"For your efforts," Joseph continued, "twenty million gelt seems far too modest. Name your price. If it's money you seek, I can offer three hundred million. If there's something else you desire, speak, and I'll see it done."
Desmond hesitated, mulling over the offer. At his side, Jay nudged him incessantly, mouthing the word "money." Three hundred million gelt was a fortune most could only dream of, but money held little appeal to Desmond. Wealth flowed freely into his life, and he foresaw even greater sums in his future. This was an opportunity to gain something far more valuable.
"Could you acquire a magical artifact for me?"Desmond asked, his tone measured.
Joseph tilted his head, intrigued. "It's possible, though three hundred million gelt would only buy something rather unimpressive. A proper artifact—one with substantial power—would cost at least two billion."
