They're easier to talk to than humans, sometimes. [Animals that is. But so far, Aerith seems to be fairly easy to talk to, which he appreciates. She, like Phoenix, seems to be nice. He doesn't appear to have relaxed too much, but he's not trying to turtle into his shirt collar anymore.]

How long have you been here? It sounded like... [He pauses here, a little sheepish for assuming.] It sounded like you were pretty new. Not that I've been here that long, either.