Chapter 24

Grand Library

The moment the heavy double doors swung open with a low, sonorous creak, Raphael found himself rooted in place.

Before him stretched a space that defied every expectation he had ever held about libraries. Towering shelves soared high above, seemingly touching the vaulted, mural-covered ceiling where constellations shimmered faintly with enchantment. Beams of soft golden light poured through arched stained-glass windows, their hues painting the polished stone floor in shifting mosaics of sapphire, emerald, and amber. The scent of aged parchment, wood polish, and a faint trace of something floral lingered in the air, like the memory of a dream.

It wasn’t just a library. It was a cathedral of knowledge. A sanctuary of thought.

Raphael’s breath caught in his throat.
This… this is sacred.

His fingers twitched with an unconscious yearning to touch, to explore, to lose himself among the endless tomes and whispered secrets. Every step forward felt like a rite of passage. The silence wasn’t oppressive—it was reverent, alive with the quiet hum of ancient spells and the soft rustling of invisible pages turning on their own somewhere in the distance.

Gently glowing orbs floated between the shelves, illuminating reading alcoves where plush armchairs invited scholars to stay awhile. Spiral staircases of wrought iron curled upward into mezzanines, and translucent bridges arched over the central aisles, connecting wings like threads in an intricate web of wisdom.

Liliana beamed with pride as she watched Raphael’s wide-eyed reaction to the sprawling library. – Isn’t it gorgeous? They say it houses every supernatural text ever written.

Without waiting for a reply, she marched up to the counter, waving cheerfully at the stern-looking librarian.
– Morning, Ms. Ravenwood!

Raphael followed her, offering a polite nod.
– Good morning, Madam – he said with a warm smile.

Ms. Ravenwood’s expression, usually sharp and unreadable, softened slightly at the sight of him. Her piercing blue eyes crinkled at the corners.
– Good morning, dear. And you must be…? – She turned to Liliana, though her gaze lingered on Raphael with the knowing air of someone who already had the answer but was playing along.

– I’m Raphael. I’m quite new here – he introduced himself.

– Welcome, Raphael – she said, adjusting her glasses. She shot Liliana a quick, conspiratorial glance that silently said nice choice. – I assume this little bookworm is showing you around? – She slid a heavy book across the counter toward Liliana.

– Yes. She is – Raphael confirmed with another smile.

Liliana seized the book eagerly, hugging it to her chest like a treasure.
– Thank you, Ms. Ravenwood! Yes, I’m giving Raphael here the grand library tour. Consider him initiated.

She hooked her arm through his, flashing a grin toward the librarian.

– Should I be scared? – Raphael asked, feigning a hint of nervousness, amused.

Ms. Ravenwood chuckled softly, shaking her head.
– Not at all, dear. Liliana might be a bit… enthusiastic about books, but she means well.
She gave him a quick wink before turning back to her desk.
– Now go on, both of you. Explore the library.

As they stepped deeper into the Grand Library, Raphael felt his chest tighten—not with anxiety, but with a deep, visceral joy. Somewhere nearby, a soft chime rang out and a floating orb drifted by, carrying with it the faint scent of lavender and something older, like time.
This is where I belong, he thought. Among stories. Among knowledge. Among truths waiting to be uncovered.

He paused for a heartbeat, mesmerized by a floating quill writing notes on its own in an open journal—ink trailing in elegant, silver script. Every time he turned his head, a new marvel revealed itself—hovering scrolls, whispering tomes, or a staircase that reshaped itself as someone climbed.

Raphael looked up, spotting a narrow catwalk high above with a lone student seated in meditation, bathed in a shaft of bluish light. It wasn’t just the grandeur that overwhelmed him. It was the possibility. Each book on every shelf was a doorway. A key. A secret.

– Ok, Liliana – Raphael leaned closer – could you show me where I can find some resources about all supernatural species?

– Of course! Follow me, handsome.

