[He snorts, mildly amused at how done she sounds, then shrugs and lights himself a cigarette with his magical fire.]

Could've been better, could've been worse. The biggest shitshow was of course the autumn equinox.

[The failure to stop the stone giant still stings, much as he knows that everyone he fought on that front with him did their best, as did the would-be dragonslayers and the more successful rescue expedition to the ruins of Lestari.]

But we're building back up from the ashes, I guess.

[He exhales a waft of smoke into the cold night air.]

I'd introduce myself, but given the laws of this land just call me Agent Mayo Thirteen.

[Good Hijikata, you definitely come across as respectable and cool now.]