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Hakuoki Tenun no Shou plays a bit differently from the rest of the series. The game is divided into multiple chapters and each one is centered around two of the main guys. Each of the chapters follows its own story with an underlying plot that connects them all. So you can read them in any order you want but I still recommend reading them in order considering that's how the game was meant to be played. ヾ(^▽^*))) Story This time, the story takes place in Kyoto, where the Shinsengumi were active in the past, and spins the story of their youth and memories that were not depicted in the main story, including incidents of various sizes that are recounted along with the events of the four seasons. Translations Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Characters Side Characters Translations Chapter 1: Okita's Route: -​Intro -Check on Okita. -Ask Okita. -I'm worried about Okita's condition. -Good End -Normal End Iba's Route: -​Intro -Attend to Iba. -Ask Iba. -Iba’s concerns. -Good End -Normal End ​ Common Route: -​Intro -Go back to my tasks. -Ask Inoue. -What I can do./Normal End Chapter 2: Hijikata's Route: -​Intro -I was worried about Hijikata. -I'll just wait in the courtyard. -I'll go to Hijikata. -Good End -Normal End Nagakura's Route: -​Intro -I was worried about Nagakura. -I'll go check on the front gate. -I'll go to Nagakura. -Good End -Normal End Common Route: -​Intro -Go back to work. -I guess I'll give up. -I'm not going to either of them./Normal End Characters Souji Okita | VA. Shotaro Morikubo Okita is the captain of the first division of the Shinsengumi, he’s also known as one of the most notorious warriors on the battlefield. He posses a very sarcastic personality and a charmingly sadistic nature. This man is also very loyal to Isami Kondou and his top priority in life is to be the sword and weapon of the Shinsengumi. It is rumored that his sword skill is as good as Hijikata’s, although he personally claimed that he’s better. Hachiro Iba | VA. Mamoru Miyano Hachiro Iba is a member of the shogun’s guard who has known the Shinsengumi for years. He’s also inherited one of the most popular dojo in Bakumatso, Edo, through his family name. Despite his charming looks and his very gentle & refined appearance, he is one badass swordsman who’s trained together with the Shinsengumi captains. He’s also Chizuru’s childhood friend. Source Side Characters Sanjuro Tani | VA. Ryota Takeuchi Tani is a member of the Shinsengumi. He is the eldest of the Tani brothers and serves as the Captain of the 7th Division. He has a tendency to cause trouble, making him not very well-liked by the other Captains. Chuji Matsubara | VA. Kentaro Ito A member of the Shinsengumi and Captain of the 4th Division. He joined during the Roshigumi era and participated in the Coup of August 18th and the Ikedaya Incident, and is now known as Benkei. He is also known in the neighborhood as a man of integrity.

Amidst all this, I decided... To get a little more information. It's too dangerous to go any further. ...Let's hear a little more detail. I decided to continue to follow the two. ~Next Scene~ The sun had now set completely, but their conversation showed no signs of coming to an end. Sanjyuro Tani: "In any case… it seems they haven’t decided their next course of action yet." "So for now, let’s wait and see how the Aizu domain reacts." Kanryusai Takeda: "You do have a point, but… are you sure?" Sanjyuro Tani: "If they decide that Nagakura acted out of line, then there are ways to deal with that." "By helping him out, we can also do him a favor." Kanryusai Takeda: "...Earlier you said something about intending to have Chief Kondo adopt Shuhei." "Are you planning to take over the Shinsengumi when that opportunity arises" Sanjyuro Tani: "When you say it like that, you make it sound like something bad." "In times like these, it’s necessary to be prepared for the unexpected." Kanryusai Takeda: "...And might there be a change, you could be responsible for a future ‘incident ’?" Sanjyuro Tani: "...Hey now, I’m not some kind of villain, you know." "I just want to help make the Shinsengumi even bigger, and if I can get promoted along the way, that would be a nice bonus." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." I held my breath as I hid in the shadows, listening in on their conversation... I couldn't stop trembling. What should I do...? I just heard something terrible. So, removing Nagakura and the others from the marching log really was intentional... And they're trying to make Shuhei Kondo's adopted son so he can become the next chief. Tani may have said he has no intention of taking over the unit, but I wonder if he truly means that... Sanjyuro Tani: "I'm curious about how the Aizu officials view this matter." "I'm going to meet someone about that. Please explain my absence to the others." Kanryusai Takeda: "I'm also planning to go out soon." "...Well then, let's make sure we don't get spotted. I’ll be off now." Ah...! The two of them then started walking in separate directions. Wh-what should I do...! Should I go back to the Yagi residence? But I'm also curious about where Takeda and Tani are going. Tani seems to be planning to investigate the Aizu domain's movements. But where could Takeda be going? ...I'll follow him for now. Having made up my mind, I tried to follow Takeda from the shadows... Kanryusai Takeda: "Oh, Yukimura. What are you doing here?" Chizuru Yukimura: "...!" Before I knew it, Takeda was standing in front of me. Chizuru Yukimura: "N-nothing, I was just..." "I-I was just cleaning..." Kanryusai Takeda: "Cleaning? At this late hour?" Chizuru Yukimura: "H-Hijikata asked me to..." Cold sweat trickled down the back of my neck. Takeda closed the distance between us as if to pressure me. Kanryusai Takeda: "What exactly were you doing? You weren’t eavesdropping, were you?" Chizuru Yukimura: "O-of course not..." "Um, excuse me!" As I tried to run away from this situation... Kanryusai Takeda: "Hold it!" Just as Takeda was reaching out to me... Someone blocked his path. It was... ~Picture~ Toshizo Hijikata: "What the hell do you think you’re doing here, Takeda?" I felt a deep sense of relief when I heard that low voice. Chizuru Yukimura: "Hijikata...!" I never imagined Hijikata would show up here...! Kanryusai Takeda: "C-Commander...?!" Toshizo Hijikata: "As you know, Yukimura is my page." "In other words, everything he did was on my orders." "...You understand what that means, right? Now, back off." Kanryusai Takeda: "..." Takeda's face contorted in frustration. Toshizo Hijikata: "I see right through all the scheming you've been doing behind the scenes." "But I thought all of that was your way of supporting Kondo." "That's why I've turned a blind eye until now." "But if you're trying to split the Shinsengumi for your own gain..." Kanryusai Takeda: "Wait... please, Commander! This is all a big misunderstanding!" "I swear I have no such thoughts!" Perhaps intimidated by Hijikata's intensity, Takeda lowers his arm. ~END PICTURE~ Kanryusai Takeda: "...Yukimura, I apologise for acting so rough." "I completely mistook you for a spy who had infiltrated the Shinsengumi, and I acted out of line." Chizuru Yukimura: "It’s fine..." This was clearly an excuse to avoid suspicion from Hijikata... But it's probably best not to pursue this further for now. Kanryusai Takeda: "I will explain this matter properly to Commander Hijikata at a later date." Chizuru Yukimura: "It’s alright, I understand." After bowing to Hijikata, Takeda left the Maekawa residence. Toshizo Hijikata: "...Let's go." Prompted by Hijikata, I left the Maekawa residence. Toshizo Hijikata: "Honestly, that was pretty reckless of you." "What would you have done if I wasn’t around?" Chizuru Yukimura: "I-I'm sorry..." "I just felt I had to hear the end of what those two were discussing." Toshizo Hijikata: "...I see. So, what were they talking about?" "I’m pretty sure I already know the answer without even asking." Chizuru Yukimura: "Actually..." I confided in Hijikata about what I had just heard. Toshizo Hijikata: "...I see. That's exactly the kind of thing those guys would think of." Hijikata looked in the direction where Takeda had disappeared, his face stern. Then he turned back to me... Toshizo Hijikata: "You stay in your room." "And don't tell anybody what you witnessed just now." Chizuru Yukimura: "...I understand." As I was about to head back towards the Yagi residence... Toshizo Hijikata: "Ah, hang on a sec." Chizuru Yukimura: "What is it?" Hijikata called out to me, and I turned around again. Toshizo Hijikata: "...Thank you. Thanks to you, I've got a general idea of ​​what's going on." "But don't pull a dangerous stunt like that again." "Not everyone in the Shinsengumi is on your side." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Alright." After bowing my head once, I headed straight for the Yagi residence. ~Next Scene~ Later, after dinner– The Shinsengumi officers were gathered in the common room of the Yagi residence. Toshizo Hijikata: "Some of you may already be aware of the situation, but..." "Let me go over it again." "The marching log that Takeda and Tani created... and the serious misunderstanding that arose from it." "And the letter that Shinpachi submitted to the Aizu domain." "It seems that the higher-ups of Aizu are also taking these matters seriously." "Therefore, we must discuss this thoroughly among ourselves before responding. ...Got that?" After saying this, Hijikata looked around at the others as if to confirm. Toshizo Hijikata: "Yamazaki, the marching log, please." Yamazaki nodded and handed over the document. Toshizo Hijikata: "...First up is the situation regarding the marching log." "As you all know, this was something we devised in preparation for battles like the Kinmon Incident." "Sanan and I consulted together and created it..." "But somehow it was rewritten." "The ones who rewrote it were— Sanjyuro Tani and Kanryusai Takeda." “...What do you two have to say for yourselves?” Sanjyuro Tani: "Allow me to explain a little..." "We've been wondering about Nagakura's recent conduct as a captain of the Shinsengumi." "To encourage him to reflect on his behavior, we proposed removing Nagakura from the log—" "And we received the chief's approval." Shinpachi Nagakura: "What did you say, you bastard...!" Toshizo Hijikata: "Calm down, Shinpachi. Let's hear what the two of them have to say first." "What about you, Takeda? Got anything to add to this?" Kanryusai Takeda: "...It's true that I appealed directly to Chief Kondo." "I couldn't accept that the battle formation plan was decided without consulting me." "Nagakura has been having a lot of disagreements with the Chief lately." "I judged that they both needed time to calm down, so I simply suggested that we put him on reserve." Sanjyuro Tani: "Regarding Toudou, I heard that he was planning to go to Edo soon." "So I thought it would be better to leave him out just in case." Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Did you really approve of this, Kondo?" Isami Kondo: "Well..." Toshizo Hijikata: "I'll explain that." Shinpachi Nagakura: "I'm asking Kondo, not you, Hijikata." Toshizo Hijikata: "You know Kondo isn't good at explaining things like this." "It's obvious that you’ll both lose your tempers and just start yelling at each other." "...Or are you seriously planning to split the unit?" "If so, I'll be the one you’re dealing with." Shinpachi Nagakura: "......Fine. Please continue." Toshizo Hijikata: "From what Kondo told me, he only considered Tani and Takeda's proposal as a reference." "He had absolutely no intention of formally adopting it." "Apparently, he intended to consult with Sanan and me before making a decision." "...So Tani and Takeda just misunderstood that it had been formally adopted." Isami Kondo: "I’m sorry… I was offered sake, so my memory is hazy..." Sanjyuro Tani: "Well, we were out drinking at the time, after all." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Really? You guys should know that Kondo can’t drink!" "Weren't you tryin’ to get him drunk on purpose to make him agree to things that are convenient for you?" Kanryusai Takeda: "How rude! We would never do such a thing!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Stop it, Shinpachi. We got no proof that’s the case." Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Tsk, I know that!" Nagakura also seemed unconvinced, but... He didn't seem to want to get in Hijikata's way of resolving the situation. Toshizo Hijikata: "On to the next matter. Tani's younger brothers, Mantaro and Shuhei." "I can understand Mantaro Tani. He's a spear user, and a spear would be more advantageous than a sword on the battlefield." "But to place Shuhei near Kondo--" "And what's with his name being listed as ‘Shuhei Kondo’?" "Shuhei is just a regular soldier, right? So let's hear an explanation." Sanjyuro Tani: "I've been talking to the Chief about this for a while now..." "In these uncertain times, where we can't even know what will happen a day from now, I thought we should consider the worst-case scenario." "Even if Okita takes over the Tennen Rishin-ryu style and Commander Hijikata takes over the practical affairs of the Shinsengumi..." "Chief Kondo may soon become a hatamoto of the shogunate." "I thought it would be wise to consider the survival of the Kondo family as well..." "If you would accept our Shuhei as Chief Kondo's adopted son," "We could pave the way for the Bitchu Matsuyama Domain to become the backer of the Shinsengumi." Toshizo Hijikata: "......" Sanjyuro Tani: "Even though it was just a conversation over drinks, the chief seemed quite enthusiastic." "It might have been a bit premature, but I just wrote ‘Shuhei Kondo’ so that the soldiers would know." Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Kondo, is that true?" "Are you planning to adopt Shuhei and make him the next chief?" Toshizo Hijikata: "That can't be true. It must have been just drunken nonsense." "Right, Kondo?" Isami Kondo: "...Yes, Toshi's right." Sanjyuro Tani: "Even if the chief was a little drunk, we did give him a proper explanation." Kanryusai Takeda: "We merely wanted to leave a record of what the chief had acknowledged." Toshizo Hijikata: "You guys are insisting that you're not at fault." "However, if you had nothing to hide, you should’ve checked with Sanan and me from the beginning." "So why didn't you...? I won't ask further for now, though." Tani & Takeda: "......" Toshizo Hijikata: "I want to thank you for revising the plan we came up with." "We should have listened to your opinions from the beginning." "We'll use this as a reference and Sanan and I will come up with the official plan." Kanryusai Takeda: "Tsk..." Sanjyuro Tani: "Well, you're right. We should have checked in from the beginning." "I thought it was a good plan, though. But Hijikata's point is valid. Ha ha ha." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, if you're going to redo the marching log, I don't got any complaints." Toshizo Hijikata: "Okay, then that's enough about the marching log." "Next, regarding the issue of Kondo favoring only a select few officers..." "As you all know, Sanan was Kondo's advisor." "But with his current situation, it’s difficult for him to be deeply involved in the affairs of the unit." "That's why it looked like Kondo only listened to the opinions of Tani and Takeda." Kanryusai Takeda: "That's right! That's why I, Takeda, for the sake of the Shinsengumi will–" Keisuke Sanan: "Regarding that... I'm thinking of inviting a man named Kashitaro Itou from Edo." "He will become Kondo's advisor, so it won't be the case that only the two of you are given important positions." Kanryusai Takeda: "Wha–! What did you say!?" Toshizo Hijikata: "...If this Itou guy is a decent person, everything should be fine." Heisuke Toudou: "It'll be fine! Itou's a little eccentric, but..." "He's learned and skilled, and he's not the type to flatter people to get something out of it." "I think he'll be able to maintain a good distance from the shogunate." Toshizo Hijikata: "...So that's the situation. What do you think, Shinpachi?