[Lux's head is briefly stroked before she holds Araceli close with a heavy sigh, closing her eyes. That lump in her throat returns, and she needs a moment before her voice is steady enough to use.]

If he's that far away...we'll probably never find him, will we. I thought there'd at least be a chance to save him, however small.

[She glances to the rum and manages a faint smile as the scent of stuffed squid reaches her. At least she can satisfy Araceli's requirement of having something in her before she drinks herself silly.]

Thanks, kadan. It doesn't have to be fancy, your food always hits the spot. [It's a shame that it won't be as savored as usual, but she'll try.]