The network of alleys, like a maze, connected Tobesk Lower Town with the fringes of the University District. Walking along the alley and turning the corner, one could see a steam pipe, for some reason severed, leaking water outward.
For the safety of his boots, he circled around the puddle. He then continued forward and soon spotted a rusted metal staircase clinging to the dark yellow outer wall.
Thumping up the metal staircase to the second floor, it felt as if the entire staircase was shaking.
After knocking, he said to the inside,
"I was referred by Cuckoo, she mentioned there was a problem with the quality of the last book."
"She always says there's a problem with our books, that woman is too picky,"
came a muffled voice from inside. After opening the door, a man with bare arms tattooed with an anchor led Shard down the hallway. Holding his breath behind him, Shard noticed the man had a strong body odor.
"Do you know the rules?"
