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once more.
    When he began speaking, the Guildmaster’s voice was warm and friendly, in stark contrast with his bleak appearance and dread position. Some amongst the Guild had thought him a strange
choice when he had risen to lead them, as his voice gave the impression of a gentle grandfather taking care of his family. None, however, disputed his reputation as a professional killer. Deception
was one of the key qualities of a successful assassin. The Guildmaster possessed this skill in abundance.
    ‘Brothers, it is good that so many of you are in attendance. I cannot stress the gravity of this meeting enough. The outcome of today’s discussion will shape the future of our Guild
more than any since I became Guildmaster. In over six hundred years, our brotherhood has never faced such a crisis as the one confronting us now. We have news to discuss, options to consider, and
difficult decisions to make.’
    The Guildmaster paused for a second to allow his opening words to sink in. He was not prone to exaggeration.
    ‘Please bear with me if you are familiar with any of the following, but I think it important that everyone knows the facts before we debate any course of action. I’m sure that all
here are aware that the Emperor returned last week from Thrandor. The true purpose of his visit there is not known, but the common perception is that he went to negotiate peace. He sent an
Ambassador to Mantor some months ago. Brother Falcon infiltrated the party under contract by a fellow Brother. This was an unusual arrangement, and not one of which I approve. An assassin
contracting a fellow assassin to serve a per-sonal goal flirts dangerously with breaching the creed. Any considering employing such an arrangement in future should consult with me first. I will not
have Brothers believing they are above our laws. We have maintained our reputation over the centuries by following the creed. If we abandon it, then we will become no better than common murderers.
I am not willing to be painted with such colours.’
    He paused and there was a gentle mutter of agreement from around the chamber.
    ‘Let’s save discussion of that internal matter for another day.’ The chamber fell silent again, save for the sound of his voice. ‘Matters have arisen that require us all
to focus our attention outwards. The new Emperor has been initiating policies during the last two days that impact hugely on the Guild. Brother Scorpion, would you please make your report to the
Brothers?’
    ‘Of course, Guildmaster, though I’m sure most here are already aware of my tidings.’
    Where the Guildmaster’s voice was warm and friendly, full of expression and rich with variations in tone and pace, Scorpion’s was cold and lifeless. Words fell from his lips like
dead wood from a tree – a thudding, inert mass, shed without feeling.
    ‘At the eighth hour yesterday morning, the Emperor sent forth his criers with news to the citizens of Shandrim. Part of the proclamation concerned us directly. The Emperor has declared the
Guild
anaethus drax –
illegal and outcast for as long as his reign shall last. Any assassin caught in Shandrim after the midday call of the next rest day shall be summarily
executed.’
    ‘But that’s only three days away!’ a voice exclaimed from the other side of the chamber.
    ‘Indeed, Brother Firedrake, which is why this meeting was called at once.’ The Guildmaster spoke gently. ‘There was more, but Brother Scorpion has stated the worst of it. Let
us debate our response to this declaration before we consider anything else, for it is the crux of why we’re here.’
    ‘Kill the Emperor,’ a voice stated immediately. ‘His reign will then end and his proclamation will be void.’
    Mutters of approval and otherwise echoed around the chamber.
    ‘A tempting proposal, Brother Viper, but not one that we can implement without destroying our integrity,’ the Guildmaster replied. ‘I’ll not deny that removing the