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Well, I appreciate all the thought you guys have put into this." "Now, if you can just get Kondo to stop acting like a lord, I'll have no complaints." "Well, I doubt that'll happen, though. He doesn't want to acknowledge us as his equals now." Then Kondo properly knelt in front of Nagakura... Bowing his head in a respectful manner. Isami Kondo: "...I apologize. It certainly wasn't my intention to neglect you all." "However, I apologize if it came across that way. Please forgive me." Shinpachi Nagakura: "......H-hey, Kondo, stop it." Nagakura seemed quite surprised by this. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Do you really mean it?" Toshizo Hijikata: "What else could it look like?" "There’s no way Kondo would be this skilled at acting." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well... I know that, but..." Heisuke Toudou: "What’re you gonna do now, Shin?" Sanosuke Harada: "Kondo has listened to what you had to say and even bowed his head." "You're not going to insist that you won't forgive him even after that, are you?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Guh, uh, uh...!" Nagakura groaned, writhing awkwardly. And then... Shinpachi Nagakura: "F-fine, I got it! I forgive you! Really, I do!" "I mean, I've been, well, you know... It's been really hot and incredibly busy for a while now." "So I was kind of irritated, and, well, you know..." "I'm sorry, Kondo! I was wrong too!" Sanosuke Harada: "So you finally apologized. Honestly, after all that trouble you caused." Harada said this, and then flicked Nagakura's head. Toshizo Hijikata: "Alright, let’s end the discussion here." "Tani, Takeda, you may leave." Kanryusai Takeda: "...Sir." Sanjyuro Tani: "Yeah, yeah. Well then, excuse us." Takeda and Tani looked displeased, but... They left the common room. As silence took over the room, Nagakura suddenly shouted. Shinpachi Nagakura: "I'm going out for a bit!" Sanosuke Harada: "Where are you going?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "To the Aizu Domain's headquarters!" "I'm gonna bow my head to the higher-ups and beg them to withdraw that opinion paper!" Chizuru Yukimura: "Withdraw it...?" "Is that even possible still?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "I'll do whatever it takes. I’ll even commit seppuku if it comes down to it!" Toshizo Hijikata: "...Good grief." "If you're gonna say things like that, then don't cause such a fuss in the first place." As he spoke, Hijikata pulled a letter from his pocket. Shinpachi Nagakura: "What's that? Don’t tell me..." Toshizo Hijikata: "I thought something like this might happen, so I got it back." "I explained to them that some unofficial documents had accidentally been delivered to the Aizu domain." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Way to go, Hijikata! That’s one smart move!" Toshizo Hijikata: "Honestly, it was a real pain in the neck." "I'll have you repay me with your work." "I'll work you harder than ever before. Be grateful I’m letting you off easy." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Yeah... I know. I’ll work extra hard." Toshizo Hijikata: "Good. I’m glad you understand." "Shinpachi, give me your hand." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hm? Okay, sure?" Still unable to comprehend the situation, Nagakura extended his hand. Toshizo Hijikata: "...Kondo, if you would." At Hijikata's prompting, Kondo placed his hand on Nagakura's. And then he squeezed tightly... Isami Kondo: "...I'm sorry for everything, Nagakura." Nagakura was bewildered for a moment... But then he squeezed Kondo's hand back firmly. Shinpachi Nagakura: "You gotta be more careful, Kondo." "You're too kind... And there are plenty of people around who will take advantage of that." "When you go out drinking from now on, you should bring someone you can trust." "Like me, for example, or myself, or I could go along." Heisuke Toudou: "Shin, you just wanna drink Kondo’s share of the sake, don't ya?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "That's not true! I would never do such a thing!" Their playful banter was just like it was before... It was clear that all lingering resentment had completely disappeared. Chuji Matsubara: "It seems like this matter has finally been settled." Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, Matsubara." Chuji Matsubara: "For a while, I was worried about how things would play out..." "I'm relieved that it's all resolved so nicely." Keisuke Sanan: "I hope this will be a case of ‘What doesn't kill us makes us stronger.'" Chizuru Yukimura: "I’m sure it will be." At that moment, I suddenly made eye contact with Hijikata, who was some distance away. When I looked back at him, he returned a satisfied smile. My concerns surrounding Tani and Takeda haven't completely disappeared... But even so, everyone has made up. That made me feel relieved. ~Next Scene~ Then, one day, after some time had passed. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Ahh... Summer's almost over..." "In the end, I feel like I didn't get to do anything this summer except for inspecting new recruits, patrolling, and sword training." "Those cicadas are as noisy as ever. I want to turn them all into tsukudani and eat them all." Heisuke Toudou: "Wouldn't tsukudani made from cicadas give even you an upset stomach?" Sanosuke Harada: "Men, it's hot again today. I think I'll take a bath. Should I use the well water here?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Is that alright?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "The Yagi family seems to be out, so it should be okay for today, right?" Heisuke Toudou: "Right! Let's make it a special case just for today!" Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, speaking of special things..." Hajime Saito: "What's the matter, Yukimura?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Please wait a moment. I've prepared something special for you all." I ran to the well. And took out something that had been cooling in the well. ~Next Scene~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Wow, you prepared a watermelon for us!" "As expected of our Chizuru! You're so thoughtful!" Chizuru Yukimura: "No, this watermelon isn't from me. It's a gift from Hijikata." Souji Okita: "Wow, that's quite unusual." "I wonder if he's actually worried about the fact that he's unpopular with the corps because of his bad personality." Chizuru Yukimura: "I don't think Hijikata is unpopular..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well whatever, let's eat it quickly!" "Since we've got a watermelon, why don't we split it open?" Sanosuke Harada: "Well, this isn’t the most ideal spot. What if we break something in the house?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Then let's go somewhere open! Good things come to those who wait!" Chizuru Yukimura: "The grounds of Mibu Temple are spacious, so that might be a good spot." "I'll check with the temple to see if we can borrow it for a little while." ~Next Scene~ Hajime Saito: "Just keep going straight, Shinpachi." Shinpachi Nagakura: "You sure? Are you really sure this is the right direction?" Souji Okita: "Oh man, if only Hijikata had been here, it would have been even more fun." Hajime Saito: "...Knowing you, you'd probably try to lead Shinpachi to hit the commander over the head with a stick." Souji Okita: "Aw man, how did you know?" Hajime Saito: "I can guess what you're thinking." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, answer me! This is the right direction, right?" Sanosuke Harada: "Yeah, you’re doing fine. It’s just a little further to the right..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Right here?! HYAAAAAAA—!" "All right, I did it! I hit it right in the center! Everyone, let's eat some watermelon with all our might!" ~Picture~ Sanosuke Harada: "Mmm, delicious. Watermelons really are the best thing in summer, aren't they?" Heisuke Toudou: "Hey, Sano, don't hog the entire watermelon!" Sanosuke Harada: "Oh, relax. We still have plenty left, you know?" Chuji Matsubara: "Everyone, please stop fighting. There's plenty." Chizuru Yukimura: "That's right, please calm down!" Hajime Saito: "We’re with quite a lot of people, so it's not like it's a huge amount." "Therefore, I'll eat as much as I can." Chizuru Yukimura: "Even you, Saito…?!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "What do you think you're doing, taking the watermelon away from me, the one who made a great contribution?!" Sanosuke Harada: "What do you mean, a great contribution? You just split the watermelon." Souji Okita: "Plus, this whole incident caused trouble for the Shinsengumi." Shinpachi Nagakura: "That's over now! Why are you still dwelling on it?!" "But you're eating it right after I said that! If that's how it is, then–" ~END PICTURE~ Nagakura shouted and ran off. Soon, he returned with something in his hand. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Eat this! You gluttons!" He spills water, apparently drawn from a well, all over everyone. Sanosuke Harada: "...Now he's done it." "They say I've mellowed out a lot lately, but..." "I'm not human enough to be so unfazed by being interrupted while I'm eating!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "C-calm down, Sano. I’m just joking around." Sanosuke Harada: "Shut up, Shinpachi, prepare yourself!" Harada, losing his composure with rage, grabs Nagakura. Chuji Matsubara: "E-everyone, please calm down! Private fights are, you know, against the rules or something..." Sanosuke Harada: "Excellent! I'll show you Harada Sanosuke's second seppuku!" Chizuru Yukimura: "*Sigh*..." Genzaburou Inoue: "...Oh dear. Well, I guess I'll just let them fight it out." Chizuru Yukimura: "Are they gonna be okay...?" Despite all the turmoil... The summer of 1864 came to a lively close. ~Next Scene~ Heisuke Toudou: "Phew, I'm so full. I might not need dinner tonight." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Thanks a lot, Chizuru! Please be sure to thank Hijikata for me later." Everyone seemed satisfied as they headed back to the headquarters, but... Genzaburou Inoue: "I'm glad everyone was able to enjoy themselves. Well then, shall we head back as well?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh..." Genzaburou Inoue: "Is something wrong, Yukimura?" Chizuru Yukimura: "It’s just that there isn’t any watermelon left." "I was going to ask if you could save some for Kondo and Hijikata, but..." Genzaburou Inoue: "What, really!?" "I thought you'd prepared separate portions for those who aren't here..." Chuji Matsubara: "What should we do? Shall I go buy another one?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh no...! You don’t need to go through all that trouble." Chuji Matsubara: "But if we leave it like this..." Chizuru Yukimura: "...I'll explain what happened to them later." "It wasn't on purpose, so I'm sure they'll understand." Chuji Matsubara: "...You’re right." "For now, let's clean up this area." "I'll get the cleaning supplies. I’ll be right back." Chizuru Yukimura: "Alright, thank you." ~Next Scene~ After finishing cleaning up after the watermelon splitting, we returned to the Yagi residence. Then... Isami Kondo: "Oh, hello there you three..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Kondo!" "We're sorry! We have something we need to apologize to you for...!" Isami Kondo: "Oh, what is it?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Actually..." I apologized for not being able to save any watermelon for them. Isami Kondo: "Hmm... That's a little disappointing, but I suppose it can't be helped." Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm really sorry." Chuji Matsubara: "It's not entirely Yukimura's fault." "The others had already devoured everything before we had a chance to stop them..." Isami Kondo: "Well, if everyone was able to enjoy themselves, then that's all that matters." Genzaburou Inoue: "But still, I wanted to help you and Toshi cool down a little." Isami Kondo: "Cool down, you say... Oh, I got it!" "Wait here for a moment. They were selling something nice nearby." Chizuru Yukimura: "Something nice...?" After a while, Kondo returned. Isami Kondo: "Sorry to keep you waiting. Here it is." Kondo held out something that looked like a small lunchbox. Chizuru Yukimura: "What is this...? May I open it?" Isami Kondo: "Of course, go ahead." When I opened the package, a sweet scent of brown sugar syrup wafted out. Chizuru Yukimura: "Is this... kuzumochi?" Isami Kondo: "Yes. Doesn't it look like ice? It looks refreshing, right?" Kondo was right... The translucent, sparkling kuzumochi looks refreshingly cool, almost like small pieces of ice. Chizuru Yukimura: "Thank you so much. It really is really pretty and looks refreshing." "May I take this to Hijikata?" Isami Kondo: "Of course. I’m sure Toshi will like it." Chizuru Yukimura: "Alright, I'll be right back!" As I held on to the kuzumochi Kondo had given me, I hurried to the kitchen. ~Next Scene~ Afterward, with the tray of fresh tea in hand, I headed to Hijikata’s room. Chizuru Yukimura: "Hijikata, are you in?" I called out, but there was no reply from inside the room. Perhaps he had gone out somewhere? Thinking that, I looked around... Chizuru Yukimura: "...Ah." I spotted Hijikata in the courtyard and hurried to his side. Chizuru Yukimura: "Hijikata!" When I called out, he slowly turned in my direction. Toshizo Hijikata: "Yukimura, what's the matter?" Chizuru Yukimura: "I wanted to thank you for the watermelon." "Everyone seemed very happy with it." "However, um... about your share, well they..." Toshizo Hijikata: "...They devoured it all, huh?" Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm sorry! I tried to stop them, but it was too late..." Toshizo Hijikata: "Well, I figured something like that would happen. Don't worry about it." Chizuru Yukimura: "As a substitute, please accept this." I gently opened the lid of the dish on the tray. Toshizo Hijikata: "Oh, kuzumochi. It looks nice and refreshing ." Isami Kondo: "Doesn’t it? Kondo bought it for me." Toshizo Hijikata: "There's only one left... Did you already have some?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh… Don’t worry about it, it’s fine." Toshizo Hijikata: "It’s not fine. Knowing you, you probably missed out on the watermelon too, didn't you?" Chizuru Yukimura: "That's... a different matter." Toshizo Hijikata: "Honestly, you're hopeless." As he said that, Hijikata cut the mochi with a small bamboo spatula... ~Picture~ Toshizo Hijikata: "Here, eat." Chizuru Yukimura: "......" Don’t tell me, he wants me to eat it like this...? Toshizo Hijikata: "What's wrong? Just eat it. What, are you too shy or something?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Well no, but..." Toshizo Hijikata: "Don't worry about it." "It’s not like I dislike sweets, but if I don't let you have any now, I'll look like a real demon." Chizuru Yukimura: "No, that's not what I meant..." "It’s just, being fed like this... makes me feel like a little kid..." Chizuru Yukimura: "...That's fine, isn't it? Nobody's around to see." Chizuru Yukimura: "Even so, it’s still a little..." Toshizo Hijikata: "Just eat it already. ...Here." He gently urged me on, and I couldn't refuse any further... Chizuru Yukimura: "O-okay... I'll eat it..." I hesitantly put my mouth to the kuzumochi offered to me. A cool, simple sweetness spread in my mouth. The chewy kuzu sticking to the inside of my mouth was somehow enjoyable. Toshizo Hijikata: "How is it? Is it good?" Chizuru Yukimura: "...Yes, very." Toshizo Hijikata: "I see, that's good to hear." ~End Picture~ Toshizo Hijikata: "Thanks for all your help during all of this." "It's thanks to your help that we were able to resolve things smoothly." Chizuru Yukimura: "No, not at all..." Just hearing such kind words from Hijikata... makes me feel very happy. Chizuru Yukimura: "...Please give me more orders starting tomorrow." "I'll keep doing my best as your page, Hijikata." Toshizo Hijikata: "Oh? You sure about that? Well then, you better be prepared." "I’m quite demanding. I won’t go easy on you, got it." Chizuru Yukimura: "...!" Did I perhaps say something I shouldn’t have...? Though I did mean what I said. Toshizo Hijikata: "It's delicious, isn't it? Go on, have some more." Chizuru Yukimura: "...O-okay." Even so, just seeing Hijikata's satisfied expression... made me feel incredibly happy. ~END~

