[ Pi meows loudly, which Ratio ignores save for placing a hand behind her ears and rubbing to soothe her. The cat permits it, settling down somewhat. ]

Yes, by some stroke of luck. I am truly glad to see them again.

[ A smile, normally rare on the scholar, graces his face, softening his features. But it drops when Ereshkigal reveals the intention of her visit.

The good mood stops him from immediately deflecting Ereshkigal's concern with his usual lines. Instead, he swallows them down and averts his eyes bashfully, remembering the last time he lashed out at her. That was something he didn't want to repeat again. ]

Thank you for your consideration. I am faring much better now, though their absence has prompted me to think more deeply about the relationships in my life. I did not realize how... attached I've become to these bonds.