being opened after centuries of closure. The more I pushed the doors apart, the faster my heart pounded, each gained inch bringing me closer to the unknown. A musty smell wafted into the air, a scent of forgotten dust. The odor was thick, almost suffocating, making me cough slightly. I paused, my throat tight with a combination of stress and the stale air emanating from the growing opening. I gritted my teeth, determined to see this through. The doors opened further, releasing a puff of stagnant air that seemed to have been trapped for centuries. The smell grew more pronounced, eliciting grimaces of disgust, but I continued to open the door, resolved to face whatever lay beyond. My heart pounded at a frantic pace, as if it wanted to escape from my chest, but I held firm, refusing to succumb to the fear threatening to overwhelm me.

Upon entering the library, I was immediately struck by the grandeur and majesty of the place. The walls were adorned with polished dark wood, evoking a sense of warmth and comfort despite the vastness of the space. Imposing columns supported the invisible ceiling, their rich texture and detailed carvings adding a touch of elegance to the whole. At the center of the main room stood a massive hall, a majestic Lumicristal sculpted from solid wood, its fiery aura spreading a gentle warmth throughout the room. Around it, inviting padded armchairs were arranged, encouraging visitors to sit and relax while immersing themselves in the literary treasures of the library. A luxurious carpet covered the floor, with the city's crest woven in its center. The vibrant colors and intricate patterns of the crest seemed to come to life under the library's soft lighting, adding a touch of color to the subdued atmosphere of the place. Yet, despite the apparent beauty and comfort of the room, something felt strange, almost unreal. Looking up, I noticed that the bookshelves extended endlessly in all directions, disappearing into a deep darkness. No walls defined the space, no ceiling limited the height.

The sensation was dizzying, almost oppressive. The library shelves stretched endlessly in all directions, forming an ocean of books that seemed to have no end. Each shelf was loaded with volumes, stacked one on top of the other in an overwhelming profusion of knowledge and wisdom accumulated over the centuries. The books themselves seemed to vibrate with a mysterious energy, their leather and parchment bindings radiating a faint but palpable glow. The titles were inscribed in gold or silver letters, gleaming faintly in the library's dim light. Each book held its own universe, its own stories and secrets, waiting to be discovered by whoever dared to open them.

But the most disturbing thing was the complete absence of boundaries. There were no walls or ceilings to define the space, only shelves stretching endlessly in all directions. It was as if the library had been ripped from any known reality, plunging into a world of pure knowledge, where time and space had no meaning.Yet what was most disconcerting was the realization that I wasn't on the other side of the rampart, as I had initially assumed. No, I was literally inside the wall itself, which was completely incomprehensible.

- How could I find myself in such a place, a place that seemed to defy the laws of physics and reality itself? I don't even know how to get to the other side... -

I looked down at the floor, searching for something, anything that might offer me a clue in this mysterious maze. And then, I saw them: bloody footprints, fresh as if they had just been left behind me. My heart raced at the sight, a dull anxiety rising within me as I realized these prints belonged to the two executioners I had seen earlier. The bloody footprints stretched out before me, disappearing into the distant darkness of the infinite library. They seemed to float on the floor, as if they didn't really touch the surface but hovered just above it. It was as if the steps themselves were unreal, like fleeting shadows in an endless dream.After a long moment of following the bloody footprints, I began to realize that it led me nowhere. The prints seemed to get lost in the endless darkness, without any sign of destination or landmark. A sense of frustration grew within me as I realized I was getting lost in this labyrinth of knowledge. I stopped, catching my breath and trying to calm the frantic beating of my heart. Then, I looked around, hoping to find a clue, a sign that might indicate where to go. But to my great dismay, I realized I was still as close to the library's entrance as before.The majestic columns, the central fireplace, and the carpet with the city crest seemed to be at the same distance as before, as if I had never left the point where I had started.

I sat down on a polished wooden bench, letting my thoughts settle as I pondered my situation. The words engraved at the library's entrance echoed in my mind: "Quicumque transire cupit, scire debet aequans notitiam aurorae." This was not just a riddle to solve, but an invitation to acquire the necessary knowledge to traverse this mysterious world.

I realized then how little I knew about the world I had been plunged into. The names, the customs, the histories—all of it was foreign to me. If I wanted to find a way out of this infinite library, I first needed to understand the world surrounding it.

"Mh… I have an idea…"

I scanned the endless shelves, searching for the book that would best fit my idea. My gaze suddenly stopped on an imposing volume, adorned with a leather cover decorated with intricate designs and mysterious symbols. The title engraved in gold letters on the spine of the book caught my attention: "Encyclopaedia Crystallica." ("The Encyclopedia of Crystals").

"Perfect," I murmured, approaching the book with a sense of anticipation.

"After all, this is surely one that will serve me well, I imagine," I declared aloud as I carefully took the book into my hands.

