The old man grinned, "You can't really call it 'framing' because I deserved my punishment."
"What exactly happened?"
"Nothing complicated, I went to Cold Crow Town and managed to get enough money to clear my debt. The day after I paid my creditor, someone went to the city official claiming a burglary took place at their home, losing an amount of money. The amount was neither more nor less, precisely as much as the debt I owed.."
Pierre narrowed his eyes: "An inside job?"
"Who knows?" The old man scooped another cup of hot soup and handed it to Pierre, "Have a bit more... Anyway, when the city official asked me where the money to repay the debt came from, I couldn't say."
Pierre took the cup and held it in his hands.
"Coincidentally, an 'old acquaintance' exposed my identity. So, everyone found out—I am the son of a thief. Is there anything simpler than believing a thief's son is a thief?" The old man laughed carelessly, "But he wasn't wrong, I indeed am a thief."
