Fair enough. [That, too, is said with the same smile. Doesn't he know it.

But then the look sobers slightly. Still not sad, but serious.]

Yeah, I did.

[As open-minded as Ven is, the Million Dollar Question isn't about Ira's origins -- at least, not with regards to what it means at present, because whatever word he or "Vexen" or anyone else wants to use, he's very clearly a person, someone with feelings and thoughts and everything else. Ven never even started to doubt that much.

Rather, the facts and the hints and Ven's thoughts all end up back at the same place: Sora. He seems to be the string connecting so much together, and Ven's been through enough to guess that it's not a coincidence.

But, first things first.]

Thanks for that. The note. A few people helped talk some sense into me today, but... I don't think any of 'em really knew what I was talking about.

[He sets his elbows on his knees, arms outstretched as he stares down at the steps in thought.]

Ever since I read what was in that file... I've been wishing I didn't see it. But -- you're right. People can use the truth as a weapon, if they know how. [Xehanort.] I've had it happen to me before. [Xehanort.] So... looking at it that way -- I'm kind of glad I read it, now. It'll keep it from being used against me later.

[Even if it still stings.]