No buisiness talks while the guests are eating is an Aundairian, civilised custom, but you are all glad that the dinner finally winds to a close and desserts and coffee are being served to those that still have room for them.
"Friends, fellow patriots. For the majority of the populace the war is over. But we know better. As long as Thaliost is in foreign hands, there will be no peace for Aundair. The war still rages, but in the shadows, at arms length. I will not waste time gloryfying the horrors of the battlefield, for you are all familiar with them, and saying how sad it is that we cannot meet the foe in fair combat. This war is as fierce and merciless as any you have seen. Master Willems is one of our specialists in the trade, and he has asked me to contact you. I, and the Crown, have every trust in him." Lord ir'Wynarn looks at everyone of you, making sure his message gets across.
"Now, I wish you all a good evening, and I will leave you with my guest. Remember, whatever you decide, you will not repeat anything you learn here tonight."
And with that, Lord ir'Wynarn leaves the chamber.
"Ladies and gentlemen," The merchant says, still seated. "I have read about your exploits in the war, and I must say I'm rather impressed." he pauses, thinking.
"What I have for you is a buisiness proposition. I am a merchant, travelling around the countryside dealing in luxury goods. Those goods need protection. You are all veterans from the war, and could use some coin. As far as any authorities are concerned, that is all they need to know."
He thinks again.
"I think you can put two and two together. If you are willing to travel with me, please stay seated. If you do not, you are free to leave."