"I was thinking of Forces this time around, actually. You remember how they were all just clamoring to win me over."

Vandelin has no idea, actually, whether the demographics of that division have shifted away from 'multiple templars with particular reasons to hate him' or if it's still just about the same, but Benedict's certainly heard enough of Van's disdainful commentary about it in years past.

But this does not preclude him from appreciating some gentle ribbing of the diplomats he actually does want to join. The name, he thinks, is familiar, even if he can't put a face to it--but he'll keep that much to himself, wanting to seem a bit less out of touch. If Byerly does ring any bells once Van actually sees him, then he can just pretend to have known that all along.

"But coffee would be wonderful. Much obliged. It's been ages since I had any."