[ He pauses for a moment, thinking that over. From what he has heard and observed from others' accounts, Hydaelyn has always seemed kind to him, and not one who judges harshly or metes out wrath. ] There must be middle ground between how you feel and what the Scions ask of you. [ He may not desire to be named leader of any one company again, but there still remains a time and a place for stepping forward to help those who might need it. Even the Warrior of Light needs assistance, not that he would presume as much without verifying with her first. ] Perhaps they do not realize that is how you feel.

[ And again, he weighs his options here, because he could say what is on his mind or he could overstep and offend her. ] Knowing that it is ultimately your decision, if you would like, I could speak to them on your behalf. [ They might not be inclined to listen to him either, but he cannot help but feel as though someone within the company should know how she truly feels. ]

I must agree, however much I wish that it was not the case. [ He does often wonder how Y'shtola is faring after everything she has been through, and while Thancred is more than capable of handling himself, he also has no small amount of worry for him as well. ] No, I suppose that for the time being, it is not a good time to speak with either of them.

[ He falls silent for a moment or two as they walk along, and he is about to make some further comment about the notion of relocating to Ishgard, when he spots someone just a few paces ahead of them. ]

Alkaid, look there, just straight ahead. [ He would have missed it, if not for the piece of clothing that did not entirely match its surroundings. ] Could it be another survivor? [ He hopes that it is a survivor and not another casualty. ]