[ The pupils in Onych's many, many eyes judder, dilating and narrowing at Vash's rather vague answer. Until now, Vash has been forthright enough that it throws Onych off to hear something so nebulous, coupled with that detectable distance to his smile. Strange. ]

Well, then I'm certainly relieved to have a learned tour guide.

[ ... An indeterminate amount of time, huh. Despite his effort to keep his tone light and chatty, he can barely suppress the dark mood that washes over him at the thought. A little detour is one thing, but he's not inclined to be put out indefinitely by this. Stuck here while the factory idles? And he's sure any Overseer they replace him with won't appreciate any of his work or his hobbies...

It hardly bears thinking about, at least right now. He focuses on Vash instead, reciprocating the gentle shoulder pat with a clawed hand pressing lightly on his back, large and warm. He injects his voice with a sort of thoughtful gravity, something that might sound sincere: ]

... That must be very difficult for you, not knowing if you'll see home again. But you keep up your spirits very well, putting on your kindest face even for a stranger... What a lovely, enviable quality, that compassion.

It's something I dearly love to see in other species. The desire to sow hope.

[ They seem to be approaching the booth Vash was after! Onych speaks again before he can forget: ]

What's your name, by the way?