by Dave Real

Created on: July 02, 2008

The store had an old feeling about it as I browsed over the antiques scattered among the crowded room. Some things caught my eye; a dresser that had strange carvings around the handles, a mirror with cherubs dancing around the edge, a ray gun from the 1950's. Most antique stores are supposed to have that old feeling about them; if they didn't then they wouldn't be that good at selling antiques would they? I had received a letter in the mail telling me that a package had been delivered here addressed to me. I had readily replied to them that they should mail it to my address instead of having me come in; I was living a state away and driving that distance wasn't high on my list of priorities. They didn't respond with a phone call, rather a letter stating that due to complications of the package I would have to come in person. Needless to say, I was too curious on what this package might be so I opted to take a little road trip.

Standing between the checkout counter and a table covered with old books, I patiently waited for the owner to come meet me. Browsing over the numerous first issues of Swiss Family Robinson my gaze stopped on the very package that I had come here for. I didn't notice it when I came in but then again, I wasn't really looking for it. I glanced around the store thinking that the owner must be nearby but no such luck. I picked up the package and shook it lightly, some tinkling noises answered me. I was instantly transported to Christmas Eve and opening presents; feeling like I was betraying the owner, I snuck down between two bookcases to open it. Resting on top of packing paper was a book of the strangest qualities. It bore a gold leaf title along with an odd symbol on the front and if my eyes weren't deceiving me, the lettering on the book kept on changing. I placed the package down so I could focus on the shifting words but every time I blinked they would have already changed. The only thing that did remain constant was the symbol which was disturbing in itself containing what looked to be a demons head surrounded by Celtic knots. I looked around hoping that the owner had finally come out of wherever he was hiding. I would have preferred he opened the book instead of me, just in case there were any surprises. Searching around the front counter and the nearest isles he was still absent. Gathering my courage I picked up the book to only drop it again; it felt warm to the touch and there was a slight humming coming from the emblem. I was overcome

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