"I'd like to think there's always a need for swords," Yamato admits, lifting a hand to rub at the back of his neck. That's where his name is, usually concealed by his white scarf and fluffy hair. "But I'm glad it's a peaceful time."

For the living, anyway. Yamato certainly isn't going to complain about being needed on this shore, and becoming Shepard's shinki is probably the best fate that could've awaited him. Fighting ayakashi, answering prayers, playing with children and stray cats and teaching swordplay in his spare time? He can't imagine anyone that wouldn't be content, with a "life" like this.

"It would be nice if we could keep getting stronger," he adds, "But I think that's always true, for everyone."