[ At first Hijikata didn't even know what he was doing? What is all this... What are you doing Tsurumaru.
but then he finally realizes... but is still extremely confused about it because Hijikata was making sure he didn't tell anyone about his birthday! he doesn't want anyone to know how old he is (also he never was fond of the entire thing about celebrating for being one year older and getting smothered with attention for some reason).
So after he gets a look at all the gifts (why are there so many Tsuru...): ]
I should kill you for half of the things here. [ he's joking, of course. but he can tell some of these!!! are joke gifts!!! he sees that how-to-poetry book! He sees it!
but... ]
Thank you though. [ he is pretty thankful! it's obvious that Tsurumaru did put a lot of thought and effort into this. ] But... How did you even know?
[ you know, tsurumaru now knows hijikata well enough to guess that he probably isn't going to go through with that threat, which is a shame! death would have made for the best present, but it's hijikata's birthday, not his. and tsukumogami don't really have birthdays, anyway. and because they don't have birthdays, they like to overdo it whenever it is someone's birthday? (which is why there are so many presents, hiji...)
oh, but that was a good surprise?? it caught him off-guard, and his eyes widen in complete shock, as if hijikata had spoken in an entirely different language, before his expression settles back into a smirk. ]
So you do know how to say things like thank you. [ yes... hijikata expressing his genuine gratitude is actually the biggest surprise that he's encountered since his time here. at that question, though, there's a finger pressed to his lip. he's not sharing his details! ]
It's a secret! Who knows, I might've talked to some mysterious information broker just for this.
[ no, he didn't. but gosh, clearly because if tsurumaru is 962, then hijikata is 181. at least he was kind enough to write it in parentheses!
he peers at hijikata's face then, because he hasn't entirely gotten the hang of checking for his approval. ] Do you like them?
What? You don't think I have manners or something?
[ Tsurumaru is, once again, probably joking. but hey! Hijikata knows how to show gratitude when it needs to be shown because he's not a filthy liar and he does actually value all his relationships with whoever actually deals with him on a daily basis!
a huff at Tsurumaru's other lie. information broker, sure... suure. ]
You're joking, aren't you.
[ seeing the 181 years old makes him feel too old, he's not suppose to feel like that until he's like... forty? maybe? if he lives that long, even (*looks at history*).
there's a pause and Hijikata's silent, looking over the gifts again. there's a final nod. ]
Of course. [ another pause. ] Is this what you were doing all week that you were trying to keep a secret? You really put a lot of thought into this, huh... ...
[ it's... pretty obvious Hijikata isn't really sure what to say or do? he doesn't celebrate his birthday much... help him out. ]
Of course I'm joking. [ hijikata is too old and principled to not have any kinds of manners! and the only information broker that he went to was the Identia Information Broker, information free to the public, so no actual broker involved, really...
gathering the presents has been an ongoing process of weeks, actually, but perhaps he's been too excited within the past week? either way, the fact that he'd been keeping some kind of secret is something that hijikata had picked up on, it seems. ]
Yup! I don't think I was doing so good on keeping it from you, but I put aaaaaall of my love and care into it. Knowing that you're happy with it is enough for me — so don't worry, okay?
[ he's exaggerating, but listen... he's got your back! he knows that there's appreciation deep down in hijikata's heart.
he picks up the cake then (it's not too big, since it's just them and if they want more cake in the future, he can just go buy some), carefully setting it on a nearby side table. and one by one, he lights the six candles, then moves to turn the lights off, so that the room is lit by only those six candles.
when about 25% of the citadel's swords have some kind of fire trauma, you don't get to do this kind of thing often!! so even though it isn't his own birthday, he's looking just as excited — his eyes glow with amazement, hands pressed together in front of his face. ]
It's kind of obvious when you have something up your sleeve.
[ ...sort of, at least. sometimes Tsurumaru's surprises are effective, sometimes they're not. it just really depends- Hijikata is slowly catching on though.
at first he only raises his eyebrow, watching Tsurumaru light he candles, then turn off the lights. but there's a nod in agreement. ]
You're right. Almost reminds me of lights you'd see at festivals.
[ although, Hijikata kind of comes from a peasant family, then barely had deep relationships with any of the troops in the Shinsengumi... ... ... Birthday cakes and candles weren't really a thing? ]
I think so. I lived with lots of rich people that could afford me, so celebrations were usually way more lavish. I mean, the stuff that people brought as presents could probably buy out this entire apartment and the apartments that the swords live in.
Back then, though... [ and he smiles really brightly — like, really brightly. ] I didn't give a shit. I didn't care which noble's child was turning eight or nine or whatever. So it's kind of nice, to celebrate a birthday that I actually care about.
[ with his attention back to the cake, now — ] This way is more modern — at least, that's what I learned here.
And, I think... this is kind of embarrassing, but... will you promise not to laugh for the next twenty seconds, or so?
[ because while not terrible, cranes are known for their dances, not their singing abilities? but uguisumaru did end up teaching tsuru a lot of things, like how to make green tea and how to sing, so he shouldn't be deafeningly bad at it... ]
Hm, that seems over the top, doesn't it. [ once again... Hijikata isn't one for birthday parties... or parties in general? he's a pretty quiet guy! so lavish anything, isn't his fancy.
well... it's pretty nice for someone to go out of there way to do something for Hijikata just because they merely care- right? he has to admit, it's pretty flattering. but he won't admit that out loud... no... not yet.
but he looks up, he's definitely curious because lord what is in for Hijikata now? more surprises? well, no he seems pretty serious about something... so he'll at least make sure he has nothing to feel embarrassed about (hopefully). ]
Alright, I won't. But what is it? [ Tsuru is always so vague... why is he so vague! leaving Hijikata on the edge like this... ]
[ well, tsuru will also eventually have to tell hijikata that the hair accessory that's included with the rest of his presents had a price tag in the billions of credits, because those are real diamonds and there are a lot of them! thanks, mikazuki, for your generous contributions. ]
It's... geez, be patient! You'll see.
