I was getting used to the jostling. It wasn't terrible, but it reminded me of turbulence. Cuttle's gait was much smoother than Hapa's or Urchin's. While Urchin still didn't seem to want to talk with me, he had no issue carrying me. Personally, I think he still was annoyed that they went out of their way for a book, rather than a 'normal' Initiate. Oh well. Not everyone likes to read.

A hand gripped me and pulled me from the bag to set me on a table. A quick flip, and I was open to the page with mine and Cuttle's conversations.

"Hello my friend! Are we there?"

He tapped his writing utensil against the page before responding. "We are. Hapa is out replenishing supplies, while Urchin is tracking down leads. I am on recruitment."

"Okay, so what is an Adventurer's Guild? I mean, there have been many different stories that involved them back home. Games, books, movies, anime, etc. Some where the same, but many were quite different."

"Well, the Guild is more of a hub, rather than an actual organization. There are many of them, usually region based. Besides them there are many different organizations that perform much the same functions." He seemed to be considering things for a moment before continuing. "I would say it is mostly used for regular citizens to offer out quests for things, to act as a central hub of networking for individuals to find parties, and the trade of information. I think a few even offer trainings and the like as well."

"Interesting. Does that mean there are some people who don't get a class or profession?"

"No, everyone does when they come of age. But not everyone strives to get more powerful. Some, just can't."

I mulled that over for a bit. While I did, Cuttle stepped away to collect some information and to request some information packets on those looking to join a party. Eventually I felt the information packets get set down near me as they're rhythms streamed in from the void.

Oh wow. They really are just information packets, huh? They were all various shades of grey, with a voice that was strong and firm. They shifted between male and female, but each one whispered like someone reading information off a note card. Actually…

"Hey Cuttle. Can I join your party?"

I don't know if he took his time before responding, or simply didn't see the message at first. Eventually he began to respond.

"That… I am not sure how that would work, honestly. You are a book, and not…"

"Not a person? A physical person."

Stolen novel; please report.

"Being part of a party is more than just being there. It's contributing."

"I get that. While I might not be able to contribute to a fight or, you know, the whole physical side of things, there are still ways I can help."

I paused for a moment, considering how best to phrase it. "For one thing, I can collect and store information. Not just that—I can shift through it to find and present the useful stuff. That's got to count for something, right?"

I hesitated, the words lingering on the page. "Look, I'm not asking for a handout or anything, but I do think there are things I could contribute. I might not be able to swing a sword or throw a punch, but I can still be useful."

I could almost feel the silence stretching after the words settled, and if I had breath, I'd be holding it.

"That is true, I suppose. Though, I mean, what could we offer you? Normally there are plenty of negotiations. Typically there would be a share of the loot and rewards."

"Well, to be fair, yeah I would want that too. But before you go all, 'What use does a book have for gold… I have an idea I would like to float out there. I would like the opportunity to copy every book or scroll and written word thing the party comes across, personal items and purchases aside." I could feel the tip of his utensil resting against my page and pressed on. "But you are right, I don't necessarily have a need for gold except to buy more material to collect. At least not yet. So maybe a portion of my loot can be used as a party fund. Cover the necessities like food and lodging. Say… 30% of what I would make?"

The tip tapped slowly against the page. It left little marks as Cuttle seemed to ponder the idea. I was slowly getting the mental image that if he didn't have the utensil in his hands, he would be tapping his nails against the table.

"I think… that would be fair. I don't foresee Hapa having an issue with it. Urchin might grumble a bit, but once he doesn't have to spring for a decent room, he would stop. How about this, then… You said you could copy things?"

I gave an affirmative and he continued. "Very well, copy these packets. As you say, siphon through the information and present to me who you think would be the best fit to bring on as our other party member. I was supposed to grab two if possible, but if I am bringing you on… Well, while your terms are serviceable, contribution is key. Help prove yourself with this, and I will speak on your behalf for membership. Deal?"

"Deal."