I have been listening to both sides in this argument(?) and would like to
put in my two coppers...

First, on the issue of the 10 pp. Actually, they only require 1pp and the
rest to be paid as can before a initiate reaches the 10 level. That is a
long period in Norrath time. For I my self and not the most skilled of
hunters but can earn about 1pp to 1pp 5 gp a Notathian day in the east
commons just outside the city of Freeport. This is by hunting the Deathfist
Pawn/Orc's (which I mention one should not take lightly, for there are
places in Norrath that this activity can make one a kill on site. I learned
this the hard way at the hands of an Dark-Elf and his pet skeleton. Never
underestimate the power of the faction system) Wolfs, Skeletons (Who's
rusted weapons can bring about 1gp each), Bears, Fire Beatles, and
spiderlings (nonpoisonous). Also one can make about 5-7gp a Norrathian day
just outside the gates of Freeport hunting the unlimited and massive vermin
that romp there (Stomping rats, bats, and snakes- oh my!!!). Not a lot of
experience but it is money none the less. So the dues is not that great
problem I would surmise. My expenses are about 2-3gp for food, water, and
throwing Knives (very useful for drawing away creators from a croup to
dispatch them one at a time or if you are just too lazy to walk over and
wack'em).

Second, the group does give to its members. I do not know what others
guilds are like and will not even conjecture for not wanting to unjustly
slander. But this group have stated how they help those that belong to their
fold. and it sounds very reasonable. I can not conjecture on the
personalities of the members having not met any, nor belonging to the group
myself.

So in closing I would mention that it so far sounds to me like their
request are not that out of the realm of the feasible. Personally I am
tempted to join also, but I have not met any of the participants, and place
more on the personal actions/demeanor of people then any group ideal for the
true measure of any body is found in it members for people can try to live
up to any lofty goals they profess, it is their actions that show their true
direction. I am from the Show me part of Norrath (this ideal has gotten my
face slapped in many a tavern but that is another story we best not get into
here :) ). So I would best suggest that people just check out their
postings, talk to members, non-members, and even those with an axe to grind.
for to find the middle best to know where the outer most edges are. for in
the middle you will find the truth. As any good trader knows, if you can
live with the down side of a deal there is no reason not to go though with
it.

Another reason I may not be able to join, for you see a SnowLynx among
SeaBirds could, how you say,... Be a bit, messy. :)

But this is only a Bards ramblings, and is only worth no more than the
electrodes it is stored with...

SnowLynx-Gentleman Bard of Freeport...