[ Even if Byleth claims that politics is not where she shines, it sounds as if she has plenty of other areas of expertise. While Thancred is used to politics as a point of necessity, it is also not where he would first place himself. He's capable of participating in political maneuvering to some degree, but acts of diplomacy often fell to Alphinaud, who exceled at it.

It's only himself and Himeka here, however, which means that he may need to exercise some muscles he hasn't oft used as of late. That shouldn't be a problem, of course.

Byleth makes a good point and Thancred has seen others who seem to have already taken this tack, getting into the good graces of people of influence in Thorne so that they have access to more resources or information. How genuine each of them is remains a mystery, but he does intend to find out if he can.

Yet he can't mask the fact that the moment mercenary work comes up, he perks up with a swift nod. As the question is turned back on him, he crosses his arms and shift his weight. ]

Yes, well, we decided it might be best to not put all our eggs in one basket. Thorne seems to have access to a great deal of knowledge that would be lost were I to leave. [ Yes, he could keep in contact with people like Byleth and exchange information that way, but he can't say he truly trusts anyone he's met in Thorne thus far, not even fellow Summoned. It takes more than a conversation or two to earn that, and while he would assume all Summoned are on the same "side," he can't be certain just yet. ]

Mercenary work, however... I have an interest in such things as well. [ With that, he takes on a mischievous smile. ] Shall we consider ourselves allies or rivals in that arena? [ They'll be in competition for work, of course, but it wouldn't be a bad idea to team up depending on the job in question. ]