[ With a nod of her head and a hum, the smile on Yoimiya's face softens as she listens to him. Wise words well spoken, Hijikata! Growing old is inevitable, everyone ages at some point (WELL except for those darn gods and other immortal beings >:T) but for a samurai, time is especially of the essence, she can empathize as someone who has been drilled with the Inazuman way of life. But even so, the considerable shift in tone from the gloomy talk about birthdays warms her heart.

More importantly, she's happy to see that smile back on Hijikata's face. He looks considerably more perky than when she ran into him. ]

You're exactly right! Even if Shoto becomes the strongest person to ever walk the face of the planet, I'm sure his experience with you will always have a special place in his heart, and no matter what, he'll always see you as his mentor.

[ It's a lesson that can also be applied to Yoimiya herself. She's determined to grow stronger but eventually, there too will come a time when she and Tartaglia grow old. Even so, the time they spent together will always hold a special place in her heart, far more than riches, fame, or power. ]

Yeah, I know that some people come from less-than-ideal worlds. So I hope for them, this place provides them with that sense of belonging.

[ Going back home is also inevitable but for the time being, she hopes everyone can enjoy Ellipsa for as long as they can. ]