"My recommendation," Arthur began, "is minimal restrictions. Cast the net wide, evaluate afterwards."
Oliver's scarred face darkened immediately. "Bad strategy. Open recruitment means enemy infiltration."
Gates nodded in agreement. "Military operatives, spies, hostile elements from other guilds—they'll exploit any weakness."
That would be a reasonable concern...if I didn't have full control over who enters the guild.
Arthur's smile held secrets. "They can try."
The confidence in his voice made both men pause. Gates leaned forward, his instincts sensing the hidden message behind Arthur's tone.
"Can you explain?"
Arthur gestured toward the sealed entrance. "Notice how the doors responded to your arrival?"
"How you were permitted entry whilst others were denied?"
"The building itself evaluates intent," Arthur continued. "Those with genuine interest in guild membership can enter. Those with malicious purposes cannot."
Oliver's eyebrow raised.
