Chapter 8 – Awakening Of The World's Memory (Part 2)
Fate lets out a slow breath.
"…But before that," he says, lifting his gaze to Isaac, "I should ask Father for permission."
Isaac nods approvingly.
"That would be wise, young master. The Capital is not a place to visit lightly—especially with your status."
Fate gives a short nod and turns away, resolve firm in his steps.
Fate stands before the white doors of his father's office.
Knock. Knock.
"Father," he calls out, voice steady.
"May I come in?"
"You may enter, Fate."
Fate opens the door and steps inside.
Vale Kindspring sits behind his desk, documents neatly arranged before him. His sharp eyes lift the moment Fate enters.
"Good afternoon, Father."
"Good afternoon, my son," Vale replies calmly.
"What brings you here?"
Fate straightens his posture.
"I wish to request permission to visit the Capital's Library."
Vale raises an eyebrow.
"And why do you need Skill Books?"
Fate does not hesitate. He explains everything—his Unique Skill, its abilities, the risks, and his plan to prepare for the Valhalla Academy Entrance Ceremony.
Vale listens in silence, fingers interlaced.
When Fate finishes, Vale exhales slowly.
"…I see."
A small smile forms.
"That is a sound plan."
Fate's eyes widen slightly.
"I will have a carriage prepared," Vale continues.
"Isaac and Anna will accompany you."
He pauses.
"You should wear robes. We don't need unnecessary attention."
Relief washes over Fate.
"Thank you very much, Father."
An Unexpected Addition
"ME TOO!"
The door bursts open.
"Me too! I want to go too!"
Emily storms into the room, eyes sparkling.
"Emily?!"
Vale and Fate speak in unison.
"I heard everything!" she says proudly.
"I've never been to the Capital Library before!"
Vale sighs.
"…No."
Emily immediately puts on her best puppy-eyed expression.
"Pleaaase?"
Fate looks away.
"…Father…"
Vale rubs his temples.
"…Fine."
"Yes!" Emily cheers.
On the Road to the Capital
The carriage rolls steadily along the stone road.
Emily presses her face against the window.
"Brother! Look! Look! We're almost there!"
"I know, I know," Fate replies, smiling faintly.
Soon, towering walls and spires rise into view.
"The Capital…" Fate said to himself in awe.
The four step inside the massive structure.
Shelves stretch endlessly, filled with glowing tomes.
Fate approaches the counter.
"Excuse me," he says politely.
"May I ask where we can find Skill Books for purchase?"
The librarian adjusts his glasses.
"Second floor. Turn left. You'll see the section marked 'Skill Books.'"
"Thank you."
Stacks upon stacks of books surround them.
After careful selection, they return to the counter.
The librarian begins listing.
"Five offensive Skill Books:
Strike, Sword Slash, Blade Dance, Leap Attack, Sword Aura."
"Four defensive Skill Books:
Guard, Shield Deployment, Damage Absorption, Body Reinforcement."
"Three magic Skill Books:
Barrier Creation, Heal, Crystal Spikes."
"Three passive Skill Books:
Poison Resistance, Pain Reduction, Venom Resistance."
He calculates carefully.
"Six common, four uncommon, five rare…
That will be twenty gold coins."
Fate pays without hesitation.
Inside the carriage, Fate begins learning.
[System Notification]
You have learned Sword Slash.
You have learned Blade Dance.
You have learned Guard.
You have learned Barrier Creation.
…
The books dissolve into light one by one.
Emily tugs his sleeve.
"Big brother… I'm hungry."
Fate chuckles.
"Alright. Let's eat."
As they dine, Fate feels it.
Eyes watching from the shadows.
Malicious intent.
He grips his cup slightly tighter.
(The Capital… won't be simple.)
End of Chapter 8 (part2)