The stranger shrugged.  He nodded to his trio, one of whom ran a hand through her hair.  Apparently that was a signal, since the four by the cars visibly relaxed a little.  Meanwhile, the man and his escort came inside.  Two stationed themselves flanking the door.  The other began moving around the apartment.  Their boss helped himself to the nearest chair.<br/><br/>He steepled his fingers and waited for the woman to finish whatever she was doing.<br/><br/>"Jacob . . . you may call me Mr. du Lac," he said as she wrapped up, "I require some assistance in a delicate matter which involves saving untold existances."