Reether's just a hard ass.

But what are you confused about?

Maybe I should elaborate on the city itself more? The OP doesn't say as much as I thought it did. Urenda was established by a groups of Priests and exists as a sort of hub for people on the High Road. It's a very small establishment, and relies on trading and cooperation to live. There are not enough inhabitant to properly care for it, thanks to the state of things, and so they need the help of others.

If your character is bringing items for trade, like valuable furs, skins/leathers, and meats, they will gladly house you, because they need those things to clothe their people. 

They don't like to buy and sell, they barter.