Zach could feel the priest's attention on him, even as his eyes seemed to miss him. He had to hide a smile, keeping an earnest face as he listened to the man speak. He was good. He had all the hallmarks of an experienced manipulator, only he seemed to be using his skills to help people rather than serving his own interests. Or perhaps he got a kick out of feeling like he did the right thing? He didn't seem quite as smug as Zach knew some of the clergy to be, but then he hadn't interacted with him all that long. It didn't matter. He had time enough to figure him out, whether it be in the proper world or in dreams.

When the priest started his impassioned speech, he met his gaze for a few moments before darting away with a self-conscious expression. He poked at his food thoughtfully, even after the man had stopped talking.

"It's okay, I'm not insulted or anything," he eventually said at his plate. "I... I appreciate the gesture, really, and I could use some time to heal up... Just..." he poked at his food a bit more before hesitantly looking up at the priest again. "You can't keep everyone safe, you know? And I know I owe you and all, but I don't want you to get into trouble on my account. There are plenty of better people out there, best to spend your energy where you can make a difference, right?" He let a self-deprecating tone slip into his voice again as he went back to picking at his food.