Edgar had to admit that Guy's enthusiasm for machine-related talk was always a refreshing change. He got the feeling that most people just tuned him out when he started talking about his beloved tools.

"I've not finished it yet," he answered with a shake of his head, "though your enthusiasm is encouraging. I've got a basic frame and enough materials that I can finish the construction. A few of them aren't exactly what I was hoping for, but beggars- or treasure hunters, in this case- can't be choosers. I've been further delayed by this injury. I could have finished it by now if I'd just stayed inside a couple of nights ago."

He prodded a piece of toast on his plate, wondering why he'd taken it in the first place. Any hunger he had was being drowned out by the consistent throbbing of his shoulder. "Then again, if I'd stayed inside that night, I'd be behind in other areas," he said in a serious tone. "That was when I found out a close friend of mine disappeared. She's not the first ally I've lost while here, and I don't expect her to be the last, but her disappearance was disappointing, to say the least."