The storm of battle came to a end, but Ryozan's heart still stirred. He was not very elegant with words, but he had plenty of time to think of what he was going to say. Even if Takeo welcomed him back with open arms, it would be a long time before he stopped feeling pangs of shame, but if he could at least get Takeo to understand his sincerity, then perhaps it would dull its blade. And then, despite all the time that had passed, Ryozan wished for just a few more moments as the Jounin Commander approached. These next few moments would likely determine the course of the rest of his life.

As soon as Takeo came up to him, Ryozan bowed deeply, keeping his head down as he spoke. "Takeo-san, I was wrong." That was the easy part. But a simple admission of fault would not warrant all the time Takeo had given him to think, especially when his error ran so deep. "I was wrong when I aided the Imperials, but I was also wrong before that. My true fault was the moment that I learned when the rebels existed and chose not to join, and indeed I was naive in thinking that neutrality was akin to not making a choice. One of the first things that we are taught is the importance of teamwork. I allowed myself to be so caught up in abstract philosophy about what was best for my team, that I nearly forgot the simple fact that, first and foremost, I must be a part of that team.

"I will never make that mistake again, and I have already eliminated the possibility of me making any other choice. The Imperial scroll that I carried is no longer with me; it is soaking in the blood of the man that gave it to me." Ryozan was generally very good at separating his emotions from his duties as a ninja, but now there was a slight, barely even noticeable, quaver in his voice. "Takeo-san, I strayed from the correct path, I will not deny that fact any more, but I am back now if you will have me. Please accept my apology and please accept my service." He remained bowing even after he finished speaking, unable to look Takeo in the eyes until his shameful burden was at least partially lifted.