However there’s one thing that has been really bothering me. That's … I'm worried about Okita's condition. Iba’s concerns. What I can do. I can't help but worry about Okita, who was the first to leave the room. After leaving Hijikata's room, I came to Okita's room. Chizuru Yukimura: "Umm... Okita, are you here?" I tried calling out, but there was no answer. It doesn't look like the lights are on, and there's no sign of anyone, so it seems like he's not in the room. Where could he be this late at night? Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” Could it be that he went to kill Ito? As if pushed by a bad feeling, I search around the base. And after a while… Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” -After spotting Okita, I hurriedly followed him. I thought he was going to kill Ito, but… Judging from his gait, it doesn't seem like he's decided where he's going. Is he taking a walk at night? As I was thinking about that, Okita suddenly stopped. And looked vaguely at the moon floating overhead. Souji Okita: "...Hey, Chizuru. You're there, aren't you?" Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” Souji Okita: "You don't have to hide, I know you’re there. So just come out." ... It seems that he noticed that I was following him. Feeling embarrassed, I appear before Okita. Chizuru Yukimura: "... I'm sorry for following you." Souji Okita: "Did you think I was going to kill Ito?" Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Souji Okita: "Don't worry, I won't kill him for now… for Kondo's sake." "I actually want to get rid of him right away, but..." "For now, I guess I'll just have to wait for Hijikata’s instructions." After saying that, he placed his hand on the sword on his left hip. Souji Okita: "In any case, I don’t have to take care of Tani anymore." "I should be grateful to the person who got rid of him for me." Chizuru Yukimura: "But what if..." I was hesitant to speak up. However, I can't help but let the words spill out. Chizuru Yukimura: "What if... you are made out to be the culprit?" Souji Okita: "If that happens–" A white light flashes in front of me. It was a vivid display of swordsmanship reminiscent of lightning. The tip of the sword was drawn at the height of a person's throat. Souji Okita: "... I'll kill them. I'll kill every single one who made me out to be a criminal." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Even though it was spring, I felt my whole body freeze. A terrible murderous intent could be felt from just that slight gesture. It speaks to the intensity of the anger that Okita is harboring right now. Souji Okita: "I'll tell you, it's no use stopping it." "No matter who the opponent is, I’ll–" “Ugh…! Cough, cough, cough!” Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…!” I hurriedly tried to run over to Okita, who was coughing violently. However… Souji Okita: "Don't come any closer!" Stunned by his harsh words, I stop in my tracks. ~Picture~ Chizuru Yukimura: "But Okita, that's blood..." The palm of his hand that he held when he coughed… It was bright red. Souji Okita: "I’m fine, so just stay where you are." Chizuru Yukimura: “........” After shaking his big shoulder and taking a few painful breaths… Okita makes a self-deprecating smile. Souji Okita: "... I thought I could defeat any opponent if I really wanted to." "But maybe… I can't beat this disease." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…” It's because I've known him to be someone who was full of absolute confidence ever since we first met… It's sad to see the timid expression that faintly appears on his face. Souji Okita: "... But I'm just doing what I can." "While this body can still move." "No... I need to move. For as long as possible, for Kondo's sake." "That's why I endured taking the bitter medicine." "As if it's with konpeito." "But I happened to run out of medicine today." "Aah, I might have gone out alone earlier to get more medicine..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Wait... what are you talking about...?" Okita's face, illuminated by the starlight, was paler than usual… I couldn't help the bad feeling in my gut. At that moment, a thought crossed my mind. Chizuru Yukimura: “...Okita.” "Perhaps the reason you didn't tell me where you were today..." “Was it because… you went to buy medicine?” Then, a smile came to Okita's face. ~Picture~ Souji Okita: “Got it in one.” "If I had known this would happen, I wouldn't have gone out to get the medicine." Chizuru Yukimura: "No, that's a different story! You had to go." Souji Okita: "Don't tell anyone about medicine. It's our little secret… Got it?” Chizuru Yukimura: “But everyone seems to be suspicious of you because of that.” "Wouldn't it be better to just tell them that you went to buy medicine without revealing your illness?" Souji Okita: "If we tell them, I'm sure they'll be able to find out what medicine I went to buy right away." “Yamazaki has a pretty sharp intuition regarding these kinds of things.” Chizuru Yukimura: “But, at this rate, they'll suspect you…!” A sarcastic smile formed on Okita's lips. Souji Okita: "... That's right. That's why I said that I should have taken care of Tani." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Not only is he being devoured by his disease… But Okita is also suspected of murdering Tani. What should I do… Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…” "I'm sure everyone will prove your innocence." “So please don’t give up on yourself.” Souji Okita: "And what if I do?" Chizuru Yukimura: "If that happens, I will tell everyone about your illness..." But before I could finish saying that, Okita turned to me. Souji Okita: "... Men. I'm losing my mind." After talking to himself, Okita wiped the blood from his palm with some paper. Souji Okita: “Can you pretend you didn’t see anything just now?” Chizuru Yukimura: "... Of course." "So, you are already in your room now..." Souji Okita: "... I know. You're really a doctor's daughter, aren't you?" "You're always busy with various things, but... it seems that you still have time to worry about me." "Don't worry, I'll go back to my room. ...So you should go back as well.” Although he made a sarcastic remark as usual... I could feel from Okita's words and demeanor that the thorns were missing a little. I felt relieved at that thought. ~NEXT SCENE~ And the next day– All the members of Shinsengumi were gathered in the common room. Toshizo Hijikata: "I know some of you are already aware, but I'll repeat it for the rest of you." "Sanjuro Tani, captain of the 7th Division, was killed last night." With Hijikata's heavy words, the entire room once again fell silent. Kanryusai Takeda: "Tani was killed...? Who the hell could have done this?" Kashitaro Itou: "We’re still not certain who did it." "... Saburo, didn’t you receive a report from the soldier who inspected the scene where Tani was killed yesterday?" "Could you share with everyone what you know?" Saburo Miki: "Got it. Tani was found collapsed outside the precincts of Yasaka Shrine." "His body smelled of alcohol, so it's likely that someone attacked him on his way home from Gion." Kanryusai Takeda: "Was he attacked by some random thug?" Saburo Miki: "There didn't seem to be any signs of a fight." "... So it likely might have been the work of an acquaintance." Kashitaro Itou: "According to what I've heard... it seemed that there were quite a few that held a grudge against him." "... Perhaps it was the work of someone in this corps." "It seems that some people were jumping at the opportunity to get rid of him." -After saying that, Itou glanced at Okita. Souji Okita: “...... Oh?” Okita however didn't seem to care and evaded his gaze. Toshizo Hijikata: “The fact that a senior officer was killed is something that should not have happened.” "Especially... without them being able to draw their sword." "Listen up, use whatever means necessary to find the culprits." "Also, don't try to make a mockery out of Tani's death. That's all." Everyone/Soldiers: “Yes sir!” After replying, the soldiers leave the room for their respective duties. Kanryusai Takeda: "This is a big problem, isn’t it Itou? I can't believe that Tani..." Kashitaro Itou: "It certainly is. However, it appeared that he had been causing a lot of problems..." "It seems that he also had plenty of people who were resentful towards him." "So it's not all too surprising looking back on it." Kanryusai Takeda: "Y-You’re right. That certainly appears to be the case." Toshizo Hijikata: "... Itou, I have something I’d like to ask you." Kashitaro Itou: "Oh, what is it?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Regarding Tani... why was it that you were the first to receive the report?" "It should be customary to report this kind of thing to me or the chief first." Kashitaro Itou: "Purely by chance, I suppose?" “It’s inconceivable for an executive to be killed like that.” “Isn’t understandable for the soldier who came to report it to be distressed?” Toshizo Hijikata: "…I see. It’s inconceivable, huh?" In his heart, Hijikata didn't seem satisfied with Its answer, but… Toshizo Hijikata: "I apologize for holding you up. In any case, we must find the one behind Tani's murder as soon as possible.” Kashitaro Itou: "Yes, I agree. We can't let the crooks go unnoticed like this." "It can't be helped if neither you nor I are considered qualified to lead the Shinsengumi if this continues." Toshizo Hijikata: “….. Right.” Kashitaro Itou: "Well then, let's go Saburo." Saburo Miki: “Yeah, you got it.” "... With this, it seems that the inner relationships will become a lot more complicated." Kanryusai Takeda: "Um, Itou! Please let me assist you!" Itou left the room with Miki and Takeda. I wonder what Okita is doing. When I looked around the room, I noticed that Okita had already disappeared. Where did he go? I had a bad feeling, so I decided to look for Okita. ~NEXT SCENE~ After that, I searched around the compound, but… I couldn't find Okita. But when I went outside… Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah…!” I felt relieved when I finally found him. Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita–” As I was about to call out. Saburo Miki: "... I was just asking where you were going." Souji Okita: "And I just said I won't answer because I don't want to." Saburo Miki: "Why don't you use that head of yours and think a little about whether you're in any position to refuse?" Souji Okita: "What are you getting at? If you're trying to pick a fight, I'd be happy to oblige." Kashitaro Itou: "I apologize, Okito. Saburo is a poor talker and can easily be misunderstood." “However you are aware that you are in a delicate position, right Okita?” Souji Okita: “... Are you suspecting me of killing Tani?” Kashitaro Itou: "Of course, I also don't want to think that one of my fellow Shinsengumi members is responsible." "However, I think you owe it to yourself to prove your innocence." Souji Okita: “......” Kashitaro Itou: "I have a lot of things we'd like to ask you, so could you please be so kind as to come with us? Souji Okita: “No thanks.” Okita tries to walk past the two of them, but— Miki roughly put a hand on his shoulder. Saburo Miki: "Hey, hold it. Where do you think you’re going with that attitude?” Souji Okita: "Can it will ya. I’ve got nothing to say to you guys." Just when Okita's hand almost reaches for the sword on his side. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Oi Souji, what are you doing?!" Nagakura, who saw the situation and realized that things were getting out of hand, rushed over. Souji Okita: “... Tsk” Okita clicked his tongue slightly and lowered his right hand. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Itou, Miki, what's this all about?" Kashitaro Itou: “… We were just trying to ask Okita if he could answer some questions.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "Is that true Souji?" Souji Okita: "... Well, who knows." Shinpachi Nagakura: “Oi, Souji!” Nagakura tries to scold Okita, but… Okita turned away in a deflated manner. Shinpachi Nagakura: "... If you argue with Itou here, you'll only make things worse for yourself." "I get how you feel, but for now, just focus on proving your innocence." “Even if you make a mistake, don’t pull out your sword. got it?” Souji Okita: “... Hmm.” -Before long, Nagakura turned to face Itou and the others. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Is there anything you guys want to ask Souji?" Kashitaro Itou: "Yes, that's right." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Would you mind if Hijikata and I join you? We’re also trying to find the one behind this mess." Saburo Miki: "What are you saying? Why would we—" Kashitaro Itou: "... It's fine, Saburo. We have nothing to complain about." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Thanks for your understanding… Let's go, Souji." ~NEXT SCENE~ Nagakura and the others took Okita to Hijikata's room. And so… Chizuru Yukimura: “... It’s Yukimura. I brought you some tea." Toshizo Hijikata: “Come in.” Chizuru Yukimura: "... Excuse me." I serve freshly brewed tea to everyone in the room. Saburo Miki: “… Okita, how many times are you going to make me ask the same thing?” “Why don’t you just tell us where you were yesterday?” Souji Okita: "I’ve got no reason to answer you. I was off duty yesterday." Kashitaro Itou: "... Okita. Of course, we don't think you truly are the culprit." “However some people will look at the soldiers with suspicion since it has become clear that an acquaintance is responsible for the crime.” "If you don't prove your innocence as soon as possible, people will only grow more suspicious of you." Toshizo Hijikata: "... It's just as Itou says. So what's going on Souji?" Souji Okita: “...... Sigh.” Toshizo Hijikata: “Yukimura, I heard you saw Souji going out yesterday.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah… yes, that’s right. I saw him on his way out..." Toshizo Hijikata: "Did you notice anything out of the ordinary?" In response to Hijikata's question, I tried my best to pull the threads of my memory. Chizuru Yukimura: "No, he seemed the same as usual... I don't think there was anything particularly different about him." Kashitaro Itou: "Are you sure it was him? Could it perhaps have been someone else?" Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm sure it was Okita." Kashitaro Itou: “Was his kimono stained with blood, or did his sword appear to be used?” Chizuru Yukimura: "... It didn’t appear that way." Saburo Miki: "... Don’t bother, brother. Even if Okita was the culprit," "These guys probably decided to cover this up for their friends anyway." