Book Eight: Chapter 86

The silence was overwhelming. Her voice didn’t even echo here, and she could hear her own heartbeat. Muttering to herself that she shouldn’t have drunk all that mead, she started to climb. It was almost ten minutes to the top of the stairs. She took her time. Sofia didn’t want to be sweaty for the rest of the day.

She took a step onto the overlook and called out, “Hey, Lukios! Where are you, you old goat?” If the Head Librarian could hear her, that would bring him out. The satyr had a certain level of vanity that required he respond indignantly.

Sofia was struck once more by the silence. Frowning, she scanned the area and noticed that the Head Librarian’s staff was on the floor by the railing. Drawing her blade, she walked forward with confidence. If anything wanted to ambush her, she’d know it was coming. By the time she made it to the railing, her hands were shaking. Sheathing her blade, she crouched down to pick up the staff.

The Head Librarian’s staff felt heav