The proof of her words lies in that very crystal hanging by his own. Though he touches and cradles them in his hands, he can hear naught of the other's voices. Of course he can't, for they are only plain crystal here with none of the memories imbued into them - a fact which wrenches at his heart.

"...Yes. And now you have the chance to experience his helpfulness in person."

He places the ornament back in its box. He shouldn't be surprised that his final contingency plan had worked. His plans never - rarely - went awry.

"Thank you," he says quietly. "I will treasure it."