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, what are you getting at?" "Even we can't protect each other at a time like this." Saburo Miki: "... I don't know about that. You could just be saying things." Kashitaro Itou: "Saburo's statement may sound cruel, however… it's true that the testimonies of his friends alone cannot be used as evidence." “If someone from Okita’s outing is willing to testify, then that’s a different story.” “… Unfortunately Okita doesn’t seem to be willing to share where he went yesterday.” Souji Okita: "... I didn't kill Tani, so there's no reason to tell you anything." Kashitaro Itou: "... For now, until the suspicion surrounding him has been cleared or the culprit is found, is it alright to suggest that Okita should be placed in confinement?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Hold on, Itou. Why are you telling Souji to lay low?” “Do you think that you can violate the rules by putting him under suspicion without any proof?” Hijikata and Itou face each other head-on. It is just as Hijikata said, there is no evidence at the moment. If Okita were to be put in confinement, he might go out of control. A strangely tense silence followed for a while. But eventually… Kashitaro Itou: “… Indeed, it’s not very civil to put him under suspicion without evidence.” “Then, how about asking him to refrain from going out for a while?” Toshizo Hijikata: "... How about it, Souji? Any objections?" Souji Okita: "Fine, whatever." Kashitaro Itou: "Thank you. I appreciate your cooperation." "Well then, let's organize an investigation team to look for the culprit. For Okita's sake as well." Souji Okita: “… Go ahead, do whatever you want.” Kashitaro Itou: "Good luck everyone. Let's go, Saburo." Saburo Miki: "Haha, I'm looking forward to how long we can keep playing good friends." Itou and Miki then left the room. After hearing no more footsteps, Nagakura spoke up. Shinpachi Nagakura: "... Jeez, we can't even let our guard down for a second." "If it goes on like this, Souji will be made out to be the one behind Tani's murder." Toshizo Hijikata: "... You’re right. I guess we just have to find the culprit before that happens." Souji Okita: "We’re done here, right? I’ll be going then." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, Souji, wait!" Nagakura panicked and followed after Okita. It feels like a bad idea to leave Okita alone… Chizuru Yukimura: "I'll go too!" -After bowing to Hijikata, I also hurried after Okita. ~NEXT SCENE~ When I returned to the common room, there was– Hachiro Iba: "Ah…! Okita, Shinpachi, and Chizuru." “Did Toshi tell you something? How did it go?” Iba asks with a concerned look on his face. Souji Okita: “...... Damn.” With a defiant gesture, Okita stepped hard on the wooden floor. Shinpachi Nagakura: “… It seems that we don’t just have to keep an eye out for the culprit, but also for Itou’s movements.” Hachiro Iba: "What do you mean by that…?" Heisuke Toudou: "What’s up? Did something happen?" Nagakura explained to everyone who had gathered what had happened. Hachiro Iba: "... I see. So that's what happened." "I’ll assist in any way that I can. Just say the word." Chizuru Yukimura: "... Thanks, Iba." Hachiro Iba: "It's times like these that we have to work together." "First of all, let's see if Tani really visited Gion on the day he died." “I know several shops we could ask for information.” Heisuke Toudou: "You know several shops… Hachiro, you’ve been to Kagai?" Sanosuke Harada: "Who knew, you're always so serious, but it seems even you go out to enjoy yourself." Hachiro Iba: "No... it’s not like that! It's entertainment! I've only been there a few times for entertainment!" Sanosuke Harada: "My bad. Well then, I’ll go and question the members of the 7th program." Heisuke Toudou: "I'll help out too!" Hajime Saito: "After this, I plan to go on patrol." "I’ll ask the residents near Yasaka Shrine if they know anything." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Souji, you'll be staying here. Please try to stay out of trouble." Souji Okita: "Well, we’ll see about that." Hajime Saito: “Souji…” Souji Okita: "I got it. You guys just can’t take a joke." Before long, everyone got ready and left the room. During that time, Nagakura walked up to me… Shinpachi Nagakura: "... Chizuru. Please keep an eye on Souji." Chizuru Yukimura: "I will." After hearing my answer, Nagakura nodded and left as well. Souji Okita: "... Hey, did Shinpachi tell you to keep an eye on me?" Chizuru Yukimura: "H-huh? No, h-he didn’t..." Souji Okita: "You don't have to lie. You're a pretty terrible liar, you know." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Souji Okita: "It seems that Itou is going to do as he pleases, as usual..." "I'm going to stay at the base today, so don’t worry." "... I don't want to cause any trouble for Kondo." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Souji Okita: "Anyway, you're good at keeping an eye out, so just go do some of your tasks." Chizuru Yukimura: "...... Alright." Okita seems to want to be alone… I respected his feelings and decided to do something else. ~NEXT SCENE~ Chizuru Yukimura: “... That should do it.” After that, when I consulted Inoue… He asked me to air out the spring kimonos that had been stored away. When I change clothes like this, I realize that the season has changed. Well, I think this should be fine… I should ask Inoue if there's anything else I can help with. Just then. Saburo Miki: "... Ah. So this is where you were." Chizuru Yukimura: “Miki…” After what happened earlier, I can't help but tense up a little. Saburo Miki: "Well, this is perfect. I got something I wanna ask you." Chizuru Yukimura: "... What is it?" Saburo Miki: "Did you really see Okita yesterday? You’re not just tryna cover for him?" Chizuru Yukimura: “… It’s just as I said earlier, I really did see him.” Saburo Miki: "Don’t give me that crap." "Okita had a grudge against Tani and had plenty of motives. Who besides him could it possibly be? ” Chizuru Yukimura: "I’m sorry, but I've got something to do." Just as I tried to leave the conversation… Mikki moved to block my way. Saburo Miki: "Hold it. We’re not done here yet." Chizuru Yukimura: "But there's nothing more I can tell you." Saburo Miki: "... I didn’t want to just talk about Okita." "Hey, just who the hell are you?" Chizuru Yukimura: “What do you mean…?” Saburo Miki: "I heard you're here to look for someone." "But... if you're just looking for someone, you don't need to go out of your way to live here, right? You're not even a real member." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Saburo Miki: "You’re hiding something, aren’t ya? Or are you in on something?" Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah, please let me through…!” Saburo Miki: "If you answer the question properly, I'll let ya through. So hurry up and—" Souji Okita: "Hey, what are you doing there?" “Aren’t you guys getting a little too carried away these days?” Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita!” Saburo Miki: "... You. Just mind your own damn business." Souji Okita: "Sorry, but that’s not happening. Now get away from the kid." Saburo Miki: "There's no reason why I should obey your orders." "I doubt that you're even qualified to be an executive right now." Souji Okita: "... You guys are the only ones who think that way." Saburo Miki: "Who else would get more out of killing Tani than you?" "You didn't like that Tani's younger brother Shuhei was going to be Kondo's successor, right?" Souji Okita: "... It's not like that." Saburo Miki: "Well, I get how you’re feeling. Even though Kondo loves you that much." "It's like you were told that you’re not qualified to be his successor." "How unexpectedly heartless of Kondo. Hahahaha." Souji Okita: “...!” Miki said with a sneer and then proceeded to walk off. Okita tries to chase after him. However, I hurriedly stopped Okita. Chizuru Yukimura: "No Okita, don’t!" Souji Okita: “Shut up, let me go!” "I get it… I really do" "I know he’s trying to make me draw my sword." "Well then, I'll be happy to grant his wish. I’ll take Itou and the others down too." Chizuru Yukimura: "Calm down! Don't let him provoke you!" I'm sure Okita put up with being ridiculed. However— Sinds it was Kondo who was ridiculed and insulted, he must be absolutely furious. Chizuru Yukimura: "This is a trap! If I pull out your sword, there's no going back!" Souji Okita: “I don’t care! Let me go!” He violently shook off my arms. And I… Keep holding on. Call for help.

And I… Keep holding on. Call for help. Chizuru Yukimura: “...No. I won’t let go.” Souji Okita: "If you keep getting in my way, I'll kill you too. You got that?" Okita's eyes were filled with murderous intent. Just looking at them sends chills down my spine. But still… Chizuru Yukimura: “... I don’t care." "If you want to kill Miki, you have to cut me down first." Souji Okita: "Fine, as you wish— I'll cut you down first." Okita's hand moved to hold the hilt of his sword– He was ready to strike. His bloodlust instinctively made my body go numb with fear. However, as the tension was building. Souji Okita: “... Why” "... Why didn't you move out of the way?" Okita hadn't drawn his sword. Instead, he looked at me with a mix of anger and sadness on his face. Souji Okita: "If you don't back off... I can't move forward." “I’m sick and tired of this…” "We come to Kyoto and set up the Roshigumi..." "But ever since they joined the Shinsengumi, those guys have just been getting in the way." "Even though the Shinsengumi was only formed to realize Kondo's dream…" "And now, some ignorant assholes are messing around with Kondo's Shinsengumi as they please." "Spreading strange rumors, getting people all riled up ... Damaging Kondo's reputation..." "So I'll put an end to this mess." Chizuru Yukimura: "Then... you'll have to kill me fir—" Souji Okita: "There's no way I’d kill you!" "If it were my adversary, if it were an enemy of the Shinsengumi, I’d kill them without hesitation." "But you... you're not our enemy..." "It may be frustrating... but still, you're just trying to help me..." "Even I get that much." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…” Souji Okita: "There's no way I could kill you like that... I just can't..." At that moment, I lost all strength and squatted down on the spot. Souji Okita: "... Hey, are you alright?" Chizuru Yukimura: "D-Don't worry, I’m fine. I'm relieved..." Souji Okita: "You're a pretty weird kid, you know that?" "If I’d known you'd thrown yourself in front of me just to lose all your strength, and fall to the floor like this–" "I could have just left you behind and gone after them." "Looking back on it now, I feel like I’ve lost my mind." "Haa... Who would have thought that I’d ever be detained by someone like you." "But well... looking at you now, I’ve got trouble believing that." Chizuru Yukimura: “I’m sorry…” Okita looked a little embarrassed and looked away, but before long… ~Picture~ Souji Okita: "... No, you got no reason to apologize." "You seriously stopped me…" After muttering embarrassingly, Okita put his hand on my head. And then… Souji Okita: "Thank you, Chizuru." He said with a bashful expression. Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah…” Souji Okita: "What's wrong? You’re looking pretty goofy." Chizuru Yukimura: "I have a goofy look on my face?” Souji Okita: "Yeah, you're making quite a funny and cute expression." Chizuru Yukimura: "You're not praising me, are you?" Souji Okita: "I'm just calling ‘em as I see ‘em." "So, why are you making that face?" Chizuru Yukimura: "... Because you thanked me." "I never thought you'd ever thank me, so..." Souji Okita: "Is that right? Want me to take it back?" Chizuru Yukimura: “W-Why would you bother to take it back!?” Souji Okita: "… Just kidding." "You saved my ass earlier. So thanks..." Chizuru Yukimura: "... You won't take it back?" Souji Okita: "You want me to?” Chizuru Yukimura: "No! ... I won't forget." Souji Okita: "Do as you like." "... Well then, that's it. It's time to get up." "Or do you need me to lend you a hand?" Chizuru Yukimura: "I-I'll be fine!" Souji Okita: “Really, well that’s good.” His attitude is still the same as usual… Still, I'm really glad that things didn’t get out of hand. Souji Okita: "Well then, let's head back." Chizuru Yukimura: “Right!” Souji Okita: "But absolutely no mention of me going out to buy medicine, you got that?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, I know… I'm sure the others will be able to find some evidence." Souji Okita: “Well… I hope they can find something useful.” And so, Okita, who had returned to his normal self, and I started walking towards the base. ~NEXT SCENE~ Later that night. Toshizo Hijikata: "... We've discovered Tani's actions before he died." "Let’s start with the people he met in Gion just before he died— Hachiro if you would." Hachiro Iba: "Right. We questioned the owner of the shop where Tani had been drinking that day..." “Apparently he visited the shop with the Shinsengumi’s deputy commander, Kashitaro Ito, and several others.” Heisuke Toudou: “So the person Tani was drinking with before he died… was it Itou!?” “You haven’t said a thing about this to us, have you?” Kashitaro Itou: "... Oh, that might be the case." Hachiro Iba: “The shop owner and Nakai said they remember that day very well.” "They said they wouldn't mind coming here to testify if necessary." Kashitaro Itou: "... Please hold on a minute." "You’re making it sound as if we deliberately hid what happened that day." Toshizo Hijikata: “Is that not the case?” Kashitaro Itou: I was just waiting for an appropriate moment to speak up, hoping to clear this misunderstanding." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Really? So didn't you get Tani drunk so that he would be unable to resist as you cut him down on the way home?" Kanryusai Takeda: "Nagakura, watch your tongue. What are you even basing that on?" Kashitaro Itou: “It’s true that I went out drinking with Tani that day…” "We were however first to leave the store, and after that, we went straight back to the base. Isn’t that right, Saburo?" Saburo Miki: "That’s right. I don't mind having the people of the store testifying.” “Even the members of the squad should remember when you and I came back." Judging from Itou and Miki's confident statements… It seems clear that they have solid evidence that could clear any doubts surrounding them. Toshizo Hijikata: "... It seems that we need to investigate this incident more thoroughly in the future." Saburo Miki: "What about Okita? We still don't know where you went yesterday, do we?" Toshizo Hijikata: "In regards to that, Saito did another thorough check of Tani's body." "If would, Saito." Hajime Saito: "Yes. The fatal wound was probably a vertical stab wound in the pit of the stomach." "If the assailant was a practitioner of Tennen Rishin-ryu like Souji, the thrust should be at the throat, and the direction of the blade would have been horizontal." "If however, you have enough evidence to overturn this argument, it would be a different story..." Saburo Miki: “Are ya trying to cover up with your pals again? Anyone could have done it if they changed their fighting style!” Kashitaro Itou: "... That’s enough, Saburo." Saburo Miki: "Why? Anyone–" Kashitaro Itou: "... You’re correct, anyone could have done it." "So let's wrap things up." After scolding Miki, Itou turned to face Hijikata and the others once more. Kashitaro Itou: "... The suspicions surrounding Okita have been cleared. It’s a relief for us as well." Souji Okita: "Is that all you have to say after treating someone like crap?" Kashitaro Itou: "That’s because you always say such crude things like 'killing' or 'taking care of' someone." “Especially these last few days, it seems like you were bringing it up a lot more often.” Toshizo Hijikata: "By the way Itou, what were you discussing with Tani in Gion?" Kashitaro Itou: “… Well, for example, the rumors about Tani's younger brother, Shuhei, possibly being adopted by the chief.” "Chief Kondo seemed to be quite troubled by them, so I told Tani to be more careful." Toshizo Hijikata: "... I see." Kashitaro Itou: "But I swear to you by the gods, it was not us who killed Tani." Toshizo Hijikata: "... I know that much. It's not like I doubted you guys." Susumu Yamazaki: "Commander. We will soon have to hold Tani's funeral, however..." “What will be the public statement about the cause of his death?” Toshizo Hijikata: "Hmm, let’s see..." Kashitaro Itou: "We can't tell them that a rogue ronin was able to cut down a Shinsengumi executive." Toshizo Hijikata: "... So we have no other choice but to tell them he died a sudden death of unknown causes." Kashitaro Itou: "That seems to be the only solution." Toshizo Hijikata: "From now on, don't say anything unnecessary to the soldiers regarding Tani." "Alright then, this concludes today’s discussion." One by one, the soldiers left the room as the meeting was disbanded. Kashitaro Itou: "... I'm glad your name has been cleared, Okita." Souji Okita: "Giving up already?" "It was a good opportunity to get rid of me." Kanryusai Takeda: "I've been thinking about this for quite some time, Okita." “Aren't you being a bit too rude to Itou?" “Itou is the deputy commander, he has a higher position than you, the captain of the 1st division.” Kashitaro Itou: "It's fine. Okita just likes to joke around." Kanryusai Takeda: "However… what would the others think." Kashitaro Itou: "Well then, let's go, Saburo." Saburo Miki: "... Hmpf. You've got off lucky this time, Okita." Kanryusai Takeda: "Please wait, Itou! So, after this–" After Itou and the others disappeared, Harada called out to Hijikata. Sanosuke Harada: "... So what's going on? Hijikata." "Was Itou really not responsible for Tani's death?" Toshizo Hijikata: "... He's not." "If Itou was really behind Tani's death, he should be able to get around a little better." Hachiro Iba: "I think so too." "No matter how you look at it, it would’ve been a pretty sloppy job if he was behind it." Heisuke Toudou: “Yeah you’re right, Itou wouldn’t have left behind any evidence of having gone drinking in Gion.” Hajime Saito: "Besides, Itou and the others wouldn’t gain anything from killing Tani." Sanosuke Harada: "... I see. So, at the moment we got no idea who is really responsible?