I sat comfortably on the wooden bench, the book open in front of me. Surprisingly, the pages were in perfect condition, giving the impression that the book was recent, even though its exterior appearance suggested otherwise.

"Oh, strange..."

Before anything else, I could learn more about the lumicristals:

« Crystal Name: Aurora Lumicrystal

Description: In the sparkling city of Aurora, the streets and dwellings are illuminated by the shimmering splendor of Aurora Lumicrystals. These magical stones, with their common yet captivating fiery hues, emit a soft and steady light, akin to that of a torch. Each crystal is carved into a unique shape, allowing the light to refract into intricate patterns that dance on the city walls at nightfall. The Lumicrystals are classified according to a power scale from 1 to 10, where a higher power level corresponds to greater energy. From level 5 onwards, they begin to pose a risk of explosion. It is possible to trigger an explosion by inducing a specific tremor. The higher the power level, the more powerful the explosion. However, the purer and higher-powered the crystal, the rarer and more difficult it is to find.

Usage: The inhabitants of Aurora use these crystals to illuminate their homes and streets, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. Easily accessible, Aurora Lumicrystals are often worn as pendants or embedded in buildings, serving as a source of eternal light for all who reside in this city blessed by light. They can also be used as a low-level source of thermal, luminous, and magical energy. »

But I was also able to discover many other crystals….

« Crystal Name: Auratria Sisminocrystal

Description: In the city of Aurora, the inhabitants have access to a unique protection system: Auratria Sisminocrystals. These magical stones, fairly common, have the unique ability to create tremors when they receive an impact. The stronger the impact, the more intense the tremor. Each crystal is carved into a unique shape, allowing the energy to disperse into seismic waves and propagate in a controlled manner. These varied shapes enable the crystals to react differently depending on the location and intensity of the impact, thereby optimizing their effectiveness.

Usage: The inhabitants of Aurora use these crystals as an early warning system against potential dangers. In the event of a significant impact, such as an attack on the city, Auratria Sisminocrystals react by creating tremors, thereby alerting the inhabitants. These crystals are often placed at strategic points throughout the city to better capture tremors. They are integrated into bells located around the city. Thus, during an assault, the footsteps of the attackers cause vibrations in the stones, sounding the bells and alerting the city. This ingenious system ensures constant vigilance and quick responsiveness to any threat, guaranteeing the safety of the city of Aurora.

Crystal Name: Resonant Echolite

Description: The Resonant Echolite is a stone found in the caves of "Divina Sozo," renowned for its exceptional acoustic properties. Its internal structure is finely crafted to absorb sound waves and reflect them into a continuous echo, creating a resonance loop. This unique phenomenon prevents sounds from spreading beyond a certain perimeter, confining sound vibrations within its field of action. Resonant Echolites are particularly popular in the regions of Senshi no chiku (戦士の地区) and Autrasis.

Usage:Resonant Echolites are strategically placed in the council chambers and secret chambers of the city of Aurora to ensure the confidentiality of discussions. By preventing sounds from escaping, they ensure that sensitive conversations remain strictly private. Additionally, they serve as sound barriers during ceremonies, allowing speeches and music to remain within desired boundaries without disturbing the surrounding quarters.

In times of war, Resonant Echolites play a crucial role in military strategy. They can be used to create silence zones, disorienting enemies by masking the sounds of allied troop movements. This ability to control and confine sound waves allows for discreet operations and surprises the adversary. Resonant Echolites, with their unique power of sound manipulation, are indispensable tools for both internal security and the defense of the city of Aurora.

Crystal Name: Nebumas Crystal

Description: The Nebumas Crystal is a unique wonder of the city of Aurora. This crystal is often regarded as unsettling due to its mysterious properties. When bathed in light, the Nebumas Crystal emits an ethereal mist, enveloping its surroundings in a mystical and impenetrable veil. This mist creates an enigmatic atmosphere, making navigation and perception through it difficult.

Usage: Nebumas Crystals are strategically placed on the gates of the largest rampart of the city of Auratria. In the face of threat, particularly during enemy passage through the gates, these crystals are activated by sunlight. When the sun shines on the Nebumas Crystals, a thick mist instantly emanates, obscuring vision and disorienting assailants. This fog barrier provides additional protection to the city's defenders, allowing them to gain time and better prepare against invasion.

This ingenious use of Nebumas Crystals demonstrates not only the ability of Auratria's inhabitants to exploit the natural resources of their environment but also their talent for integrating magic into their defense systems. By creating a visual and psychological defense against enemies, Nebumas Crystals play an essential role in preserving the security and mystique of the city of Aurora.

