[ What can be changed. Hmm. He doesn't answer immediately, his gaze fixed on a building just beyond the market street, the sign declaring it some sort of tavern and inn. The Sarstina, naturally. ]

The how... [ He shrugs with a slight grimace. No, she might actually have to ask Reiner herself if she'd like that answer. Astarion knows at least one other person intent on untangling the Summoning ritual, but that isn't a name he's about to give away just yet. ]

But the why - well, there's a war going on. Or, rather, was going on. Hard to say where diplomatic relations stand at the current hour, though I would hazard to guess chilly.

[ Thorne took the heaviest losses by the looks of everything, with the Free Cities having chased them back across the Badlands. He tips his head toward her, arching an eyebrow. ]

We - the Summoned, that is, hold a particular skill that these nations covet. A connection. Truthfully - I never do these sort of introductions. You will usually find some of the welcoming committee here...

[ He stops in front of the Sarstina's doors, opening them for the elven woman with a bit a gentlemanly flourish - or perhaps mocking one. ]

Come inside. I suspect all of this goes down better with some ale...

[ It's not overly crowded right now, she can choose a table or the bar. ]