[Alice's expression shifts into something more solemnly understand. Or well as understanding as she can get in this case. She says nothing on it for a moment as food is served up and the like. She asks the teenagers if they'd like some help and they're more than happy to admit both of them if they like in the whole business -- serving, cleaning up, whatever. The more helping hands the better!

A bit of that later and when Alice can finally speak to him again it's clear she's given this thought. If Alice is anything she is someone who really does try to speak the truth and speak it as clearly as she can.]

I don't wish to revisit unpleasant topics for you but in the course of my years in war relief thus far your feelings are not uncommon. I have been privileged not to feel them myself. While there is no shame in wishing to seek an ending on your own terms ... I can at least say I am glad you didn't. You are a person with a great deal of help you can give to others and worth in your own right.

[She pauses there and flusters just a bit, reaching for the back of her head.]

I was very sickly as a child. I wasn't well enough to come home until near the time I started military school. So for myself ... whether time, sickness or the sword takes me I would rather live through whatever comes my way.