It really does feel desolate, and for some that might seem so terribly lonely. For Barnabas, that is ideal, but that does not mean that it is good by any means. Her question does not surprise him, he too had wondered the state of the native population when he first arrived. Strangely, there seems to be none, but he supposes it isn't as strange as it could be, given what even he is descended from, and the purpose something like him is for.

Though, he did catch those little smiles of hers whenever Grani took it upon himself to investigate and play with her. Trotting to and fro, maybe trying to pull at her clothes when he shouldn't, but never too hard, or for too long. Barnabas never lets his gaze linger, nor does he make it too apparent that he is looking at her so much as he seems to keep an eye on the foal.

However, her question is when he gives her his attention, a casual glance over his shoulder at her, before he looks to the imposing fortress not too far from them now.

"It is only us and the automatons." His voice is cool and measured, it betrays no emotion or opinion about that matter. "Does that bother you?"