- Myra -

The next day, things happen the way they were planned.

The first to arrive at the guild hall are, of course, our groups from yesterday who were instructed about the importance of this assignment.
Naturally, all very well equipped.
I don't want to even imagine how bad infighting with our own people could go, trying to soothe me with the thought that even if a big portion of the adventurers in Ekoras likely has one or the other misconduct to their name, most probably only committed lighter deeds.
This leaves those with severe crimes, who could really cause trouble for us.
It's going to depend on how many feel a sense of camaraderie with their criminal groups.

Eventually, everyone has assembled.
Of course, not all adventurers followed the call of our guild leader, even though it was quite clearly stated that ignoring his commandment would result in expulsion from the guild.
Nonetheless, in this trying time, some chose their sides and will presumably now be found with their employers or gang friends.
However, at least a distinct majority came.
This should be quite good for the operation, as most of the combat potential is now bound here.

From my post, I look around the hall.
I guess I can consider myself lucky that I was assigned as one of the guardians to ensure Sir Elkon's safety.
It's one of those places that are unlikely to take the brunt of any outbreaking violence.
No, if that would occur, it would very likely hit those poor souls guarding the entrance when they have to prevent anyone from leaving.

Naturally, they can't be too obvious about it.
As of now, they mingle with the others while sticking in their respective hemispheres according to their instructions.
Let's just hope no one becomes suspicious or they might get confrontational before we can even begin to handle them.

While we try to stretch the assembly period to gather as many adventurers as possible, with this kind of folk you can't stall indefinitely.
So in due time, the guild leader steps up on a makeshift stage.

"Welcome, friends and comrades! Fellow adventurers, I'm glad that so many of you followed my call." (Elkon)

"Hah, not like we had a choice."

Might be true, but I think you still spoke a bit too loud.
However, the guild leader doesn't seem to be impeded by this.

"Let me tell you, when I look at you all, I see fellow adventurers. Men and women who are not afraid to risk their lives in the eyes of the greatest calamities known to this world. Each and every one of you is a battle-hardened veteran. Survivors of countless tests that called for your very life. It stands for a reason that the guild is the greatest para-military organization in existence. Or in simple terms, nations are hella frightened about our military potential, because we have the strongest fighters that can be found anywhere. While our profession's focus is naturally dealing with monsters, as mankind's first line of defense against all the scary things lurking out there, it only makes sense that this kind of combat potential is always at risk of being exploited by the very countries that house our respective branches. However, this shouldn't be your concern. It's the responsibility of us higher-ups to prevent our members from getting entangled in politics." (Elkon)

While I think he spoke well, although the topic was a bit dry, quite a number aren't as convinced.

"Nice speech, though pointless!"

"What the heck are you trying to say?!"

"Why are we here?!"

"I should be somewhere else!"

It's at this point that things become a bit rough.
As some of us are intent on leaving, the portion of us responsible for the exits has to make an effort to keep those people from doing so.
Of course, things are threatening to spiral out of control with the natural counter-reaction.

"Would you fucking listen?! Anyone who leaves now is going to be dealt with!" (Elkon)

Uh, not sure if this was smart.
Things could turn violent any moment.

"Sigh. Please hear me out. I'm aware that many of you are inconvenienced by the suddenness, as well as the obligatory nature of this meeting. Also, I'm very sure that through some of your 'other employers', many of you are very aware that a citywide raid is underway. Please know that your attendance here truthfully is only in your best interest, just as it's true that all members aligned to Ekoras' branch of the guild who don't attend today will no longer be such but instead presumably be hunted down by the law enforcement at this very moment." (Elkon)

Wow.
I didn't think he'd just push to the core of the matter like this.

The reaction is as it had to be expected.

"This is outrageous!"

"How dare you!"

"Are you selling us out?!"

"SILENCE!!!" (Elkon)

With one shout, the guild leader silences the room, proving why he is in his position.
Not many possess this kind of respect-demanding aura.
Some even claim it's a special kind of magic that affects the hearts of men.
Though, the same is also said about beautiful women.

"If you follow my lead, none of you are going to be arrested. You have my word on this. But for anyone doubting me, this now refers to the first part, so I hope you were paying attention. The crucial part about this would be that the guild has a unique status regarding jurisdiction. In this sense, I was able to make a deal with Captain Gareth, so we can treat any kind of crime committed by members as guild interna. For this purpose, Captain Gareth was so nice to hand me a stack of papers that contains many names. Some associated with things I very much would prefer not to read out aloud. However, the situation is as special as it could be. So I'm willing to only apply the usual correction measures, such as penalty missions." (Elkon)

"Groan!!!"

Pffft.
This was so adventurer-like to react in this manner.
However, this basically made their point clear to accept this offer.

"Other than that, none of you will be charged, no matter what deeds they committed. All this deal requires, is that just for today you'll all remain in the guild hall. Captain Gareth was rather clear in this regard. We are only then truly neutral when we don't partake in the fighting. This goes for all 'members'." (Elkon)

He particularly pronounces the word.
Because those not here are no longer members.
Therefore, the guards can deal with them.

"How can we know that you're not going to screw us once everything is over?"

"I know, my word alone has its limits in convincing you. For this reason, I prepared this." (Elkon)

Suddenly, the door parts, and... the guard captain enters!
While he's accompanied by a whole troop, it's still incredible that he truly dares to show up in front of these people.
I mean, that's quite bold.
Who in their right mind would decide to incur such risks and...

Why is the slime here!!!