[color=silver]Ardour had barely noted Atanase's absence when the man already emerged from the surrounding crowd. He did not came alone, either; following in his trail was none other than Lady Esvelle herself, her attention clearly stolen by Aurix's meal - or rather, the [i]way [/i]she had chosen to consume said meal. The tiefling chuckled. Ah, rich folk, they truly were the same the world over. 

She sat down next to Ardour, and he offered her a polite nod and a smile in return to her greeting. Lin was quick to douse their benefactor in kindness and mead, then prompted her to share her woes. And Aurix, well-- she, [i]hm[/i], asked a question too, he supposed. Sometimes, her inability to read the atmosphere was... astounding. One could even say admirable.

Watching the noblewoman try to keep her composure in face of such a question was well worth it, however. 

Her answer was quite intriguing as well, particularly in conjunction with what came after. So her brother was quite adept at survival, and she believed he was doing well for himself - yet she wanted him returned? Was it simply a sister's worry, or did she have reason to believe that something might go - or have gone - awry? And then there was the last bit - the mention of a temptation to do otherwise. 

Ardour's interest was piqued. 

"My, he sounds like quite a character, this brother of yours," he mused, taking the opportunity to pour himself some of the mead on the table. "Worry not, you've been most accommodating to us thus far, it is only fair that we keep our end of the bargain - no matter these... [i]temptations [/i]we might face on the way."

It would've probably helped his cause had he not flashed a visible grin at the word 'temptation'. Regardless, he paused to take his time and try the mead. A bit too sweet for his liking as he'd expected, but he fancied the texture. 

"With that said," abandoning his drink at last, Ardour crossed his fingers and finally turned to look at Esvelle, his pupilless, unblinking eyes fixed on hers. "I'm afraid the less we know, the less we can do for you and your cause. Surprises sow discord, my dear. I would simply [i]hate [/i]to see harm come to your brother due to inadequate preparation. Do help us ensure our success."[/color]