Alfraed and his team returned to Herbs & Lotions with a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration. The meeting with Finance House had been intense, but the outcome was more than they had hoped for. The weight of the one-billion-rune loan loomed large, but so did the promise it held. Alfraed felt the gravity of the responsibility settle on his shoulders, but also the thrill of what lay ahead.
As they entered the shop, the familiar scent of herbs and potions greeted them, grounding Alfraed in the reality of what they were building. He turned to his team, their faces reflecting a mix of awe and determination. "We've got ten days," he said, his voice firm but energized. "I know all of you are eager to work. But, as I said before, I want to talk about your compensation."
Alfraed turned to his initial target. "Elise, you're up first. Join me for a discussion."