[ he huffs!!! but he's not actually displeased; he'll pause then, quickly inhaling a nervous breath, glancing towards the cake, then at hijikata. ]
Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you♩♫ Happy birthday, dear Hi-ji-ka-ta ♪ ~ Happy birthday to.... you. ♫ ♫
[ while it was on-key and everything, it was still embarrassing.... he feels like he's going to die? but in the meantime, he's going to deal with it in the best way that he can... he laughs it off?? it works... maybe. ]
Here, now close your eyes and make a wish, before you blow out the candles — but don't say the wish out loud! Otherwise, it won't come true.
Edited (ass o clock taggin) 2016-03-06 11:04 (UTC)
[ he didn't expect a song, of all things. is this how usually birthdays go? it's kind of odd, but... it's pretty endearing. though, since he promised not to laugh he won't! instead, he'll only make a comment. ]
I didn't know you could sing. It wasn't bad.
[ a wish though... he isn't one to believe in silly things like this, just like how wishing stars are considered bad omens. besides, Hijikata spent his life climbing through all the hardships without needing anything like a 'wish'... he knows it probably won't do anything but he'll give it a try though?
so he does spend a good moment thinking about what he wants to wish for! he's putting a lot of thought into this, can't you tell? and after that moment, he finally closes his eyes - maybe... if he could wish for anything, is probably have a bit more time? that's all he want; time. he'd wait for ages to see his comrades again, to go back home, and fight for them again... although, despite battling the loneliness here, there are some things he truly can enjoy.
he knows for himself with the path he's chosen, he doesn't have a lot left.
and with a breath in, he finally blows out the candles, and then he opens his eyes. ]
There.
[ he did it! all candles are out! now the room is dark again... ]
[ he braces himself for some kind of sarcastic comment, but wow... that comment is actually nice! really decent! he's going to record it mentally in his List Of Nice Things that hijikata has said.... birthdays truly are days of miracles.
anyway, the only thing that tsurumaru realizes is that he's waiting for a long time, since hijikata seems to take these things very seriously. therefore, he's willing to give him as long as he needs! it doesn't mean that he isn't going to get antsy, though, shifting his weight back and forth, staring at hijikata's face, and repeat. but if he could somehow hear hijikata's wish, he'd laugh — if tsurumaru could, he'd grant that wish immediately, splitting half of his own immortal lifespan and giving it to him. though, that'd also give hijikata a longer loneliness than, say, shinpachi's, and in the end, tsurumaru really wouldn't wish that cruel fate on anyone else.
the candles are blown out! and... it's dark. he scrambles to his feet, feeling around the wall for the light switch; but he's memorized where it is, and there's light once more! he'll cautiously remove the six candles then, because hot wax cake is no fun to eat. before he slices the cake, however... he has another surprise. ]
You see, there's also the tradition of — here, look this way!
[ and when hijikata turns his head, his cheek will bump right into tsuru's finger, resulting in a tiny bit of icing stuck on his cheek.
but listen, at least it's better than smashing cake into his face... tsuru wouldn't want to do that to hijikata's poor face. ]
[ look. Hijikata's actually a decent person! when he's uhm... you know? you know... yes.
but yes, anyway. we don't need any loneliness like The Breakfast That Was Never Eaten... we never speak of that. but there's no way he'd actually talk about his wish... it's pretty embarrassing actually because it's truly his one weakness he admits. so thankfully, the rule of not talking about your wish came in handy just now. ]
What now-
[ and... wow, Tsuru. what are you- five? actually, no he doesn't need to ask that because Tsuru is practically five. and Hijikata just... scowls at Tsurumaru. he wipes the icing with his finger and gives it a taste... ]
Well... It doesn't taste bad, at least..
[ what is it? vanilla cake? is it? insert joke here! well, whatever it is- it's way better than the monstrosity Tsurumaru gets at the ice cream shop. he reaches over to get another finger full of icing...
only to smear it across Tsurumaru's face as well!
for revenge. he only lets out an indignant huff. he's not going to have this! ]
[ hijikata is learning to just accept that tsuru is five... this is great improvement!! now, every time he asks why tsuru is the way he is, or why he does So Much, he can supply his own answer.
that scowl is only met with a pure, innocent smile, because clearly, icing on hijikata's face makes him look sweeter? this is why he needs it! but it also kind of functions as an early taste test, and while tsuru didn't doubt that hijikata would like it, he explains anyway. ]
It's vanilla cake, vanilla icing. I remembered how you didn't like vanilla bean, so I made sure to get just vanill—
[ AAAAAAA WHY THIS. he's actually somewhat surprised... no, scratch that — he's really surprised, and at first, he just kind of sits there in shock, icing stuck to his cheek, because in all of his years, he wouldn't have expected hijikata to play back?? ]
Why, you... [ but you know, it's it's far from being an unpleasant surprise, and if hijikata wants to challenge him, he's going to respond in kind!! with a smirk, he swipes two separate fingers along the side of the cake this time, pressing his index fingers on each side of hijikata's face. ]
[ he's sort of accepted it. only sort of... mostly because a part of him hopes Tsurumaru can learn how to be mature for once because he's like - what - almost 1000 years old? come on now.
NO... HE WASN'T PLAYING BACK! That would be immature of The Vice-Commander... He just wanted revenge!
Hijikata recoils as much as he could (considering how he can't move that much with his leg still) but some of icing still makes it onto his face. he pushes Tsurumaru's hand away. ]
Geez, stop that. What are you, a child?
[ Back to being strict! ]
You didn't buy this just to smear it all over my face, I hope. [ because that would be a mess... he doesn't want to ruin his bed or kimono? gosh. he wipes some icing off his face, and takes a lick of it.
