[ That answer, and the rare smile that Liem gives him alongside it, is enough for Howl to believe that he's made his point. He rests a hand on the side of Liem's shoulder, a gesture suggesting gratitude, or friendship, or at a minimum, agreement. ]

After four months of your soul, and everyone else's souls, being lost, I assure you: the pleasure is all mine.

[ As wonderful as Yima and Kenos have been, the fate of his former comrades hung over his head as heavily and darkly as the fate of his home. Grief hangs over everyone and everything here in Highstorm, and most shoulder it with quiet grace, but... well. It took many long weeks for Howl to grasp anything close to that grace. And it feels good to no longer need to hold up that mask as desperately has he has.

With a gesture towards the tea table, he invites Liem to sit for a spot of tea before he heads off again. With, maybe, some assistance on Howl's end by means of another portal. That would be a long walk otherwise. ]