"Your escort for the upcoming ball. We believed it prudent to go over some details with you before hand."

"...Guess you'd better come in, then." She steps aside.

And in. 

The most prominent decorations on the walls are arms and armor. They're all immaculately maintained, shining in contrast to the slightly dusty remainder of the house. There's really an astonishing variety on display, from all over Tamriel.

She pulls back her hood, openly admiring the decorations. "Can you use all of these?" she asks with a clear, sincere interest.

"I've used all of them."

"A talented woman."

"If it's kill or be killed, I prefer to be the active one."

"An important consideration lately."

"Only lately? That's the problem with lowlanders, you're all too soft."

Grin. "Perhaps we have been."

"What's your interest in weapons?"

"I'm part of the Blades," she says, flatly. "I'm here because we need access to the upcoming ball."

"Oh."

"That makes this easier, then. You're undercover, I assume."

"Yes."

"Anyone in particular you're wanting to meet? I don't really have friends but I am a useful swing vote."

She gives a few names. "But I also want to get a general sense of gossip - who's talking to whom, who's ambitious, who's changed their habits lately."

"Party'll be a good place for that. I really only check in with these people at this sort of thing."

"Can't blame you for that."

"Most days I miss being able to hit problems into submission."

"You might have some opportunities coming up."

"It's been a couple years since I've saved the Empire."

"We welcome your expertise."

"Hopefully this time goes better."

...Very serious nod.