[ NO... PLAY! play back! :( but hijikata is a cruel bean that refuses to play back, so tsurumaru will huff as his hand is pushed away. that was a nice five seconds of play, though; perhaps he can convince hijikata to make it ten seconds, next time. slowly but steadily, that's how he'll get there. ]
No, I'm 962. [ but he says it like a child, and then he even pouts like a child, so in the end, tsurumaru might as well have said yes...
hijikata's right, for once — he bought this cake for eating!! and while he's gotten even better at laundry (remember those black kimonos that aren't black anymore...), he doesn't want to wash icing blankets on Birthday Day.
so he sets the plates and forks and knife on the table (maybe this is a big table?), because you know, he could very well slice up the cake with hijikata's horikawa, but should samurai swords be used for that? then, he'll cut a slice, one with tons of various glazed fruit toppings and some chocolate toppings, and hands it to hijikata. ]
[ fuck no... Hijikata NEVER plays around, even that just now wasn't even him playing? he wasn't playing at all... no... he doesn't even know how to have fun? geez! he just wanted sweet revenge, even for a few minutes. although it didn't last long, and if Hijikata tried to go for it again... Tsuru just wouldn't stop, then they'd waste the entire cake. he knows how Tsuru works. he knows! ]
You say that, but every time you do I find it harder to believe.
[ slight sarcasm.
okay but it's the moment of truth. trying the cake: icing and everything. the way it's arrange does make it look rather pretty, it's almost a shame they have to eat it! but that's what food is for anyway...
also please don't cut the cake with Horikawa, Hijikata would get upset.
he takes the bite of the cake, eating the piece in silence. once he swallows there's a small not- he's satisfied! ]
I don't remember the last time I had a cake.. It's good.
[ honestly, lord... when did he have a cake? honestly, it probably wasn't even baked like a birthday cake... he's had sponge cake- he thinks? details, details. ]
[ not all grandpas need to be grandpa-ly... mikazuki covers enough of being grandpa-ly for the rest of them, and grandpas that can live forever and forever should be more lively! at least, that's what tsurumaru thinks. otherwise, they'll rot away and die of boredom.
somehow, tsurumaru finds himself a bit more pleased than he thought he'd be, when it turns out that hijikata does, in fact, like the cake; mostly because he'd spent a long time picking it out! if it were up to him, he'd present a pure white cake with fruits and nuts and everything inside, but he'd selected the one that looked most normal — white fondant, with a standard assorted set of toppings. (since if it looked weird, would hijikata have eaten it?)
with that clear, he'll stab his own slice with his fork, and it does taste like normal cake... he also needs to thank mikazuki again for funding this, since very little of today had actually come out of tsuru's own pocket.
but gosh, that's so sad... ]
Really? [ ah, he's smart enough not to voice that, though! he keeps it locked away in his thoughts.
it is kind of saddening to hear that either way, so he leans forward a bit. ] You don't celebrate this every year?
i believe in cafeteria dude. u go little man.. u get better
No, there wasn't a reason to. I lived with my brother and his wife but they found me troublesome. I never liked staying there, so I decided to travel around and sell my family's medicine instead. That's how I came across the Dojo where I met Kondou-san and Souji as well, so I don't regret not being around my family much.
[ a pause... he isn't sure why he's saying all this, but a part of him doesn't care that much since it's all in the past and he doesn't feel too close with his family anyway. ]
But basically there was no reason to celebrate it if I was barely around.
Then at the headquarters, well, we were usually busy. If anything we'd probably drink together and maybe eat, but that's about it.
[ he'd rather not let anyone waste any money on Hijikata when it comes to his own birthday..? but if they did celebrate another captains birthday then he'd show up at the celebration. they were small though. ]
i hope you see him again tomorrow but he's feeling better
[ hijikata speaks of a life that tsurumaru hasn't known for a while — of living with smaller, disjointed groups of family, of traveling and selling, a relatively normal, simple, modest lifestyle that reminds him of his days with his clan. ]
Aah, so you weren't rich? [ but he doesn't say it in a condescending way — rather, he sounds curious, and if anything, a bit... enthusiastic, because he still has trouble with the whole "you're your own person" concept, and still thinks of himself as a sword first, prioritizing his own protection — which means, he views the wealthy with suspicion and tears apart everyone else until he can fish out their greedy, ulterior motives, too.
but hijikata doesn't seem to have any of those motives, and then he's not even rich, so... it's almost too good to be true?? +1 trust bond point... progress. ]
Then... we'll have to celebrate your birthday thirty-two more times, to make up for it — I hope you like being spoiled!
If you don't, you're going to have to get used to it, anyway.
[ he also wants to say or, we can celebrate your birthday every year from here on out, but that's like, tsuru's Ultra Mega Death Flag of unfulfilled promises. he doesn't like making promises into the future that he can't keep. ]
Even if we were well off, we'd still just be farmers. [ so... there's that. ] Although, it wasn't as if I was going to inherit anything since I was the youngest son.
[ out of like, six sons even. he sort of had a big family. ]
But I wanted to be a solider so that gave me a reason to leave often and go to many Dojos as well; since I liked wielding swords as well. So I don't regret not being around much.
[ his life may look useless, especially in the 'I wasn't as use to my family's business' aspect, but he never thought of himself as a useless person. so he definitely doesn't regret what he did.
but lord, thirty-two birthdays. he doesn't know if he can keep up. ]
Ah, well... You don't have to. The time being spent together is good enough, isn't it? [ what are gifts, what is being spoiled? this isn't in his vocabulary. ]
That badly, huh? You know, back in my time, you could've been executed for that.
[ for trying to live the life of a samurai, tsurumaru means, despite being from a different type of family. he glances down, fingertips pressed together — and there's a brief moment of hesitation, before he speaks again. ]
If you love wielding swords so much, then... I'm glad you were born later — even if it was into a time that I don't remember much about.
[ —which is actually a huge compliment coming from tsurumaru — who, for the most part, cares very little about what makes humans happy, and it wouldn't be incorrect to say that he does revel in their misfortune, too. in other words, he's making a rare exception from his usual bitter self, and he's not going to repeat himself! huff!
but yes, thirty-two whole birthdays! or thirty-two presents. or both. he gives hijikata a shake of his head, though, because that request is too simple, yet too difficult for him to dream of filling. time is a vague thing! ]
No, no — that won't do! Time is okay, but isn't time and gifts even better? You can't say no to more, right?
