[ Look! This is Hijikata Toshizou, with the strongest will to live but the strongest will to die... If it's for the Shinsengumi, that is! Horikawa doesn't have to worry since he wouldn't dare die while being separated from his comrades... Especially since he has to make sure to find them, protect them and make sure they're okay and- you get the point. He's trying to stay really positive that they're all just fine but!? It's really difficult! Either way, he'll be okay! He just hit a bump in the road of his life at Cerealia...

Even so... There's no way he's going to show any weakness to Horikawa... He has to stay strong and be the Vice Commander that Horikawa knows him as, of course! ]

Hmm, I missed that atmosphere. Despite the people in it being different [ Not the troops he spent time with drilling everyday, ] at least it's still like a piece of home.

[ A small nod.

Maybe he should've expected for Horikawa to join him when it comes to training? This is Horikawa... And Hijikata has already a month ago that Horikawa is incredibly enthusiastic around Hijikata. Not going to lie- it's definitely An Experience. However, he doesn't hate it. As his treasured Waki maybe it was a bit nice and comforting to have someone like him always by his side. ]

Well, first... I need to assess where your skills are right now. [ A beat. ] You may be my sword, and I do believe you are just as talented, but I still rather see it for myself.

[ And why not? It's a good way to warm up anyway. ]