Initiation Ceremony

The lady who had brought the orb stepped forward, standing confidently in front of the crowd of gathered guild members.

Embedded in her cheek was a small, magically-enhanced stone that acted like a microphone, amplifying her voice across the hall.

"Everyone! How are you today?" she called out cheerfully.

She wore an eye-catching, skin-tight outfit in bright pink and had a pair of cat-like ears perched on a headband atop her head.

"GOOD!" the crowd roared in unison, their voices shook the guild hall, Bob included. He had already rushed forward, getting closer to the front like an excited fan.

I stood there, blinking.

Why does this feel like déjà vu?

It felt like we were at a live idol concert, not an adventurer guild ceremony.

"Are you guys ready for the ceremony?!" she shouted again, her voice so loud it made my ears ring.

"YEAHHH!!!" came the thunderous reply.