[ yikes. that sounds pretty bad, doesn't it? he takes a bite of the cake again and chews it thoughtfully. ]
I'll never be a samurai though. It's true, but some say it's hopeless, or I'm trying too hard but just makes me want to work even harder. [ still as stubborn as ever! but if he didn't try hard he wouldn't have gotten to where he is now, right? so there's that.
but wow! was that a compliment? Hijikata may be pretty surprised, but he only gives a tiny smile to show his appreciation but it disappears fairly quickly because he isn't one to smile much in the first place. ]
I'm glad too, I wouldn't want to be executed now, would I? [ half being sarcastic and joking here? although, it's thinking about it... he wouldn't know what to do if he was born into a time where being a samurai was impossible. he worked too damn hard! ]
Geez, you're really insistent on this thought, aren't you? [ Tsuru once again proves he's just a stubborn child... ] I guess... Maybe, I don't know. It's still kind of weird.
[ being spoiled, that is. ]
NO THEN WE HAVE TO FIND HIM and make sure he's ok??
You're a human that takes — [ palms upturned, hands angled towards the left. ] — pointy things and — [ towards the right. ] — stabs people, and most of all, you even live by a — [ wiggly noodle fingers. ] — rigid samurai code.
[ seriously, though— ] I may speak about it lightly, but the clan that I loved was a samurai clan. It's been a while, but I remember the beliefs that they lived by and upheld. I don't trust a lot of people, but I know that samurai treat their swords kindly... for the most part. [ but even that's pretty conditional...
anyway, tsurumaru makes a face, like no matter what hiji does, he can't shake him off! that kind of determined face. ]
I am. [ he may be a stubborn child, but he has his rare moments of wisdom, just... not right now. so he reaches forward, his hand resting on the edge of the bed, because he's also five and reaching for his hand takes the courage that he doesn't have. ]
You know, I'm not too good with gifts — I just assume that expensive things are better, so I just bring a bunch of them. But, you can hardly blame me, right?
If you want something else instead of material items, except time — [ because hiji's already getting that! tsuru's looking for the blank in hijikata's ideal equation of "time + ____". ] — you should tell me.
MAYBE ILL SEE HIM TOMORROW who knows... cafeteria dude is an enigma
We're not like the Ronins that didn't have a code and only used their swords to steal from everyone, causing a mess.
[ if anything, people like that don't even deserve to wield a sword. ]
Can't say I am either.
[ because, well... gift giving wasn't his thing? though, he bought sweets for Kondou a few times. A FEW TIMES. SPECIAL OCCASIONS! Hijikata still doesn't fully support his sweets-addiction because he even skip meetings just to go buy some! the worst. ]
Hm... As long as you can tell there was genuine thought put into the gift, I think that's good enough.
But - I'll think about.
[ after another bite of the cake, he puts down the plate and reaches for that hair accessory. when you get a new gift it's only natural to try it out! yes...
at first, he spends a few moments inspecting it since Hijikata isn't really one to wear things to look so... expensive? he doesn't put it on yet (still thinking where to put it maybe) because he speaks up again. ]
Actually. [ a pause, his eyes flicker towards his desk... then the window... ] I think I at least want to go outside.
[ he's not implying right now, but lord... he's already antsy staying in bed and he misses taking his walks to his jobs... then to the dojo... also looking at the spring cherry blossoms at the playground! ugh, being in bed is BORING! ]
please find him if hes gone im coming to hunt him down
[ he'll watch hijikata fiddle with the clip accessory for a bit, but decides that he needs some help! gently, he reaches for strands of his hair, combing them out evenly with his fingers, working out the loose knots with gentle prodding — and then he neatly secures the clip in place, pinning up some of his hair up out of his face. ]
This was super expensive, buuuut if I tell you how much it cost me, you'd make me return it — which would make me really sad, so! I'll never tell you.
[ like... if he comes forth and says 2 billion credits... neither he nor hijikata will ever see the hair clip again?
but tsurumaru, too, will follow his gaze, looking towards the desk of paperwork... and then towards the open window. ]
That one's obvious, isn't it? When you're better, you can go outside — but not until then, and if you just worsen your condition by trying to work while I'm not watching, then it'll take even longer.
[ honestly....! how many times has he seen hijikata try to drag himself to his desk... and since tsurumaru's managed to impress even himself with how mature he just sounded, he looks away a bit, his hand pressed against his mouth, because wow.... embarrassing!! ]
Geez, you're making me say something responsible, like an adult... That's really not my style, you know.
[ not that he's really complaining or anything! it probably looks nice on him? Hijikata is really confident in his looks anyway so it's not as if he's self conscious by some overly expensive hair accessory, which is why he doesn't ask how it looks.
but then... once again... you know, farmer family in all. they didn't do anything that's on the expensive side.
he was hoping for a yes! but no, dreams are crushed... he only lets out a dissatisfied huff. ]
I'm getting better though. [ sort of? it hasn't been that long, but when you're sitting in bed almost all day it feels like forever basically. ]
Sitting around and doing nothing feels very ... [ boring. but he doesn't want to say that! ] Counterproductive... At least.
[ he knows he should be more responsible about this, but this is almost killing him on the inside. he has a point though - he really does! he's acting like the child now, isn't he? so he sighs. ] But... You're right.
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hijiwanwan) wrote2015-09-14 12:06 am
ugh urinal
but then he finally realizes... but is still extremely confused about it because Hijikata was making sure he didn't tell anyone about his birthday! he doesn't want anyone to know how old he is (also he never was fond of the entire thing about celebrating for being one year older and getting smothered with attention for some reason).
