[Flippant an answer as it was, it seemed to cut right to the heart of the matter. Nero tries very hard not to laugh, and part of that effort is by taking another sip of his drink.]

What harm is there in being forthcoming, when it's something you plainly already knew? [The whole matter may have been years ago, but surely everyone involved found it to be memorable? He nods in confirmation of his name.]

You've the right of it. Now, do tell me that I'm speaking with Thancred Waters, he of the Scions of the Seventh Dawn, and not someone else. I've had my fill of Ascians in this place.

[Right to the heart of things, again. His expression darkens, in contrast to the levity he's attempted to pad out the whole matter with.]