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "It's a bit of an unsatisfying conclusion, isn't it?" “I thought Tani was a pain in the ass, but not enough of a pain to want him dead…” Sanosuke Harada: "... Yeah." “He acted like an annoying older brother, but he wasn’t that bad of a guy.” Everyone seems to have their own thoughts about Tan’s actions during his lifetime. Still, it seems that each of them was mourning his passing in their own way. Harada, who had known Tani the longest, wore a particularly complicated expression on his face. Toshizo Hijikata: "In any case, your guys' hard work cleared the suspicions surrounding Souji." "I'll let you drink as much as you want, whether at Shimabara or anywhere else." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Really!? Are you for real, Hijikata!?" Heisuke Toudou: "Yahoo! We can’t let this opportunity pass us by, now can we?" Everyone left the room with much enthusiasm. The only ones left behind were… Toshizo Hijikata: "What is it, Souji? Are you still sulking?" Souji Okita: "... Not at all. However, even though Tani is finally gone…" "I just thought that the weird people that hang around Kondo will never stay away." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…” Toshizo Hijikata: "I understand how you feel... But you can't kill Itou without a good reason or evidence." "What if Kondo gets blamed by the Aizu clan for it, how will you take responsibility?" Souji Okita: "Responsibility, responsibility, that’s all you ever talk about." "How long are you going to let Itou do whatever he pleases?" Toshizo Hijikata: "... If this is about him, I'll do something about it, so just wait until then." Souji Okita: "Really? You’re not just lying to me to keep me in tow, right?" Toshizo Hijikata: "I'm not lying. Right now, I'm just waiting for the right opportunity." Souji Okita: "If you take too long, I'll get impatient and take care of Itou myself." Chizuru Yukimura: "You shouldn't say things like that, Okita." Souji Okita: "Ah man, now even this kid is scolding me." Okita may have been joking, but… His demeanor and facial expressions were strangely refreshing. Hachiro Iba: “The fact that Tani passed away will make the matter surrounding the adoption unclear.” "Now I can rest easy too." Chizuru Yukimura: "But... if it wasn’t Itou and the others, then who did kill Tani?" Souji Okita: "... Who knows. Hijikata might know something." Hachiro Iba: "... Toshi, do you know anything?" Hijikata wore a difficult expression for a while, but… Toshizo Hijikata: "Come on, he probably was cut down by a passing ronin." "... I got to go back to work. You guys should get going too." Souji Okita: "What, do you really not know?" "But even if you did know, I don't think you would tell me." Toshizo Hijikata: "I just told you I don't know. Now, get out of here." Souji Okita: "Fine. I’ll be leaving then." Hachiro Iba: "I will be taking my leave as well, Toshi." Chizuru Yukimura: "... Excuse me" It may not have a satisfying conclusion, but… The incident seemed to have resolved itself. ~NEXT SCENE~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Men, I'm glad it's sunny! The only time you get to drink during the middle of the day is during cherry blossom season!" Hajime Saito: "You guys seem to be drinking all the time despite the time of day." Shinpachi Nagakura: “But I've always been so stealthy about it!” Heisuke Toudou: “Anyways… Did something go wrong with the preparations?” "Even though we get to hold a cherry blossom viewing, it doesn’t feel the same considering we have to hold it inside of the base!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, yeah, there isn’t much we could do about that... things were a bit complicated." According to Nagakura— It seems that they were originally planning to hold the cherry blossom viewing at Shosei-en, which is next to the base. But perhaps because of the Shinsengumi reputation, it seems that the other party was not willing to give them permission. It seems that there is no choice but to hold the flower viewing at the base. Hachiro Iba: “Well, we still get to enjoy the alcohol here, so don’t blame Shinpachi too much…” Souji Okita: “You probably get invited to a lot of cherry blossom viewings back in Edo, don’t ya.” "There would likely be a lot of women hanging around you, right?" Chizuru Yukimura: “Huh?” Hachiro Iba: “Okita! Please stop making such misleading remarks!" "Okita is just joking around, Chizuru. So please don't take him seriously." Chizuru Yukimura: “A-Alright…” “Come to think of it, I haven’t seen Itou and the others.” Heisuke Toudou: “I tried to invite him, but he turned me down because he had plans for a poetry party.” Souji Okita: "Well, even if they were to come, they’d only spoil the mood." Genzaburou Inoue: “Well then, now that everyone is here, let’s get started.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well then, to express my gratitude, please lend me a hand, everyone!" As Nagakura cheerfully started the Ippon-jime– Heisuke Toudou: "Oh, that looks good! And this one as well!" Genzaburou Inoue: "There is plenty to go around, so there’s no need to rush." Chizuru Yukimura: "Um, Heisuke. Nagakura hasn’t finished the Ippon-jime yet..." Heisuke Toudou: "Ah, it’s fine. Let's let Shin do it by himself." "This is not some fancy banquet, we’re just holding a cherry blossom viewing." "And they say I can’t read the room…" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hold it right there! You gotta do the Ippon-jime first!!" Hachiro Iba: “By any chance, did you make these dishes, Chizuru?” Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes. I prepared them together with Inoue and Yamazaki…" Hachiro Iba: "Is that so... I’ll savor these then." Souji Okita: “It looks like Iba would be happy to eat even the roots of the tree if it was a dish prepared by this kid.” Hachiro Iba: "What are you saying…!" “In any case, she wouldn’t serve things like tree roots in the first place.” Souji Okita: "That sounds interesting, so why don't you try making it next time, Chizuru? Chizuru Yukimura: "I can't do that!" “Besides, Iba helped you out a lot this time, didn’t he?” Souji Okita: “… Come to think of it, it was thanks to Iba that my suspicions were cleared this time.” “Alright, I guess I should thank you. … Thanks.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Okita, when you say it like that..." Hachiro Iba: "Sorry Okita, but I couldn’t quite hear you." "Didn't they teach you to express your gratitude clearly when thanking someone?" Souji Okita: "... I take it back" “You really are such a nice guy, aren’t you Iba?” Hachiro Iba: "I'm honored to receive such a compliment." Shinpachi Nagakura: "... What's up with everyone? Why are y'all giving me a hard time?" Sanosuke Harada: "Stop complainin’ and just enjoy your drink. It's Hijikata's treat, isn't it?" Harada pours sake into the cup in Nagakura's hand. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, you're right, but… you could’ve at least let me finish..." Heisuke Toudou: “By the way Sano, you seem to be drinking a lot less than usual." “… You cared about Tani, didn’t you?” Sanosuke Harada: “… The life and death of a person depends on the luck of the moment, and it can’t be helped.” “Anyway, Tani was a fan of lively things.” "So let's drink and make merry, and send our liveliness his way." Heisuke Toudou: "... Yeah" -As the warriors were talking… Isami Kondo: "Oh, it seems that everyone already has started drinking." "A lot has happened, but today I want you to enjoy the alcohol and remember those who have passed." Souji Okita: "Kondo, you’re here! This spot is empty, so please have a seat." Isami Kondo: "Thank you, Souji." ~Picture~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Alright Saito, let's hold a drinking competition! No holding back, a serious drinking match!" Hajime Saito: "Since we got permission from the chief, I’ll accept your challenge.” Hachiro Iba: "Well then, I will be the referee." "Whenever you’re ready, you two." Heisuke Toudou: "... Hey Sano. If I'm not mistaken, wasn't Hajime an extreme heavyweight?" Sanosuke Harada: "Well, I don’t think I’ve ever seen him drunk." Toshizo Hijikata: "You guys, make sure this doesn't affect your duties tomorrow." Isami Kondo: "It's fine, let them be. You should let loose a little as well." After saying that, Kondo looked at the scenery of the party with a slightly lonely look in his eyes. Isami Kondo: “… Usually Tani would be here, too.” Toshizo Hijikata: “......” Isami Kondo: "It's a pity that an old member is no longer with us..." "This may be something we just have to overcome." Toshizo Hijikata: "... He might be better off just because he has someone to see him off like this." "Even we don't know when and where we will die." While gazing at the cherry blossom petals floating through the wind… Hijikata and the others narrowed their eyes a little sadly. ~Picture~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Haa...! No, I can't, my eyes are spinning...!" Hajime Saito: "You're getting sloppy, Shinpachi. Are you ready to surrender?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Are you some kind of monster? You've been drinking that much, but you look totally fine..." Hachiro Iba: “Then, should I declare Saito the winner?” Shinpachi Nagakura: "N-No, not yet! I haven't lost yet!" Hachiro Iba: "As expected of you, Shinpachi. I must emulate that fighting spirit of yours.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "For the time being, let me take a short break. The real match will be after that..." Hachiro Iba: "Alright, let’s take a short break. But please don't push yourself too much." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Okay. After I’ve rested a little, things will get serious! So prepare yourself!" Hajime Saito: "Of course." -And that’s how our spring of 1866 came to pass. ~NEXT SCENE~ Later that night. Shinpachi Nagakura: “Zzz… zzz… zzz…” Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... Nagakura, are you okay?" "You'll catch a cold if you’ll keep sleeping here." Hajime Saito: "I'll take care of the rest. You should go back to your room." Chizuru Yukimura: "But…" Hajime Saito: "I always take care of this." Chizuru Yukimura: "... I understand. Well then, thank you very much." As I thanked Saito. Chizuru Yukimura: “Speaking of which, have you seen Okita?” I noticed that Okita had disappeared before I knew it. Hajime Saito: "I haven’t seen him... but he may have gone back to his room." Chizuru Yukimura: "I'll go look for him." After that, I tried looking for Okita in his room, but… He didn't seem to be back in his room. So where did he go? Thinking that, I headed towards the courtyard… Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah…!” I spotted Okita and stopped in my tracks. He was quietly staring at the cherry blossoms with a melancholy expression. Maybe he’s thinking of something. In that case, it would be better not to disturb him… Thinking that, I tried to sneak away. Souji Okita: "... You don't have to run away, Chizuru." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Souji Okita: "I won't threaten to kill you. Just come over here for a bit." After being called out, I could no longer hide. Chizuru Yukimura: “… Were you watching the cherry blossoms?” Souji Okita: "I was just lost in thought while looking at the cherry blossoms, I guess." "... I've been thinking a lot about this incident." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Souji Okita: "If I were alone, I probably wouldn't have listened to anyone." "I might have killed Tani and Itou without hesitation." "... I wouldn’t even have thought about what would happen to Kondo after that." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…” Even though Okita is always messing around and telling bad jokes… I felt that it was very unusual for him to reflect on himself like that. Souji Okita: "This time I had Hajime, Shinpachi, Iba... and even Hijikata backing me up." “I had a lot of people helping me out.” “Among all of them, one person kept me from going out of control… and that was you.” Chizuru Yukimura: “Me…?” Souji Okita: "Because you were holding me down." Normally, this would be the moment where he would make some teasing remarks… But judging from the look in his eyes, he wasn’t trying to make fun of me. Before long, Okita shifts his gaze to the mysterious cherry blossoms that bloom in the darkness of the night… Souji Okita: "... I have to become even stronger. Not only with the sword but with my heart as well." "If I don't become strong, I won't be able to protect Kondo and the Shinsengumi... and even you." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…” Those heartfelt words somehow made me feel a little depressed… Is it because I know about the disease that nestles inside his chest? ~Picture~ Souji Okita: "...You know something, Chizuru." Chizuru Yukimura: "What is it?" The cherry blossom petals fluttered and scattered with a vague glow. It felt like I was trapped inside a dream-like illusion. Souji Okita: "Cherry blossoms look pretty good on you." Chizuru Yukimura: "... You think so?" Souji Okita: "Yeah. I think they suit you– like the way they flutter." I blink a few times in surprise at his unexpected remark. Chizuru Yukimura: "Well I think that..." '–cherry blossoms suit you way better.’ is what I was trying to say… However, the dark undertone contained within those words discouraged me from uttering them out loud. Souji Okita: "... I know what you were trying to say just now." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Souji Okita: "You don't have to worry about me." "Because I know my own body better than anyone else." He made it sound as if he had come to terms with the disease nesting inside of him, but… There is no way that Okita would’ve truly accepted his illness. If he really had accepted his own death… He wouldn't have gone out to buy medicine for his cough while being spotted by the other soldiers. Chizuru Yukimura: "... I'm not worried about that." ~Picture~ Chizuru Yukimura: "Because I believe in your strength… and the advancement of medical technology." "I'm sure you’ll be able to watch the cherry blossoms like this next year and the year after." Okita stared at me with a surprised look on his face, but… ~Picture~ Souji Okita: “... I see.” "Well, you're a doctor's daughter after all, so you must be right." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yep. That's why, let's watch the cherry blossoms together from now on." Souji Okita: "As long as you’re willing to watch them with me." No one knows what tomorrow will bring… Even so, I wanted to believe in tomorrow with Okita... and everybody else in the Shinsengumi. ~END~

