stakes - gambling with gods.

As I sat there, growing increasingly frustrated with each passing moment, my eyes caught sight of a small sign placed on the desk. It read, "Information Retrieval Services: 2 coins per request." The realization dawned upon me that the information I sought came with a price, a fact that had not been communicated to me initially. The frustration of waiting for so long only to be charged for the information began to build within me.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, a lady returned to the desk. She handed me a file containing the information I had requested, without a word of apology or acknowledgment of the considerable delay. Suppressing my anger, I thanked her curtly and quickly skimmed through the contents of the file.

To my dismay, the file contained only scant details on Hancock Adlam. There were descriptions of his appearance, including distinguishing features, as well as the names of his gang members. However, the information was limited and offered little in terms of actionable leads or valuable insights. It felt like a meagre return for the exorbitant price I had paid and the substantial time wasted.

Frustration welled up inside me, yet I realized that displaying my anger would serve no purpose. The adventure's guild held a certain level of authority and influence, and openly expressing my dissatisfaction might hinder my future endeavors. I clenched my fists, determined to make the most of the limited information I had obtained, no matter how disappointing it was.

With a sigh, I folded the file and tucked it away securely. It was clear that the adventure's guild had its own way of doing things, even if it meant inconveniencing its patrons and extracting additional payment for information that fell short of expectations. This experience served as a reminder that not all paths to knowledge were straightforward or fair.

Leaving the desk behind, I vowed to find alternative means to gather information, seeking out other sources and individuals who might hold the key to uncovering more about Hancock Adlam and his gang. The setback at the guild only fuelled my determination to succeed, channelling my frustration into a relentless pursuit of the truth. As I walked away from the adventure's guild, I couldn't help but feel a mixture of disappointment.

Navigating through the bustling streets, I asked passersby for directions to the information guild. However, it seemed that most people I approached were either too preoccupied with their own affairs to pay me any attention or simply ignored my inquiries upon seeing my uniform. Undeterred, I persisted in my search, determined to find the elusive guild.

As the sun began its descent towards the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow upon the city, Finally, a kind-hearted soul, who seemed more attuned to the needs of newcomers, noticed my persistence and pointed me in the right direction. Grateful for their assistance, I thanked them and followed their guidance, my steps guided by a renewed sense of purpose.

As the sun sank lower, the sky transformed into a breathtaking display of colours. Shades of crimson, orange, and violet painted the horizon, creating a stunning backdrop against the city's silhouette. It was a moment of tranquillity amidst the bustling city, a reminder of the beauty that existed beyond the quest for knowledge.

I spotted a weathered signpost pointing towards the direction of the information guild. Following the sign's guidance, I made my way through narrow alleys and winding streets, each step bringing me closer to my destination.

Just before the sky transformed into a tapestry of vibrant hues, I arrived at the entrance of the information guild. The structure stood in stark contrast to its surroundings, exuding an air of antiquity. Its weathered facade hinted at the countless stories and secrets that lay hidden within its walls.

Finally, as the last rays of sunlight cast their warm embrace upon the city. Entering the guild's premises, I found myself in a bustling foyer filled with adventurers, scholars, and individuals seeking knowledge. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation and the murmurs of countless conversations. It was clear that this was a hub of information on things adventure's guild didn't have.

I reached the entrance of the information guild. Taking a deep breath, I pushed open the heavy doors, Entering the bustling information guild, I was greeted by a cacophony of voices, each conversation a fragment of knowledge waiting to be discovered. The air was thick with anticipation as adventurers, scholars, and seekers of all kinds sought answers to their burning questions.

The guild's interior was a sight to behold. Shelves lined the walls, filled to the brim with books, scrolls, and various artifacts. The scent of aged parchment and ink permeated the air, creating an atmosphere of wisdom and exploration. It was evident that this place held the key to uncovering secrets and unravelling the mysteries that eluded the adventure's guild.

Navigating through the bustling crowd, I approached one of the desks where information seekers were congregated. The desk was adorned with stacks of documents, and behind it sat a knowledgeable-looking individual, their eyes focused on a worn-out tome before them.

