Another world, Celeste

Chapter Twenty Eight

In Kirashira Village, the division of areas is called branch; residential branch, administrative branch and so forth. Incidentally, during the early days of the founding of the village, branches from atop the trees weaved together to form sturdy bridges and footpaths before the elves proceeded with the construction of the treehouses as a countermeasure against the wildly rampaging monsters. Now, the treetop walkway at differing levels above ground connects all over the village and it is wide enough for five people so it doesn't feel crowded. I like walking on the treetop walkway especially after heavy pour of rain when there are not many elves around, inhaling the scent of wet wood and leaves and feeling the cold wind against my skin. Taking a long warm bath after that is always the best feeling in the world.

"Have you been here before, Iris?"

Presently, we are walking along the second level treetop walkway at the institutional branch. Bane is off on patrol duty so its only Archie and me with Luda.

"A few times."

The institutional branch as the name implies is where every elf goes to learn from the most basic to a higher education based on their field of interest. It is also the gathering of researchers because the institutional branch is where the archives and library are located. The few times I come here is when Lord Sol wants me to listen to lectures on magic-related subjects and when Maya rarely accepts the invitation to be a guest lecturer to motivate the healers in training.

I don't come to this part of the village on my own. Why? Well, that's because the curious young elves sneak glances at me before and after the lectures partly because I stand out as the only non-elf and the biggest reason is probably, no, most obviously they want to see the symbol of the goddess' blessing on my hair. Usually, Bane takes most of the elves' attention from me but without him inside the lecture hall, their not so secret glances made me self-conscious. I hurriedly pick out a hat from the inventory app, twist my hair into a messy bun and use the hat to hide them.

Luda sees my action but doesn't comment on it.

Thankfully, there are not many students roaming around at this early hour apart from a couple of elves wearing the researchers' robe coming out from somewhere, giving off the vibe like they just pulled an all-nighter.

"Where are you bringing me?" I ask Luda who's walking in front of me.

"From last night's conversation, it becomes apparent that we neglect to mention the most important bit when your studies advance to magi devices and the likes."

"Okay. Couldn't you just tell me what that important thing is back at the house?" I ask back, sounding confused.

"I could, but it's better to show it to you."

Show me what?

"I'm aware you've read all kinds of books from Maya and the lord's private collection but it can be beneficial for you to visit our prided library as it holds a vast and diverse collection of books and scrolls."

Luda talks with a hint of boasting.