"They are quite intriguing for a group in uniforms. And polite, most of the time." Merlin shook the man's hand and nodded, bouncing in a bow that was almost full-court style, but not quite.

"Are you enjoying your stay here? It seems an interesting voyage, and it holds one of the most dear of all people I have ever known, so it is as much home as ever there has been." His words were spoken softly, but surely and with a firmness that might surprise others, but ever had been his way.