BIOLOGICAL SUPERCOMPUTER SYSTEM



As Erik spoke, the inn's background noise seemed to disappear because of the authority and intensity in his tone.

"Something major is about to happen. I've chosen to start a guild of my own." He took a few long breaths while he sized up his friends' reactions. "I need fifteen members in total, including me. I have a solid long-term plan, vehicles, and a local business owner willing to help us and facilitate our operations."

Mira sat forward in her chair, staring intently at Erik's masked face. "A guild, you say? That's a big thing to manage, Erik. Why now?"

Erik looked quite serious. "Now seems like a good moment to launch a project of this nature. It was the main reason for my visit," Erik said, lying. "This is our opportunity to leave our mark in this world, to get safety and success. To get trusty comrades."

Aiden, ever stoic, leaned his chin on his hand as he thoughtfully processed Erik's remarks. He said, "You've always been one to think ahead. This, however, is no easy task. It's not only your duty but the duty of every single member to push the guild forward."

As Erik understood it during these past months, caution was typical for Aiden. The young man nodded. "I know, and that's why I considered you two and the others to join the guild as the first members. I know you are cool-headed people and can hold your ground against Thaids; after all, I saw you fight them outside the city."

"Besides," he added, "it's been a long time since we first met, and I learned to trust you. What's more, didn't you ask me to join your group? In this case, though, it is a guild, and it is not yours but mine. Almost everything is the same."

When Erik's sentiment touched her, Mira's lips curled into a smile. "It's an intriguing proposal."

"Indeed," Aiden's piercing gaze momentarily interrupted the pleasant atmosphere. "But what's in it for us? If we hunt alone, the earnings are split four ways. Joining a guild, especially a small one—how do the financial arrangements work out? I assume the guild would take a cut of our hunts?"

Mira nodded in agreement. It was clear they were both contemplating the offer, but there were still many things to clarify about the matter. Her eyes were fixed on Erik, waiting for an answer. The air in the once-warm inn grew chilly as their questions hung heavy.

Erik paused for a second to collect his thoughts. He knew the value of being precise at this point.

"You are right," he said, "if you were to join the guild, 20% of your revenues would go to the guild's coffers, but here is the proposition." He paused to increase the suspense and gather more of their attention.

"When you come along on my hunts, we're not only after rabbits and squirrels. The Thaids I seek out are significantly more powerful than the ones you are used for hunting and, hence, offer more payoffs. You could go hunting alone, but you'd make much more money if you teamed up with me. Besides, I plan to provide vehicles, training grounds, places to live, weapons, and, if our coffers allow, even stimulating serums. A joint effort to secure these things is much better than doing so alone."

Aiden raised an eyebrow while considering Erik's proposal. "But it's not all about the money," Erik continued.

"Doors aren't closed to me because of my reputation and network. The respect I've earned in the mercenary community here in Testrovsc's Rest has opened doors and connections for me. If we had the support of a guild, we could take on quests that were previously out of our reach. Quests that require higher numbers of people and strategic planning are possible.

He leaned in, his voice serious: "It's not just the hunting, either. The group will have access to resources and critical information. It would be available to you as much as to me."

Aiden's coldly analytical stare was unflinching. "And what about the risks? With bigger prey come bigger dangers."

Erik admitted, "True, but you won't be forced to join me. However, if we combine our resources, we may reap the benefits. If you're on your own, you might not be able to afford a weapon equipped with brain crystal technology. But if we work together, we will succeed."

Mira seemed very interested in this proposal. "That's a very good proposal, Erik. Reputation, though, can cut both ways. The more well-known you are, the higher the stakes will become. It all could go to hell if we make a mistake."

Erik nodded in agreement with her statement. "I'm not going to deny that. However, with a good reputation comes favor, access, and means. The possibilities are endless if we do this well and establish a solid framework. I can continue handling the most pressing matters, and you can continue with your regular quests. You'll have to give up 20% of your pay instead of the standard 10% to a porter guild, but the money we save will be shared equally. Access to improved training facilities, housing, food, social support networks, and weaponry. You name it."

The two friends sat in silence for a while, considering Erik's offer. The inn was going on with its regular activity, but for them, things had paused.

Aiden finally spoke up after a long pause. "Your vision is ambitious, Erik. But you've been one to dream big. If we're doing this, we're doing it as equals."

"It's hard to say no when there are so many benefits," Mira grinned. "But remember that we are a team here; this must be a partnership. You can count on us to be by your side at every turn." The stress on Erik had been lifted a little. "I wouldn't have it any other way."

Aiden relaxed in his chair, drumming his fingers steadily on the wooden table. Calmly, he said, "Look, Erik, I can't make this decision only for myself, and Mira can't either. Kael and Lila are entitled to have an opinion as well. We need to talk with them before coming up with a reply."

Erik inclined his head, appreciating the loyalty Aiden showed to his comrades. "Of course, Aiden. I'd expect nothing less."

The waiter's scuffling feet neared their little corner of the inn just as the tension in the talk had begun to ease. The young man wore an unadorned apron as he carefully juggled a tray full of plates, mugs, and an assortment of tasty treats, the smells of which filled the air. He sketched a quick smile, familiar with Erik and the others due to their frequent visits.

"What can I get for you today?" the waiter asked, trying to lighten the heavy atmosphere.

Erik, relieved to have something else to do, relaxed and took his time perusing the menu, allowing the enticing aromas from the kitchen to direct his selection. He decided: "I'll have the roast lamb with some garlic mashed potatoes and a fresh beverage."

The waiter scribbled the order and glanced at Aiden and Mira, who signaled they were good for now. With a nod, he whisked away, leaving them in another moment of contemplative silence.

The buzz of the inn became like a warm blanket as the minutes passed. A familiar soundscape of laughter, the clink of mugs, and the buzz of talk provided a little reprieve from the pressing decisions ahead.

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