[He looks back to his tea and curls both hands around the cup, intertwining his fingers when they overlap. It isn't a small cup, but he'll need to drink it soon once it cools enough not to burn his mouth with it. It still is somewhat warm in this end of the cafe, though it won't last long if this keeps up. Would that he could build a fire, but this world has all but abandoned the basics in lieu of technological comforts to keep them content.]

[A pity.]

I believe that's what I thought just before I found myself here, but do I believe that's why our new government or this portal or whatever has it brought us here? Not in the least, and I know at least one other who thinks that. He's a smart man, for that anyway. [He turned his head back in the Earl's direction, not quite looking at him.] Something tells me you're not sure of it either.