[Vastra smiles again faintly and shrugs.] I'm surprised I've kept it secret from you this long, Eugene. Like many lizards in your world, I am a carnivore primarily. I do enjoy all sorts of foods, however I garner most of my nutrition from protein. After starving myself, I need that most of all. It isn't a matter of you not knowing well enough how to help, Eugene. You're helping very much right now.

[She reaches for Eugene's hand and gestures for him to sit by her.] Listening will help very much. Where were you earlier in October?