Kayden had to agree with Lis on both counts, the grin he was trying to hide showed as much. He knew how to maneuver and keep his cool in many...diplomatic situations, but he had chosen the life of a Mercenary to keep him among more abrupt folk. He placed a hand on her shoulder in thanks that she did her best not to appear rude, and he gave her a wink as he spoke. "I agree with my lady friend here, could we not find this man?" 

That question, along with the others on how this stranger was peculiar, had Lord Pembrook holding his hands up to settle the mercenaries down. "Yes, yes, I see you are very eager my friends. But allow me to explain. This man, called Strater from what he claims, was quite interested in one of the many books I procured. When I told him it was not for sale, he looked at me strangely, and for some reason, it took all of my will power to refuse his offer. When I did refuse, you see, I felt as if I was in grave danger. Indeed my priest thought so as well, as did my many guard. For a moment we had a fear the likes of which I had not felt in many years, since I faced the Death Knight Heroglabus in single combat, yes those were the days! Tall I was, and-" 

"While that does sound impressive, please go on sir." Kayden said. 

"Yes, yes, quite. You see, he told me I had a weeks time to reconsider his offer. That was four days ago, you see. You see if it weren't for my old warrior instincts kicking in, I would not be worried. I am a very wealthy man you see, and would pay you all handsomely, yes, yes. And I have many guards and a strong vault, but there was something about him. Something I could not quite put out of my mind." 

The thought of being handsomely paid, as well as this new information, had the young Captain pondering for a moment. Left hand holding his right elbow, his right hand stroked his chin as he gazed inwardly for a moment. Pembrook continued to speak, squinting at Jollan, or so he thought, when in fact he was looking at a vase between Jollan and Hobnob. "As for the book, it's an old Ra'sheek holy book in a language that has been lost in time. A trinket, so I was told. Though does it have vast magic? Many would be daft to say so, but you never do know these days. Now, as for the story of how I procured the book, it was twenty years ago-" 

"I am sure it is a lovely story sir," Kayden said, now it being his turn to hold his hands up to halt the Lord Pembrook. "We shall discuss this matter further at our humble hall and get back to you first thing in the morning." 

Once they made it outside, they strode along the ornate stone pathway leading out of the estate. Kayden glanced back, and then glanced at Lis, running a hand through his hair. "By the Evergod," he breathed, showing he felt the way she did about that whole affair. 
[hr]
It was hours later in the evening, when Nuva, Secret, and Morek had made it back to the Guild Hall, as well as any Gnomes Hobnob needed. Haukford and Jex the Draconic Hunter stayed at Hillcrest, and Virgil stated he would be riding out there in the morning to keep an eye on things. For now however, everyone was in the Meadhall in the Guild. Kayden had gotten everyone drinks, and sat down with them. He reiterated all they had found out, and told them he wanted to accept the offer even if, despite Pembrook's claims, it was probably nothing. 

"I admit I'd want a bit more excitement," Kayden sighed to them as they had all sat down upon the center table. He'd just finished regaling the newcomers with the tale. "But sometimes there's nothing better than getting paid to do nothing. I'm sure there will be many contracts within the next few weeks where I'll need my sword, but for now? I say take the job. It'll help keep the Guildhall running if nothing else." His chin rested on as fist, elbow on the table.
[hr]
[@MiddleEarthRoze][@BCTheEntity][@rush99999][@Jollan]