[Vander accepts the offered wanted poster, silently raising an eyebrow at the, ah, artistic interpretation of the people on it. But as Byleth elaborates on the names, his eyes narrow in sudden interest when he realizes he recognizes them. Hyth and David are folks he knows—and sure enough, hasn’t seen in quite some time.

Birdie, though? That’s one that’s a little more messy. He’s heard of her, and had even intended to start talking with her about a certain someone before the whole mess surrounding Manon and Aetós had usurped a lot of his time down there in the undercity. Vander figured that took priority; his petty grudge could wait.

Seems like he might’ve been mistaken about that. The moment Byleth elaborates on her disappearance and its probable ties to the shakeup at Draumahol, Vander’s attention abruptly snaps back to him. There’s an intensity to his gaze that has been absent until now, replacing the tired but genial demeanor he’s been carrying.]

I’ve heard much the same, regarding Birdie. [His free hand curls into a tight fist at his side, and he pauses momentarily to take a steadying breath.] Been meaning to look into it myself, since I’ve got a sinking feeling that I might know who’s behind it.

[Did he have any hard proof? No, not yet. But if Raine had been right about Birdie being eager for info on Silco a few months back, then it probably wasn’t a coincidence.]