"Still," began Nigredo, who then paused in hesitation. He wasn't sure if the statement he had in mind would fit his actual feelings, but in light of everything, what his roommate said had been true. Additionally, the information helped, or at least served as a mild buffer from shock. Any assistance deserved a little gratitude. "Thank you."

The question, however, immediately clamped the child's mouth into a tight line. He honestly wasn't sure how to answer that, especially with what happened this morning. Although Nigredo could easily kick a question down the link to his red-haired brother, he didn't feel like bothering him. When complications arose among the variants, it was easiest to leave the others alone, as silly as the reasoning was.

"I don't know," he finally said, eyes down to his plate. "Probably not tonight."