Crystal Name: Breezeflare Anemoprism

Description: The Breezeflare Anemoprism is a jewel of the city of Aurora, renowned for capturing the essence of the wind in its crystalline form. Its finely cut prismatic surface refracts light and heat, transforming thermal energy into a revitalizing breeze. When activated, this crystal emits a soft, iridescent glow, symbolizing the beauty and magic of nature. Particularly valued for its ability to provide instant relief during summer days, the Breezeflare Anemoprism is a crucial element of daily life in Auratria.

Usage:Breezeflare Anemoprisms are strategically placed throughout the city, especially in public squares and lush gardens, where they act as natural climate regulators. Their ability to generate cool breezes makes them indispensable during periods of high heat. During festivals and community events, these crystals are activated to maintain a pleasant atmosphere, allowing citizens to celebrate without being overwhelmed by the heat. Furthermore, Breezeflare Anemoprisms are often integrated into the architecture of important buildings, providing natural ventilation and reducing the need for artificial cooling methods. Their scattered presence throughout the city is a symbol of the harmony between nature and magic, a fundamental principle of Auratria society. Through their mere existence, these crystals embody the balance and respect that the inhabitants of the city of Aurora maintain towards their magical and natural environment.

Crystal Name: Aquamoonis Naiad

Description: The Aquamoonis Naiad is an enchanting crystal intimately linked to lunar cycles. This sparkling crystal begins to pulsate gently under the moonlight, awakening its innate ability to generate water. As if by magic, droplets form on its surface, multiplying and flowing into a continuous stream of clear and refreshing water. The Aquamoonis Naiad, with its silvery reflections and mystical glow, is a true wonder of the city of Aurora, symbolizing purity and vitality.

Usage: Aquamoonis Naiads are integrated into the city's infrastructure, primarily in fountains and wells, where they ensure a constant supply of clean water. These crystals are essential for the city's servants, who use them to clean, wash, and perform their tasks efficiently. Thanks to the water produced by these crystals, the inhabitants of Auratria enjoy impeccable hygiene and preserved health, as they provide drinking water to the entire city.

Furthermore, Aquamoonis Naiads play a crucial role during periods of drought, ensuring that gardens and crops receive enough water to thrive. Their ability to produce water abundantly under moonlight makes them a symbol of the benevolence and generosity of the goddess of Aurora, ensuring that the city never lacks this vital resource. The gentle murmur of water flowing from Aquamoonis Naiads is a comforting melody, reminding citizens of the omnipresent and benevolent magic of their world.

Crystal Name: Sanalith Fragmentheal

Description: The Sanalith Fragmentheal is a delicate crystal, infused with a gentle greenish glow, symbolizing healing and renewal. Its internal structure contains healing essences, which are released when it is delicately broken. Although its healing capacity is modest, it is prized for its antiseptic and reparative properties, providing immediate comfort and aiding in the regeneration of damaged tissues.

Usage: Physicians in the city of Aurora use Sanalith Fragmentheal with great caution, breaking the crystal near the affected area to release its therapeutic virtues. It is particularly effective in treating superficial infections, accelerating the healing of minor wounds, and soothing skin irritations. Often carried by healers in silk sachets, it is readily accessible in cases of urgent need.

During battles or accidents, fragments of Sanalith Fragmentheal are distributed to wounded soldiers and citizens to prevent infections and expedite their recovery. Although its healing power is limited, it indispensably complements the city's traditional medicine, providing immediate and vital support in emergency care. In the temples of Aurora, this crystal is also used in healing rituals, symbolizing the benevolence of the goddess and the perpetual cycle of life and healing. »

I closed the book on the Encyclopaedia Crystallica, letting my thoughts linger on the incredible properties and potential uses of the crystals. Their radiance, their usefulness in illuminating homes, and their potential dangers in case of overpowering fascinated me for a moment. These crystals were more than just a source of power to me; they were both a precious tool and a potential threat. I decided to continue my research. Perhaps I would find clues about the city and its secrets in another book. As I browsed through the endless shelves, my eyes fell upon a bulky leather-bound tome, adorned with golden embellishments and an ancient appearance. Intrigued by its imposing look, I carefully extracted it from the shelf. The cover bore a title in faded golden letters, almost erased by time: "Legenda et Historiae Civitatis Auratriae." This book seemed promising. It could offer me insight into the glorious past of this city and, with a bit of luck, shed light on the mysteries I sought to understand. Maybe it would also help me understand how to pass through the other side of the wall. I sat down again and opened the book to the first page. The words were beautifully calligraphed, immediately evoking an atmosphere of ancient and sacred tales. It was as if each letter was imbued with the magic and devotion of the ancient scribes.

« 1. In the beginning, there was only a vast empty expanse, an immensity of silence and darkness. Then, the goddess Auraclis, celestial emanation of the dawn, descended her sacred light upon this primordial void. Her divine will emerged from the heavens like the first ray of dawn, bearer of life and promise.