So after he gets a look at all the gifts (why are there so many Tsuru...): ]
I should kill you for half of the things here. [ he's joking, of course. but he can tell some of these!!! are joke gifts!!! he sees that how-to-poetry book! He sees it!
but... ]
Thank you though. [ he is pretty thankful! it's obvious that Tsurumaru did put a lot of thought and effort into this. ] But... How did you even know?
[ also why is he 181 years old. ]
urinal my thots ;)
oh, but that was a good surprise?? it caught him off-guard, and his eyes widen in complete shock, as if hijikata had spoken in an entirely different language, before his expression settles back into a smirk. ]
So you do know how to say things like thank you. [ yes... hijikata expressing his genuine gratitude is actually the biggest surprise that he's encountered since his time here. at that question, though, there's a finger pressed to his lip. he's not sharing his details! ]
It's a secret! Who knows, I might've talked to some mysterious information broker just for this.
[ no, he didn't. but gosh, clearly because if tsurumaru is 962, then hijikata is 181. at least he was kind enough to write it in parentheses!
he peers at hijikata's face then, because he hasn't entirely gotten the hang of checking for his approval. ] Do you like them?
flushes them
[ Tsurumaru is, once again, probably joking. but hey! Hijikata knows how to show gratitude when it needs to be shown because he's not a filthy liar and he does actually value all his relationships with whoever actually deals with him on a daily basis!
a huff at Tsurumaru's other lie. information broker, sure... suure. ]
You're joking, aren't you.
[ seeing the 181 years old makes him feel too old, he's not suppose to feel like that until he's like... forty? maybe? if he lives that long, even (*looks at history*).
there's a pause and Hijikata's silent, looking over the gifts again. there's a final nod. ]
Of course. [ another pause. ] Is this what you were doing all week that you were trying to keep a secret? You really put a lot of thought into this, huh... ...
[ it's... pretty obvious Hijikata isn't really sure what to say or do? he doesn't celebrate his birthday much... help him out. ]
no??? why are you like this
gathering the presents has been an ongoing process of weeks, actually, but perhaps he's been too excited within the past week? either way, the fact that he'd been keeping some kind of secret is something that hijikata had picked up on, it seems. ]
Yup! I don't think I was doing so good on keeping it from you, but I put aaaaaall of my love and care into it. Knowing that you're happy with it is enough for me — so don't worry, okay?
[ he's exaggerating, but listen... he's got your back! he knows that there's appreciation deep down in hijikata's heart.
he picks up the cake then (it's not too big, since it's just them and if they want more cake in the future, he can just go buy some), carefully setting it on a nearby side table. and one by one, he lights the six candles, then moves to turn the lights off, so that the room is lit by only those six candles.
when about 25% of the citadel's swords have some kind of fire trauma, you don't get to do this kind of thing often!! so even though it isn't his own birthday, he's looking just as excited — his eyes glow with amazement, hands pressed together in front of his face. ]
Isn't it pretty?
there they go.. down the drain...
[ ...sort of, at least. sometimes Tsurumaru's surprises are effective, sometimes they're not. it just really depends- Hijikata is slowly catching on though.
at first he only raises his eyebrow, watching Tsurumaru light he candles, then turn off the lights. but there's a nod in agreement. ]
You're right. Almost reminds me of lights you'd see at festivals.
[ although, Hijikata kind of comes from a peasant family, then barely had deep relationships with any of the troops in the Shinsengumi... ... ... Birthday cakes and candles weren't really a thing? ]
So, is this how you usually celebrate?
like your hair
Back then, though... [ and he smiles really brightly — like, really brightly. ] I didn't give a shit. I didn't care which noble's child was turning eight or nine or whatever. So it's kind of nice, to celebrate a birthday that I actually care about.
[ with his attention back to the cake, now — ] This way is more modern — at least, that's what I learned here.
And, I think... this is kind of embarrassing, but... will you promise not to laugh for the next twenty seconds, or so?
[ because while not terrible, cranes are known for their dances, not their singing abilities? but uguisumaru did end up teaching tsuru a lot of things, like how to make green tea and how to sing, so he shouldn't be deafeningly bad at it... ]
UGH.. NO WHY!
well... it's pretty nice for someone to go out of there way to do something for Hijikata just because they merely care- right? he has to admit, it's pretty flattering. but he won't admit that out loud... no... not yet.
but he looks up, he's definitely curious because lord what is in for Hijikata now? more surprises? well, no he seems pretty serious about something... so he'll at least make sure he has nothing to feel embarrassed about (hopefully). ]
Alright, I won't. But what is it? [ Tsuru is always so vague... why is he so vague! leaving Hijikata on the edge like this... ]
BECAUSE...i pick betray
It's... geez, be patient! You'll see.
[ he huffs!!! but he's not actually displeased; he'll pause then, quickly inhaling a nervous breath, glancing towards the cake, then at hijikata. ]
Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you♩♫
Happy birthday, dear Hi-ji-ka-ta ♪ ~
Happy birthday to.... you. ♫ ♫
[ while it was on-key and everything, it was still embarrassing.... he feels like he's going to die? but in the meantime, he's going to deal with it in the best way that he can... he laughs it off?? it works... maybe. ]
Here, now close your eyes and make a wish, before you blow out the candles — but don't say the wish out loud! Otherwise, it won't come true.
shame corner u go
I didn't know you could sing. It wasn't bad.
[ a wish though... he isn't one to believe in silly things like this, just like how wishing stars are considered bad omens. besides, Hijikata spent his life climbing through all the hardships without needing anything like a 'wish'... he knows it probably won't do anything but he'll give it a try though?
so he does spend a good moment thinking about what he wants to wish for! he's putting a lot of thought into this, can't you tell? and after that moment, he finally closes his eyes - maybe... if he could wish for anything, is probably have a bit more time? that's all he want; time. he'd wait for ages to see his comrades again, to go back home, and fight for them again... although, despite battling the loneliness here, there are some things he truly can enjoy.
he knows for himself with the path he's chosen, he doesn't have a lot left.
and with a breath in, he finally blows out the candles, and then he opens his eyes. ]
There.
