That's depressing, you know? We should be able to survive, but hey, perhaps that's the point of all of this. If we can't survive a mission, how can we justify our worlds continuing to exist. [That seemed like a high bar to meet. Regardless, it seemed like everything happened for a reason, many of which he would never properly fathom the weight of the actions in missions.] Oh, you want me to tell you a scary story, do you?

[He hummed as he set himself to thinking of a story that they had, and most of his were for children. He didn't think it mattered much, but it did remind him that those had been a relatively good old days despite the sadness. The kids grew up healthy and robust, and that was all he had wanted. He could tell one of the stories from back then.

Yet, he was distracted and glanced at his leg where Maria motioned.] It's nothing too serious. I took some kind of concussive blast to it, so it's basically black and purple right now. Twisted my knee a bit when I feel, but otherwise, nothing that time won't heal, I promise.

[Though, he glanced at her for the offer to assistance, and that was such a common offer from Maria that it was expected it. He did appreciate it, and perhaps he didn't show it much due to how independent he liked to be. He was used to taking care of himself, though this was also an important facet of their friendship.]

Actually... you're going to laugh and tease probably, but I will need help getting my pants off. I can't bend the knee for too long and the bruising is tender, so a full change of my trousers is a full effort. [Once they were back at the apartment, this wouldn't be a problem. Here at camp? Well, he hadn't risked taking them off completely yet for this reason.]