<span style="font-family: 'Book Antiqua'"><span class="fixed-color" style="color:#99ff99">Val debated what would be easiest.  "Why don't you go ahead and tell me about yourself, and what happened -- and when I have questions, I'll jump in."  <br/>
<br/>
He didn't want to put Siv on the spot, or make him clam up.  The omega's body language was fairly easy to read, and Val knew how close Siv was to making a break for it.  He figured it was even odds whether the omega was sticking around for the food or the promise of lodging.  Either one worked for Val, as long as it kept his witness safe.<br/>
<br/>
The door to the eatery jangled, and Val looked up -- automatically shifting to shield the omega from view.  It wasn't a movement intended to hide Siv, but rather to protect him.  Half a breath later, Val had identified the newcomer as a harmless patron and settled back into his chair, trying to look casual.</span></span>