[ he did it! all candles are out! now the room is dark again... ]
im taking ur hair with me
anyway, the only thing that tsurumaru realizes is that he's waiting for a long time, since hijikata seems to take these things very seriously. therefore, he's willing to give him as long as he needs! it doesn't mean that he isn't going to get antsy, though, shifting his weight back and forth, staring at hijikata's face, and repeat. but if he could somehow hear hijikata's wish, he'd laugh — if tsurumaru could, he'd grant that wish immediately, splitting half of his own immortal lifespan and giving it to him. though, that'd also give hijikata a longer loneliness than, say, shinpachi's, and in the end, tsurumaru really wouldn't wish that cruel fate on anyone else.
the candles are blown out! and... it's dark. he scrambles to his feet, feeling around the wall for the light switch; but he's memorized where it is, and there's light once more! he'll cautiously remove the six candles then, because hot wax cake is no fun to eat. before he slices the cake, however... he has another surprise. ]
You see, there's also the tradition of — here, look this way!
[ and when hijikata turns his head, his cheek will bump right into tsuru's finger, resulting in a tiny bit of icing stuck on his cheek.
but listen, at least it's better than smashing cake into his face... tsuru wouldn't want to do that to hijikata's poor face. ]
AAAAAAAAAAA WHY THE HAIR
but yes, anyway. we don't need any loneliness like The Breakfast That Was Never Eaten... we never speak of that. but there's no way he'd actually talk about his wish... it's pretty embarrassing actually because it's truly his one weakness he admits. so thankfully, the rule of not talking about your wish came in handy just now. ]
What now-
[ and... wow, Tsuru. what are you- five? actually, no he doesn't need to ask that because Tsuru is practically five. and Hijikata just... scowls at Tsurumaru. he wipes the icing with his finger and gives it a taste... ]
Well... It doesn't taste bad, at least..
[ what is it? vanilla cake? is it? insert joke here! well, whatever it is- it's way better than the monstrosity Tsurumaru gets at the ice cream shop. he reaches over to get another finger full of icing...
only to smear it across Tsurumaru's face as well!
for revenge. he only lets out an indignant huff. he's not going to have this! ]
IT NEEDS TO BE SHAMED for going in the toilet
that scowl is only met with a pure, innocent smile, because clearly, icing on hijikata's face makes him look sweeter? this is why he needs it! but it also kind of functions as an early taste test, and while tsuru didn't doubt that hijikata would like it, he explains anyway. ]
It's vanilla cake, vanilla icing. I remembered how you didn't like vanilla bean, so I made sure to get just vanill—
[ AAAAAAA WHY THIS. he's actually somewhat surprised... no, scratch that — he's really surprised, and at first, he just kind of sits there in shock, icing stuck to his cheek, because in all of his years, he wouldn't have expected hijikata to play back?? ]
Why, you... [ but you know, it's it's far from being an unpleasant surprise, and if hijikata wants to challenge him, he's going to respond in kind!! with a smirk, he swipes two separate fingers along the side of the cake this time, pressing his index fingers on each side of hijikata's face. ]
Take that!
MY SUBJECT
NO... HE WASN'T PLAYING BACK! That would be immature of The Vice-Commander... He just wanted revenge!
Hijikata recoils as much as he could (considering how he can't move that much with his leg still) but some of icing still makes it onto his face. he pushes Tsurumaru's hand away. ]
Geez, stop that. What are you, a child?
[ Back to being strict! ]
You didn't buy this just to smear it all over my face, I hope. [ because that would be a mess... he doesn't want to ruin his bed or kimono? gosh. he wipes some icing off his face, and takes a lick of it.
yeah, vanilla is pretty good?]
AAAA THE CAFETERIA DUDE
No, I'm 962. [ but he says it like a child, and then he even pouts like a child, so in the end, tsurumaru might as well have said yes...
hijikata's right, for once — he bought this cake for eating!! and while he's gotten even better at laundry (remember those black kimonos that aren't black anymore...), he doesn't want to wash icing blankets on Birthday Day.
so he sets the plates and forks and knife on the table (maybe this is a big table?), because you know, he could very well slice up the cake with hijikata's horikawa, but should samurai swords be used for that? then, he'll cut a slice, one with tons of various glazed fruit toppings and some chocolate toppings, and hands it to hijikata. ]
Try it — and tell me what you think!
ugh i hope cafeteria dude is doing okay
You say that, but every time you do I find it harder to believe.
[ slight sarcasm.
okay but it's the moment of truth. trying the cake: icing and everything. the way it's arrange does make it look rather pretty, it's almost a shame they have to eat it! but that's what food is for anyway...
also please don't cut the cake with Horikawa, Hijikata would get upset.
he takes the bite of the cake, eating the piece in silence. once he swallows there's a small not- he's satisfied! ]
I don't remember the last time I had a cake.. It's good.
[ honestly, lord... when did he have a cake? honestly, it probably wasn't even baked like a birthday cake... he's had sponge cake- he thinks? details, details. ]
ugh i hope he's feeling better
somehow, tsurumaru finds himself a bit more pleased than he thought he'd be, when it turns out that hijikata does, in fact, like the cake; mostly because he'd spent a long time picking it out! if it were up to him, he'd present a pure white cake with fruits and nuts and everything inside, but he'd selected the one that looked most normal — white fondant, with a standard assorted set of toppings. (since if it looked weird, would hijikata have eaten it?)
with that clear, he'll stab his own slice with his fork, and it does taste like normal cake... he also needs to thank mikazuki again for funding this, since very little of today had actually come out of tsuru's own pocket.
but gosh, that's so sad... ]
Really? [ ah, he's smart enough not to voice that, though! he keeps it locked away in his thoughts.
it is kind of saddening to hear that either way, so he leans forward a bit. ] You don't celebrate this every year?
i believe in cafeteria dude. u go little man.. u get better
No, there wasn't a reason to. I lived with my brother and his wife but they found me troublesome. I never liked staying there, so I decided to travel around and sell my family's medicine instead. That's how I came across the Dojo where I met Kondou-san and Souji as well, so I don't regret not being around my family much.
