A little tea with your Zanjutsu

Takehiko's eyes softened as his smile faded, if only for a moment. It became a sadder expression as he began untying his scarf. The skin around his throat had a scar making the ones on his arms look tame. The injury had been inflicted by his uncle, the former Captain Commander. He'd attacked and gotten his throat slashed viciously. The damage was a ghastly reminder of what mistakes he'd made.

"I lament my past but can only mend the present and future." He said, inhaling as he knew that what had been done was what he could. His papers of resignation had been sent in. He'd imposed a self-exile on himself to take the blame off his uncle. So in that way, Takehiko had taken responsibility for everything he'd done here. He would likely go to Minatumi and begin atoning for his failure to Ulv Auber.

"I made a lot of mistakes, some far worse than others that cost me dearly. I watched people fall because of the choices I had made. You are very kind; it is good to know Second Division can use my knowledge for something promising." Takehiko said, regaining his smile feeling the cold air on his scars.

It felt like a throbbing, so he began wrapping up the injury once more. His uncle had cut clean through his throat, coming short of beheading him. Takehiko sometimes had wished the man hadn't stopped short. Kindness was the reason Arianda and others said. A journal left to him explaining so many things, and yet they were excuses.

"Some advice, talking does help but you have to learn listening too. There will be people in this life who give you advice. Stop and listen to it and consider it carefully. Rushing in to act is an insult to the help they provide."