[If Hijikata ever does get to take Riou to Prismatica in the diffuse future Riou will be pleasantly surprised to find the whole planet restored to lush, colourful, crystalline health. Hijikata can't help but crack a smile at his response, after all he knows too well what it's like to be part of a trio, what with him, Kondou and Okita having been joined at the hip for roundabout a decade now.]

Of course. If it makes you feel better, they were there with you, too. I mean, with the other timeline's Riou.

["Were" because Hijikata has no idea if they permanently went back to their own world after the restoration, or if they stayed, or if they did what he did and went home but visited frequently. He slips the crystal back under his shirt. Telling Riou the truth (or, well, most of the truth) took a surprisingly heavy weight off his shoulders. It's goddamn late, though, and Riou is probably struggling to stay awake after partying earlier.]

I'll happily tell you more, but you should probably get some sleep first. Again, sorry for coming by so late! It really took me so long to replant the flowers.

[He glances at them, realising that they send a wrong message now. His silence turned into a whole-ass revelation, and his resignation into new hope to maybe still be able to connect with Riou. His remembrance and gratitude, though, are unchanged, so it sure is a good thing he chose the carnations, gladiolus and hydrangea.]