The passage depicts a tense and confrontational exchange between two characters, where one asks the other why they decided to join them. The redhead character is hesitant and needs time to process, repeatedly asking "Why … ?" The other character, Lymond, responds with a teasing tone, suggesting that there are many possible reasons for joining, including extreme and scandalous actions like rape, incest, or treason, hinting at the character's complex background.
The dialogue reveals underlying tensions and a play of sarcasm, especially when the redhead sarcastically mentions burning their mother alive. Lymond's remark about being original emphasizes a mix of mockery and challenge, highlighting the intricate and possibly dark personalities of the characters involved as they navigate their relationship in the story.