[Well, yes, he can't deny it's stinging, but it's still nothing...
But what isn't 'nothing' is the look on Gokotai's face. So he relents.]

Ah, well... as you insist. I would not want you to go against Yagen-dono's teachings, either.
Please take good care of me, Gokotai-dono.

[A dash of extra formality, to hopefully give the little sword a boost of confidence.]