As they strolled side by side, still enveloped in their warm new cloaks, the air between Viktor and Arelos was thick with unspoken plans. Viktor, eager to share his idea, turned to Arelos with an invigorated curiosity.
“I’ve been thinking,” Viktor began, his voice soft yet tinged with anticipation, “What about gaining access to a library?”
Arelos arched an eyebrow, skepticism lacing his response. “A library? You mean just waltz into some nobleman’s home and start leafing through their private collections?” His tone danced with incredulity tinged with caution.
Viktor chuckled, shaking his head at the notion. “No, not exactly,” he relented, amused by the coy imagery Arelos had painted. “I realize there aren’t libraries for the public, but there are some that are more accessible than others. What do you know about the Temple of Sahira?”
“Not much,” Arelos replied with a hint of intrigued ignorance, casting a sidelong glance at Viktor. “Never been much for the gods. Sahira’s the goddess of knowledge or something, yeah?”
“Exactly,” Viktor confirmed, his eyes lighting up with the spark of an unveiling plan. “And if my memory serves me right, or at least from what Barath once told me, they should have a decent library. They sometimes allow outsiders to view their books.”
Arelos seemed thoughtful, a mixture of disbelief and piqued interest coloring his response. “There’s no way they’d just open their doors like that. Surely, they’d require coin in return.”
Viktor nodded, acknowledging the practicality in Arelos’ observation. “Most likely, they’d expect a ‘donation’ for access,” he agreed, his tone shifting into confident optimism. “But,” he added, giving the purse a playful shake, the coins inside jingling merrily, “I’m willing to bet we can afford a donation or two, especially if it means giving you the opportunity to dive into material that could hone your talents. You have a gift, Arelos, and it’s just simmering there, unutilized.”
Arelos was taken aback, a moment of surprise flickering across his usually composed visage at the depth of Viktor’s sincerity. “I don’t know...” he started, a trace of reticence weaving through his words. “What am I going to do? Just go through books at random?”
“Well,” Viktor grinned, understanding Arelos’ hesitance, “It'd be better than nothing, but no. I was thinking we might see if we could afford some tutoring at the temple as well.”
Arelos frowned slightly, considering the proposal with notable skepticism. “That sounds expensive,” he pointed out, practical caution threading his voice. “It’d take ample time too - time we could be using to work, to build up our reserves, to make sure we have food on the table. Not prance about with books.”
Undeterred, Viktor pressed on, conviction lighting a spark within his eyes. "Think of it as an investment in your future. We’ll see what we can afford—it could be the chance to unlock your true potential." His words bore the weight of promise, each syllable echoing with the essence of opportunity.
Arelos sighed, wrestling with the practicalities alongside Viktor’s earnestness. "Alright," he acquiesced at last, though his acceptance was laced with caution. "I'll at least check it out, and then decide. No promises until we know more."
----------------------------------------
Viktor and Arelos made their way through the heart of Lycona, the bustling city enveloping them in a ceaseless hive of activity. Despite the crisp chill of winter, the streets were alive with the pulse of daily life, merchants hawking their wares and horses clattering over cobblestones as they drew carts laden with goods. Arelos led them with steady steps, his confidence evident as they navigated the different paths, his keen sense of direction an invaluable guide.
Their destination was the Temple of Sahira, nestled along Pantheon Road, a stretch of the city lined with temples devoted to various deities that were held in reverence by the populace of Lycona. Viktor followed closely, taking in their surroundings with wide-eyed curiosity as they ventured into parts of the city that remained unfamiliar even to him.
Arelos's knowledge of the area was an unexpected boon. He had frequented this district before, having visited on numerous occasions to partake in the benevolence extended on holy days by the various temple communities. The temples, often more willing to offer food and aid than other parts of the city, had provided for him when other avenues had been less forgiving.
