[what about you, then? hijikata wants to ask, but keeps himself from doing so. there are times to fish for hurt over insult. strangely enough where katsura was concerned, this was not one of them.]

[the confession to association if not incredibly stupid, is slightly alarming. it takes a terrorist to know another, and in spite of their differences perhaps their thoughts were similar in function, though not in the practice of them.]

An investigation with the least amount of people involved. [it comes to mind as katsura states the risks of an open investigation] Undertaken preferably by a stranger to us, consequently to Takasugi. [he frowns considerably, tapping at the glass of the window he's standing next to] That could take a while to put together; to find the right person for the job and be sure they'll take it seriously, rather than racing off to spill the beans for a price.

[seppuku would be the answer for the traitor. here, now, in holly heights, it was hard to tell potential foe from potential ally--if he had to go as far as using those terms.]

Time that you say is not a luxury we have.

[he considers this for a moment]

Sougo will take care of his sister and those around her. Your "family" could be a target once Takasugi discerns your arrival here. [warning, registered]