"Money's no object for this," is Nathaniel's response to Light. But Oda has just said something far more interesting, and Nathaniel shifts tracks.

"Really? I heard Howard came here with all of you, but I didn't know he had a partner of some kind. He's been a big help, but I don't know much about him. Didn't exactly bring his resume. What do you know about him?" The questions start coming, asking about Howard's personality and demeanor more than his background, but Nathaniel is looking for any sort of information he might be able to glean from the group.

Togusa looks away from Nathaniel to glance at Oda, in particular, "Uh, I'd never met him before the boat ride up here." He shrugs a little helplessly.