Eagerly, I approached the attentive attendant and presented my request for the desired information. To my surprise, they swiftly disappeared into the depths of the guild and returned within a remarkably short span of five minutes. In their hands, they held a noticeably larger file compared to the previous one.

As the attendant handed me the file, they requested payment for their services. However, this time the cost was unexpectedly steep-a fifth of a coin per page. With over 100 pages in the file, I quickly calculated that the total cost would amount more than eight coins, depleting the entirety of my funds. Recognizing the excessive expense, I attempted to negotiate a more reasonable price.

After some deliberation, the attendant reluctantly agreed to my proposal, offering me the 40 most valuable pages from the file in exchange for the full payment of eight coins. Though disheartened by the diminished quantity, I felt relieved that I had managed to acquire a substantial portion of the information while preserving some of my limited funds.

Accepting the deal, I handed over the coins, feeling a mix of frustration and resignation at the cost incurred. It seemed that the pursuit of knowledge came at a high price within the information guild, a fact that would leave a lasting impression on me.

Taking the 40 pages, I began perusing the valuable information contained within. Each page held snippets of insight into Hancock Adlam and his gang-details of their activities, known associates, and potential hideouts. Although still incomplete, this newfound knowledge offered a glimmer of hope in my quest to track down and apprehend the notorious gang leader.

Leaving the information guild, I carefully tucked the valuable pages into my uniform's hidden pocket. As I stepped back into the vibrant city streets, As I stepped out of the information guild, I noticed that the sun had already dipped below the horizon, signalling the end of another day. The vibrant colours of the sunset had faded, replaced by the deepening hues of twilight. Shadows lengthened across the city streets, casting an air of mystery and intrigue.

Although I had missed the opportunity to witness the beauty of the sunset firsthand, I couldn't help but appreciate the serene atmosphere that enveloped the city at dusk. Soft streetlights flickered to life, casting a warm glow on the bustling streets and the faces of the passersby.

Despite the fading light, the city remained alive with activity. Merchants packed up their stalls, while others emerged to transform the streets into a lively nighttime scene. Laughter and conversation filled the air, mingling with the distant sounds of music and bustling nightlife.

I took a moment to soak in the ambiance, allowing the energy of the city to rejuvenate me after the trials and frustrations I had encountered throughout the day. Making my way back to Bogger's Inn, I climbed the stairs and reached the floor where Lieutenant's room was located. With a sense of urgency, I knocked on the door, hoping for a swift response. To my relief, the door swung open almost immediately.

Inside the well-lit room, I found Lieutenant engaged in conversation with a woman who appeared to be a prostitute, given her attire and the way she leaned casually on the desk. Not wanting to interrupt their discussion any further, I approached Lieutenant and handed him the file containing the valuable information I had obtained from the information guild. I provided a brief summary of the events that had transpired during my visit.

Lieutenant, with a focused expression, accepted the file and acknowledged my report. Understanding that my duty was fulfilled, I saluted him before taking my leave from the room. It was crucial to maintain professionalism and respect, even in the midst of pressing matters.

As I exited Lieutenant's room, I couldn't help but feel a mix of anticipation and curiosity. I made my way down the hallway, my footsteps echoing against the wooden floors. The inn's atmosphere had shifted, the bustling energy of the evening gradually transitioning into a more subdued ambiance as nightfall settled over the establishment.

As I reached the reception area, I approached the attendant and inquired about my room assignment. To my relief, a young girl, likely a waitress, overheard my question and stepped forward to assist me. With a friendly smile, she offered to guide me to my room on the fourth floor.

We ascended the stairs together, and she led me to the first room located just beside the staircase. The room was surprisingly spacious, much larger than the quarters I had back at the academy. It had all the essentials one would need, including an attached bathroom, a comfortable bed, and various amenities. However, the most captivating feature of the room was the balcony that offered a picturesque view of the surroundings.

Expressing my gratitude, I thanked the girl for her help as she wished me a pleasant stay and encouraged me to reach out to her if I required any further assistance. Closing the door behind me, I found myself alone in the cozy room. Taking a moment to appreciate the newfound comfort, I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction at the end of a long day.

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