[ Feeling that returned grip, if not a weaker one... that's reaffirming in it of itself. Although in his glazed vision, he might have finally noticed the crutch not far from the ground and that gets him to ease on the poor kid. It definitely doesn't stop him from holding onto him for a while longer though and sorry, Al. Your hair might be damp now.

He sniffs as he tries to rein himself in. The questions at least give him something to focus on as he mumbles out in a gravelly voice: ] The administrator sent us all home through this portal. I was going to Montressor with the others... Guess there was a change in plans. [ Admittedly, part of him has to wonder if the others made it. And what the others must be thinking once they realize-

But he shuts that out. Not now. Focus on Al. Focus on the fact that Al's alive. He pulls away just a little bit. Just enough to see him though he keeps him in the circle of his arms. ] But what about you? I mean HOW--?

[ He lets the question hang in the air, unable to finish it as a few tears stray down his cheeks. ]