He looked up, and saw Valerion's expression change to something between a smile of endearment and a frown of faint sadness. "That is a very cute name for a hen", he said softly.

"Thank you", Adrien said, looking off to the side. "I'd often go check on her in the morning, get her egg, and cook it for breakfast", he said in a low voice.

Valerion smiled. "If you want scrambled eggs, I can get that. I know they won't be as good, but --".

"No, no -- ah -- I know they will be great -- and it's not like -- it's just --".

"It's alright; I understand", Valerion said, soothingly. "It's just natural; you are very far from home. I hope the distance does not give you too much pain".

"It's really -- it's really not that bad", Adrien stammered. "I am very glad to be here, really. I'm sorry; I greatly appreciate everything you've been doing for me, and --".

"You don't have to apologize", Valerion said. "I am not offended; I completely understand. You said you finished your letter, correct?".