[ There's a pause as Amos processes that first revelation. A moment of blankness before a lightbulb goes off, followed by a simple oh. ]

That's what that was for, huh? [ That monster that had shown up at the Tree of Life before he'd gotten dragged away, all-consumed by what had happened to Vander. Its hair. ] Was wondering about that.

[ He wasn't really. He'd actually all but forgotten about it, non-Zenites out of sight and out of mind. Wasn't his business, except for the part where it was again now.

But he's dealt with something like this before. A lot of somethings, really, but one in particular comes to mind. And while his actual goal is to rescue Adelfoúla, that's not going to keep Aetós talking. Talking to them about something they're into? That will.

His interest isn't even a lie. He wants to know more what this is about, too. ]

Well, you're welcome. [ It's a little facetious, but also not, his tone taking on something like that of an informal chat between colleagues. That's borderline what they might be with that first revelation, isn't it? ] What's so unique about us? If you don't mind my asking.

[ As long as kids aren't involved, he can be perfectly civil, after all. ]