Astheria Merchant Guild – High Noon
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In the bustling heart of Astheria's trade district, the Merchant Guild Hall loomed like a titan of commerce, its marble columns intricately carved with scenes of legendary merchants from ages past.
The vaulted ceilings resonated with the delightful clink of gold coins and the rustle of parchment as deals were struck across polished mahogany tables. But today? Today was different.
A tempest brewed as five furious nobles stormed through the massive bronze doors, their entourages trailing behind them like dark clouds on an ominous day.
At the forefront marched Lord Alaric Duskbane, his jewel-encrusted rings glinting dangerously as he slammed his fist onto the reception desk.
"Where is Guildmaster Orlon? Summon him at once!" he bellowed.
The young clerk behind the desk turned pale but stood resolutely in place. "M-my lord, the Guildmaster is in a private meeting..."
