Ah yes, the mysterious aether. And yet it is not so mysterious, because as you say, it is present in the world around us all. [ He wishes that he had more time to devote to studying such things, but alas, nearly all of his hours are occupied by one problem or matter or another. ]

And again, there are two sides to every coin, even as it relates to the roles we find ourselves called to.

[ And as far as he is concerned, he will gladly be her shield and sword if she should ever need him. And even if she says she does not, he will still take on that role for her without hesitation. ]

That is how it should be, yes. [ He agrees entirely with her stance on that matter. There comes a time when everyone has to learn to stand on their own, not necessarily dismissing the advice of their elders, but taking in what they can and deciding from there.

He would remain with Alkaid for the rest of their lives, but he still cannot help but feel as though his way of life might be difficult for her to grow accustomed to. If it should turn out to be that way, he would gladly make whatever alterations he needed in order to put her at ease. It is hardly a sacrifice on his part; or if it is, it is a very vital and worthwhile one. ]

Oh, I am certain that you are right, as usual. Such are the times that we find ourselves in. [ Never mind that some of the shaking has been because of the choices he has made. ]

Excellent. I would hate very much to be drawing you away from any matters of importance.

[ He finds he does not have much time to speak after that, because she has moved to stand on top of the railing. For just a moment, he fears that she might lose her balance and come crashing down, but fortunately for the both of them, she seems to retain her balance just fine, and all thoughts fly out of his mind the minute that she kisses him again. ]