So they want to know how the Right Hand of the Divine operates. Cullen relaxes a fraction; the oncoming storm of guilt at leaving Aveline alone with a gaggle of Crows dissipates before it really gets going.

Cullen lifts his head -- and spies Brennan, one of Aveline's lieutenants, approaching. "Guardsman Brennan!"

Brennan, not being a fool, recognizes that if Cullen's got his sword to a merchant's throat it's a fair bet that he'd like her to take the merchant in for questioning. She and her partner are only too glad to do so.

It doesn't take long.

Cullen sheathes his sword, looks at Cassandra. "I believe we were going to the docks, Seeker Pentaghast?"

No extra weight on her title.