[Having lived on and off battlefields since he was too young to fully comprehend it had left Koumei somewhat twisted in character-- war and death were merely parts of life, and danger from within was often times more treacherous than danger from without.

He had seen both sides of this equation. Had lived it.

And likely was already dead due to it.

But Koumei's smile was oddly serene as he regarded Kogi, knowing entirely what the sword meant.]

From within as well as without. You don't need to worry about your aunts and brothers betraying your bond because of some goal that they refuse to speak of--I admit, I'm a little jealous of what you have.

But, just because neither you nor I were meant for times of peace, it doesn't mean we can't try to make it so for those who may come later. Time stops for no one, men die and blades rust, but there are always others who follow. I, too, am content to stand with those I trust.

...And, perhaps that's good enough.