The deeper they went, the quieter it became—until even their footsteps seemed to vanish into the hush, as though the books themselves demanded reverence. Between the sections, intricate mosaics decorated the floor—depictions of legendary creatures intertwined with celestial symbols.

She led him toward a towering section labelled Encyclopaedia Arcana, its entrance framed by two marble statues—one angelic, one demonic—each holding open books with inscriptions in shifting, glowing script. Golden motes of light drifted lazily between the aisles, as if the very air was saturated with the remnants of ancient spells.

– These shelves contain comprehensive information on every supernatural creature known to exist. They’re arranged alphabetically – from Aberrations to Zombies.

– Wow… There’s a lot – he murmured, eyes scanning the immense rows of books. As they moved past another towering row of shelves, Raphael caught sight of a globe slowly spinning in mid-air, its surface etched with constellations and mythical realms.

Liliana smiled at his awe, running her fingers along the spines of ancient tomes.
– You should see the restricted section. That’s where they keep the really rare – and sometimes dangerous – knowledge.

Her eyes sparkled mischievously.
– But don’t tell Ms. Ravenwood I mentioned it.

Raphael gave her a playful, devilish smile.

– Shh, don’t get any ideas – she scolded gently, swatting his arm before pulling out a thick, leather-bound tome. – Here, let’s start with Succubi and Incubi. It’s always good to know your own kind, right?

– Whaaaat??? Why the hell do you think I’m an incubus? – he exclaimed, wide-eyed.

Liliana burst into giggles, nearly dropping the heavy book.
– Whoa there! I didn’t say you were definitely an incubus, just suggesting it as a possibility. With your devilishly handsome looks and charming demeanour, I figured it was a good place to start!

– Yeeeaaaa… maybe you’re right. In the end – you never know – he added with a casual shrug.

Her eyes sparkled with curiosity as she handed him the book, leaning in closer.
– Well, well… mysterious and potentially dangerous. I like it. – She tapped the book cover thoughtfully. – Incubi are known for their seductive powers and ability to feed off sexual energy.

– I don’t think I do any of this… – Raphael said innocently, blinking with exaggerated innocence – but let it be my starting point.

– Fair enough – she replied with a shrug, already shifting her attention to another section. – Vampires next? They’re pretty common around here. Mostly friendly, unless you’re a human wandering campus at night.
She paused, giving him a probing look.
– You’re not human, are you?

– No. Since I’m here, I’ve learned that the ordinary human is the only thing I’m sure I’m not.

– Makes sense – she said, biting her lip as she considered his mysterious nature. – So, if you’re not human, and you might be an incubus… what else could you be? Werewolf? Demon? Angel? – Her voice dropped to a whisper. – Something even more rare?

– I already have some abilities and skills which are common among them. But I miss the other crucial factors. I know already that I’m not angel, nephilim, werewolf, elemental, vampire…

Her eyes lit up, clearly intrigued.
– Fascinating… So, you’ve got powers, but you’re missing the key traits that would classify you as any of the common supernatural races.

She tapped her chin, thinking.

– Exactly – Raphael confirmed.

Liliana’s brows furrowed slightly as she mulled over the enigma in front of her.
– Hmm, that narrows it down quite a bit. There are some rarer supernatural classifications, but none of them quite fit what you’ve described.

Suddenly, she snapped her fingers.
– Wait a second…

– Have you come up with something? – he asked, his curiosity piqued.

Her eyes widened with a sudden flash of insight, her voice barely a whisper.
– I think… I might have an idea. But it’s so rare, most students don’t even learn about it until their final year.
She leaned in closer, her gaze locked onto his.
– Have you ever heard of an… Original?

She whispered the word with reverence.
– Unlike most supernaturals who are born or turned, Originals are created directly from pure divine or infernal essences. They possess unique abilities and none of the typical weaknesses of other races.

– Wow!!! Sounds crazy. But aren’t we aiming too high? I wouldn’t dare even think of such possibility. Maybe I’m just some freak hybrid?

