The elf returns the nod, as he sits down; a handsome fellow, but otherwise fairly nondescript. He'd blend in easily in any crowd, and a DC 30 Perception check will reveal his appearance is magically generated, as well. "Greetings, thief-master. I know you are newly arrived in the city, so this is a courtesy. The paladin is a temporary measure, part of a much larger scheme. He will be here a scant few months, and then the status-quo will be restored. Do not interfere in this matter; you will be compensated, when the project is complete."