281/ The library opens

Finally.

With a heavy groan, the stone shifted. Together, Ashildr and Anubis moved the plate just a bit. Woken from its centuries-long slumber it remained motionless for another moment, deciding whether to rise or lay down again, just for five more minutes, before it finally began to fall to the ground - slowly at first, then shattering in an instant on the stone floor, crushing what was left of the wooden panels that had once been the magnificent flooring of this room.

Dust shot up in a murky and impenetrable cloud, a myriad sprites roused and scared, a choking swarm circling in confusion, fleeing from an unknown predator. When the dust settled, Ashildr saw Anubis' silhouette standing motionless in the doorway to a dark room. His aura had shifted from his annoying haughty demeanour to that of endless relief; his posture that of a humble wanderer who after his endless voyage finally arrived at the one doorstep he know would welcome him.

Soon, I can go home.