"Even more reason to stick together," the Doctor said, with an understanding smile. The boy was already this hurt—he didn't want to think what might happen if something else (be it monster or changed patient) came across him while he was in this state. "Unless, of course, you'd rather wait the night out in your room... You should be safe there."

He'd never heard of people being attacked in their rooms—up until now, at least. Come to think of it, had the boy's attacker been his roommate? And for that matter, what had happened to those whose roommates were the ones to change? The thought of what might have occurred broke his hearts, but... —There was nothing he could do about it right now. It was best to keep forging ahead, to put a stop to everything before even more people were hurt.

"—Well, more safe than wandering the halls," he amended. "I won't force you to come if you don't want to."