At least Hijikata had sat back down. That was something, even if his tone was once again a leader to a subordinate. The problem with it was that Homura had enough problems with Adelheid’s close-minded anger, the puppies’ youthful rebellion, and Sagara’s confrontational rashness. The History Club had enough of a time getting good quality members. These internal problems, particularly when made so public, could force away those who would otherwise be potentially useful.

Homura didn’t need it from this man as well.

“I hold no illusions about you following my orders over the long term, Hijikata.” Homura had an eye for talent, and experience enough to know that having that talent for his own often came with such a price. The tricky part came in paying it without too significant a loss. “It’s why I try to give you and Okita both consideration when it comes to the night shift tasks. But regardless of what our arrangement is or becomes, I am not one of your subordinates, and I expect you to remember that.”

Perhaps it was taking issue with something too simple. But at the same time, Homura had fought too hard to earn his freedom, to make his position more than the convenient way for Heaven to dispose of its waste. He would not step back now.

“Adelheid will be coming to your room tonight to make you a sword. Hopefully it won’t take long.”