[Cecil nodded thoughtfully.] You argue well for the merits of maintaining an army. [He pursed his lips, considering this.] Yet where does the will of the common people come into this? My world was recently ravaged by international warfare, and I am embarrassed to admit that my country was somewhat instrumental in maintaining the conflict. My people will surely seek some sort of revision in the policies of our military, yet I am... uncertain how extreme these measures must be. This place provides far too much time for impotent ponderings.

[It was good to know she wasn't alone, though. The woman seemed to have a good head on her shoulders; it would have been tragic to waste that in solitude.] I'm glad. Everyone deserves a comforting presence.