Alex and his teammates arrived at the entrance to the Gavros Mines, eager to meet the Golden Doves. Alex was excited to learn more about this local guild and the possibility of working with them. As they approached the meeting area, they could see the members of the Golden Doves busying about, dressed in their distinct golden cloaks adorned with dove-shaped pins.
They made their way to one of the higher-ranked members with Rich taking the lead. Rich stepped forward and extended his hand to the recruiter for the Golden Doves, a man named Cedric. He had a firm handshake and a welcoming smile.
"Greetings, Cedric," Rich said. "We've heard good things about the Golden Doves, and we're interested in learning more about your guild."
Cedric nodded and gestured for Alex and his team to follow him into the mines. As they walked, Cedric began explaining the Golden Doves' philosophy and how they operated within the tower.
"We're a guild of freelancers, working on a commission basis," Cedric said. "We don't have a specific focus, but we offer a wide range of services, from mining to mercenary work. Our members come from various backgrounds and possess diverse skills, which allows us to take on a variety of jobs. We sell other guilds' items, resources, and any interesting information we come across."
“I was wondering about how you are funded and got started building the guild in the Tower?” asked Taylor.
“It started with me and a few friends, but we were able to meet and get funding from a few local businesses. They have helped us gather other adventurers for work, set rates for point-to-dollar conversions, and make connections with the larger guilds that we do business with.”
As they continued further into the mines, Alex couldn't help but notice the impressive organization of the Golden Doves. There were miners hard at work, chipping away at the rock with expert precision. Others were sorting and processing the valuable minerals extracted from the mines.
“There are a lot of miners active here today,” said Alex.
“Most of the humans in this mine work for us while a few haven’t yet joined. Working in the mine is free to do. As a guild, we have bought sell rights so that we can legally buy ore, gems, and so on from workers in exchange for whatever has been agreed upon. That means that the ore can be traded for cash instead of the few Tower Points the city will give you. Of course, you are free to sell to them, but we provide another option instead.”
They started to circle back around as the lighting changed in the mines. Most of the earlier areas had been lit by magical sources but deeper within the only source of light came from torches and candles.
"We take pride in our work, and we always strive for excellence," Cedric explained. "Our members are well-compensated, and we work together to ensure the success of the Golden Doves. I hope that you can come to join us and assist in our efforts of growing into a greater organization. Now do you have any other questions for me?"
“What other benefits do you have to offer for your members?” asked Eric.
"We have skilled trainers in a variety of fields," Cedric said. "Our members can hone their abilities and learn new skills, which allows them to take on more challenging commissions. We have a gym on Earth where you can spar with members of all ranks in the guild or pay for specific guidance if needed. If you are looking for mage training or more specifically help the guild will get rooms in the associated guild halls related to your path. But even more, than improving your fighting skills you will have access to more crafters than before.”
“We have been funding the work of some crafters and have negotiated deals with the guilds we currently have trade deals with. With their help and our resources, we have begun to bring down the price of items and avoid unnecessary fees when dealing with the native people. The result is better prices and the ability to buy items with Earth cash. We want the transition between the two worlds to be as seamless as possible.”
Cedric continued, "Furthermore, as a member of the Golden Doves, you'll have access to our network of connections within the Tower. This not only helps you find lucrative work opportunities but also provides a strong support system when you need assistance in completing challenging tasks. Whether it is here in the mines or out on the mountain range, our members collaborate and share valuable information, which can give you a competitive edge in the constantly changing environment of the Tower. We want you to succeed in whatever path you take through the Tower."
"Additionally, we offer support in terms of housing and daily necessities. Our guild provides some accommodations within the Tower, as well as on Earth. This ensures that our members have a comfortable and safe place to rest and recuperate between missions. Our facilities are well-maintained and include communal spaces where members can socialize, share meals, and build camaraderie."
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"Our guild also values personal growth and development. We are working to organize monthly workshops and seminars on various topics, such as strategy, negotiation, and leadership, to help our members become well-rounded individuals. We believe that fostering personal growth and empowering our members with knowledge will ultimately strengthen our guild as a whole."
"Lastly, as a member of the Golden Doves, you'll have access to our health care program. We understand the importance of maintaining physical and mental well-being, especially in the demanding world of the Tower. Our healthcare plan covers magically induced medical treatments and therapies, ensuring that our members receive the best care possible in case of injuries or illness thanks to a full-time team of healers."
