Through the crack of the slightly open door, Adam could see Lycoris sitting up in bed with an open book resting on her lap. Satisfied that she would be occupied for some time, the sprite turned away and headed down dark stone hallways until he reached a wide, winding staircase. It was white and grey marble, newly finished and polished as it now led somewhere very special.
Pinny met Adam on the landing and they both headed through the set of large double doors in front of them. Against the rough walls the wood practically glowed. Adam intended later to get them decorated with precious gems and carvings of flowers, but for now they remained plain.
Inside, every flat bit of wall had been remade as bookshelves. Several overstuffed armchairs were scattered about the room and Adam had even had three enormous windows installed so sunlight filled the entire space. The shelves had been empty but thanks to generous Misticans were filling up quickly.
“Everyone worked hard,” Pinny said happily.
Adam nodded. “What of Volcan? Has he replied to my request?”
That made Pinny’s faux feathers droop. The skillow shook his head. “No, but…I was thinking…” Pinny swallowed hard; what he was about to suggest terrified him. “But I could go and retrieve it myself.”
“You hate fire, Pinny,” said Adam.
“Well, for you and Lycoris…”
“If you’re sure. Lycoris has never visited the Inferno Terrain; she would love a book from Volcan,” Adam reasoned.
Pinny nodded, gathering up his courage. “And you can’t leave her alone. Tomorrow I’ll pay Volcan a visit.”