There's no hesitation in taking her hand. The civility of the mercher's is a game he's played most of his life and that, at least, is familiar. "Kaz, and it's definitely the worst welcome I've ever had." And with this reputation back home, that is saying something. "Any theories on their sadistic little bathing pool rescue? Is it meant to make us grateful that they didn't just let us drown?"

Because he refuses.

He nods at that. "So I've heard, and seen the training fields. I have no intention of being part of their Army." Leading his own in this place though, that's something else entirely. Though he can't help but ask, thinking of Jesper in particular. "Odd abilities in what way? I've been told they have the small science here and even grant it to those they bring in. Why not tailor their own army from that ability?"