Well, you’re the one holding the book, [he observes.] So, assuming that offloading it was their goal, I suppose they succeeded.

[Maybe this feather-loving man is correct, and the trash peddler just wanted to make their exit before things got any more complicated. Presumably, they’ll just find somewhere new to hawk their undesirable gifts now that this venue is haunted by this ominous, uncooperative blond.

This blond, who is now giving him a Look. Liem meets the raised eyebrow placidly, taking another sip of his water.]

I would think when someone is being swindled would be the most appropriate time to eavesdrop. But you seemed to be handling yourself competently, so I saw no reason to interject. I will have to pass on the “tome,” though.

[Liem reaches into a jacket pocket with his free hand, and withdraws — a glove. Made out of an intertwined mess of tiny, slowly wriggling vines.]

I already received my own cursed object.