"It says I'm no pawn of House Mercere, but am devoted more to the safety of the covenant," Lucas replies. "I knew that Harco would prefer me to be in Arans, that's true," Lucas says. "But they generally accede to the wishes of the House magi in such matters. Uncharacteristically, they have proven to be less tractable this time. I had fully expected to be able to fulfill my duties in Sa Dragonera before relocating to Arans. With the portals, I visit here regularly and so I would still be able to assist the Mercere guildhouse. I'm frankly surprised by the vehemence of their response."
OOC: FWIW, the seven years requirement was decided upon after Lucas joined. Before that, the only mention I found anywhere was of a three year stay, which Lucas is mostly done with. So there's been a little bit of bait and switch here. Also, as a player, I'm kind of surprised at the reaction that Marko said House Mercere had.