[There was little doubt when he spoke that he was ill as well, a lingering after effect of Roland's errant potion, and ill tempered... a result of his feeling poorly and something else. ]

I believe I have told you a dozen or more times to stop punishing yourself, do you think my answer would be any different now?

[After a small cough the voice softens.]

It is good to know you are still here. I have been worried about you all this time. I do not know all that happened back on your world or why you felt the need to hide from me but I was surprised when you did not come out to see Ririchiyo when she was here. What happened has something to do with her?