Hutson took a quick measure of the room. It was massive, easily spanning five to six hundred square meters. At the far end, a grand bed, large enough to comfortably fit six or seven people, dominated the space.
Before he could settle in, the sound of heavy footsteps echoed from the hallway. Moments later, two armored guards entered, struggling under the weight of a golden chest.
They placed it before Hutson and Kieran, the sheer weight of wealth inside making the floorboards creak.
"Leave us," Kieran ordered.
Without a word, the guards bowed their heads and hurried out, never once daring to look directly at Hutson.
Kieran lifted the gilded lid, revealing a gleaming hoard of gold coins, their brilliance reflecting the candlelight.
"This is the ten thousand gold Lord Joshi promised," Kieran said. "Sir Hutson, please inspect your payment."
Hutson let out a pleased chuckle. "Not bad."
