Immersive Ink

He hears what sounds like some occasional casual conversations by humans, but can't make out the words

Maloof indicates to everyone that there is someone beyond the door. He waits for everyone to prepare before he opens it.

Franklin is alert and ready for battle, if it comes to that.

Wiglaff prepares to cast sleep if necessary, but hopes that there is talking to be done. He fears another fight with wizards, given their losses last time.

He nods to Maloof that he is ready.

You open the door onto a 20 foot long corridor that opens into some sort of room. Your attention, however, is focused on an obvious wizard standing about 5 feet in front of you, obviously watching the door. "Hello adventurers!" he says. "There is no need for battle today. We are the Mages Research Collective, and are always willing to trade spells and magic items. But we know how to defend ourselves." His tone is very friendly, open and welcoming

"Excellent!" Maloof exclaims, clapping his hands. "Is Tim among your number?"

"Do you mean Timn?"

"Um, yeah, probably that's him?" Maloof replies somewhat uncertainly.

"Do you have any items for sale that would benefit a fighting-hobbet?" Franklin asks hopefully.

Another wizard saunters up from behind the speaker. "My name is Alistair. I lead this workshop. We have no business with Timn. We do not sell items, we trade items and spells. Although we do not like our research disturbed in this matter, we realize its inevitability, and are always willing to converse politely with strangers"