I'm all set to start, but professional assassins do not work 'on retainer' (except perhaps as 'security consultants') or for 'room and board', WW. ;)<br/><br/>It's gold only and by contract.<br/><br/>Of course, this can be negotiated to some extent, and would probably be recommended. You don't want the assassin to spend the time the rest of the party is fighting (things she was not contracted for) doing her nails, y'know? That could happen if she is expected to tag along with a party of adventurers but wasn't promised a share in addition to her regular fee (keep in mind, her fee would be for probably one target, so it sorta balances itself out).<br/><br/>I'm sure it'll come across as egotistical, but the first step in being treated like a pro is to act like a pro, and Xiann ain't no common thug/adventurer who can be hired for a roof over her head and three squares a day!  ;D