2. Auraclis, in her infinite wisdom and benevolence, decided to shape a sanctuary for mortals, a blessed land where her influence would be felt and revered. She chose a green hill, bathed in the emerging light of day, symbolizing purity and rebirth.

3. On this hill, Auraclis traced three concentric circles, echoing the heavens in the earthly realm. The first circle, grand and majestic, was erected as a solid and imposing rampart, like a stone guardian watching over the nascent creation. It became the protective shield, the first line of defense against the outer darkness.

4. The second circle, more intimate and mysterious, was built to safeguard the secrets and knowledge of humankind. This rampart housed the knowledge transmitted by the goddess herself.

5. The third circle, the smallest but the most sacred, was the setting where Auraclis' presence was most intense. Here, at the heart of the sanctuary, was the place of divine communion, where the prayers and meditations of the faithful rose to the heavens.

6. The men and women of Auratria, awakened by the melodious song of the goddess, came to populate this haven of peace. They felt within themselves the sacred call of the dawn, uniting their hearts and minds in a shared devotion.

7. With Auraclis' blessing, they built their homes using the stones of the first rampart, erecting sturdy dwellings and temples dedicated to their protectress. The streets spiraled outwards, reminiscent of the swirls of mist at sunrise, symbolizing the gentle influence of their goddess.

8. Every morning, the city was bathed in the golden reflections of the dawn, and the inhabitants greeted the new day with songs and prayers, giving thanks to Auraclis for her gifts and protection.

9. Auraclis, in her great wisdom, taught the Auratrians the cultivation of the land and respect for nature. She showed them how to live in harmony with the cycles of day and night, guiding them in the art of agriculture and gathering.

10. She bestowed upon them the lumicrystals, sacred stones that burn without consuming, to light their way and warm them during cold nights. These crystals became symbols of Auraclis' eternal light, illuminating not only the streets and homes but also the hearts of the Auratrians.

11. Under the benevolent gaze of Auraclis, Auratria flourished, becoming a beacon of civilization and spirituality. The ramparts, silent witnesses to history, were embellished by artists and artisans who engraved frescoes depicting the genesis of their world and the exploits of their ancestors.

12. The hanging gardens, clinging to the slopes of the hill, bloomed with a myriad of colors, and the air was filled with the fragrance of flowers and the songs of birds. Every corner of the city was imbued with the essence of Auraclis, transforming Auratria into a true earthly paradise.

13. Years passed, and the city grew, still under the protection of Auraclis. The inhabitants, keeping faith in their goddess, perpetuated her teachings and continued to live in harmony with nature and divine cycles.

14. But the goddess knew that her work would only be complete when the hearts of men reflected the purity of the dawn. She thus infused into every soul a fragment of her light so that wisdom and compassion would be the guides of every Auratrian.

15. Thus, Auratria was not only a city of stone and mortar but also a city of enlightened hearts and minds. Each inhabitant, bearer of the divine light, lived in harmony and justice, perpetuating Auraclis' sacred values in every action and thought.

16. The teachings of the goddess, passed down from generation to generation, became the foundations of a prosperous and benevolent society. The sages of Auratria, guardians of divine knowledge, ensured that Auraclis' light always shone in the minds of men, illuminating their path and dispelling the shadows of ignorance.

17. And when the time came for Auraclis to return to the heavens, she left behind an eternal city, a mirror of the eternal dawn, where each new day would be a promise of renewal and hope. She ascended in resplendent glory, her light enveloping the city one last time, blessing her people for eternity.

18. The inhabitants of Auratria, grateful and filled with gratitude, continued to worship their goddess of the dawn. Every morning, at dawn, they gathered to sing her praises, offering prayers and offerings in homage to the celestial benefactress.

19. The temples dedicated to Auraclis became places of pilgrimage, where the faithful sought guidance and comfort. The priests and priestesses, chosen by the grace of the goddess, conducted sacred ceremonies, invoking Auraclis' presence to bless their community.

20. The legend of Auratria and its beloved goddess traversed the ages, a hymn to the glory of the dawn and the greatness of awakened humanity. The tales of its creation and miracles were sung by bards and recounted by the elders, engraved in the memories and hearts of the Auratrians.

21. The frescoes adorning the walls of the ramparts and temples told the sacred story, each image and symbol reminding the inhabitants of their unbreakable bond with Auraclis. Inspired by these tales, future generations continued to live in the light of the dawn, honoring the teachings of their goddess.

22. It came to pass that the goddess Auraclis, after elevating Auratria to the status of an eternal city, decided to return to the heavens. Years passed, and the light of the dawn continued to illuminate the blessed city every morning. But looming shadows appeared on the horizon.

23. The people of the Senshi no Chiku region, thirsty for power and conquest, besieged Auratria. Their armies, countless as the stars in the sky, surrounded the sacred hill. The Auratrians, aware of the gravity of the situation, prepared to defend their home.

