[Still smiling thinly, he shakes his head.] Oh, no; [A beat.] others have already, I’m aware. But, you may find that you require assistance of a different sort.

[Setting down his sketchbook and pen, he swings his legs off the table after a moment.]

I can offer you a means of safeguarding what materials your allies are capable of bringing to you. A living chest that, even if unlocked, cannot easily be opened – and will sink its teeth into the hands of any that manage.

[He gazes back steadily, his amusement not reaching his eyes.]

I know what it means to be hated and outnumbered; to have that which you care for dearly torn from your grasp by others who decide you are undeserving. Your choice is yours alone to make; but my offer stands, should it be of interest to you.