"Depends on what they want us to help with."

And if they can't be told immediately, Rude can only assume it's because it's something those in charge need to sound people out for. Perhaps putting outsiders in charge of running the different cities is simply another test towards that plan, because beyond that Rude doesn't see that there's much that's needed.

Which leads him towards another, less savoury possibility.

"Assuming they want anything at all, beyond their own amusement."