[ a pause... he isn't sure why he's saying all this, but a part of him doesn't care that much since it's all in the past and he doesn't feel too close with his family anyway. ]
But basically there was no reason to celebrate it if I was barely around.
Then at the headquarters, well, we were usually busy. If anything we'd probably drink together and maybe eat, but that's about it.
[ he'd rather not let anyone waste any money on Hijikata when it comes to his own birthday..? but if they did celebrate another captains birthday then he'd show up at the celebration. they were small though. ]
i hope you see him again tomorrow but he's feeling better
Aah, so you weren't rich? [ but he doesn't say it in a condescending way — rather, he sounds curious, and if anything, a bit... enthusiastic, because he still has trouble with the whole "you're your own person" concept, and still thinks of himself as a sword first, prioritizing his own protection — which means, he views the wealthy with suspicion and tears apart everyone else until he can fish out their greedy, ulterior motives, too.
but hijikata doesn't seem to have any of those motives, and then he's not even rich, so... it's almost too good to be true?? +1 trust bond point... progress. ]
Then... we'll have to celebrate your birthday thirty-two more times, to make up for it — I hope you like being spoiled!
If you don't, you're going to have to get used to it, anyway.
[ he also wants to say or, we can celebrate your birthday every year from here on out, but that's like, tsuru's Ultra Mega Death Flag of unfulfilled promises. he doesn't like making promises into the future that he can't keep. ]
ugh he needs to stop coming to work sick
[ out of like, six sons even. he sort of had a big family. ]
But I wanted to be a solider so that gave me a reason to leave often and go to many Dojos as well; since I liked wielding swords as well. So I don't regret not being around much.
[ his life may look useless, especially in the 'I wasn't as use to my family's business' aspect, but he never thought of himself as a useless person. so he definitely doesn't regret what he did.
but lord, thirty-two birthdays. he doesn't know if he can keep up. ]
Ah, well... You don't have to. The time being spent together is good enough, isn't it? [ what are gifts, what is being spoiled? this isn't in his vocabulary. ]
did he come to work sick today too
[ for trying to live the life of a samurai, tsurumaru means, despite being from a different type of family. he glances down, fingertips pressed together — and there's a brief moment of hesitation, before he speaks again. ]
If you love wielding swords so much, then... I'm glad you were born later — even if it was into a time that I don't remember much about.
[ —which is actually a huge compliment coming from tsurumaru — who, for the most part, cares very little about what makes humans happy, and it wouldn't be incorrect to say that he does revel in their misfortune, too. in other words, he's making a rare exception from his usual bitter self, and he's not going to repeat himself! huff!
but yes, thirty-two whole birthdays! or thirty-two presents. or both. he gives hijikata a shake of his head, though, because that request is too simple, yet too difficult for him to dream of filling. time is a vague thing! ]
No, no — that won't do! Time is okay, but isn't time and gifts even better? You can't say no to more, right?
ugh i didnt see him what if he got fired
I'll never be a samurai though. It's true, but some say it's hopeless, or I'm trying too hard but just makes me want to work even harder. [ still as stubborn as ever! but if he didn't try hard he wouldn't have gotten to where he is now, right? so there's that.
but wow! was that a compliment? Hijikata may be pretty surprised, but he only gives a tiny smile to show his appreciation but it disappears fairly quickly because he isn't one to smile much in the first place. ]
I'm glad too, I wouldn't want to be executed now, would I? [ half being sarcastic and joking here? although, it's thinking about it... he wouldn't know what to do if he was born into a time where being a samurai was impossible. he worked too damn hard! ]
Geez, you're really insistent on this thought, aren't you? [ Tsuru once again proves he's just a stubborn child... ] I guess... Maybe, I don't know. It's still kind of weird.
[ being spoiled, that is. ]
NO THEN WE HAVE TO FIND HIM and make sure he's ok??
[ seriously, though— ] I may speak about it lightly, but the clan that I loved was a samurai clan. It's been a while, but I remember the beliefs that they lived by and upheld. I don't trust a lot of people, but I know that samurai treat their swords kindly... for the most part. [ but even that's pretty conditional...
anyway, tsurumaru makes a face, like no matter what hiji does, he can't shake him off! that kind of determined face. ]
I am. [ he may be a stubborn child, but he has his rare moments of wisdom, just... not right now. so he reaches forward, his hand resting on the edge of the bed, because he's also five and reaching for his hand takes the courage that he doesn't have. ]
You know, I'm not too good with gifts — I just assume that expensive things are better, so I just bring a bunch of them. But, you can hardly blame me, right?
If you want something else instead of material items, except time — [ because hiji's already getting that! tsuru's looking for the blank in hijikata's ideal equation of "time + ____". ] — you should tell me.
MAYBE ILL SEE HIM TOMORROW who knows... cafeteria dude is an enigma
We're not like the Ronins that didn't have a code and only used their swords to steal from everyone, causing a mess.
[ if anything, people like that don't even deserve to wield a sword. ]
Can't say I am either.
[ because, well... gift giving wasn't his thing? though, he bought sweets for Kondou a few times. A FEW TIMES. SPECIAL OCCASIONS! Hijikata still doesn't fully support his sweets-addiction because he even skip meetings just to go buy some! the worst. ]
Hm... As long as you can tell there was genuine thought put into the gift, I think that's good enough.
But - I'll think about.
[ after another bite of the cake, he puts down the plate and reaches for that hair accessory. when you get a new gift it's only natural to try it out! yes...
at first, he spends a few moments inspecting it since Hijikata isn't really one to wear things to look so... expensive? he doesn't put it on yet (still thinking where to put it maybe) because he speaks up again. ]
Actually. [ a pause, his eyes flicker towards his desk... then the window... ] I think I at least want to go outside.
