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"What sort of help are you looking for?" asked Hector.

"In a word? Manpower." The captain allowed a beat to pass, looking Hector up and down. "But also, you clearly have some... formidable defenses about you. Perhaps of a particular kind, hmm? That type of expertise is quite useful in circumstances like these."

Hector could appreciate the captain's cautious wording. Trying not to say too much. But still trying to be informative. It was a delicate balance that he'd struggled with plenty of times himself. It wasn't necessarily about trying to conceal anything from Hector, he figured. Perhaps Bartholomew was concerned about accidentally revealing something that Hector might've preferred to stay secret, thereby jeopardizing the Vanguard's chances of enlisting Hector's help.

That was the charitable interpretation, at least.

"I can't promise anything," said Hector, "but if you leave us with the location of your headquarters, then we'll see about dropping by if we can find the time."

Bartholomew made no response, choosing instead to merely stare at Hector.

What might be going through his head now? The aura wasn't revealing anything--or if it was, then Hector couldn't tell due to how abnormal it felt.

After a while of lingering silence, Hector felt like he needed to add something. "As I said, the safety of our prince comes first. I'm not sure he'll even want to leave after we find him, but if he does, then I'd rather do so immediately. Meaning I can't guarantee that we'll be sticking around long enough to help you."

"...I see," said Bartholomew. "I'd heard that you were actually quite the 'busybody.' In a good way, of course, And I know it's a bit unfair, but honestly, I can't help feeling a little disappointed."

Hmm. "And who did you hear that from?" said Hector.

"Oh, I couldn't possibly betray their confidence. If I start doing that, then the next thing you know, nobody'll be telling me anything."

Abruptly, Hector didn't feel like beating around the bush. "It was either Carl Rondel or the Magician of Light."

The kid chortled. His laugh had an odd level of gravitas that didn't match his frame. "Apologies, but I must still decline to answer."

Hector wasn't quite sure what was funny. Perhaps it had been a mistake to name drop Xander like that, but Hector felt like he would've had to do it sooner or later, if only to see if it opened up any extra doors for them.

Didn't seem to be doing that right now, unfortunately.