He couldn't blame the young lady; Arthur had made his choice, however painful. But it was still a tragedy that they could not have that life and there was no real reconciling it.

"Even if that is the case, I am glad you told me. It cannot be easy to recount such things."

He finished his first bowl, but he was hungrier than usual, and there was plenty stewing in the pot, and so he ladled himself out a bit more.

"Though," and he leaned lightly against Arthur, his head resting on his shoulder, "I am also happy I get to be with you. And in a place so beautiful."

For those who could endure the cold in any case. But that was hardly an issue on either of their parts.