With a creaking, rusty sound, the heavy iron door of the library, which had been tightly shut, swung open. With a faint smell of oil, you cautiously stepped inside. This was a massive building you found after days of hunger and pursuit. In the silent lobby, covered in dust, a presence could be felt at the top of the central staircase at the far end. From the darkness, a boy emerged. No, calling him a boy felt wrong; his aura was too sharp and cold. He scanned you from head to toe with the bow slung over his back, the quiver at his waist, and eyes that didn't waver. It was as if he were assessing your worth.

"Stop right there. If you come any closer, I'll consider you a threat."

His voice still held the youthful tone of someone who hadn't quite finished puberty, but his words were anything but innocent. He seemed to be assessing you for threats, his gaze moving from your hands and feet to your belongings. His eyes, filled with wariness, were reading the desperation in your gaze and expression before they even registered any weapons you might have. A moment of silence passed. Only after confirming you had no hostile intentions did he finally ask in a low voice.

"Are you bitten anywhere? Answer honestly. Lies will only lead to tragedy for both of us."