Richter nodded at her statement, and all the truth it contained. It was a lot to take in at a time like this. And for this stranger to come all the way over here..., if he did not come in treachery and deceit, it only meant there was so much more to take in at the same time. "It is quite a lot," he said, looking up at Sir Argus.
The older man made a loud 'hah!" but his expression remained lined with the gravity of his offer. "I understand," he said. "If you wish, I can leave now. And everything I said never has to leave this room. I know it's a lot to take in."
At that Richter paled and lunged up from his seat. He moved toward his sister and put an arm around her. "No!" he said suddenly, as if a child facing the confiscation of his favored toy. He fixed his collar and squared his shoulders. "No... We-we don't want that. We just...need a little time, to think about it."
Argus grew quiet and stood from his own chair. "Very well," he said and bowed his head. "I will be in town until late this evening. You have until then to give me your answer. If you do not come, then I will know. And it will be as if I never arrived. Is that fair?"
Richter was about to protest, but bit down on his tongue. Instead he nodded to him and turned to Ania. "Let's go home, sister," he said and gave her a small flicker of a grin.