The Vice Captain would never deny his subordinates' simple request, especially after working their heads off through the night into the morning. A little celebration never hurt anybody.

The night started off lighthearted. Hoshina watched as the new recruits bickered over battle complications. Beneficial for working as a unit, sorting through problems, but fun as hell to watch from a corner.

Hoshina couldn't drink much. Their work was over, but he still had matters to attend to later that evening; he couldn't afford a hangover. One glass would be enough; his body was fit enough to handle it.

Maybe it was the festive mood, maybe it was the thought that this was the last pleasant night these kids would have, but he didn't reject any drinks offered. The newest generation of officers was pure-hearted, forming attachments faster than Hoshina could warn them. He knew a death in the division was unavoidable.

So he drank and smiled with them, for their sakes. One glass became half a dozen. Hoshina found himself in drinking competitions back-to-back, winning each one with ease. Just for tonight, I'll let them forget about work.

By the time the servers returned to clear the empty glasses and plates, Hoshina was half-asleep, head on the table. His eyes were open for once despite his drowsiness, watching over everyone. He was quiet, his usual teasing smiles replaced by a thine line, his snagglefangs poking out ever so slightly.