"It's not catching up at all," he says to the Yukimura's observations. "You pursued the goals that were important to you-- and showed the whole world Japan's strength. We've all been rooting for you." And why should he do anything different? Yukimura fought so hard, to the point of risking his own life, just to be able to play tennis again. Of course he should ride that victory as far as his will carried him. Bunta can feel nothing but pride on Yukimura's behalf for all that he's accomplished, all of the adversity that he's overcome.

"It's good to have you back home, though." In that moment, the alcohol sends a wave of content sleepiness through him. Bunta melts back against the couch, slumping against Yukimura's side with his head 90% resting against the seat back and just a little on Yukimura's shoulder.

"You've been missed..."