The Shang Tu Royal Library is the largest of its kind in the whole of the Origin Kingdoms, with extensive volumes covering all of Avalician history and legend; Danny Brock is combing its intricate maze of bookshelves, trying to find anything he can that will help him learn about the Jade Alliance. Unfortunately, there is very little information to be found; what does exist is shrouded with uncertainly and doubt.
"All the hours we've been here, and nothing useful," he sighs, returning the last book to its place on the shelf. "How can we find where the Jade Alliance comes from, if we can't find anything about them in the library?"
"All I know about them is they don't come from the Origin Kingdoms," Sally sighs in response; she had insisted on helping Danny in the library, and Danny was thankful for the help.
"If they did, we'd know about them," Danny admits. "The Red Scarves wouldn't tolerate a rival crime guild."
"I'm surprised you so readily admit the Scarves are just a bunch of criminals." As soon as she finishes the sentence, Sally covers her mouth in embarrassment, afraid she's just offended a trained assassin. "Sorry," she mumbles.
"We're not just a bunch of criminals," Danny retorts; despite his hushed voice, the words have real venom. "We play a more important role than many would give us credit for."
"I'm sorry, it's just-"
"And while I can't speak for every Scarf, there are those of us that maintain a strong moral code," Danny continues. "In fact, it's that moral code that means you're here right now, able to help us defend the Elemental Crystals, and not in the hands of the Jade Alliance, being tortured for your secrets."
"I…"
Danny sighs, ridding himself of the frustration. "Sorry," he apologises. "I didn't mean to sound so harsh. I guess I'm just venting a little because we've had no success."
Sally relaxes. "No, I'm sorry; I shouldn't have said what I said."
"Don't worry about it," Danny smiles. "We've had a long day; we just need to unwind." He checks his watch. "Wow, it really is late… want to get dinner?"
"What… together?"
"Why not?" Danny shrugs. "Hanna and Rob have returned home to make Maria, Xander, and I wingsuits, and Maria and Xander are at HQ, combing our own library. Assuming Maria hasn't gotten bored, that is. Plus dining solo is a bit weird."
"I don't know," Sally answers. "I'm not sure I want to be outside the Palace, not when I'm being hunted."
"The Palace has kitchens, does it not?" Danny asks. "And presumably some form of dining area."
"Good point," Sally admits. "They should still be open; I've dined there close to midnight before."
"Then lead the way," Danny smiles.
As they leave the library, an owl flags them down. "I understand you two are looking for information on the Jade Alliance?" the owl asks.
"How do you know that?" Danny asks, a little guarded.
"I apologise for my companion, sir; I don't believe he's met you before," Sally interjects.
"No worries," the owl assures. "In fact, it should be me apologising. I could not help but overhear your frustrations; my hearing is extraordinarily powerful. But I have learned that it is not a curse, but an asset; if it weren't so, I wouldn't be able to help you."
"How?" Danny asks, still not entirely sure the owl is trustworthy.
"My name is Helms Willow, historian and researcher. And I know where the Jade Alliance comes from."
