It's a shame, but I can't say I'm surprised.

[He'll just have to buckle down and press on! Knowing that time remains unmoving in his absence certainly eases some of his distress.]

In any case, I've been told the women are quick to engage in battles. That a mere look in their eyes is a challenge. How do your experiences compare?

[It never hurts to get a broader perspective, and he seems well versed in the matter.]