Ah, so they weren't completely gone after all. He knew he wasn't weeping for himself. That future's him never cried as his friends betrayed him, or died. He was wracked with guilt about it, even in that illusion. That he was actually crying... he was filled with happiness.

"Memento mori..." Minato whispered. Goodbye hurt. Getting attached hurt. But he wouldn't give it up for anything. Tear's hand in his, he tightened the grip.

He turned to Shakyamuni-- she reminded him of Pharos. And by extension, Ryoji. The retrace of those closest to his heart continued: Aigis, Yukari, Junpei, Akihiko, Mitsuru, Fuuka, Ken, Koromaru, Shinjiro... Those who all looked out for him: Ace, Kharon, Ira, Selen... and Duster, wearing such a guilt-ridden expression. Facing him with a small wave of his free hand to grab his attention, he shook his head, everything was going to be alright. That was a promise. Everyone who made it to this point, their worlds were alright. Life would go on, and they'd struggle through the rest of the challenges fate had in mind for them, but they were this strong already. If anyone could make it, it was these guys.

"If you can find it within you to like yourself... isn't it because you have friends to call your own?" Minato didn't know from where he drew this line out from in his memories, it was even vaguer and more dream-like than the rest of the fog and gray, but a faint smile lines his lips once more, before turning even brighter. Could his words reach far out, even beyond this place? He certainly hoped so.

"Thank you, everyone. And good luck."

Awaiting Tear's ready, he'll put his hand on Shakyamuni's at the same time she does.