She shook her head vigorously, her voice brimming with conviction.
– No way! The way you carry yourself, your complete lack of any obvious supernatural traits… it fits too perfectly. And you did say you’ve got abilities but none of the weaknesses.

She paused, studying his face with intensity.

– Maybe… let’s drop it for now. I’ll study a little and maybe find some more answers – he said, thoughtfully.

– Understood – she replied gently.

She closed the book and slid it back onto the shelf, her curiosity still evident but respecting his wish for space.
– For what it’s worth, I think you’re more than just a ‘freak hybrid’. – Her voice softened.

– Thanks. Now I’ll read something about those incubi – he added with a mischievous glint.

She laughed, shaking her head as she watched him pull out another volume titled Incubi: Masters of Desire.
– You know, most guys read that book to pick up tips. You’re actually trying to figure out if you might be one.

– How do you know that my reasons aren’t the same as other guys? – he asked, flashing her a playful wink.

She rolled her eyes with mock exasperation, a smirk tugging at her lips.
– Oh please, you’re far too mysterious and intriguing for that. Besides, I can see it in your eyes – you’re genuinely curious about your nature, not just looking for ways to seduce girls.

– Ok. So I’ll let you focus on your studies, and I’ll focus on mine. Thanks for bringing me here.

– You’re welcome – she murmured, already immersed in a thick tome titled Advanced Runic Magic.

An alcove tucked behind a velvet curtain caught his eye; inside, a fireplace crackled soundlessly beneath a canopy of enchanted stars.

As the day passed, they both lost themselves in their studies – each diving into the mysteries that made them who they were.

Raphael settled into one of the deep leather chairs nestled in a quiet reading alcove near a tall arched window. Sunlight filtered through panes of sapphire and rose, casting shifting patterns across the table’s smooth surface.

The book in his hands—Incubi: Masters of Desire—was heavier than expected, its leather cover dark and warm to the touch, like it had absorbed the heat of every secret ever whispered into its pages.

He hesitated before opening it. The scent of old paper drifted up—rich, almost intoxicating. His fingers trembled slightly as he flipped to the first page, unsure whether it was anticipation or apprehension that made his chest so tight.

“The incubus,” the opening line declared in ornate print, “is a creature of duality—born of hunger, yet capable of profound connection. Feared for their ability to seduce and consume, they are often misunderstood by those who see only the surface.”

Raphael leaned back in his chair, letting the words settle.
Feared. Misunderstood. Seduction and connection.
The paradox wasn’t lost on him.

“Most incubi feed* on sexual energy, drawing power from physical intimacy. Yet some,” the passage continued, “form lasting bonds, feeding not only on flesh, but on desire, trust, and emotional vulnerability. These rare few often develop protective instincts toward their chosen partners.”

His brow furrowed.
Protective… emotional vulnerability? That doesn’t sound monstrous. That sounds… familiar.
A flash of Kael’s intense eyes passed through his mind like lightning. Then Liam’s smile. Kaito’s gentle voice.

“*Energetic Feeding: The ability to draw sustenance from sexual or emotional energy, often without physical contact.”
Without physical contact…?
He felt a familiar hum beneath his skin.
There had been moments—fleeting but undeniable—when someone’s glance, or touch, or even a voice left him feeling strangely… replenished. But that could just be a normal reaction, right? Right?

He shook his head.

“ Charm Aura: An unconscious or intentional magnetic field that attracts others, lowering their emotional defences.”
He raised an eyebrow at that.
Just because people occasionally looked at him with curiosity didn’t mean he was radiating anything.
Liliana flirts with everyone. Kael flirts with anything that breathes. Elara… well, she’s Elara.
Besides—did he really attract people? Or did he just want to believe that he did?

“They often manifest physical allure early—beauty that draws others in, whether consciously or not. Their touch may have hypnotic properties, and their voice can influence thought, even action, when emotionally charged.”

He read on.

