"A similar window. I found myself in Taravast shortly before the coup began."

A little before Rufus, but not by much. His red eyes rove down to the weapon again, and he gestures thoughtfully at it with one hand.

"You brought this with you?"

It doesn't seem in keeping with the local style. Is it common, where Rufus is from, or special in some way? He certainly seems adept at handling it, so it's likely not decorative or purely for visual intimidation. His manner isn't one of a soldier, although he may be some sort of mercenary for hire -- high pay, limited jobs perhaps. Self-defence feels more likely, but that simply raises the question of what Rufus would be defending himself from.