They've been talking about some grim subjects--monsters, violence, being a weird lab experiment--but hearing what is undoubtedly a direct quote from his brother is the thing that finally gets him to frown.

It's disappointing to hear that his brother still doesn't think highly enough of his work to mention it, but he won't waste either of their time voicing this out loud. This man is already privy to more of their family dynamic than he's comfortable with anyway.

Instead, he'll balance out this (frankly unacceptable) display of emotion by reaching over to press his fingers lightly into the cover of that book he was reading. It means nothing, it just helps him shift his attention back to the task at hand. His gaze remains pointedly on Irahl while he speaks.

"I am one of a few high-ranking generals responsible for overseeing all extensions of the Capitol's military forces. Most relevant to this discussion, I've spent a decade cultivating the reputation and experience required to have been granted lead over a unit dedicated specifically and solely to the eradication of monsters."

A bit of a mouthful, but he could probably say all that in his sleep. Irahl isn't the only one who's had to give the same report over and over again. He'll give the other man a second or two to really let that sink in.