The Merchant Guild headquarters occupied a prime location near the capital's central marketplace—a four-story building made of polished stone with gold-leafed windows that reflected the sunlight.
Grim arrived on time, accompanied by Chen Xing and a single guard. His white and black attire had already become his signature in the capital.
A guild attendant guided them to a meeting room on the third floor, where large windows overlooked the bustling market below. Two men rose as Grim entered: Guildmaster Torren, a heavyset man with a neatly trimmed beard, and Guildmaster Riva, who was taller and leaner.
"Lord Ambrose," Torren greeted, offering a bow. "Welcome to the Merchant Guild."
"Guildmasters," Grim acknowledged, taking the offered seat at the head of the table.
