Alcuin was not convinced he would feel better. It was hard to imagine feeling better ever again, right at this moment. He was also somewhat concerned that the moment he was left to his own thoughts his grief would overwhelm him. But perhaps that needed to happen. Right now, he felt numb.

"Thank you," he said. "You've been so kind." And he should show his gratitude... but not right now. Not covered in blood, and barely beyond half dead.