...I'll need to think on it. Being a mercenary allows me to maintain a level of freedom over the battles I choose to involve myself in. As a soldier, that luxury is absent, as orders must be obeyed.

[Also... Byleth had only ever taken orders from Jeralt, who was the one who handled the contracts and interpreting the client's wishes for the upcoming battles. It rubbed him all wrong to 'replace' Jeralt with another commander, even if it would be temporary and impersonal.]

But, if you ever need my blade to help you, I'll always accept your contract. [He abruptly recalled a phrase he had heard Shez toss around before.] I'll even give you the "friend discount".