The Prelate placed a bulging money-bag on the table with a weighty thump, and Dalquist smiled in relief. As he reached out his right hand to take it, Thorn raised an admonitory finger, and the Questor stopped in mid-grab.

"You are to account for every penny of this money," intoned the senior mage. "I suppose we can allow perhaps three hundred to go astray for your trouble, but it will all need to be returned eventually. However, the Dominie has stipulated that the Guild will place no levy on any booty you gain from the Quest. That includes any magical items you may acquire on your way, with the exception of the Eye of Myrrn. I have agreed to do the same."

Dalquist stared, his hand still stretched out over the table. Magical items were expensive and coveted by all mages. In addition to a monetary tithe, High Lodge demanded the right to retain any unusual or powerful magical weapons, scrolls or charms found by its representatives abroad. A mage's House Prelate often took a further levy when High Lodge had taken their fill, and Lord Thorn was no different.

"I trust you understand that these terms are indeed generous and unlikely to be repeated," Thorn intoned.

Dalquist stammered his appreciation. Although he might gain little wealth from the Quest, what little he did manage to garner would be his. Although thievery from ordinary citizens and other mages was proscribed by Guild Law and subject to summary execution, a man such as Baron Starmor was regarded as an enemy of the Guild. To steal from such a man was condoned and even encouraged.

"Which mage will you take with you, Questor Dalquist? I should prefer you to leave the ranks of the Magemasters undisturbed."