Swamped

SILENCE.

That's close. If it were any other phrase, you might wonder if it were a regional variant.

But this phrase goes back to the Aedran Empire. The words themselves were carried over directly from Aedran. And "silence" is definitely not an Aedran word.

Is it just a message? Are they telling you not to say any more? That would be rather rude, especially if they're being ambiguous about it.

Well, they appear to understand Common, at least, so you can send something back. Best to keep it short. You settle on I NEED TIME.

The reply is quick. NO TIME TO GIVE.

At first you think it's an unwillingness to negotiate, but then you realize it may rather be saying they can't do it. Perhaps they don't know how to use time magic either.

If that's the case, then you might have to settle for just getting what you most need out of your guest before sending him on his way. You had a few high priorities, but now you doubt you'll have a chance at more than one.

Well, it's clear enough what that one matter is, so best to get on with it.