Hilda smiled, though the expression held no warmth.
She produced a small leather pouch from within her robes and tossed it to Elizabeth, who caught it deftly. The clink of coins was audible even across the room.
"Count it if you wish," Hilda said.
"But we of the Blaedred Skull always honor our contracts. The Lord values loyalty and reliability." She paused, her unsettling gaze shifting between the two sisters.
"Should you wish for additional employment, you know how to reach us. We always have need of those willing to do what others will not."
Elizabeth's expression remained impassive as she tucked the pouch into her belt, but Katerina's mouth tightened almost imperceptibly.
"Convey our regards to the lord; we are at his service anytime," Elizabeth said.
"Of course." Hilda's smile widened slightly.
"Safe travels, sisters. And remember—speak of this to no one. The Lord's reach is long, and his memory longer."
It wasn't a warning.
It was a promise.
