Pulling back, she studied him for a moment before saying, "You look exactly the same. And now you're bringing the city to our doorstep?"
Daniel chuckled, glancing over his shoulder at the surprised expressions of Cassandra, Dallas, and Cassian. "Oh, sorry, I forgot to mention that I was born in this village." He then turned back to the slightly ashen-haired woman and added, "And this is my cousin Rusella. Rusella, meet Detective Cassandra, Detective Dallas, and Constable Cassian. They're here on official business."
Rusella's eyes twinkled with curiosity as she glanced at the detectives and Cassian. "Well, I suppose if Aiden's hosting the city folk, then we'll all need a good meal and a place to settle for the night." She gestured for them to come inside, adding with a teasing look at Aiden, "And I'll make sure he actually behaves as a proper host."