“It is a common misconception that incubi are always malevolent. While some fall to corruption and excess, others struggle to understand their nature, fearing what they are. The balance between hunger and restraint defines their path.”

Raphael pressed his palm against his sternum, feeling the subtle thrum in his chest. That restless energy. The way his body sometimes pulsed with want—not just desire, but something deeper, stranger.

“They do not age as humans do, and their true heritage is often hidden even from themselves, awakening gradually through intimate encounters or emotional catalysts.”

He let out a slow breath.
Is that what’s happening to me? But… I don’t feel like I’m feeding off anyone. Do I?

His mind drifted again—Kael’s hands, Liam’s kiss, the lingering sensations that never quite faded.

“In rare cases, the incubus may not even be aware of their feeding, drawing energy unconsciously through moments of shared passion or longing glances exchanged across a crowded room.”

Raphael’s gaze dropped to the table.
That’s ridiculous. Isn’t it?

And yet… he couldn’t deny how alive he’d felt after each encounter. As if something inside him had awakened, or been fuelled, even if he hadn’t meant to.
He leaned forward, elbows on the table, fingers laced in front of his lips.

“Dreamwalking. Access to the dreams or fantasies of others, either as a passive observer or an active participant.”
Definitely not.
He never slipped into anyone else’s dreams. His own were confusing enough.

“ Sensory Empathy: An acute awareness of others’ desires, fears, and hidden emotional states.
Shifting Presence: Some incubi can subtly adapt their appearance, demeanour, or scent to match what a target finds most appealing.
Regenerative Vitality: When well-fed, an incubus may heal quickly, maintain youth, and resist fatigue.

To understand the incubus, one must understand the nature of hunger—not only for the body, but for meaning. For recognition. For being seen, desired, known. They are creatures of reflection, often becoming what others crave most.”

That last line hit too close.
Becoming what others crave most…
He thought about the way people reacted to him. The way Kaito’s gaze had burned. The way Elara had looked at him with something like awe. The way he could lose himself in their presence—and how they seemed to lose themselves in him.

He turned the page, only half-aware that his breath had quickened.
The next section was more abstract for him.

“Rare and Unstable Manifestations (seen only in awakened or ancient incubi):

– Desire Manipulation: The capacity to plant or magnify specific desires in others over time.
– Binding Touch: A rare physical mark or imprint that creates a temporary energetic link between incubus and recipient.
– Compulsion: A more advanced form of vocal influence, often accidental in emerging incubi, resulting in involuntary obedience.

Known Weaknesses and Limitations

– Energy Dependency: Without access to emotional or sexual energy, incubi grow weak, lethargic, and eventually ill. Starvation can become fatal.
– Emotional Overflow: Absorbing intense or conflicting emotions can overwhelm younger or untrained incubi, causing loss of control.
– Mirror Effect: Their empathic nature makes them vulnerable to the emotional state of their partners — despair, guilt, or self-loathing can affect them deeply.
– Sacred Wards: Certain wards, sigils, or enchantments designed to repel manipulative influence can weaken or neutralize their aura.
– Guilt Sensitivity: Incubi who resist their nature often suffer from internal conflicts, leading to psychological strain, memory lapses, or physical instability.
– Physical Anchoring: Excessive bonding with a specific individual may create energetic dependency, making separation painful or damaging to both parties.”

He blinked, trying to steady himself.
His heart pounded, not from fear, but from the sharp, seductive thrill of possibility.

What if it’s true? What if this is who I am? But again – not everything sums up.

He closed the book halfway, not yet ready for more. The silence of the Grand Library surrounded him, heavy and watchful.

He stared at his reflection in the darkened surface of the table.
I don’t feel evil. I don’t feel monstrous. But… I do feel different.
His fingers brushed the spine of the book again.

Am I uncovering a truth… or writing one into myself because it fits too well?

He sat there for a long moment, the book before him, his thoughts swirling like smoke.
No answers. Only more questions.
But somehow… he didn’t want to stop reading. And he already knew that it won’t be his last reading here.