[ Well, he does sort of understand the sentiment. Jion rubs at the bridge of his nose, lips pursed as he tries to think of what to say next. ]

That does sound tough. But if you’ve been alone a long time, then that means you’ve already survived it? So you know you’ll be able to hold on just a bit longer, until you can see them again? And, um ...

[ This is hard. Jion looks at Valvatorez and perks up a little bit, as if connecting some dots. ]

— look at this version of you! He’s holding on fine, right? So you should be able to do the same! [ Right??? Another glance at Val to confirm he hasn’t said anything wrong. ]