V's own reaction is a nod; too many pleasantries just aren't necessary - or only get added when truly meant, once a friendship is strong.

Not that V's expecting any friendships here, exactly.

Their ears perk up, letting theirself be curious - as opposed to alarmed. "But not something you've always had?"

M-Bot likewise chirps - then repeats Serph's own word, inflecting it such that it sounds like a question: "Demon?"