24. The walls of the city resonated with the song of the lumicrystals hurled by the Auratrians. But the explosions were not enough to repel the enemy. Darkness threatened to engulf the light of the dawn.

25. It was then that Auraclis, in her foresight, descended to earth once more. She stood by the side of the Auratrians, her presence radiating with a celestial glow. Her coming brought immediate comfort to her people, and her gaze filled with wisdom enveloped them with renewed courage.

26. With a graceful gesture, Auraclis summoned a shield of light around the city, an invisible yet impenetrable rampart, akin to the dawn itself. The assailants, blinded by this divine light, recoiled, stricken with terror and confusion.

27. Under the guidance of Auraclis, the Auratrians gathered, united in prayer and devotion. Their unwavering faith in their goddess strengthened them, and they drew from the light of the dawn the strength needed to protect their sacred city.

28. The warriors of Senshi no Chiku, seeing their power eroded by Auraclis' light, attempted to flee, but the goddess, in her unwavering justice, raised walls of light around the enemy, entrapping them. The darkness was dissolved by the clarity of the dawn, and the assailants, defeated, were scattered like shadows before the sun.

29. Auraclis then turned to her people, her radiant face filled with infinite benevolence. "My beloved children," she said, "you have proven your worth and your faith. The light of the dawn will never falter as long as you keep the flame of truth and justice within you."

30. Under her protective gaze, the Auratrians celebrated their victory. The temples resounded with songs and prayers, and the light of the lumicrystals shone brighter than ever, a symbol of their devotion and triumph.

30. Chief of Auratria, Julius Caesaraeon, wise and courageous, ordered his people to seek refuge within the city. He himself stood alone by the side of the goddess.

31. The war was long and fierce. Even the stars seemed to hold their breath, witnessing the battle between light and darkness. Auraclis wielded her sword of dawn, illuminating the skies with her mighty strikes. Julius Caesaraeon, humble yet fearless, fought with unwavering determination.

32. For a hundred days and a hundred nights, the city trembled under the enemy assaults. But in the end, light triumphed. Auraclis and Julius Caesaraeon repelled the invaders. Their swords shone like shooting stars, and their courage was stronger than mountains.

33. As a sign of gratitude, Auraclis kissed the Chief on the mouth. In this sacred kiss, she bestowed upon him the powers of the dawn. He took the name Julius Aurorion, King of the Dawn, and forever watched over the city, protecting its inhabitants from darkness and guiding their hearts toward the light.

34. At the end of the evening of the first day after the battle, Auraclis left the city, leaving it in the care of Julius Aurorion, King of the Dawn. She returned to her home atop the Divina Sozo, leaving behind a city illuminated by the faith and devotion of her people.

35. Under the governance of Julius Aurorion, King of the Dawn, Auratria prospered as never before. The inhabitants, inspired by the sacrifice and courage of their King and their Goddess, worked together to maintain peace and light in their city.

36. Julius Aurorion, King of the Dawn, bearing within him the light of the dawn, guided his people with wisdom and compassion. He established councils of sages, guardians of the lumicrystals, and masters of the arts and sciences, so that the city continued to shine with a thousand lights of knowledge and progress.

37. Auraclis, from her celestial abode, watched over her creation. Every dawn, her benevolent gaze caressed the ramparts and gardens of Auratria, reminding her people that her light would never leave them.

38. The descendants of Auratria, grateful and devout, perpetuated the teachings and traditions of their ancestors. Every morning, they greeted the sunrise with hymns and prayers, celebrating the goddess of the dawn and their eternal King, Julius Aurorion, King of the Dawn.

39. Future generations, upon hearing the tales of the great battle and the sacred kiss, found in these legends the strength and faith to face their own challenges. The legacy of Auraclis and Julius Aurorion, embedded in the hearts and minds of the Auratrians, became a beacon for all souls seeking light.

40. May the city of Auratria remain forever a symbol of victorious struggle against darkness, a living proof of the power of faith and light. May each dawn be a reminder of the love and protection of Auraclis, and may the actions of Julius Aurorion, King of the Dawn, inspire leaders to come.

41. For eternity, let the name of Auraclis be praised, and let each ray of dawn remind the inhabitants of Auratria of the sacred oath of their goddess and their King, united to defend the light against all shadows.

Thus, "The dawn and humanity united in battle, and their victory was etched in the starry sky." (Auraclis, 1 day after the end of the battle) And every dawn, the temple bells ring in honor of Auraclis, reminding the Auratrians that light always triumphs over darkness.

"May this story resonate in the heart of every Auratrian, and may the light of dawn continue to shine in the centuries to come." (Julius Aurorion, King of the Dawn)

END »

I closed the book with a sigh, my fingers gliding over the cover adorned with golden motifs. I put it back where I found it, making sure no one could see my passage.

"Hmm..." I murmured, trying to contain a mocking laugh.

