Albus didn't return the smile. He would never admit it, but there was something about Cassandra which reminded him no small amount of Ariana. It was more than the cloud of fair hair and delicate appearance - they both contained something in them that, uncontrolled, could very well be their undoing. Perhaps that was why he felt so uneasy seeing his friend in such a state. "If you say so," he replied, uncertainly.
Still, he was sure his opinion on the contents of the mortar was obvious enough from his expression. He did, of course, know that he was unlikey to dissuade her from using such measures if she felt it necessary - Cassie had always been stubborn - but it certainly didn't mean he had to like it.
"You know what I think, I'm sure," he finally said, absently rubbing the knot of bone in the bridge of his nose. "Will you at least permit me to be there if you do go ahead?" At least then he might be able to help should things take an unpleasant turn.
Carefully removing the diffuser, Albus lifted the teacup to his lips, blowing over the top before taking a sip. "Have you had a chance to speak to many of our other residents?" He asked, knowing when a change of subject was required. "I believe they think we're positively ancient."