As they walked, Viktor marveled at the grandeur that surrounded them. The temples rose high against the skyline, their imposing structures adorned with intricate carvings and gilded facades that captured the light of the morning sun. Priests, clad in robes of deep blue and golden hues, moved purposefully between the sanctuaries, their presence lending a solemn dignity to the sacred path.
“Impressive, aren’t they?” Viktor remarked, his voice tinged with awe as he gazed up at the towering edifices that loomed above them.
“They are,” Arelos agreed, though his tone held a note of practicality, tempered by the many times he had walked these streets. “It's a different world up here—one where generosity and necessity meet.” His words hung in the air, encapsulating the contrast between the hallowed peace of the temples and the often harsher realities beyond their shadow.
Their journey along Pantheon Road brought them to the foot of the Temple of Sahira, an exquisite structure with its walls carved in elegant arabesques that seemed to flow like rippling water. The architecture spoke of devotion and wisdom, promising the seeker knowledge without end, its vaulted entrance drawing Viktor forward with an irresistible gravitational pull.
“There it is,” Arelos indicated, a touch of admiration interwoven with his typically pragmatic demeanor. “The temple of your goddess of knowledge.”
Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.
“Looks incredible,” Viktor replied, his voice rife with anticipation as they approached the wide steps leading to the entrance.
The temple's great doors stood open, inviting those who sought the gifts of wisdom within. Shadows flicked against the cool stone walls as they ascended the steps, their footsteps echoing softly in the sanctified quiet.
Anticipation fluttered in Viktor’s chest like a caged bird, a blend of excitement for the potential contained within those hallowed halls and wariness at the unknown intentions of the priests.
As they crossed the threshold, entering the temple’s interior, Viktor felt a thrill of reverence wash over him. A sprawling hall stretched before them, illuminated by the ambient light streaming through large, stained-glass windows. The space was breathtaking, its symmetry and grace establishing a tone of tranquil omniscience.
Visitors moved about the spacious interior, some engaged in quiet discussions while others pored over manuscripts and scrolls laid open on vast tables that lined the walls.
“Where do we even start?” Arelos asked, casting his gaze around the expansive room. There was a hint of uncertainty in his voice, the enormity of the temple's offerings momentarily intimidating.
Viktor surveyed the room, taking in the array of knowledge tantalizingly spread before them. “Perhaps we speak to one of the priests?” he suggested, spotting a group engaged in animated discussion near an alcove decorated with depictions of Sahira’s flowing scepter.
Together, they made their careful approach, eager to uncover the mysteries that lay embedded within the temple of knowledge.
----------------------------------------
The boys approached the group of priests with a mix of curiosity and respect, but Viktor felt the weight of their discerning gazes as he attempted to join the conversation. His attempt was met with a polite but firm dismissal, the scholars engrossed in their discussion and uninterested in any distractions. Viktor hesitated, unsure of his next move, when an older gentleman, an aura of wisdom surrounding him, stepped forward.
"Pardon me, young man," the elderly figure began, kindness infusing his voice, "you seem to be a little out of place here. Might I ask what brings you to the Temple of Sahira?"
Viktor turned his attention to the man, grateful for the unexpected invitation into conversation. "I'm Viktor," he introduced himself with a courteous nod, "and my friend here is Arelos." He gestured to his friend, who lingered at his side. "We’ve come seeking access to the temple's library," Viktor explained, choosing his words carefully, aware of the scholarly air around them.
The older man considered them with a studious gaze, amusement dancing in the depths of his eyes. "Not often do we see youngsters like yourselves coming here, seeking knowledge," he mused, extending his hand in greeting. "My name is Hamin, and I serve as a guide here, of sorts."
Viktor accepted the handshake, the warmth in Hamin's grasp an initial comfort. "We’re hoping to learn what we can," Viktor continued, sensing his own eagerness mirrored in Arelos' attentive posture. "Could we gain access to the library?"
Hamin nodded, yet a hint of regret colored his expression. "I'm afraid the library is usually accessible only to members of the temple or patrons who assist in its upkeep," he explained apologetically.