This story, though beautifully written, seemed incredibly exaggerated to me. The idea of a goddess descending from the heavens to kiss a mortal chief, granting him divine powers with a simple kiss, seemed straight out of a children's tale.

"A bit ridiculous, isn't it?" I thought out loud, talking to myself.

"Magical ramparts, epic battles, a sacred kiss…"

I shook my head, amused by the absurdity of the situation. However, despite my skepticism, I couldn't help but feel a certain fascination for the story. It was full of symbolism, heroism, and mysticism. Perhaps there was some truth hidden beneath those layers of myths and legends. I looked around me, the infinite shelves of the library reminding me that, ridiculous or not, these stories were an integral part of this world. And to understand this world, I had to delve into its stories, however fanciful they may be.

"Maybe this book contains a lesson after all," I murmured, a smirk playing on my lips.

"But for now, I'll focus on something a bit more... pragmatic."

I gazed once again at the infinite library, pondering where to continue my quest for knowledge about Auratria. My desire to understand the rules and laws of this mysterious city was as strong as my need to meet King Julius Aurorion. Indeed, not knowing them could be a significant disadvantage in achieving my goal. I felt lost in this labyrinth of knowledge, desperately seeking a guide to navigate me through this strange and fascinating world. After a long search, I approached the shelf holding the book I desired, feeling that this book held the answers I sought. My fingers brushed against the ancient binding, adorned with complex symbols and gilding worn by time. The title was inscribed in golden letters, illuminating the cover with an almost divine glow: "Lex Aeterna Auratria," the eternal laws of Auratria. My heart beat with a newfound intensity, filled with excitement mingled with respect for this precious tome. I knew that this book contained the fundamental rules that governed the lives of the Auratrians, and that its reading was essential for any outsider wishing to understand and respect the customs of this city. I took the book with caution, feeling its weight in my hands like a sacred burden. It was clear that this book would bring me much-needed light in the darkness of the unknown surrounding me. With determination, I settled into a quiet corner of the library and opened the book of Auratria's laws, ready to delve into the depths of the ancestral wisdom of this mythical city.

« 1. It is imperative to refer to His Majesty Julius Aurorion, King of the Dawn, using his full title and name every time his person is mentioned, whether orally or in writing, as a sign of respect and absolute obedience.

2. All communication addressed to His Majesty must be formulated with language imbued with respect and courtesy, without any form of familiarity or flippancy.

3. It is strictly forbidden to look directly into the eyes of His Majesty without his express permission, under penalty of severe sanctions.

4. The physical presence of His Majesty must be greeted with an appropriate reverence, consisting of a deep bow of the body, accompanied by respectful silence.

5. It is formally prohibited to sit or stand at a height superior to that of His Majesty, except for specific authorization from him.

6. Any physical contact with His Majesty is strictly reserved for formal occasions and must be done with extreme delicacy, under penalty of punishment.

7. The use of his image, name, or title for personal or commercial purposes is strictly prohibited without prior approval from His Majesty or his authorized representatives.

8. Public displays of disagreement or dissatisfaction with the decisions or actions of His Majesty are considered acts of treason and are punishable by law.

9. Rumors, lies, or slander aimed at tarnishing the reputation or dignity of His Majesty are severely repressed and may result in penalties up to exile.

10. Any individual found in possession of sacrilegious or blasphemous objects related to the person of His Majesty is liable to immediate condemnation and heavy penalties.

11. No person, regardless of their position or rank, has the right to challenge or question His Majesty's decrees or orders, under penalty of severe reprisals.

12. Entry into His Majesty's private chamber or royal quarters is strictly prohibited without an express invitation from him or without prior authorization from his bodyguards.

13. Documents, parchments, or any other official writings bearing His Majesty's royal seal must not be falsified, altered, or used for fraudulent purposes.

14. His Majesty's presence in a public place is always considered a royal audience and requires the utmost respect and strict obedience from all present subjects.

15. Members of the royal family, designated as such by His Majesty, enjoy a privileged status and must be treated with respect equal to that reserved for the King himself.

16. Demonstrations of loyalty and devotion to His Majesty, such as oaths of allegiance or prayers of praise, must be uttered regularly and with fervent zeal.

17. Any individual having the honor of directly serving His Majesty must swear unwavering loyalty and devoted service, pledging their life and honor in the service of the King and the city.

18. The residences, property, and possessions of His Majesty are sacred and inviolable, and any attempt to steal or damage his property is considered a grave betrayal.

19. Festivities and official ceremonies held in honor of His Majesty must be executed with meticulous care and splendor befitting royal greatness.

20. Disobedience or disrespect of His Majesty's orders, even in times of crisis or emergency, is subject to immediate and ruthless sanctions, without any form of clemency.

