[ That's right--he must feel free as fuck right now, huh? Himeka hadn't considered it that way, but now that Alucard reminded her, she can't get the thought out of her head.

Yes...they certainly won't be seeing the last of him. ]

I think that day will come.

[ Himeka is very confident in that fact. The journey may be a difficult one, but they will find their way in the end. They will accomplish what they need to in Abraxas. Alucard will get to live the life he wants here, amongst new people with a new reputation, and Himeka will get to wander the stars. ]

Mhmm! You're right--it's partly so that it gets the right consistency which is easier to do with great force and also because it's believed to be good luck if you pound and eat the mochi.

[ She picks up one of the simple daifuku and pops it into her mouth. ]

I think we can use a little good luck coming into the new year.