[Ruby was aware that what she was doing wasn't exactly fair to Penny. That it might not be fair to ask for advice or get some of this pressure off her shoulders when Penny had barely had the chance to experience so much of life on her own. The Leader part of her felt like this was wrong and she should try to shoulder it and figure out something on her own. But Penny was one of her best friends and she trusted her and wanted to be as open with her life as she could.

And honestly she's taken a little off guard at Penny's words and the hand on her shoulder. It felt so long ago since she had been on Remnant and dealing with the problems of that world. But she remembers how afraid she had been when Penny had been dealing with the virus like it was just yesterday- And it inspires her a little to know that her and Nora's words had meant so much to her friend. ]

That... That must have been so painful. To deal with that virus on top of everything that else we were dealing with.

Penny- I think anyone else might have crumbled throughout all of that. But you were so strong and I'm so glad we could help you pull through all of that.

[There's a pang in her heart when she remembers what Jaune told her about what happened after.

...She pauses briefly and- Selfishly she promises herself she will bring that up to Penny another day.]

But you're right. I shouldn't expect her to just be okay right away. Maybe the best I can do is remind her of how much there is beyond the pain she's feeling right now.

It's just hard seeing her so hurt.