I wasn't exactly thrilled about the idea of joining the Thieves Guild. The thought of being tied to a group like that didn't sit well with me. But I couldn't help but be intrigued by the idea of their ranks and benefits. Maybe it was the gamer in me, but I had a soft spot for that kind of stuff.
Besides, I figured that if I did decide to get involved, it wouldn't mean following strict rules or losing my freedom. Knowing that I could still operate on my own terms was important to me. So, while I wasn't eager to join them outright, the potential advantages were hard to ignore.
"I am one of the seven assassins of the guilds, a position below the guild master, so I can grant you such a position."
"Not until I learn more about your structure."
Diran nodded and began explaining things to me since the night was long and it was boring to just walk… even though we should move in silence. The guild had six ranks, including the guild master. The most basic rank was the pickpocket. It was the entry-level rank for new members. These thieves are responsible for small-time thefts like pickpocketing and minor burglary.
As for benefits, they have access to basic guild training in stealth, pickpocketing, and lockpicking, a small cut of the profits from successful jobs, and basic safehouse access for hiding or lying low.
The second rank was footpad. A more experienced thief who has proven their skills in minor thefts and can take on riskier jobs like muggings and more complex burglaries.
They have access to advanced training in stealth, combat, and fencing stolen goods. They also receive a larger share of the profits from jobs. They have priority access to better jobs, higher-quality targets, and a small network of informants.
Then there is Rogue. A seasoned thief with expertise in various criminal activities. They are often responsible for leading small crews on more complex jobs. They can form and lead a crew, taking a cut from their earnings. Access to specialized tools, disguises, and insider information. A greater share of profits and more valuable loot opportunities. Access to guild services like forgery, alchemy (poisons/potions), and black-market connections.
The fourth rank was the shadow. A master of stealth and deception, Shadows handles the most sensitive and dangerous missions, such as espionage, sabotage, and high-profile assassinations.
They have Exclusive access to the guild's most valuable and sensitive information, high pay for completing dangerous and important missions, the authority to negotiate and plan high-level jobs, and access to elite equipment and resources, including enchanted items or magical assistance.
Then there are the Assassins. Specialists in lethal methods, Assassins within the guild are called upon for contract killings and elimination of high-value targets. They can get significant pay and bonuses for successful assassinations. Access to deadly poisons, advanced weaponry, and combat training. Access to information networks to track targets and plan missions.
Finally, the guild master. The highest rank within the guild, the Guildmaster oversees all operations, enforces rules, and makes strategic decisions for the guild's future. The guild master has Complete control over the guild's resources, including funds, equipment, and safe houses. Authority over all guild members, with the power to promote, demote, or expel members—influence over political and criminal networks within the city or region.
As expected, it was a pretty cool scheme… It also showed that perhaps they weren't at their best moment since Diran was forced to ask me for help. I was interested in alchemy and poisons, though, so that seemed like a good opportunity for me to get my hands on some of that knowledge and stuff.
"Also, you don't have to stay with us forever. You can leave the guild when you want as long as you don't betray us and leave without making enemies."
"If it is too good to be true, then it probably is."
I chuckled a bit when I heard Serana say that… she had a point and that made Diran raise his eyebrows. Anyway, the lazy fairy was using me as a vehicle, but at least she was sharing a bit of her wisdom.
"Naturally, we have some requirements for our members, too, like they need to make a certain amount of money and give a portion to the guild as a fee. Still, you can make a lot more money just by selling stolen stuff to us; no one will be able to trace those goods back to you."
"And what you will gain from this? A bit of fame and reputation, I am sure."
"Yes, convincing the last member of the royal family of the human realm certainly will put me up there when it comes to the selection process of the next guild master when that happens."
Joining the Thieves Guild was a gamble, no doubt about it. Plenty of risks were involved: getting caught up in dangerous jobs, becoming a bigger target for the law, and the constant possibility of betrayal. It wasn't exactly the kind of life I had envisioned for myself. But when I took a step back and looked at the bigger picture, the potential benefits were hard to ignore.
In the short term, being part of the guild could provide me with resources, information, and opportunities that I wouldn't have access to otherwise. The guild had connections and influence in places that could be useful, and the ranks and benefits offered a clear path to gaining power and recognition within their world. For someone like me, who appreciated the structure and rewards of a good system, it was tempting.
But the real advantage would come in the long run. Diran was ambitious, and if he managed to become the next guild master, that could change everything. He already owed me for what I'd done; if he rose to power, those debts would only grow. Having someone like Diran in my corner, someone with influence over the entire guild, could open doors that would otherwise remain firmly shut.
And even if I chose to leave the guild eventually, those connections wouldn't disappear. I'd have allies within the organization, people who knew me, who owed me, and who might be willing to help when the time came. It was all about playing the long game—building relationships that could be leveraged later on.
"All right, sign me in."
"Those are the words I wanted to hear."
Diran looked pleased while Serena lay down at the top of my head and supported her head with both her hands. I could imagine her showing a dubious expression since I was starting to read her silence pretty well. Maybe I was starting to read other people's auras well.
"Well, since we have some time, let's already start working on the skills that you will need by working with us. You may think that this is going to be weird. I think that it is poetic."
Diran began to look around as we walked through a clearing, and while it was pretty dark, he found some plants.
"Teaching skills can be pretty fast for someone like you, but overall knowledge is not so much. Time to teach you a bit of alchemy and herbology."