It's... interesting, to think of war and soldiering in that respect; it opens a lot of doors for potential questions, if he was inclined to ask. Could factions in his home fight wars without the Arum? Would going into another line of work entirely eliminate needless bloodshed? (He's not ignorant enough to think so, not really.)

It explains some things about Seoraj, anyway.

Whatever Bruce might have said in response is lost when Lilura returns and cheerfully announces that they're to be let into the back holding area now - there's probably some of the wiring Tom is looking for. His friend is free to come with, of course, since they're both in the market for metal. That odd semi-talkative mood evaporates and Bruce settles back into being quiet and professional like pulling on another coat, and he walks along with the stelanmancer, easy.