Catching on quickly, Viktor pressed for clarity, "And how much would it cost for a patron of meager means to contribute and be considered welcome?"
Hamin chuckled softly, amusement threading through the lines of his face. "Typically, it would be one silver per year, minimum," he elaborated. "That provides access solely to the first floor of the library."
Viktor glanced at Arelos, who seemed to visibly deflate at the mention of spending their remaining wealth on access to the library. Hamin took note of this, his eyes softening as he observed their silent exchange.
Before Arelos could voice his concerns, Viktor interjected, maintaining focus on Hamin's offer. "That access is really for my friend here," Viktor clarified, gesturing toward Arelos as he added, "I was also hoping to inquire about any tutoring services you might provide. Arelos has a remarkably gifted mind, and I’d hate for it to go to waste."
Hamin stroked his chin thoughtfully, skepticism lingering beneath his cordial demeanor. "We do offer tutoring, but it depends on the subjects and the individual's foundational knowledge," he shared, glancing curiously at Arelos.
Viktor looked at Arelos then back at Hamin, contemplating the best areas for development. "Mathematics and Economics, perhaps," Viktor proposed. "If Economics isn't an option, Mathematics and Philosophy could be viable alternatives."
"Economics and Mathematics should fit nicely," Hamin confirmed, his expression revealing no hint of surprise. "It's a recent addition to our curriculum, which would complement his mathematical education well."
Hamin paused, addressing Arelos directly for the first time. "Before we proceed, may I ask about your current knowledge base?"
Arelos, who had let Viktor carry on the conversation thus far, finally spoke. "I've got decent reading skills," he offered, his tone succinct yet forthright. "I'm still working on my writing. As for math, I've grasped the basics but haven't tackled anything advanced."
Viktor jumped in to bolster his companion's case. "I believe math is a particular strength of his, and with the right guidance, it could be further honed," he added confidently.
Hamin listened carefully, his face thoughtful as he weighed their words. "I can offer tutoring for two months. One hour a day or two hours every other day," he proposed. "The cost would be three full silvers."
Noticing Arelos’ hesitation, Hamin leaned forward slightly, his voice adopting a tone of earnest persuasion. "You must understand, young man, that this is not merely a transaction—it’s an investment. I will tailor our sessions to your current knowledge and abilities, ensuring that you grasp both the fundamentals and the more advanced concepts of mathematics and economics at a pace suited to your aptitude. These subjects are invaluable tools for shaping one's understanding of the world."
He glanced at Viktor, then back to Arelos, a subtle spark of encouragement in his expression. "Furthermore, I'll guide you on how to independently continue your studies once our time is over. Access to the library, even just the first floor, will complement our lessons, offering you resources to deepen your understanding and explore related fields of knowledge."
Hamin straightened, his hands gesturing lightly as he continued, "To support your progress, I’ll provide you with some basic writing implements and materials, sufficient for taking notes and completing exercises. Of course, these will be limited to what’s reasonable—but enough to ensure that you have the tools you need to succeed."
Pausing for a moment to let his words settle, Hamin added with a small smile, "Three silvers may seem a steep price, but the education and guidance you receive here will serve you for a lifetime. Few investments are as enduring or rewarding."
Hearing the price, Viktor realized it stretched past their initial budget, leaving them with little room for unexpected expenses.
After a moment of consideration, Viktor countered, "What if we offered three silvers for both library access and tutoring?"
Hamin paused, deliberating the merit of Viktor’s offer. The silence stretched briefly, before his face broke into an agreeable smile. "Consider it done," Hamin consented, extending his hand to seal the arrangement.
Viktor accepted the handshake, gratitude and satisfaction easing the weight of their recent financial trepidations. Arelos, prepared to voice his concerns, bit back his words as he witnessed the deal finalize before him. Vikto and Hamin's handshake seemed to affirm a path forward—a new chapter, brimming with the promise of knowledge and growth.