"That is a plus, I suppose," he nodded, crossing his arms, "Small favors, but favors nonetheless. You seem well-read on this sort of thing, for a noble. Most of the 'elite' of society haven't impressed me much. They tend toward the pampered and greedy end of the things."

After pulling out his wallet, he rifled through old photos. He hoped what he'd heard about them being outside time was correct.

"Do you have family back home? Friends?"