The elderly man nodded slowly, accepting Kaoru's statements without argument. He too understood the importance of such people in one's life. Lives without people like Tamaki or Hiromasa tended to be crippled in some way; they were not just anchors to their friends, they were humbling lessons.

Genkaku often wondered how different his life might have been with someone like that in it.

"That is all anyone can ask: remember us and do not repeat the same mistakes". That is enough," the elder man remarked, bowing his head slightly.

"Thank you for being kind enough to join me for this time, but I believe I would like to rest now. If I may?" he asked, gesturing lightly to his bones. "My wife is near here."