The Margrave nods in satisfaction as each of you take a seat. The Litorian seems wary, but copies Rowlth's position, sitting on his haunches. The Sibeccai magister stands near the door, his eyes flashing angrily.
He gestures to Xen, and one of the servants brings over a tray with a few pieces of fruit and bread, as well as a goblet of what seems to be a dark red berry juice. The servant holds the tray for Xen to eat from as he stands beside him.
To Rupert and Haradoth, he nods. "You have been chosen, it is true. My .... 'talent scout' has picked each of you as the most worthy and likely candidates to perform the task I need of you."
He gestures to another servant, who reaches down and opens up a large chest. The gleam of silver coins can clearly be seen in the chest, and it is indeed a large chest. The Margrave smiles again, a slightly feral smile. "Each of you, assuming you accept and complete my offer, will be granted two mules, laden with silver. I assume that each of you would be interested in such an offer?"
Before any of you can reply, the Sibeccai angrily speaks. "I would know what you would have we do, and quickly, lordling. My talents are not to be wasted."
The Margrave smiles at this, and nods. "Well, my impatient friend, I have a friend. This friend, sad to say, is currently imprisoned, through no fault of his own. He has ... knowledge that I seek, knowledge that others would see hidden away. His captor will not negotiate for release, so I am left with no alternative."
He looks you over. "My scout has identified each of you as tied to this task, but you are, of course, free to decline. Though I will assure you I have a contact within the prison that would be able to assist you in your escape, and it should be a relatively simple matter. Of course, I am unable to use any of my own agents, as I cannot be officially associated with such an act."
"Are you willing to accept this task?"