Scratching his chin, Jakar mused for a moment. "Give me your finest ale," he decided, "and a hot meal would not be amiss." He thanked the bartender as his drink was served, and took a sip as he listened to Galawayn converse with the man. When mention was made of the dangers faced by the traders, his eyes suddenly lit up. Here was a golden opportunity for employment. He began to stand up with the intent to speak to the elves immediately, but hesitated for a moment, apparently calculating in his head.

	He turned and nudged Galawayn to attract his attention. "Galawayn," he began, "I've been hired many times over as a guard for tradesmen such as these. A mercenary, so to speak. There's good money in it, and only seldom is there any danger, much like today on the road. Now," he continued, lowering his voice "merchants want to feel safe. And while I may be able to keep them so, they [i]feel[/i] safer with a greater number of guards, if you catch my meaning."

	"In my country, I had friends, old companions and warfellows, who would often join me on these ventures. We would split the profits and make a killing for little trouble. But here," he gestured widely, "I know no one. What I could make as a lone mercenary would be a pittance compared to the gold a dedicated band of warriors could bring in." He paused for a moment, evaluating Galawayn's reaction.

	"I have witnessed your abilities, and those of our companions. There is real skill. The six of us could offer our services to these merchants for a kingly sum. Once I've spoken to the others, I could have the arrangements made with the elves in a matter of moments. What say you?"