[ he's not implying right now, but lord... he's already antsy staying in bed and he misses taking his walks to his jobs... then to the dojo... also looking at the spring cherry blossoms at the playground! ugh, being in bed is BORING! ]
please find him if hes gone im coming to hunt him down
This was super expensive, buuuut if I tell you how much it cost me, you'd make me return it — which would make me really sad, so! I'll never tell you.
[ like... if he comes forth and says 2 billion credits... neither he nor hijikata will ever see the hair clip again?
but tsurumaru, too, will follow his gaze, looking towards the desk of paperwork... and then towards the open window. ]
That one's obvious, isn't it? When you're better, you can go outside — but not until then, and if you just worsen your condition by trying to work while I'm not watching, then it'll take even longer.
[ honestly....! how many times has he seen hijikata try to drag himself to his desk... and since tsurumaru's managed to impress even himself with how mature he just sounded, he looks away a bit, his hand pressed against his mouth, because wow.... embarrassing!! ]
Geez, you're making me say something responsible, like an adult... That's really not my style, you know.
UGH I SAW HIM hes doing ok
[ not that he's really complaining or anything! it probably looks nice on him? Hijikata is really confident in his looks anyway so it's not as if he's self conscious by some overly expensive hair accessory, which is why he doesn't ask how it looks.
but then... once again... you know, farmer family in all. they didn't do anything that's on the expensive side.
he was hoping for a yes! but no, dreams are crushed... he only lets out a dissatisfied huff. ]
I'm getting better though. [ sort of? it hasn't been that long, but when you're sitting in bed almost all day it feels like forever basically. ]
Sitting around and doing nothing feels very ... [ boring. but he doesn't want to say that! ] Counterproductive... At least.
[ he knows he should be more responsible about this, but this is almost killing him on the inside. he has a point though - he really does! he's acting like the child now, isn't he? so he sighs. ] But... You're right.
[ ... ... ... ] How about in a week?
IM GLAD wipes tear is he working today
UGH TSURU I sWEAR TO GOD,
AAAA DICKBUTT TIME
u r The Worst
uhmmmm why r u talking about urself
> _> < _ < < < << > >> < uhm im not < < < < ___<
all of those lesser thans and greater thans won't save u
>>>>>>>>>>>>>:(
AAAAAAA smooths out your forehead no wrinkles
>>>>>>>>>>>>>:( x10
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>:) x 100
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
AAAAAAAA ITS IN THE TOILET
LEAVE THE TOILET OLONE
NO.... U LEAVE IT ALONE FIRST
destroys the toilet
ok then where are you gonna pee... in a dirt hole??
on second thought, maybe the toilet stays
it'll stay to terrorize your hair for the rest of your life
destroys it again
STOP HAVE FUN PEEING IN THE GROUND
AAA STOP THIS
back in MY day we peed in holes in the dirt
stop talking like an old man thats my job,
hush child i'm 952 you're only 181
im mentally like 1000 ok
that doesnt mean you know the dirt holes of the 13th century :/
if theres one thing i dont want its where-to-pee knowledge
then what knowledge Do you want
something that isnt related to dirt holes?
like... the latest, hottest deals on lingerie?
ugh no panties
why are you saying no to panties
no...panties... unless ur gonna miss.... the panty raid
yes... the panty raid... hiji will look in his drawers and all his rope panties are gone
ugh leave the [komyu voice] ROPE UNDERWEAR alone
make me, i dare you :/ :\ :|
AAAAaaaa get ur own panties
i have rope too you stop this
keep ur own rope to urself
i'm not the one who ties rope around people's necks
im a vice captain i do what i want with my rope...
"i do what i want" - signed, hijikata
exactly!! no sassing the vice commander
sasses him anyway
*kills u*
:o :D >:D ???!?!?!?
STOP THIS
YOU STARTED IT
uhm no i didnt!
uhm yes you did!!
:o no i didnt :O
don't you :O me, i see through your lies
i dont lie :3c
you just did :/ :\
i have no idea what ur talking about :o :3
don't you :3 me, smacks the :3 off of ur face
no! >:3c
AAAAAAA puts tape on your :3 so that you're :|
but my :3 ?
no... no more :3, just :|
what about >:^3
puts your nose in my pocket, now you have no nose :O
komyu voice: im just a hole
alright pack your sleeping bags we're going to church
why nap in church when u can just nap at home
the purifying essences of church won't seep into you if you nap at home
i dont need church >:(
would a demon vice commander burst into flames in church...
probably... do u want to kill me gosh
well, no.... now we can nap on church's doorstep instead
ugh i dont wanna go to church
we're not going to church we're going to the doorstep and napping
NO CHURCH
WHY DO YOU DENY CHURCH
ugh because jesus will never accept me
ugh jesus accepts all though
even demons... ? :o
yes....... if there are fallen angels there can also be.....uh......... risen demons i guess
i can be ur devil or angel
u can be my......devangel
NOO I HATE THS
NO..... PORQUE NO LAS DOS
u gave me a notif while i was free iths is war now
fight me, war never ends
I WILL FIGHT??? im fighting right now
meet me in the pit and fight me with ur fists
but samurai fight with sord
then fite me with ur sord... one sord no horikawa
what do u have against hori,..
nothing...he's just smol against a tachi
hori can win if i cheer for him
is it because assassination in the darkness is his specialty
yes he can get u when you least expect it
and clearly we got him when he least expected it
tsuru is 5
stop if hes five ur like one (1/2)
(2/2)
wha t the fck
(no subject)
:-)
im gonna punch you
NO PUNCHING
punches u in the gut
WHAT DID I SAY ABT PUNCHIN
PUNCHES U IN THE MOUTH WITH MY....fist
>:( what did ij ust say,
you said hell yeah just sock me where it hurts >:)
i./ you're grounded.
ground me all u want u don't have leggies :P
uhm i have one leg and thats enough to kick an ass
leans across desk seductively kick my ass with that leg
STOP
make me :/ :\