You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    “Well, let’s hear it, then,” he said, his irritation poorly concealed.


    Manfred took a seat, adopting a posture of refined ease. “Pray, lend me your ears, for I have a tale of some intrigue. Not long past, a gentleman of Shacktown''s own ilk sought our expertise, offering a handsome sum of silver for a task most clandestine. It is our custom to shroud our dealings in secrecy, for discretion is the lifeblood of our trade. Yet, this affair bears a unique mark. The object of his desire was a tome, penned by the historian Quentin Quillhart, concerning The Umbraforge Staff, or perchance, some curse related to Saiqtron. In brief, we acquired said volume and concluded the exchange. Whilst we are not of faint heart, a cursory perusal of the book hath raised some concerns about its recipient and their intentions.”


    “And what, pray tell, would be our role in this matter?” Gilmir asked, adopting Manfred’s grandiose style of speech. Whether Manfred noticed the mimicry or not, he showed no sign. Beside Gilmir, Hobble shifted uncomfortably in his seat. Whether from amusement or apprehension, Gilmir couldn’t discern.


    “Our quest, dear sirs, is to unearth tidings of this Calder Shipwright, a gentleman of medium stature, with tresses of brown and a scar gracing his left eye. He claimed Shacktown as his abode and departed thence. Moreover, endeavour to ascertain for whom this book was procured and to what purpose it is to be employed.”


    “Why do you care?” Gilmir could not entirely hide his annoyance.


    “As I afore mentioned, our interest is seldom piqued by our clients'' machinations. Yet, something about this transaction sits ill at ease with us. Mayhaps it is naught but a trifle, yet should you deign to investigate, our minds would be assuaged of this disquiet.”


    Gilmir shrugged. “Is there a haste? We have quite a few things on our plate these days.”


    “Nay, I urge you not to hasten on our account.”


    “We will look into it.” Hobble interjected.


    “Splendid.”


    “Can we go?” Gilmir asked.


    “Indeed, you can.”