21. Any word or gesture deemed as an insult to His Majesty is subject to severe punishment, including exile or death, depending on the gravity of the offense.

22. The subjects of Auratria must kneel as a sign of respect as soon as His Majesty enters their field of vision, and they must remain prostrated until he leaves their presence.

23. Accounts or legends questioning the divinity or perfection of His Majesty are considered heretical propaganda and are strictly forbidden under penalty of banishment.

24. Portraits, sculptures, or any artistic representation of His Majesty must be crafted with perfect precision and total devotion, and any distortion or alteration is punishable by law.

25. The use of His Majesty's name in religious rituals or magical invocations must be personally approved by the King himself, and any unauthorized invocation is considered sacrilegious profanation.

26. The subjects of Auratria must dedicate part of their day to meditate on the greatness and magnificence of His Majesty, and they must recite prayers of praise and adoration at regular intervals.

27. Temples and sanctuaries dedicated to His Majesty are sacred places where only authorized priests and dignitaries have the right to enter, and any unauthorized intrusion is considered a blasphemous offense.

28. The subjects of Auratria must pay regular tribute of wealth and resources to the royal court, in order to support the luxurious lifestyle and resplendent magnificence of His Majesty.

29. Festivals and public celebrations in honor of His Majesty must be organized with splendor and opulence, and every citizen is required to actively participate in the festivities to demonstrate their dedication and loyalty.

30. The legend and reputation of His Majesty must be preserved and propagated by any necessary means, and any attempt at defamation or discredit towards the King is considered an unpardonable betrayal, punishable by the strictest laws of the city.

31. The subjects of Auratria must recite hymns of praise and declarations of allegiance to His Majesty Julius Aurorion, King of the Dawn, daily, and any omission or neglect in this duty is subject to disciplinary action.

32. Children born in the city of Auratria must be baptized in honor of His Majesty Julius Aurorion, King of the Dawn, and any deviation from this rule is considered a serious offense against sacred tradition.

33. Public buildings and common spaces must be adorned with symbols and insignia representing His Majesty, and any lack of appropriate decoration is considered an insult to royal grandeur.

34. Foreign diplomatic representatives are required to pay homage to His Majesty by presenting offerings and pronouncing oaths of allegiance upon their arrival in Auratria, and any failure to observe this etiquette is considered a declaration of war.

35. Foreign visitors to the city of Auratria must adhere to the same protocols of adoration as local citizens in the presence of His Majesty, and any transgression of these rules is subject to immediate expulsion and confiscation of property.

36. The subjects of Auratria must always refer to His Majesty by appropriate honorific titles, such as "Your Majesty" or "Lord of the Dawn," and any familiarity or excessive informality is considered a blatant lack of respect.

37. Royal guards tasked with protecting His Majesty have the authority to punish anyone caught uttering blasphemous words or disrespectful gestures towards the King, and their judgment is final.

38. Monuments and statues erected in honor of His Majesty must be maintained with the utmost care, and any negligence in their upkeep is considered an affront to the King's memory.

39. Writings and public speeches praising His Majesty must be submitted to royal censorship before dissemination, and any criticism or negative commentary is strictly prohibited under penalty of severe sanctions.

40. At all times and in all places, loyalty to His Majesty Julius Aurorion, King of the Dawn, must prevail over all other considerations, and any act of treason or rebellion is considered sacrilege against the divine will of the King.

41. The subjects of Auratria must kneel as a sign of respect whenever they catch sight of His Majesty or hear his name spoken, and any refusal or delay in this gesture is considered an act of rebellion against royal authority.

42. The festivities and official ceremonies of the city of Auratria must be dedicated to the honor of His Majesty, and any event organized without his prior consent is regarded as an affront to his royal dignity.

43. The subjects of Auratria are required to pay an annual tribute as a token of gratitude to His Majesty, in the form of offerings of gold, jewels, or rare commodities, and any delay or failure to make payment is subject to heavy fines.

44. Portraits and artistic representations of His Majesty must be treated with absolute respect, and any deliberate alteration or defacement is considered an

act of sacrilege punishable by severe sanctions.

45. Members of the royal family, close associates of His Majesty, and his closest advisors are placed under his special protection, and any harm to their person or reputation is regarded as a direct attack on the King himself.

46. Decrees and orders issued by His Majesty must be followed without delay or question, and any disobedience is considered treason punishable by death.

47. The property and possessions belonging to His Majesty are sacred and inviolable, and any attempt at theft or misappropriation is deemed a serious offense against royal authority.

48. The subjects of Auratria must show servility and obedience to the representatives and agents of His Majesty, and any impudence or insolence is considered a lack of respect toward the crown.

49. The teachings and precepts of His Majesty must be studied and meditated upon by all subjects of Auratria, and any opposition or contention against his word is considered heresy punishable by severe punishment.

