For all her stoic professionalism, Lyna cannot keep the look of genuine confusion that Haurchefant causes off her face. The answer was given with complete honesty from what Lyna's ears can determine, but he can't be. Is the man addled? Pixies aren't out of the question, though they normally do not allow those who wander too close to Il Mheg to leave. With a weary sigh Lyna tries one more time, folding her arms as she gives Haurchefant another piercing look. Whether the man sticks with his made-up kingdom or not, Lyna isn't inclined to turn him away for some sin-eater to make a meal of, but he certainly won't be allowed into her home as is.

"I've no mood for games, stranger," she says, voice terse. "If you cannot tell me the truth--"

"At ease, captain," another voice calls out. Startled, Lyna turns to reveal a smaller figure in hooded robes moving towards them. His pace is steady and his voice measured, a more suiting figure for Lyna's softly questioning 'My lord?' The Exarch smiles up at her, reassuring. "Thank you, Lyna, for greeting my guest in my stead...and my apologies for being unable to inform you sooner."

Ah, Lyna thinks to herself. That explains it. She gives the Exarch a different sort of frown, but she does not question his decision. Not now and in front of a stranger, at least. At last the Exarch turns to look up at Haurchefant, trying to keep his smile. It's difficult, but he thinks he manages.

"Apologies to you as well," he says. "For the difficult journey. Well come, Haurchefant de Fortemps."