I wonder if you understand how true that is. Seeing my master’s face, hearing his voice... even speaking to him. Nothing could have made me happier, and the same was true for Imanotsurugi, even knowing the challenges they’d soon face. [ the smile turns a bit more genuine, warm, fond, and mournful all at once. ] Imanotsurugi's smile was the brightest I’ve ever seen, on our first mission - like looking at a star.

[ a pause before he shakes his head. ]

But we didn’t have to see them suffer a second time, and for that, I’m grateful.