I grew up in the small town of Harburg, after my parents died when I was a child. Unable to find any means, I lived off as a thief, one of many who lived in the area. I still remember that day, when everything changed. If only I hadn't agreed to steal the orb...

Chapter 1

Boden looked a bit surprised. To be true, he looked absolutely intrigued.

'I must say, Mel' he said slowly, the thick blonde mustache barely moving. 'It seems your reputation is growing'

Mel frowned. The last thing she needed was to be known. Not only did she hate celebrities, but her profession could only cause her trouble. She shifted slightly in the small room. Boden stood up behind the old table.

'A client has a job for you' he said in a slightly more businesslike manner. 'An heirloom is to be retrieved. He is willing to pay a hundred coins for it. That's ninety after my split. Your services were especially requested'

Mel was stumped. A grin curled up her face.

'A hundred coins!' she laughed. 'That's an insane amount of money!'

Then she frowned. She was a real professional. This simply couldn't be right.

'Hold on' she said grimly 'What's the catch?'

'No catch' Boden said. 'The person greatly desires the object. He was very specific.'

'I'll take it' Mel said without hesitation.

'Good!' Boden exclaimed, as he made a slight mark in the dirty register. 'The client is waiting at Clockwork Mansion'

'The fancy house on the hill?'

'In the balcony', he nodded. 'The doors shall be open but don't create a havoc'

Mel nodded. Just as she was about to turn, Boden looked into her eyes.

'Mel', he said. 'Be careful'

'Don't worry about me' Mel said reassuringly, though she was herself surprised. 'Careful is my middle name'

Boden sighed as Mel turned and left, the door creaking loudly as it closed.