Gen’s poker face was good - the cheery smile initially was without any crack or flaw. But he hadn’t seen another living human being since departing from the train - not knowing he could venture into the fog beyond that eight kilometer radius. While his smile was good - his gaze might have lingered on the Sanzo just a moment too long, taking him in.

How could Senku only deal with the company of statues for six months? Even for this relatively short time - Gen felt starved for human company and attention. He willingly took that hand.

“Perhaps it’s for the best!” Gen laughed, sounding amused. “There’s far more to see when I’ve got people to introduce you to, after all.”