Cursed Tome

The leader of the Serpent Mafia drew a deep breath from his tobacco pipe, then reclined as the effects took hold.

It was a tough life running a gang, and living like there was no tomorrow was the normal creed. It was little things like this that relived the stress—alcohol, drugs and the likes. Right now, his tiredness made way for the dopamine relief from the nicotine. Just when he was basking in the climax of the euphoria, a persistent knocking sound disturbed his reverie. He was irritated.

"What the f*ck is the matter?" His eyes flamed red as he snarled at the intruder.

It was his assistant, Pierce.

"Sorry to disturb you, Boss. I just wanted to update you on some new development."

Collins calmed down. Pierce wouldn't disturb him unless this was something important.

"Speak, what is it?"

"The boys say there are two individuals going about in the marketplace, asking questions about a book?"

"A book, you say?"