John walked beside Elena through the quiet corridors of the Royal Library.
The research journal rested securely beneath his arm, while the fountain pen Miriam had given him was tucked safely inside one of its pockets.
He glanced down at it from time to time.
It still felt unreal.
In just one morning, he had gone from being an ordinary visitor to becoming a temporary research assistant under the Chief Archivist himself.
"You've been smiling ever since we left Master Aldric's office."
John looked at Elena and laughed softly.
"Was it that obvious?"
She nodded.
"It was."
"You should be proud."
"Very few people are invited upstairs."
John rubbed the back of his neck.
"I still feel like I'm dreaming."
"You'll get used to it."
She smiled warmly.
"Although..."
She thought for a moment.
"Knowing Master Aldric, he'll probably give you enough reading material to keep you busy for months."
John groaned dramatically.
"I had a feeling."
Elena laughed.
"I was joking."