Cedric paused for a moment, allowing them all to digest the information. "So, as you can see, the Golden Doves not only offer a stable source of income and opportunities for growth but also a supportive community and resources to help you thrive within the Tower. We hope that you'll consider joining our ranks and contribute to the success of our guild." He said with a smile.
Alex looked at the others while there was a pause of silence.
Rich spoke up, addressing Cedric. "We're definitely interested in working with the Golden Doves. What do we need to do to get started?"
Cedric smiled and handed Rich a parchment with information on their commission structure and membership requirements. "Just review this information and, if you're still interested, sign the agreement at the bottom. We'll then be able to start working together on commissions."
Rich handed the papers down and they were passed around to everyone else. Alex looked it over. It started with the usual information he expected. A spot for his name, his main Tower Beacon, and then more. His current level, path, sub-path, teleportation beacons active, Earth address, and team members (if applicable).
“This is a lot of info to fill out,” said Alex.
“It is needed to keep track of everyone in the guild. We are just like any other company. It is a standard contract for new people. And as incentivization we offer stock options for new employees who join and stay on during this first year before this guild and many other guilds become public companies. Please take your time to look over and read the contracts.”
Cedric took a step back to let them discuss amongst themselves. He left them at the entrance to the mine while returning to the table and tent set up for Golden Dove members to check in and document their discoveries and items found within the mine. Alex glanced over at them. The guild officers were busying themselves with assisting new members with the processes.
“So, are we going to discuss this at all before signing on?” asked Alex.
“I thought we already did this past week. This was just a formality and a tour of one of the possible things we might be doing,” said Kai. “We don’t necessarily have to be in the mines all day.”
“What else is there to discuss anyway?” asked Rich.
"True, we did discuss it, but now that we're here and have more information, I just want to make sure everyone is still on board and comfortable with the decision," Alex replied, eyeing the contract.
Taylor weighed in, "While I'm excited about the potential, I do have some concerns about the guild's expectations and how it might affect our own goals and aspirations. What if we want to pursue a different path later on?"
Rich pondered for a moment before responding, "That's a valid concern, but I think as long as we communicate with the guild and keep our priorities clear, we should be able to find a balance. Besides, the connections we make within the guild can open doors for us in the future, too. We could get into other guilds in the future. This contract keeps us in for a year or death, but we can also buy out our contract with our own money or more likely as part of an initial payment package from a larger guild.”
Alex inquired, seeking confirmation, “So, we are all in agreement to join?”
"Yes," Eric said, "let's do this. We'll join the Golden Doves, give it our best shot, and see where it takes us."
Having made their choice, Rich motioned for Cedric to join them again. “We’ve come to a decision.” He submitted the signed paperwork from each individual.
“Splendid. I'll ensure these are processed, and if you could kindly come back this afternoon, I'll bestow upon you your distinctive guild pins. Additionally, when you find yourself back on Earth, you can present your pin at our headquarters, and they will furnish you with a badge that permits access to any relevant gatherings or venues connected to our prospective endeavors. If you require anything else, I'll be available at the guild tent, and I anticipate seeing you around.”
The five of them separated each going to their own thing. Rich and Eric left to visit the Fighter’s Guild. Taylor and Kai did the same for the Mage’s Guild. It left Alex on his own for the rest of the morning to explore the city and get to better understand it’s layout. It did eventually stop by the Mage’s Guild but did not find Kai or Taylor when he searched.
They returned to the guild tent, ready to receive their pins and solidify their membership. The atmosphere in the tent was bustling with activity, as recruits and veteran members alike prepared for various missions and assignments. It was a thrilling reminder of the opportunities that awaited them. Cedric called them over and brought them in line with a few other new members who were looking to join as well. Their pins would mark them as new probationary members of the guild.
One by one, Cedric pinned the emblem onto each person, welcoming them officially into the guild. "Congratulations and welcome to the Golden Doves," Cedric proclaimed with pride. "I trust that you will all represent our guild with honor and distinction. Remember, teamwork and communication are the foundations of our success. Always support one another, and don't hesitate to seek assistance from your fellow guild members."