[he knows it hits a nerve but he also knows Ellie and if they both stay around it's only a manner of time. Hes just preparing the way.

He doesn't catch the ancient wisdom but he isnt expected to be surprised by the deep thoughts of this man. Anyone who decided to spend their life with their head in the stars was used to thinking long and hard.

Also, in that way, they were the same]

Aye, I know. Missing someone is the hardest. Even if you don't know the name or face. [he sighs and looks away] The feeling doesn't go away. It lingers. Like something you know you'll never quite remember...

...but I feel you'll always end up regretting it when you do.

[as a fading butterfly himself, he cant help but smile a bit at the young man's words]

I think you're less fragile than most. But don't get cocky. Anyone can fail at any time, even if they think they have it all figured out.