[The attempt at composure was paltry at best. They could only fake and force their way through their distress for so long. Hajime needed to face his guilt head on.

Shutting the door behind Ishimaru, he ducked into a deep bow before his friend.]

I needed to apologize. I... all this would not have happened if I hadn't goaded you into it. You've every right to blame me for all of it.