....I am wishing for the same thing. [Even though, a piece of him wishes for Ririchiyo to remain in the safety of their home while he takes his place as he protector by fighting the war to come.

Then at the next question, he will remain silent as he ponders over it. Will he be okay? Truly okay? It was difficult to tell. Even so, he will respond in a confident manner.] Certainly. In time I will regain my usual composure. Please do not feel overly concern over my attitude in the next few days or so. [Pause. His voice will lower a bit.] ...I need to accept the fact of being alone again. A fact...that weights heavily in my heart... [It was clear by his words that he was going to be lonely without her. More lonely than anyone could ever imagine.]