Chapter 146: A Reckoning

This man possessed a far greater composure than the petty thieves I'd encountered previously. He regarded me with curious intensity, then inquired, "Aeliana isn't here! Pray tell, what is your relation to her?"

"Her brother," I replied.

"Do you know Ulfred?"

"I do. Intimately."

My words met with scepticism. After a moment's hesitation, he gestured towards the interior with a deferential sweep of his hand. "Please, enter. Let us share some humble tea and discuss this matter thoroughly." The phrase "discuss this matter thoroughly" implied a comprehensive recounting of events.