Speaker Tocsax’s words were hard to follow for a man who was aimlessly wandering the desert only a day ago but one thing seemed clear: he was ready to die to fulfill his duty. However, Lucas and the others could challenge this fate to save his life and countless more. What needed to be done was obvious… Too obvious for imperial courts usually filled with intrigue. It was time to push his luck.
 
[b]“Your tale is quite noble and melancholic, lord Tocsax. While you did not need to tell us your reasons for your call of arms, you have graciously done so. However, if we are talking compensation for services rendered, I require mine upfront.”[/b] Lucas would state, capitalizing on Alex’s demands. By comparison, his shouldn’t be as outrageous. Maybe. [b]“I will only swear fealty if I am knighted under his majesty. Granted, I am not of your world but I assure you that the customs of nobility in mine are guaranteed by divine right and honor. If successful on this crusade against the traitor Leo, then a fiefdom of my choosing from your majesty’s imperial holdings as well. Otherwise, you merely need to point, and I will strike down our foes with no hesitation.”[/b] Surely, with the fate of the multiverse at stake, a man could reap the rewards that he rightfully deserves. 

With his word given to his hosts, Lucas continued to listen to the others speak. It wouldn’t be long before Seth had protested Alex’s demands. Perhaps he also had disdain towards Lucas’ as well but his rage towards the mercenary overshadowed this.[b] “Calm now, [i]fuchsmann[/i].”[/b] He would say to Seth. [b]“Hired guns might chase coin but he’ll only get to spend it if there are still merchants at the end of this ordeal. Though, quite frankly, it would be foolish not to lay out your demands so you have something to look forward to at the end of all of this.”[/b] This was as impartial as Lucas could get, taking both sides while not committing to either. [@Rex][@Letter Bee]