[ He sees the way her smile does not entirely reach her eyes, but he understands why it might not. Her time on the First has changed her, and while she is still the woman he loves (a fact that has not changed nor will it), he knows full well that there are some things that do not heal easily or at all. ]

It seems to me that the people who call the First home are quite kind and gracious indeed. [ Not to mention resilient and strong in their own way. ]

I can scarcely imagine what you speak of, but one thing I do know: you and K'thisru faced challenges that most would shy away from or refer to as insurmountable. The two of you came out on top, so it is no surprise to me that you earned the admiration of the people there.

[ Privately, he muses if it all was worth the toll that it took on both Alkaid and her sister, but in a way, he already knows the answer. ]

You are heroes to them and to those of us on this star.