Dr. Reinhard's Arc

Chapter 2 of 4

Dr. Reinhard spread Knowby's journal across his asylum desk and studied the symbols. The professor had documented thirteen different rituals, each more complex than the last. He needed to understand these basics before attempting anything greater. His finger traced the first ritual's notes. Knowby described preparation methods—grinding bone, mixing ash, speaking specific words. The symbols matched ones Dr. Reinhard had carved into Sam's body. But Knowby had gone further. He'd discovered binding techniques that could stabilize a transformation. The doctor's pulse quickened. This was what he'd been missing. Sam's screams had been necessary, but the results had remained incomplete. These rituals would change that. He flipped to the final pages where Knowby mentioned occult dealers and collectors. The professor had acquired the Necronomicon from somewhere, which meant others dealt in such artifacts. Dr. Reinhard pulled out a notepad and copied the names. He would need to visit rare book shops and speak with knowledgeable dealers about cursed texts. Someone out there knew where the Necronomicon was now. Someone had information. He closed the journal and stood, his white coat rustling. The search would take time, but he had what he needed to begin. First, learn the rituals. Second, find the dealers. Third, reclaim the book. His path to eternal life was finally clear.