Northstar Vale Please Please me

Were these scars upon the empire going to fade? He remained gone at times (barely present enough for the scent of the vale to cling to him) and it seemed as though every time he  returned he seemed displaced. The good didn't outweigh the bad here. 

 He had these moments where happiness came through the cracks, and he tried to focus on those endearing times. He had been told to find the brightness and shine with it. Still it was far easier said than done. He would cling to good company. Today would be no different as the silhouette of Vespera became obvious to him. He had entertained Joheras for a moment and he supposed he had been distant from her for too long now. 

 
"Vespera," He greeted her as an old friend would and he dipped his head to her in regard. The sun broke through the dark clouds overhead only occasionally and rays of light danced in the distance. Here it seemed dark. Untouched. 

 "How are you?" It was a stupid question: She was like him...uncertain. 

Why did seeing her suddenly cause pain? Why was he associating her with the trauma of this place?