[He was already scrambling to his feet, surprised but relieved to see Akane and especially because she seemed to be alright, all things considered. The addition of Gino emerging from the jungle to join them is another welcome surprise, though they look like they've both been doing about as well as he has.

Since the song had been annoying anyway, he's turning his CereVice back off and tucking it into a pocket, not bothering to sweep any dirt off of his pants from where he was sitting.]

"Useful" is kind of an optimistic word right now. I'm pretty sure this whole village is like a museum of the dead, so it's not exactly the kind of place you want to set up shop.

[He nods in acknowledgment of Gino's statement; a few days ago it might have been an odd thing to say, but now, it's just one more part of dealing with life here.]

And it sounds like you've been having a great time on this field trip too, Gino.