A Convincing Argument

"So, is our discussion over or not?"

"Jack… Who are you?"

Not expecting that question, Jack burst into laughter for a few seconds. It took a moment for him to calm down. "Hurmot, you can't afford to know that."

"What do you mean I can't afford to know it? The Celestial Crane is--"

"You can't afford it because you're too cheap," stated Jack. "If you're not willing to even meet the terms for the cranes or to join us in the storehouse, how could you willingly pay up to know more about me?"

"I..." Unsure how to reply, Hurmot thought for a moment. "Jack, are you one of the original members of the Leisure Guild?"

"Are you willing to let me take something from your restricted storage, regardless of whether you like it or not?" Jack chuckled. "I told you, you won't let yourself afford such knowledge, so I have no reason to answer."

"... Then how much would it cost to learn the truth of your origins?"

"You need to join the Trodan Council."