Astrid
The Day Before It All Changed
I growled, slamming my palm onto the alarm clock. "You stupid thing," I muttered, silencing its incessant ringing. I stretched, feeling the kinks in my back from another desperate attempt at sleep
Morning sunlight streaming through my window highlighting the dust dancing in the air.
A quick jog was just what I needed to shake off the exhaustion. I tossed on my favorite lavender coloured hoodie, its softness enveloping me like a warm hug. Black leggings and warm socks completed my outfit...it was freezing outside. Grabbing my headphones and phone, I headed out into the cold morning air. Indie funk beats filled my ears, matching my stride.
The jog revitalized me, and a coffee at my favorite haunt near home was the perfect reward. I pushed open the cozy café door, enveloped by the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
Emma raised an eyebrow, a sly grin spreading across her face. "Ouuu, you look like shit. Want your usual?"
I smiled, chuckling. "Wow, thanks for noticing. Yeah, my usual...extra strong, two cubes of sugar."
Emma laughed, brewing my drink. "Rough night?"
"Jeez do I have 'insomniac' spelt on my forehead," I replied, taking my coffee.
As I sipped my coffee, I felt invigorated, ready to tackle the day. My mind wandered to the mysterious Poetic Edda, and I couldn't shake the feeling that it held the answers I sought.
Back home, I shed my jog attire and stepped into the shower, squeezing a generous amount of my favorite lavender gel into my palm. The soothing scent and warm water washed away the remaining fatigue. I wrapped myself in a plush towel, feeling refreshed.
In front of the mirror, I examined my reflection. My silver hair cascaded down my back, and my grey eyes sparkled with determination but the eye bags soled me out. I swept my hair into a loose bun, leaving two stray strands framing my face.
Time for some research. I settled into my sanctuary – the world of ancient artifacts – surrounded by stacks of dusty books and scattered notes. Fingers tracing the browned pages of a worn book, I felt uncertain about the information I was uncovering.
Determined to uncover the secrets hidden within the relics, I scrolled through pages of research on my phone. Frustration mounted until my gaze landed on a digital image of the Poetic Edda.
"Ah-ha!" I whispered, a slow smile spreading across my face.
After a month of meticulous planning, the day to take the Edda had finally arrived.
Museum of Norse Antiquities (Previous Day)
I had blended in with the afternoon crowd, dressed in a casual white shirt and jeans, my silver hair tied back in a ponytail. My mission was to gather information without arousing suspicion.
As I entered the exhibit hall, I exchanged warm smiles with the receptionist, Sofia.
"Hey, Astrid! Haven't seen you in a while. How's the artifact hunting going?"
"Hi, Sofia! It's been slow, but I'm hoping to stumble upon something exciting soon," I replied, feigning interest in a nearby display case.
Sofia nodded sympathetically. "Well, we've got some new pieces coming in next month. Maybe you'll find something to spark your interest."
I thanked her and continued my survey, pausing at various exhibits to take notes and ask staff questions.
At the Norse Mythology exhibit, I struck up a conversation with curator, Magnus.
"Magnus, this display is impressive. What inspired the layout?"
"Thanks, Astrid! We wanted to showcase the interconnectedness of Norse mythology. The Poetic Edda is the crown jewel, of course," Magnus said, eyes shining with enthusiasm.
"I can see why. The Edda's historical significance is unparalleled," I agreed, mentally noting the display case's locking mechanism.
As I continued my survey, I chatted with other staff members:
- Asked security guard, Jón, about his favorite exhibit (Viking Age artifacts).
- Discussed the upcoming exhibit with Emily, the events coordinator.
- Exchanged pleasantries with café staff, Anna, while grabbing a coffee.
These interactions helped me blend in and gather valuable information:
- Staff schedules and rotations
- Security patrol routes and timing
- Exhibit layout and display case designs
- Potential hiding spots and escape routes
With my planning complete, I left the museum, confident.
That evening, I reviewed my notes, refining my strategy for the heist.
Now, with my plan finalized, I felt a thrill of anticipation.
...
As dusk fell, I slipped into my gear, transforming into a sleek, stealthy version of myself. I stood before the mirror, admiring my reflection. My black jumpsuit accentuated my toned physique, and my silver hair cascaded down my back like a river of moonlight.
"Helvítis stelpan sem þú ert svo eldhress," I whispered, smiling seductively at my reflection. (Damn girl, you are so fire).
"Rarww, baby girl, you're killing it," I added, striking a pose.
With a final check of my equipment, I headed out into the night.
The Museum of Norse Antiquities, 11:45 PM
Time flies when you're about to pull off the heist of a lifetime. I stood before the rear entrance, my heart racing with anticipation. I adjusted my furry ski mask and gloves, ensuring a snug fit.
Sliding the pin into the ventilator lock, I felt a satisfying click. "Thanks, Odin," I whispered, smiling.
I hoisted myself up and entered the ventilation shaft, my eyes adjusting to the darkness. The air ducts were cramped, but I navigated them with ease, thanks to my flexibility training.
As I dropped down into the exhibit hall, my eyes locked onto the Poetic Edda's display case. My heart skipped a beat. This was it.
I swiftly picked the lock and carefully lifted the glass lid. The Edda lay before me, its pages yellowed with age. I gently lifted the manuscript, feeling its weight in my hands.
Just as I turned to leave, I heard footsteps. A security guard, Jón, rounded the corner, his flashlight beam dancing across the floor.
My heart racing, I dashed toward the shadows, pressing myself against the wall. Jón paused, his eyes scanning the area. I held my breath.
Suddenly, a loud creak echoed from the east wing. The fake alarm I'd set earlier had triggered. Jón's radio crackled to life.
"Security breach in the east wing. Investigate immediately."
Jón hesitated, then sprinted toward the east wing. I seized the opportunity.
I sprinted toward the ventilation shaft, the Edda clutched tightly in my hands. As I climbed up, my foot slipped, and I dropped my grappling hook. It clattered loudly on the floor.
Jón reappeared, his eyes narrowing. "Who's there?" he shouted.
I hauled myself up, the Edda secure in my backpack. I replaced the vent cover and slid the pin back into place.
As I emerged onto the rooftop, the cool night air enveloped me. I took a deep breath, feeling exhilarated.
The city lights twinkled below, and I smiled, knowing I'd pulled off the impossible.
With the Poetic Edda safely in hand, I vanished into the night.
Back in my apartment, I unwrapped the cloth, my fingers itching to touch the Edda's pages.
"Greater days ahead," I whispered, settling into bed, the Edda beside me.
Tomorrow would bring new discoveries, but for now, I basked in the triumph of tonight.