Alexi all-but jumped at the hand on his shoulder, following words voice unexpectedly from behind. He worked quickly to compose himself, turning towards the voice and hoping his features appeared more collected than he actually was.

Someone was [i]actually[/i] expressing interest in escorting him, it would be heartbreaking to chase that away so soon.

He took quick stock of the speaker as he faced her, noting that -gender aside- a fighter she certainly appeared to be. She dressed neck-to-toe in layered armor, the wearing visible across each piece lending credence to the fact that she was versed in combat. Her tunic appeared new to his eye -certainly less worn than the rest of her armor- was she looking to replace more? Money would prove a strong motivation then… or she would decide that simply taking all he had was better than being paid a portion.

Of course, if he was so concerned over scenarios like that, he should have been more proactive in hiring a guard to begin with.

“Certainly-! Yes, yes.” A quick glance around gave a little extra weight to the woman’s words, the square growing more and more deserted by the moment. No respectable deal was made in the shadows of empty places, it would be a far better start to his travels to begin them in a more… proper manner.

Of course, if he didn’t collect himself, his travels might not begin at all.

“Discussion over a meal is probably for the best, you said it was nearby? I may know the place.” He moved to fall in step beside the armored woman, gaze glazing over as he drew up a mental map of the area…

...Before snapping back to focus almost instantly.

“Ah- My apologies.” Catching himself hopefully in time, Alexi paused to offer the woman a polite bow. “No matter how our discussion goes, I should introduce myself: Alexander Dumont, pleasure to meet you.”