For days, I had attempted to sneak into my parents' library, each time thwarted by my vigilant mother. Eight times I had tried, and eight times I had failed. Vivian seemed to have an uncanny knack for catching me just as I reached the doorway, her voice calling out,

"Emma, what are you doing here? This is not a place for little ones!"But today was different. Fate smiled upon me as Vivian went out for an errand, leaving Derrick absorbed in his studies as usual.

This was my chance—a day I had eagerly awaited to continue my exploration of the library.Crawling stealthily like a ninja, I hugged the shadows and peeked around corners, ensuring the coast was clear. With a triumphant whisper of "Success!" I finally reached the library door.

Pushing it open with a determined push, I entered the sanctuary of knowledge once more.With a book clutched in my tiny hands, I sat down amidst the towering shelves and opened it eagerly. The pages whispered stories of the

Human Kingdom—Eldo-Clearoth's Kingdom to the West of where our village lay. Before it stood the Saturn of Lilly Valley, a place steeped in myth as the birthplace of the goddess Aurora.

My heart sank a little when the book didn't reveal more about her. "I wanted to find out more," I murmured with disappointment, flipping to the next page.

The Human Kingdom was depicted as one of the greatest realms, rich in history and bustling with life—a stark contrast to the quiet simplicity of our village life.

As I delved deeper into the pages, my concentration wavered.

"Curse diapers," I muttered irritably, scratching at the bothersome garment. "I can't even concentrate on reading because of it!"Nevertheless, I pressed on. The book revealed snippets about:

The Underworld Kingdom, Netherlands, was shrouded in darkness and intrigue. Located beneath the surface, it was said to be unreachable by any living being.

The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.

Tales spoke of towering structures, the Towers, emerging from its depths with unknown intentions.

Rumors swirled that these Towers sought to dominate the surface world, plunging it into eternal darkness. A chilling prophecy foretold that one day, darkness would rise from the depths, unstoppable by any above.

"I can't let this happen," I muttered under my breath, my voice firm with determination. "While I'm here, I need to grow fast and get stronger before that time comes."

Closing the book with a resolute sigh, I carefully placed it back on the shelf. As I pondered how to strengthen myself, fate intervened in the form of a falling book that struck my head.

"Ow, my head!" I winced, rubbing the sore spot. Peering at the book's title, I read aloud in surprise, "MAGIC.""Magic... this might be the answer to my questions," I thought, eyes widening with newfound hope. Could magic be the key to unlocking the strength needed to protect my world?

Suddenly, a shadow loomed ominously behind me, sending a shiver down my spine. "Emma, what are you doing?" came a chilling whisper, echoing in the silent library.

I turned slowly, fear gripping my chest, only to see Ellie standing there, her eyes wide with astonishment. Relief washed over me as I realized it was only my sister.

She lifted me gently, her voice softened by concern. "It's time to go to bed, little one. What are you doing here? This place is not for kids."Internally, I cursed my misfortune.

"Oh crap," I lamented, "I didn't know she got home early too. Well, next time I must read that book."As Ellie carried me back to my room, she continued to chatter animatedly about her day and her friends.

She proudly recounted how she had shared stories of Ethan and me with them, a mixture of pride and affection in her voice.Listening half-heartedly, my mind was already planning my next attempt to explore the library.

"I will be back again," I resolved quietly, determination burning brightly within me.As Ellie tucked me into bed and regaled me with tales of her adventures, I drifted off to sleep with visions of kingdoms and magic dancing in my dreams.

Each revelation fueled my resolve to uncover the truths hidden within the library's books and to prepare myself for whatever challenges lay ahead.With the promise of new discoveries and the potential of magic on the horizon, I awaited the dawn of a new day with eager anticipation.

For now, I would gather strength, knowledge, and courage—essential tools for a journey that promised both danger and wonder in equal measure.