“Thanks for the offer, but no”

You were surprised. “Is there any specific reason for declining?”

The spokesman, the Paladin, tells you “We have already arranged for someone to teach us the ropes. After they show us what they can, we may come back to you, but others can learn while we are not taking up your time.”

You nod slowly. “You gave your word to this person, and that is not something to ignore for no reason. Are they here, so I can compare notes with them?”

The Rogue tells you, “We have agreed to meet him away from the town. He said he dislikes crowds.”

This is very interesting “Mayhap I can escort you to him? It is not safe to wonder around without a guide at first. Where about are you meeting him?”

“He told us to keep it a secret.”

Alarm bells were ringing for you and others.

“Please, oh please tell me that it is not Harlma Manor!”

One of the girls was started. “It is. Why?”