The room was dark and filled with with the smell of armor polish and grease, and Andre was signing his life away.
Across the desk from the brown haired man with the sad eyes, the robust soldier continued in a quiet voice. "You understand that this is a long term contract, right Andre? The Korvosa guard cannot guarantee your safety, indeed, you will be placed in harm’s way."
"No, I'm sure Jakes, I have made up my mind. I need to do something, anything, and the guard needs more men. It's just... well, you understand. Besides it gives me any excuse to look for information about Elise.” The man replied with a sigh.
The Lieutenant nodded before continuing "Look Andre, I have known you for what? Five years, and if I'm honest, we could use you, but you have other options, you’re not some rabble from the shingles. There are other options for you. I could put in a word with Sable Company. Are you absolutely positive you want to sign up? There are other options. For Aroden’s sake man, visit your family in Magnimar! Or get out of the city for a few weeks to clear your head, gods man! I know what you're going though, and I loved Elise like a sister, really I understand…”
"Jakes, give me the papers. I have made up my mind. Besides…" Andre continued in a whisper. "I have got to find who killed her, and this might be my only chance." With another long sigh Jakes pushed the writ of employment across the desk to Andre. With a short pause, Andre picked up the offered quill and inkpot. Signing his name ham-handedly he handed the papers back to Jakes.
"Well, that’s that I suppose." Taking out a stamp and sealing wax, Jakes affixed his seal of office to the writ and reaching for his cane, propped himself to his feet. "Congratulations Sergeant Cyre. I look forward to your future reports. And Andre... be safe out there." Across the desk Jakes snapped to attention and saluted Andre. "Go see the quartermaster and get kitted out. I’ll have an assignment for you within the day."
That’s the problem Jakes, Elise wasn’t looking for trouble when she got knifed, so what’s the point of being safe. "Thanks, ah, Sir…” Looking around the office for the last time, Andre picked up his cloak and turned back to Jakes as he settled it around his broad shoulders. "Thanks again for everything. Do me a favor?"
"Anything" The lieutenant quickly replied.
Pausing for a moment as if to put his thoughts in order Andre continued slowly, as if forcing the words out from a buried place with in him. "If you hear anything about Elise, even a whisper. You come find me. Don’t hold anything back, alright? I need this Jakes."
"I’ll do that Sergeant. Make sure that goes both ways though." Replied the lieutenant as he sat back down at his desk and watched his friend leave.
That in the cards old friend. And gods help me when I find the man that killed her. And with that, Andre walked away.
