[ He doesn't look entirely convinced, but he makes an effort to cast his words a little more mildly. ]

I don't know you at all, but I do know that there are certain rumors that get around. Mysterious deaths and not-so mysterious deaths, with fox spirits that may or not be involved.

[ A pause, and he adds, ]

Maybe the rumors aren't true. I mean, obviously you haven't tried to kill me. I just want to make sure that if I leave you somewhere, I don't have to wonder whether or not I've just lit the fuse on a stick of dynamite.