[He listens, watching Hythlodaeus as he speaks. Taking a drink of his beer, and another. But at the end of it, he cannot help but laugh a little. It's not nearly as mirthful as one might hope, but there is some humor there.]

And have you continue to criticize me while I continue to age unabated? I think not.

[With a limp-wristed wave, he dismisses him.]

You know as well as I, never have I been wont to sit idle when there is work to be done. [Well, important work, anyway.] Did you truly think this would convince me to abandon my course? Even if I did as you suggest—take a long holiday—what if your scheme takes fifty years? Sixty years—one hundred! You are so worried about my body and its condition, there is a fair chance it would not survive the necessary time for its completion.

And I do not think the 'centers can heal mortal expiration.