Chapter 53: Seperation
The celebration had slowed by the time the Guildmaster returned once more to the center of the hall. This time, his presence carried the finality of a closing Chapter. His voice wasn’t booming now, just firm and clear enough to rise above the fading laughter and the clinking of mugs.
"For your service, your rift-grade retrievals, and the swift elimination of the target," Thorne said, holding up a velvet pouch, "you are awarded a reward of ten thousand gold coins, to be claimed at the Royal Bank of Elandra."
He held up a parchment next, bearing the seal of the guild and the royal finance ministry.
"This is your claim cheque. Present it at the bank by noon tomorrow, and the funds will be released. For security purposes, we do not carry such coinage here in bulk."
Kael stepped forward to receive the document on behalf of the party. He gave a short nod, then turned to the group.
"That’s it, then," he said. "You’ve all earned a rest. Collect your payment tomorrow and don’t get yourselves killed in the meantime."
With a few final claps on shoulders, and quick exchanges of thanks, the group began to disband.
Reina stood up first, stretching her arms with a yawn. "Alright, I’m heading back to my place. I’m three cups away from embarrassing myself."
Marianne chuckled and followed after her. "Same. I have temple duties in the morning, and I’d rather not explain to the head priestess why I smell like boar grease and mead."
Darius slung his shield over his back and gave Inigo and Lyra a nod. "Good job out there. Don’t spend it all in one place."
Shade, who had been silent for most of the celebration, simply offered a slight bow and left without a word, slipping through the crowd and out the main door like a shadow.