Talk to the hedge mage and see how the others react

Aaralon knew what he wanted. He wanted success and at this point that meant finding one or more competent allies, people good enough at their own skills to be worth knowing but still people who he could manipulate or lead.

Aaralon also knew the drill. Outside the College people with some talent would band together to form groups. These groups would raid the remains of the Ancient Kingdom, typically crawling through the ruins of old buildings, slaying the creatures which tended to haunt the areas and collecting the vast amount of gold which could still be found.

To these adventurous parties a hedge mage was a great asset. It was almost unheard of for a High Mage - or a High Mage in training like himself - to take part. In fact, it was prohibited under the Laws of the College. Aaralon was clear though, he was no longer in the College.

"Greetings master," Aaralon pitched his voice carefully as he approached the hedge mage. It was a bluff whisper, designed to appear to be carefully quiet but loud enough to ensure that the nearby adventures would overhear.

The portly hedge mage arched an eyebrow as he looked up, "Hmm?"

Without looking, Aaralon was aware that the two women were watching as was the strange man. It was only the oaf trying to appear to be sinister who had failed to overhear his whisper.

"I apologise if this is forward..." Aaralon continued, "This is forward, nevertheless, I was hoping that you had the need for an adventuring apprentice?"