There wasn't even the faintest glimmer of recognition when Lotte mentioned two people getting hurt, only a widening of his eyes and a faint expression of disbelief, as if he couldn't possibly imagine such a terrible thing happening. It was how people always reacted to horrifying news, hiding their burning curiosity behind masks of false concern and empathy. "Oh. I've caught bits and pieces on the forum, but I didn't... know the specifics." He shined the flashlight in the direction of the basement, but didn't make any move towards the stairs yet.
Bran was quite pleased with himself, having successfully averted the lights being turned on, but he had to act as though he didn't know why Lotte seemed to uncomfortable about the idea of going into the basement. "We don't have to go down there if you don't want to," he said carefully. "I didn't mean to upset you - it was just a suggestion." He made his way along the wall, using his flashlight to guide him, and stopped just before the entrance to the lower levels. He tilted his head to the side as though listening for something, waiting a few moments before turning back in her direction. "Sounds empty to me, so it shouldn't be a problem if we skip it."