"I know people. Been watching them a while, same as you. And when problems arise -- and let's be real here, it's when and not if --"

He gestures broadly with both hands before letting them rest on the table once more.

"It's the outsiders who get the blame. Every one of them? They'll smile and nod, and treat you civil. If you know the steps to the dances and the right fork to use? They'll find you amusing. But to save their own hides and preserve their standing in their city? Oh. They won't know you, then. You're one of Those, not Them."

A shoulder rolls in a half-shrug. "Speaking as someone who stood on both sides of that fence."