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It sounded too good to be true, and to some people it might possibly be the case. However, he was just one person, and he seemed nice enough. If not... a bit odd. Though Lin couldn't quite put her finger on as to why she thought he was a bit odd.

She had met a lot of odd people during her life, he wasn't the oddest person she had ever met.

Even Halmir had to raise a brow at how strange the man sounded, but this time he kept silent, letting Elros take care of the matter.

"Can you defend yourself if something does happen?" Elros asked the man, looking him over. Emile was not a very powerful-looking man: he had little visible muscle, which for humans meant no special strength; he was not tall, even for a human ...

Emile shook his head. "Not particularly. I know, it is quite unwise for one who loves to travel. I really did try, once upon a time, but my teachers gave up on me. That's why I have to travel with others."

Elros looked at the man thoughtfully, then looked back at the others. It was true, he was very wary of humans, but on the other hand if this man was telling the truth (which was questionable) he could be quite valuable. And if they had so many people who could keep an eye on him, surely it would be safe to give him a try ...

At length, he nodded. "Very well. You may accompany us. But we will be spending at least one night here, to rest up and resupply a bit. Is there a safe place to stay?"

"Not here," Emile replied brightly, without skipping a beat. "Never trust a tavern. Not if you want to be safe, and have a good rest. Drunks and thieves are the frequenters in this place. Outside's a bit safer, quite a bit if you've enough people to keep a good watch; but there's another place where I sometimes stay. How many people are you total?"

Emile grimaced. "Aye, at her best she could never fit so many," he murmured. "And I'd imagine you have horses besides? Perhaps a wagon or two for your supplies?"

Elros nodded. "Two wagons, fifteen horses."

Emile shook his head. "No way anyone in this town could house you," he said again. "No, you're better off staying on the outskirts and have a few people keep watch. With that many people, it shouldn't be too hard."

"Are you going to be coming with us?" River piped up, her eyes bright.

Emile chuckled softly. "If I'm invited to," he grinned.

A hint of a smile flickered across Elros's face, and he seemed to relax a bit, his stance becoming less stiff. "If you wish," he offered.

Emile grinned and gave a mock salute. "Thank you," he said cheerfully. "I'd love to."

Earendil chucked softly. It seemed this man was going to be an amusing addition to the group, at the very least.

Even Elros had to smile. "We will await you outside," he told Emile, "if you need to get anything."

Emile nodded. "Just my bag. I'll be right out."

And with that, Elros turned and led the group back outside.

"Kaitooooo!" River hollered, letting go of her grandparents' hands and running forward as soon as they were outside. "Can I have my sword back? You won't need it anymore! He's coming with us!"

"With us?" Kaito blinked and held her bokken out to her. "Who is?"

River giggled and just about pounced on the sword. "Emile, of course!"

"Ah," Kaito nodded. "I see."

Daeron only stared. "We're taking a human with us?" he asked, his tone clearly indicating that he was not impressed with that fact.

Earendil raised one hand, telling him silently to calm down. "Elros made the decision, we trust his judgment," he said quietly.