"Thank you," Howl said gratefully, looking piteous without even having to try. He had to sit up straight to take a sip with any dignity, which was quite a challenge at the moment. As much as Howl often enjoyed wallowing in self-pity and complaining about how no one cared for him, it was a lovely feeling when someone did, even to a small degree. It was probably the driving force behind a good number of selfish things he had done over the years.

"You're horribly optimistic, you know. It's making me feel guilty," he teased blearily, smiling over at her, before taking another sip of the juice.

"But in a place like this, I suppose it's what's needed. I'm afraid I've proven to be quite useless..." Howl collapsed sadly back into the crook of his elbow. Every inch of him seemed to wilt, and he sighed sadly. "I'm usually very adept at escaping from places I don't wish to stay in."