[The dragons of the future are just as lively as his own - different in some ways but Hiryuu doesn't mind. He can also see the similarities as well, makes him nostalgic and wonder what their life would be like if they'd existed in a time when they weren't in a constant struggle to build Kouka from the ground up.

Hiryuu gives Kija a small encouraging smile as the other man attempts to find words.]

Think nothing of it, young Hakuryuu. You did not which is something to be thankful for instead. [Better to focus on that than be flustered over an accident that didn't actually take place.

As for that, he places a hand on Kija's shoulder to get the full attention of the other man.] While I would appreciate the company, you do not need to protect me so fiercely. Not only would your princess be upset if you returned to her injured but I would also like to fight beside rather than simply stand behind and be protected.

[He is well-aware that his dragons would take any injury for him and suspects it to be true for this Hakuryuu in particular too, but Hiryuu did not become king by standing in the back. King -- Red Dragon God -- he is both of these things but he is also a warrior.]