50. Finally, the life of every subject of Auratria belongs entirely to His Majesty, and any act of rebellion or disobedience is regarded as an affront to divine will and is punished in the most severe manner. »

As I continued to flip through the endless pages of the Book of Laws of Auratria, I quickly realized that the hundreds of laws dedicated to the glorification of His Majesty Julius Aurorion seemed endless. Every paragraph, every sentence, every word appeared to be a repetition of the same endless adulation towards the king. It was almost becoming laughable.

"Is it really necessary to have so many laws to worship and obey one man?" I murmured aloud, letting out a slight sarcastic laugh. I could also easily imagine how the person who had to find and write all these silly laws must have laughed (or cried) upon realizing that many people would skip this passage in the novel.

After quickly perusing the laws pertaining to the king, I realized how tedious and repetitive they were. It was evident that the adoration towards His Majesty Julius Aurorion reached uncommon levels of devotion. Now, it was time to turn my attention to a more tangible aspect of society: the laws concerning the handmaidens.

I had noticed a large number of handmaidens in the households of the city, suggesting that they played a significant role in the daily life of Auratria. Their presence was ubiquitous, and it was likely that they were subjected to strict and specific rules.

« 1. Every handmaiden is entirely subject to the will and authority of their master or mistress, without exception or restriction.

2. Handmaidens are considered as property of their owners, devoid of rights or privileges of their own.

3. Handmaidens are prohibited from challenging or questioning the orders of their masters, under penalty of severe sanctions.

4. Families have the right to possess at least one handmaiden to meet their domestic needs, in accordance with established tradition and usage.

5. Handmaidens must show respect and obedience to their masters at all times, without exception.

6. Masters and mistresses have absolute right to discipline their handmaidens as they see fit, including through corporal punishment if necessary.

7. No handmaiden has the right to refuse a task or work assigned by their master or mistress, regardless of the circumstances.

8. Handmaidens have no control over their own destiny and are entirely dependent on the will of their masters for their sustenance and well-being.

9. Masters and mistresses have the right to dispose of the life or death of their

handmaidens at their pleasure, without being accountable to anyone.

10. Any attempt at escape or rebellion by a handmaiden will be severely suppressed, and the handmaiden in question will be punished with the utmost severity. »

The tenth law reminded me of the handmaiden I had seen on my way, and I wondered what she must have endured. Nevertheless, I continued my reading.

« 11. Masters and mistresses have the absolute right to rape their handmaiden at their convenience, without any restriction or legal consequence.

12. handmaiden must be available to their masters and mistresses to satisfy their carnal needs at any time, without ever expressing refusal.

13. No handmaiden has the right to file a complaint or seek redress in case of sexual abuse by their master or mistress, and any attempt to do so will be considered treason punishable by law. »

These laws disgust me to the highest degree, but what shocks me even more is the discovery of additional laws that apply only to male servants. The barbarity and inhumanity of these decrees leave me speechless. Nevertheless, I resumed my learning.

« The male servant is inferior to the female servant, which is why, in addition to having to respect the above laws, he must also adhere to the following laws:

Of course, here is a rewriting of the laws for male servants to make them distinct from those of female servants."

2.1. Every male servant is entirely subject to the will and authority of their master or mistress, possessing no right to oppose or contest.

2.2. Male servants must undergo a weekly ritual of scarification, marking their devotion and total obedience to their master or mistress.

2.3. Each week, male servants are required to provide their seed to their master or mistress for regular gender identity verification analyses.

2.4. If the analyses reveal that the servant is biologically female, a surgical sex reassignment intervention will be performed without the possibility of objection.

2.5. Male servants must obey their masters' orders immediately and without question, with no consideration for their own lives or personal wishes.

2.6. Any disobedience or attempt at rebellion by a male servant will be severely punished, potentially including extreme corporal punishments or death.

2.7. Male servants are considered inferior in the social hierarchy, their role being exclusively to serve without asking questions or showing resistance.

2.8. They must always be ready to fulfill their masters' demands, whether for domestic tasks or other needs, without ever expressing refusal.

2.9. Male servants must demonstrate constant diligence and absolute dedication in the execution of their domestic and service tasks.

2.10. Any violation of these laws will result in severe punishments, including flogging, imprisonment, or even death in case of recurrence.»

I was about to turn the pages to read more laws regarding male servants, but the horror of what I had just discovered hit me violently. My stomach twisted with disgust, and I felt an intense nausea rising within me. Exhausted, I had to hastily put the book down, fearing I might faint on the spot. The cruel and inhumane laws I had just read were simply unbearable. I realized then that the reality of this world far exceeded my worst fears, and the mere thought of reading more such atrocities made me recoil, on the brink of sickness.

"This time, enough is enough," I murmured, determined to put an end to this unbearable reading.

I stood up abruptly, closing the book firmly, and walked with determined steps towards the entrance of the library.

To be continued…