[ The philosophy instilled in not just Thancred but the rest of the Scions by Louisoix will not be set aside or forgotten. It's what's allowed Thancred to carry on even through some of the darkest moments. That, and the brightness that Himeka seems to take with her wherever she goes, simply by existing there.

It's for that reason that Thancred isn't at all surprised to hear that she had a whole group of people willing to help with the treehouse, turning it from just a large tree into an actual home. ]

Surely that can't surprise you by this point. It was the same back home. Touch enough lives with your kindness, and the favor will be returned when you need it most.

[ He lifts his drink up to his mouth, disrupting the smile that had formed there as he listened to Himeka's story. Certainly a better subject of conversation. ]

The Black Lakes, you say. What are they like?

[ It's not as if he had much time to explore and see the sights while there — unfortunately. ]