Although the Inquisition's current work was nothing like he had imagined, being one of its members did come with a special advantage: throughout Dunling, including the surrounding villages and estates, there were few places that explicitly barred entry, save for a handful of areas.
Much of that was thanks to the Church's deep roots in the region. The residents generally respected the clergy, and wearing a white robe adorned with the Double-Wing Ring often earned one extra trust and preferential treatment.
As a man who strictly observed doctrine, Green never took this for granted. He returned strangers' greetings with the customary salute of the Church.
That was the foundation of the Church. The Heavenly Father's gospel was difficult for ordinary people to understand, but His impartiality toward all was demonstrated by those who spoke for Him on earth.
Yet with the obstinate, kindness and gentleness could do nothing to win them over. Instead, they only emboldened them.
Of course, that didn't mean one had to do anything unbecoming. He merely lifted his cloak a little, revealing a weapon that ordinary clergy didn't carry on them, and the shopkeeper—who had just been giving him a cold reception—quickly changed his tune.
The antiquities shop was tucked away in an alley, two turns off the main street. According to the informant's report, the copy Morrison had purchased came from here.
Clearly, the shop had no intention of attracting customers through ordinary channels. Its clientele came from a small circle of people who learned about it through word of mouth.
Brother Wadin cast the shopkeeper a displeased glance, then followed Green into the cramped interior.
Two rows of three-tiered wooden shelves took up most of the space, with a thick table in the middle. A multitude of items had been carelessly sorted and piled