[It’s a response he half-expects. Most might see Vander brushing off the attention with such lines as merely deflection or simple platitudes. But he does genuinely mean it. To him, there’s nothing more important that looking out for his people, and in a situation like this it’s all the more important to make sure they stand firm together. Including the troublemakers, as much of a gamble as that can sometimes be.

The troublemaker before him grabs his hand and Vander lets him with simply a raised eyebrow until the food is handed over. He accepts it with an amused huff and a grateful nod.

And as much as he appreciates the food, he’s not so sure about his appetite at the moment. So Set’s immediate move to continue the conversation is frankly welcome—at least partially. The topic at hand perhaps could be better, but Vander can’t exactly fault anyone for wanting to know more about what had happened.

He picks up one of the kebabs Set had brought over, letting it hold his attention in the thoughtful moment of silence between the question and his own answer.]

I expect that’s part of it. I did a lot of digging, trying to find our mysterious scientist ever since we learned about them from Manon.

[He shrugs a shoulder, gaze turning back to Set.]

And folks who have things to hide don’t exactly take kindly to people sticking their noses in their business.