What should I do…? Check on Okita. Attend to Iba. Go back to my tasks. Chizuru Yukimura: "...I'm going to check up on Okita." Hachiro Iba: "Wouldn’t he want to be left alone right now?" Chizuru Yukimura: "I know, but..." Isami Kondo: "No, please go after him." Chizuru Yukimura: "Kondo..." Isami Kondo: "Thank you for worrying about him, Yukimura." Chizuru Yukimura: “No, it’s nothing… Well then, if you'll excuse me.” I bow to Kondo and everyone else… And then left the room. I wonder where he went… He might have gone to kill Tani out of anger. No, I shouldn’t be thinking like that. ~NEXT SCENE~ I walked around the precincts as I was looking for Okita… Chizuru Yukimura: “...Ah” There stood Okita, glaring at a fixed point as if he was deep in thought. I can only imagine how much anger swirling inside his chest. If I don’t watch what say, I'm sure he might do more than just throw some harsher words my way. It might be better to leave him alone for now… But I remembered Kondo's expression from earlier and encouraged myself to approach him. Chizuru Yukimura: “Uhm—” Just when I tried to call out– Chizuru Yukimura: “H-Huh?” Okita, who was supposed to be nearby, suddenly disappeared. Where did he go? He couldn’t have gone too far. As I was thinking that. I was suddenly grabbed from behind. And just like that, I was pinned against the trunk of a cherry blossom tree. As I looked up I saw… ~Picture~ Souji Okita: "What the hell are you doing here? Did Hijikata order you to keep a watch on me or something? Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah…” He stared me down with cold burning flames in his eyes… Involuntarily, I felt my stomach drop. Chizuru Yukimura: "No... Hijikata has nothing to do with this." "I was just worried about you, Okita..." "So I came here looking for you on my own." Souji Okita: "...What are you worried about?" "That I'm going to kill Tani?" "If that were the case, you would have a really hard time trying to stop me." "And if I really wanted to kill him, I wouldn't have come here." "I would already have–." Chizuru Yukimura: "That’s not what I’m worried about." If I were to say something careless to him now… He might go and kill Tani immediately. With trembling lips, I carefully weave my words together. Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm worried about your illness..." I noticed that Okita's hand that was holding me down was trembling. Souji Okita: "That... You haven't told anyone, right? Not even Kondo?" His gaze that seems to be filled with murderous intent shoots through me. And I quietly nodded. Chizuru Yukimura: "...There's no way I would tell anyone.” When I said that, the strength in Okita's hand loosened slightly. Souji Okita: "...I see, that’s good." Okita finally let go of my shoulder. Souji Okita: "If you had even uttered a single about my illness to Kondo..." "I will never forgive you. I will really kill you." Chizuru Yukimura: "...I know." This isn’t one of his usual jokes. I’m sure he really means it. This time when he said he would kill… I just felt helpless and sad. Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita, earlier you said that you could die at any moment, but…” "It's not because you're negligenting your health, is it?" Souji Okita: "... Maybe, who knows." Okita is trying to hide his true emotions so that no one can know how he really feels… Chizuru Yukimura: "Because you can't be cut down, right?" "If you were to die, I..." Souji Okita: "Chizuru..." Okita stared at me for a while as if he was looking at something weird. But eventually… Souji Okita: "... You're really strange, you know that? Every day I've been practically nothing but mean." "And yet you still worry about my health." Chizuru Yukimura: “That’s because…” -His casual teasing maked me feel very sad. Souji Okita: "The only people who really care about me are Kondo and my sister..." “Shusai-sensei, Gen… and that pain-in-the-ass Hijikata.” "They are the only ones..." "But apparently, I should add you to that list as well." "Well, if you really want to worry, why don't you worry about yourself?" "I'm not going to die that easily." As Okita turned to leave. Chizuru Yukimura: “Uhm…” -I panicked and tried to stop him. Souji Okita: "Don't worry. I’m not planning on killing him just yet." "When I'm gonna kill Tani, I’ll be sure to do it out of sight, and without people ever finding out it was me." "Ah, that’s right, before I forget." "Thanks for worrying about me, Chizuru." He smiled as he thanked me… And then Okita just walked away. He seems to have a lot of thoughts about Tani… But at least Okita doesn't seem to be in a hurry to take care of him. I was a little relieved by that. ~NEXT SCENE~ And then the next day. After everyone finished eating breakfast and left for patrol. Chizuru Yukimura: “... Phew” After washing the bowls and pots that were used for breakfast, I took a deep breath. One of the other nice things that comes with spring, besides the beautiful cherry blossoms and young grasses– Is that the water isn’t as cold anymore when doing the dishes. Hachiro Iba: “Chizuru.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, Iba. Good morning." “Are you here again today?” Hachiro Iba: "Yes. Since I'm in Kyoto, I've been wanting to come visit you all." "Was Okita okay after what happened yesterday?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes... Nothing has happened so far. I apologize for worrying you. Hachiro Iba: “Well, this all started because of the information I brought.” “I just hope Okita will calm down soon.” "What has Toshi been up to?" Chizuru Yukimura: "I think he’s probably working in his room..." "Shall I go get him for you?" Hachiro Iba: "No need, I don’t want to get in the way of his work." "I’ll go see him when he has his hand free." Just then… Souji Okita: "... Oh, Iba. You’re here today as well?" Hachiro Iba: "Good morning Okita." Souji Okita: “Do you have any other business other than what we talked about yesterday?” “The shogun retainers sure have a lot of free time. While we're struggling because of the lack of manpower." Hachiro Iba: "It's not like I had time to come to Kyoto..." “But even so, I have some flexibility when it comes to my work.” “Some Kyoto Shoshidai and other retainers of the shogun have asked me for various things.” Souji Okita: "Did they ask you to come here and find out the inner workings of the Shinsengumi?" Chizuru Yukimura: “O-Okita…!” Souji Okita: “It seems that Iba and the others aren’t enemies of the Shinsengumi.” "That's why it doesn't feel good that they’re gathering info on us." Okita’s overly direct counterattack made me shudder… Hachiro Iba: "I do apologize for that Okita... But Toshi is aware of the circumstances around that." The moment Hijikata's name was mentioned, Okita's face became more bitter. Kanryusai Takeda: “Okita, so this is where you were!” Souji Okita: "... Do you need me for something?" Kanryusai Takeda: "I heard about Tani's case." "It's unbecoming for a Shinsengumi executive to spread something like that and that without permission.” “Chief Kondo must be feeling a pain in his heart.” Souji Okita: "... You’re probably right." Kanryusai Takeda: "That considered..." Takeda carefully checked the surroundings before he started talking again. Kanryusai Takeda: "... If you’re planning to kill Tani, I think I can lend a hand." Souji Okita: "... Planning to kill?" Takeda gave a big nod at Okita's question. Kanryusai Takeda: "He has gone too far this time... I think this is clearly an act that violates the Rules of Conduct." "That Tani... not only causing trouble for the Shinsengumi but also for the Kondo family." "If I’m right, aren't you going to take over the Tennen Rishin style?" Souji Okita: "... Don’t know, who knows." Kanryusai Takeda: "...Okita. Why are you acting like this is someone else's business?" "Aren't you the one who was considered to be Chief Kondo's successor?" "The current situation is as good as being neglected." Okita listened to Takeda with a plain expresion, but… Souji Okita: "...Hey Takeda. Who told you all of this?" Okita asked the same question that I secretly had. Hijikata explicitly told us not to talk about Tani's case. And yet, he knows about it… Kanryusai Takeda: "... You have to keep this a secret, but I heard it from Itou." “It seems that the Chief had consulted with him about Tani’s case.” “Itou also said that Tani’s recent behavior has been quite unsatisfactory.” Souji Okita: "I see. So it was him, huh..." Though he spoke in a soft tone. It was to me that Okita was really angry. Kashitaro Itou: "Oh, Takeda, Okita, and Yukimura. Well this is a rare combination." Kanryusai Takeda: "Itou...!" Kashitaro Itou: "And you are... Hachiro Iba, right?" "I would like to formally introduce myself. I am Kashitaro Itou, deputy commander of the Shinsengumi." “I used to run a Hokushin Ittō-ryu dojo in Fukagawa, Edo, and I came here because of a connection.” “It’s a pleasure to finally formally make your acquaintance.” Hachiro Iba: "I am Hachiro Iba, a retainer of the shogunate. Nice to meet you.” Kashitaro Itou: "I've had several matches with Shingata swordsmen." Hachiro Iba: "Is that so? If you’re interested, please stop by the dojo in Edo." Before long, Itou's gaze shifted to Okita. Kashitaro Itou: "... Tani's case seems to be causing a lot of trouble." "If there is anything I can do for you, please call me anytime." Souji Okita: "... I don't have any business with you." Kashitaro Itou: "The Shinsengumi may be a ronin unit, but they are still under the custody of the shogunate. So family conflicts are forbidden..." "If it's a samurai family, it could lead to the extinction of the family." On the surface, he seems to be worried about the Shinsengumi... But I couldn't feel the slightest hint of sympathy or pity from Itou's gaze. It's like he’s enjoying this conflict's developments… Okita seemed to have noticed as well, and glared at Itou. However, Itou shrugged off Okita's gaze. Kashitaro Itou: "Well then, have a good day everyone." And just like that, he gracefully walked away. Kanryusai Takeda: "Please wait, Itou. There is something I would like to discuss..." Takeda disappeared so he ran after Itou. Okita glared at the direction the two had vanished and spoke up with an annoyed tone. Souji Okita: "... How did this happen? How do they know about that?" "Sigh, it looks like Tani isn't the only one I have to kill." "It seems that I have to kill Itou as well." Okita tries to walk away– But Iba grabbed him by the shoulder. Hachiro Iba: "Please calm down, Okita." Then Okita violently shakes off Iba's hand. Souji Okita: "What are you talking about? I'm calm." Hachiro Iba: "Well you don't look calm right now." “… Besides, I am also responsible for this incident.” Souji Okita: "You’re not even a member of the Shinsengumi, so don't get in my way." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…!” Hachiro Iba: "It's true that I'm not a member of the Shinsengumi." "But I do know Kondo, Toshi, and everyone else." "And I can imagine how sad they would be if you acted prematurely." Souji Okita: "...... I never said I would do anything prematurely." "I just can't forgive people who are just having fun like that." Chizuru Yukimura: “... Okita.” "Let's ask Hijikata about what Takeda and Itou said earlier." Hachiro Iba: "...That's right. Kondo may have just consulted with Itou." Okita didn't move for a while… But after some time, he took a deep breath and dropped his shoulders. Souji Okita: "... Being the Shinsengumi's sword is a strange position, isn’t it?" "I can't even choose when and who to kill with my own will." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…” When I saw Okita whispering such sad, self-deprecating words, I felt a pain in my chest. ~NEXT SCENE~ Toshizo Hijikata: "... Hmm, I see. So that’s what Takeda and Itou said." “Kondo seems to have been troubled by Tani’s behavior for quite some time.” Souji Okita: "That means–" “That Itou thought it would be funny and told Takeda what Kondo told him in confidence.” “So instead of trying to help solve the problem, Itou is just having fun by telling people about it.” "I’m sure he’s doing it on purpose... I won't forgive him for that." Hachiro Iba: "Okita... you're overthinking things." Okita's theories may be a bit extreme. But when I think back on Itou's attitude and the recent events… Okita might be right about this. Toshizo Hijikata: "... So what, are you gonna let Itou provoke you? That might be exactly what he wants from you.” Souji Okita: "Well isn’t it your job to find a solution to this problem?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Why the hell do you think I’m discussing this with you guys right now?!" Not only is Hijikata having to deal with Tani, Takeda and Itou… But he seems to be troubled by the fact that people he cannot trust are acting selfishly. Toshizo Hijikata: "... Putting that aside for a second." “The other day, Shinpachi was also talking about you becoming Kondo’s adopted son… What are your thoughts on that?” Souji Okita: "Please don't make me repeat myself over and over again." "I won't take over Tennen Rishin-ryu until Kondo is old as heck." Toshizo Hijikata: "We’re living in some very uncertain times right now." "It would be better to have a plan in case of an emergency." Souji Okita: "I don’t care." “Besides, you and Kondo become blood-brothers by exchanging a cup of sake, right?” "If that's the case, won't you and I become relatives? No way I would want that to happen." Toshizo Hijikata: "Souji, you punk... Stop joking around and start taking this seriously." Souji Okita: "I AM taking this seriously. Besides..." “I was just talking about the current situation.” “No matter what happens, I get the feeling that Kondo will never die.” "That's why I won't be adopted. Became there will never be an emergency." After saying it flatly, Okita stood up. Toshizo Hijikata: "Where are you going?" Souji Okita: "I’ve got to go train for the soldiers. But if you don’t want me to go, I’ll just stay here.” Toshizo Hijikata: "No, it's good that you're motivated to do your duty..." Souji Okita: "I'm not doing this for your sake. Well, see ya." Hachiro Iba: "Wait, Okita. Would it be alright if I accompanied you?" Souji Okita: "You? Why would you want to come along?" Hachiro Iba: “I would like to observe your training sessions and learn from them." Souji Okita: “The Shinsengumi's training is not a spectacle." “Since you came all the way to Kyoto, why don’t you ask Hijikata to deal with you?” Okita just leaves the room, but… Toshizo Hijikata: "Hachiro, please take care of Souji." Following Hijikata’s words, Iba stood up. Hachiro Iba: "Please wait, Okita!" And so Iba followed after Okita. He said he wanted to see the Shinsengumi training, but… I'm sure Iba is more worried about Okita than he is interested in the training. Considering the current situation, I’m a bit worried as well. Toshizo Hijikata: "Sorry we got you involved in this mess, Yukimura." "Leave this matter to us. But if you notice anything about Souji, let me know." Hijikata probably doesn't want me to get involved in this matter. In that case, I should leave the room as soon as I can… Chizuru Yukimura: “Um…” Curious, I opened my mouth. Chizuru Yukimura: "About Tani... Is it really gonna be okay?” Hijikata sighed at my question as if he wasn’t sure how to answer. But after a short silence… Toshizo Hijikata: "... It's going to be complicated, but we have to do something about it." From his expression and tone of voice, I sensed the seriousness of the situation, and it made me feel even more worried. ~NEXT SCENE~ It was almost noon when I was finally able to do the tasks I should have done in the morning. That is– to clear the table from Sannan's room. Because Sannan wakes up in the middle of the night, I bring him his breakfast after everyone's dinner. And one of my jobs is to clean up the finished meal the next morning. Sometimes I get sent away when he doesn't have an appetite… Last night, Sannan was in a good mood, and he ate properly. After this, I have to clean up this tray so that no one can find out about it. While I was thinking this as I was carrying… Sanjuro Tani: "Yo, Yukimura. What are you doing in a place like this?" Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” My heart almost stopped when I was greeted by an unexpected person. Chizuru Yukimura: “Tani…?” Why is he here? Could it be that he was watching me…? Anyway, I have to get past him before he starts asking questions. Chizuru Yukimura: "...I'm in a hurry, so if you’ll excuse me." Just as I tried to move past him… Tani stopped me by grabbing my shoulder. Sanjuro Tani: "Hold up. Don't think you can just run away like that." Chizuru Yukimura: “.......” I wonder what he wants… Is he going to ask me anything about Kondo or anything about the ‘adopted child’ business? I prepared myself while waiting for him to continue talking… Sanjuro Tani: "There is something I wanna ask… Is there someone sick in the back of this corridor?" Chizuru Yukimura: “What…!?” I felt my heart thud loudly inside my chest. Sanjuro Tani: "Don’t act so surprised... I've seen you carrying a tray like that down this corridor several times now." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” I felt my blood run cold, and a cold sweat began to run down my neck. This is bad. I have to keep the fact that Sannan is staying there completely hidden. But just now, Tani said he saw me go down the corridor several times. Does that mean he has been watching me all this time...? Sanjuro Tani: "I’ve tried asking Sanosuke and the other officers, but..." "Every time I ask, they say that they don’t know anything and that it’s just a misunderstanding, they won't take me seriously." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” So that's why he approached me... In order to prevent me from dodging the question, he called out to me while I was carrying the tray. So this entire time he was watching me while waiting for an opportunity to approach me…? Chizuru Yukimura: "...I don't know what you're talking about." "I'm just carrying it because I was asked to… Excuse me!" Sanjuro Tani: “H-Hey! Hold it!” I managed to run past Tani. I have to tell this to one of the captains as soon as possible. ~NEXT SCENE~ After clearing the tray, I came to the common room– Genzaburou Inoue: "Oh, Yukimura, what's wrong? You’re looking kind of pale..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Inoue, do you know where Hijikata is?" Genzaburou Inoue: "If you’re looking for Toshi, he's out for a meeting with someone." Chizuru Yukimura: "Then what about the others?" Genzaburou Inoue: "I think they’re out on patrol... Did something happen?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Actually…" I told Inoue about what had just happened. Genzaburou Inoue: "I see, so that's what happened... We’ll have to do something about that." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes. I have a bad feeling about this." Until Hijikata comes back, we’ll have to do something about this... As I was thinking that. Hachiro Iba: “Thank you very much for today Okita.” "Your regular training was very interesting to watch. It was a great learning experience." Souji Okita: "It's not like I'm training just so you get to study." Hachiro Iba: "Yes, I know. But that doesn’t change the fact that I learned a lot." Genzaburou Inoue: “Souji, Iba! You've got perfect timing." Souji Okita: "What is it? Do you need something from me?" Inoue nodded, and after confirming that no one was nearby, he began to speak. Genzaburou Inoue: “... Yukimura, if you please." Chizuru Yukimura: "Alright, actually…" Souji Okita: "... Tani, you really couldn't just keep it by bothering Kondo, could you?" "If we don't do something about that guy quickly, the situation will only get worse and worse." Hachiro Iba: "I'm sure Toshi is doing everything he can to protect the Shinsengumi." Souji Okita: "What would we do if Tani hijacked the Shinsengumi or finds out about our secrets?" Genzaburou Inoue: “Please calm down, Souji…” "Blaming Toshi won't make things better." Souji Okita: “Well then, why don’t you think about what to do, Gen.” Genzaburou Inoue: "You’re right, hmmm..." Hachiro Iba: "Chizuru, there is something I want to ask." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, what is it?" Hachiro Iba: "Considering the fact that he tried to question you–" "Can we assume that Tani hasn't found out about Sannan yet?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Probably..." Souji Okita: "It will be too late if he finds out. Before that happens, we have to kick him out of here." Genzaburou Inoue: "Souji, how are you planning to get rid of him?" Souji Okita: "I don't need a plan, I’ll just make him disappear." Genzaburou Inoue: “... That won’t do. Don’t forget that Tani is still an executive." “Besides, Itou and the others aren’t blind.” It is as Inoue said… Tani is the Captain of the 7nd Division. His younger brother is a master of the spear, and is entrusted with the Osaka garrison. Hachiro Iba: “… For the time being, why don’t we let somebody be her escort, in case Tani tries to question her again?” “If you have someone with you without making it obvious they are an escort, it will be difficult for him to approach you, he’ll probably have a hard time keeping an eye on you.” "Sinds Tani is suspicious of the depths of the camp, let's inform everyone else when they get back.” Genzaburou Inoue: "That's right. Let’s talk to Nagakura ,Saito and others when they get back." Souji Okita: "What a pain. If he’s suspicious of Sannan’s situation, it would be quicker to kill him." Hachiro Iba: "That’s too risky. If something like that were to happen, Itou will realize there's something there." Souji Okita: "Then... I’ll just kill Itou as well." Genzaburou Inoue: "If that were to happen, we wouldn’t only have to deal with Itou, but all the members of his faction as well." Hachiro Iba: "That's why we can’t just get rid of him." Souji Okita: “........ I know that." Genzaburou Inoue: "That right, I knew you would understand." Hachiro Iba: "Well then... Our first priority at the moment is to protect her from Tani." "That said, we can’t all escort her together." Genzaburou Inoue: "You’re right, Tani could get suspicious." Hachiro Iba: "In that case, I think it's fine if she has at least one person by her side." "Chizuru. Please choose who you want to be your escort." Chizuru Yukimura: "You want me to choose?" Hachiro Iba: "That’s right. It would be best to let the person being escorted choose this kind of thing." Chizuru Yukimura: "Then..." Ask Okita. Ask Iba. Ask Inoue.

Chizuru Yukimura: “I…” I'll go to Nagakura. I'll go to Hijikata. I'm not going to either of them. Chizuru Yukimura: "I'll go ask Hijikata." Genzaburou Inoue: "Alright then, I'll leave it to you." Chizuru Yukimura: "Leave it to me." I hurried towards Hijikata's room. ~Next Scene~ And on the way... Toshizo Hijikata: "Hmm? What’s wrong, Yukimura?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah, Hijikata!" "I came to ask if you want anything for dinner." Toshizo Hijikata: "...I was on my way to the kitchen to make some tea." "I see… So it’s already time for dinner, huh" Chizuru Yukimura: "Were you in the middle of work?" Getting so engrossed in his work that he forgets the time... Is not something out of the ordinary for Hijikata. Toshizo Hijikata: "No… I wasn't in the middle of work." Chizuru Yukimura: "...?" Toshizo Hijikata: "By the way, are Shinpachi and Harada in the common room?" Chizuru Yukimura: "I didn't see Nagakura, but Harada and the others are here." Toshizo Hijikata: "I see." Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... I'm sorry if I'm wrong, but..." "Could it be that you're trying to avoid Nagakura...?" Toshizo Hijikata: "You're surprisingly perceptive." "Well, I suppose it’s not that hard to figure out with the way things have been going lately." Chizuru Yukimura: "Do you not want to face Nagakura that much...?" Toshizo Hijikata: "No, it's not that." "It's just that, given the current situation, if we met, we'd probably start yelling at each other immediately." "I don't feel like interrupting everyone while they are enjoying a meal together." Chizuru Yukimura: "I see..." ...That's a relief. So he’s not avoiding Nagakura because he hates him. Toshizo Hijikata: "Hm? What are you smiling about?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, nothing..." Toshizo Hijikata: "Now you got me curious. ...C'mon tell me." Chizuru Yukimura: "Well... It’s just that everybody calls you the 'Demon Commander ’..." "But to me it seems you’re actually very considerate of the others..." Toshizo Hijikata: "Of course." "I'm not just yelling to vent my frustrations." Hijikata turned his head to look up at the night sky. His face, illuminated by the bright starlight, was remarkably handsome... He looked almost like a Kabuki actor. Toshizo Hijikata: "I know what the other members think of me right now." "But a saint who just smiles and nods along can't keep those guys together." "So I don't mind being called a demon or whatever." "But things are a little different this time around..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Different how...?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Usually, when I yell at Shinpachi and the others, it's partly to keep the new recruits in line." "By acting like a ‘demon’, the recruits should learn to understand the severity of the Shinsengumi's rules." "I thought they understood that well, but..." "It seems things won't go the same way this time." Chizuru Yukimura: "What do you mean...?" Toshizo Hijikata: "There is a chance... the Shinsengumi might split apart." Chizuru Yukimura: "Split apart...!?" I stood frozen, stunned by the unexpected seriousness of the situation. It’s true that Nagakura's demeanor was clearly different from usual, but... Chizuru Yukimura: "No way... that’s not really going to happen, right?" Toshizo Hijikata: "If things continue like this, that's a possibility." Given Hijikata's position, he has to make a lot of difficult decisions. So there’s no way he can take the situation lightly... Chizuru Yukimura: "I..." "I'm sure Nagakura will understand." Toshizo Hijikata: "...What makes you think that?" Chizuru Yukimura: "It's clear that you and Kondo are not at fault in this matter." "I think it's just a matter of various misunderstandings piling up." "So if you take the time to properly explain things..." "I'm sure Nagakura will understand." Toshizo Hijikata: "...You're being quite blunt." "You haven't known us that long, have you?" Chizuru Yukimura: "It’s true I don’t know everyone very well yet..." "But even so, having watched you all up until now... I was reminded of something." "Once, I had a fight with my father, and started avoiding him because it was difficult to face him." "But that only made our relationship worse, and at that point I didn't know how to apologize anymore." "So to prevent something like that from happening again..." "Don’t you think it's important to face each other with sincerity and properly talk things over before it becomes impossible to make up?" Toshizo Hijikata: "...To compare this matter with a simple parent-child quarrel..." Chizuru Yukimura: "! I'm sorry! I didn’t mean...!" That must’ve sounded rude. Just as that thought crossed my mind– something warm was suddenly placed on my head. It was... ~Picture~ Toshizo Hijikata: "Honestly... How naive can you be?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah..." He looked at me with such gentle eyes that I forgot to even blink. Toshizo Hijikata: "This has nothing to do with you, right?" "In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if you hated our guts." Chizuru Yukimura: "I..." I never expected to hear such words from Hijikata. I couldn't even meet his gaze. Toshizo Hijikata: "You're still young, and you probably haven't seen how nasty people can be, so you wouldn't get it." "Even if neither party is at fault... there are plenty of times people just can't reconcile, no matter how much they try to talk it out." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." He spoke in a gentle tone, yet his words were so dismissive... I was left speechless. Toshizo Hijikata: "Neither of us is actually wrong." "That’s why neither of us is willing to back down and come to a compromise" "These kinds of things happen all the time." Chizuru Yukimura: "So that means..." "That things between you and Nagakura might not be able to go back to how they were..." "Is that what you’re trying to say, Hijikata?" Toshizo Hijikata: "...Not necessarily." "But given my position, I have to act with that possibility in mind." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." Hearing the cold tone in Hijikata’s voice... I realized how naive my thinking had been. The Shinsengumi, especially the Captains... Live in a much harsher world than I could’ve imagined. Toshizo Hijikata: "Still... I've known Shinpachi since our days at Shiei Hall." "If we could go back to the way we were, that would be great. But right now—" "I can't just sit idly by and watch the Shinsengumi fall apart like this." His words were filled with resolve— I realized that he intended to resolve this matter by any means necessary. Which made me feel relieved. ~END PICTURE~ Eventually, Hijikata's hand left my hair. Toshizo Hijikata: "Well, even back in those days, the two of us had more than one or two shouting matches." Chizuru Yukimura: "...I think I remember the others saying the same thing." Toshizo Hijikata: "Yeah. Those three are certainly skilled fighters, but..." "Not only did they not contribute a single penny to the dojo's struggling finances, but they constantly rack up debts." "And if that wasn’t bad enough, they got into trouble with other dojos or drunkards when they went out drinking." "You wouldn't believe how much trouble those three have caused Master Shusai and Kondo." Chizuru Yukimura: "Hehe..." His words may have been filled with frustration– But despite that, his expression was very tender as he spoke about those three. Toshizo Hijikata: "But, no matter how much we yelled at each other…" "Shinpachi would forget everything after just a night's sleep. That’s just the kind of guy he is." "He hasn't changed a bit, that guy…" Chizuru Yukimura: "Then..." Suddenly, his gaze sharpened as he looked up at the sky. Toshizo Hijikata: "...However, I can’t have him stuck with the same mindset he had in the Shiei Hall and Rōshigumi days." "He's the captain of the Shinsengumi's second division." "As a senior member, he's gotta be more self-aware of his position." "If he doesn’t, we won't be able to maintain discipline as the Shinsengumi keeps expanding." Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh..." Despite Hijikata’s nostalgia for their Edo days... He still thinks Nagakura has to change. Chizuru Yukimura: "So you're saying things can't continue the way they are now...?" Toshizo Hijikata: "...That’s right." "We’ve got to make the Shinsengumi even bigger." “We can’t back down now. Not after obtaining the Shinsengumi at the cost of eliminating Serizawa… Chizuru Yukimura: "...!?" The word "eliminate" had an ominous ring to it, and I tensed up. My heart skipped a beat as my blood ran cold. Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... who is Serizawa?" As I wondered if this was something I shouldn't have asked... I gazed at Hijikata, waiting for his response. Toshizo Hijikata: "That man… He was the Chief back when we were the Rōshigumi." With that brief statement, and the fact that Serizawa is no longer in the Shinsengumi... I instinctively felt that I shouldn't ask anything further. Amidst the chirping of insects, Hijikata looked up at the night sky for a while... Toshizo Hijikata: "Thanks." "I feel like I've calmed down a bit after talking with you for a bit." "He and I need to have a conversation… instead of yelling each other's heads off." I felt a little relieved after hearing that... But even so, after remembering Nagakura's attitude from earlier, the anxiety in my heart remained. ~Next Scene~ The next day, the sky was unusually overcast since the morning... It was a very gloomy day. While I was cleaning up after dinner, as usual... Shinpachi Nagakura: "Everyone, please hang around for a while. I’ve got something I want to tell you." Toshizo Hijikata: "Oh? What is this about?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "It'll be over in a bit. Please have a seat." All the executives had puzzled looks on their faces, but... Eventually, without anyone's input, everyone sat down on the floor. Nagakura exchanged glances with Harada, Heisuke, and Saito, who were nearby. Shinpachi Nagakura: "This morning, Sano, Heisuke, Saito, and I jointly submitted a letter of opinion to the Aizu clan." "I wanted to report that to you all." Toshizo Hijikata: "You did what?!" Nagakura's words caused a murmur among the executives. Toshizo Hijikata: "...What on earth is going on? Explain." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Here's a copy of the letter. Please take a look." After saying this, Nagakura handed the copy of the letter to Kondo and Hijikata. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Everything we want to say is written there, but basically..." "Kondo's behavior these days has been outrageous." "He treats us like his servants and acts like some kind of lord..." "He doesn't do much for the Shinsengumi and just messes around." "And to top it all off, he adopted Tani's younger brother without consulting us." "The successor - the next chief of the Shinsengumi - was arbitrarily decided by just a few senior officials." Isami Kondo: "No, wait a minute. That's not my intention at all." Shinpachi Nagakura: "We believe that this behavior violates the Code of Conduct, no matter how you look at it." Toshizo Hijikata: "...I understand what you're trying to say." "But this kind of behavior is outrageous." "Do you think it's okay to go behind our backs and report this to the Aizu clan?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "That's up to the lord of Aizu to decide." "If they say anything, of course I'll respond to their summons." "I don't know what's going to happen from here on out... So, Kondo, you'd better make up your mind." Isami Kondo: "..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Are you going to change your mind and continue as chief?" "Or are you going to continue to favor only those who say things that please your ears?" "I'm not going to run away or hide." "...That's all. Well, I'm going to get back to work." With those words, Nagakura left the common room. The remaining soldiers seemed unable to move from the spot immediately... Despite the large number of people, the room was dead quiet. Kanryusai Takeda: "...You wound my heart, Nagakura. This is a real problem." "I have plans later, so I'll have to excuse myself." Sanjyuro Tani: "I wonder if the lord of Aizu will really take such an opinion seriously...?" "Well, I'm on patrol duty, so I'll be off." And so, Takeda and Tani also left the common room. Chuji Matsubara: "I would have liked to hear a bit more detail, but..." "I have something to do, so I have to take my leave." One by one, the soldiers with other plans left the common room... All that remained were the comrades from Edo. Toshizo Hijikata: "...Saito, it looks like your name is on this opinion paper." Hajime Saito: "Shinpachi asked for my consent, so I lent my name to him so as not to provoke him." "I thought it would be necessary to keep track of Shinpachi's movements in the future." "And yet, my name would end up being included in something like this..." Toshizo Hijikata: "...I see. Harada, Heisuke, I guess the same happened with you guys?" Sanosuke Harada: "Yeah. He's not the kind of guy who would change his mind even if you scold him." Heisuke Toudou: "If we had refused, he would have just left the Shinsengumi..." "But I never thought it would become such a big deal." Toshizo Hijikata: "...For now, I'll go to meet with the Aizu clan and check their reaction." "Harada, Heisuke, you guys keep an eye on Shinpachi to make sure he doesn't do anything strange." Sanosuke Harada: "You got it." Toshizo Hijikata: "Souji, Saito, you guys just carry on as usual." Okita Souji: "Okay~." Hajime Saito: "Understood." Toshizo Hijikata: "...Kondo." "Tani or Takeda might come to talk to you about this." "Please dodge their question so you won't be pinned down." Isami Kondo: "...Yeah, I understand." Toshizo Hijikata: "Geez, Shinpachi, that bastard..." "He's out of his mind, dragging the Aizu clan into this." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." From the serious looks on Hijikata and the executives' faces... It's clear this matter is getting bigger and bigger. I wonder what will happen next... Toshizo Hijikata: "Yukimura." Chizuru Yukimura: "Y-Yes!" Toshizo Hijikata: "Your actions are to be the same as always. Just do your usual cleaning outside." "However, make sure the other warriors don’t catch on to anything." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, I understand." Toshizo Hijikata: "You better. ...Your emotions are easy to read!" Chizuru Yukimura: "I'll be careful." ~Next Scene~ I decided to do some cleaning outside as Hijikata had instructed. Perhaps because it looked like it might rain at any moment ever since this morning... There were no signs of any prospective recruits, which might be for the best at the moment. Just then, two figures emerged from inside the gate. Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah..." Toshizo Hijikata: "We're heading out now. Take care of things here." Chizuru Yukimura: "Alright. Please be careful, you two." Hijikata and Saito both wore unusually serious expressions. They were probably heading to the Aizu domain's headquarters. But just as they were about to depart… An unfamiliar figure came running towards us from the street. Chizuru Yukimura: "...!?" He seemed unusually well-dressed to be just a visitor... I wonder who this could be? Aizu Samurai: "Is Hijikata or Konda here? I've come from the Aizu headquarters!" Toshizo Hijikata: "...!" "I’m Hijikata.. What can I do for you?" "Though I probably can already guess what it’s about." Aizu Samurai: "Are you Commander Hijikata?" "I have come to deliver this letter. Here you go." The messenger took a letter from his pocket as he said this and gave it to Hijikata. Toshizo Hijikata: "Ideally, I would’ve invited you inside to receive it, but..." "This seems to be an urgent matter. Is it alright if I read it here?" Aizu Samurai: "It's fine. They need a reply as soon as possible." After hearing the messenger's words, Hijikata opened the letter and checked its contents. Toshizo Hijikata: "..." ...Hijikata, what on earth happened? What's written in the letter? Toshizo Hijikata: "...I understand. Tell them I'll explain the details at headquarters." Aizu Samurai: "Understood. Then, I'll take my leave now." After saying this in a stiff tone, the messenger quickly left the scene. Hajime Saito: "What does that letter say?" Toshizo Hijikata: "...We’re a step behind." "They want me to explain the details of the letter that Nagakura had sent." Chizuru Yukimura: "...What are you going to do?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Well, I can’t say it was a simple mistake anymore." "Right now we have no choice but to explain the current situation from our side of things." "Let's go, Saito." Hajime Saito: "Sir." Toshizo Hijikata: "Yukimura, your orders will remain the same as before." "If anything happens, ask Souji..." "No, scratch that. Go to Sanan for instructions." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Alright. Please be careful." ~Next Scene~ Afterwards, as I was mending clothes in my room after finishing cleaning... Toshizo Hijikata: "Are you there, Yukimura?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, Hijikata. Welcome back." Toshizo Hijikata: "Mind if I come in?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Not at all." Toshizo Hijikata: "...Oh, were you in the middle of needlework?" Chizuru Yukimura: "I just finished cleaning, so I'm sewing some rags out of some leftover fabric..." Toshizo Hijikata: "That can wait. I need you to assist me with something as my page." Chizuru Yukimura: "Alright. What should I do?" Toshizo Hijikata: "After this, I want you to go out with Gen and buy some delicious sweets." "Not anything expensive. I want something trendy and tasty." "Be sure to stick close to Gen, got it." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, I understand." ~Next Scene~ After that, Inoue and I finished the errand Hijikata had sent us on, but... Why were we sent out to buy sweets...? Heisuke Toudou: "I was wonderin’ what this was all about when you suddenly summoned me in such a formal manner... but this really caught me off guard." Toshizo Hijikata: "It doesn’t hurt to do this kinda thing every once in a while, don’t ya think?" "Gen, could you go and get Harada next?" Genzaburou Inoue: "Harada, right? I’ll go fetch him." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yukimura, go get some fresh tea and some new sweets too." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, of course." Toshizo Hijikata: "...The sweets you and Gen brought seem to be quite popular." Chizuru Yukimura: "Really? That's good to hear." ~Next Scene~ Afterward, I prepared tea and sweets as Hijikata had instructed. The meetings with the Shinsengumi members seemed to be continuing... Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... Inoue?" "What exactly is Hijikata doing?" "He seems to be calling over each of the Captains one by one and talking to them." Genzaburou Inoue: "Toshi isn’t the type to do something like this without a reason... I wonder what this could be about." Toshizo Hijikata: "...Yukimura, I'm gonna take a short break. Could you make me some tea?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah... Yes! I’ll go make some right away." ~Next Scene~ Toshizo Hijikata: "Here you go, Hijikata. Here's your tea." Toshizo Hijikata: "...Ah, thanks." Hijikata seemed quite exhausted... After letting out a sigh, he took a sip of his tea. Chizuru Yukimura: "Um, Hijikata…? What exactly have you been doing this whole time?" Toshizo Hijikata: "What, can’t you tell?" "I’m trying to get the others’ honest opinion on how the Shinsengumi has been operating lately." Chizuru Yukimura: "WHAT!?" Toshizo Hijikata: "...What's with that reaction? Is it THAT surprising?" Chizuru Yukimura: "N-No, it just feels a little unexpected..." He glanced slightly at the ceiling as he started to speak. Toshizo Hijikata: "...It doesn’t make sense if I keep tellin’ Shinpachi and the others to change–” “But I myself just keep doing things the same as before." "They have their own view of things." "Whatever that view may be... I oughta at least hear them out." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." His answer was so unexpected... I was left speechless. Toshizo Hijikata: "What's with that look? You got no reason to act so shocked." "You're the one who said to have an honest conversation with the others to get their feelings on the current situation." Chizuru Yukimura: "Huh...?" Toshizo Hijikata: "There are tons of things in this world that can’t be resolved no matter how much you try to talk things out." "But that doesn't mean I’ll give up without trying." "I considered what you’d said before, to 'face each other with sincerity' –" “And thought it wasn’t too late to at least give it a try.” "So I figured if we had some delicious tea and sweets, it might give us a chance to have an honest conversation..." "It turned out better than I expected. Thanks a lot." Chizuru Yukimura: "I didn’t do anything, really..." I never imagined Hijikata would listen to my opinion. I was surprised, and at the same time... I realized that Hijikata is much more considerate than I had imagined. Toshizo Hijikata: "...I showed you a rather pathetic side of myself, didn’t I?" Chizuru Yukimura: "No, not at all...!" "I'm just happy that I could’ve been even of little help to you, Hijikata." Toshizo Hijikata: "Well, don’t start celebrating just yet. Wait until this whole matter is settled." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Alright." After a light stretch, Hijikata turned back to me. Toshizo Hijikata: "Now, this is where the real work begins." "We need to question Takeda and Tani about this matter." "...Yukimura, go and get Tani first." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, understood." ~Next Scene~ Sanjyuro Tani: "So they want to hear my side of things, huh..." "I gotta be honest, I don't think there's anything worth talking about." Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm sorry, I was only instructed to summon you..." "But I've heard that they've asked all the Captains the same thing." Sanjyuro Tani: "...Hmm, I see." Chizuru Yukimura: Chizuru Yukimura: "Hijikata, I've brought Tani." Toshizo Hijikata: "Good. Come on in." Sanjyuro Tani: "Well then, excuse me. So, what was it you wanted to talk about?" ...I hope Hijikata's plan works out. With a silent prayer in my heart, I left the room. ~Next Scene~ While Hijikata was talking with the Captains, the sun had already begun to set... Kanryusai Takeda: "...Regarding this matter, I have nothing to hide." "Please, I beg you, do not misunderstand my intentions." Toshizo Hijikata: "Yeah, yeah, I get it. You can go back now." Kanryusai Takeda: "...Thank you. If you’ll excuse me." Turning on his heel, Takeda quickly disappeared from in front of Hijikata. Chizuru Yukimura: "It looks like your conversation with Takeda is over." Toshizo Hijikata: "...Yeah." "Now I got to summarize all the opinions I received today." "I need to concentrate on this, so please make sure no one comes near my room for a while." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, of course." ~Next Scene~ Afterward, I returned to my room and continued my needlework. Chizuru Yukimura: "Alright, then." It's getting a little too late to keep doing needlework. I'll continue this tomorrow. It would be a waste to use up the lamp oil, too... It's almost time to prepare dinner, so I should go help out in the kitchen. Chizuru Yukimura: "...!" As I left my room, I noticed someone in the courtyard. Is that... Takeda and Tani? They seem to be talking about something, but I couldn’t hear what they were talking about from where I was standing. They seem to be concerned about being seen, as they kept looking around... And then they went outside. Where are they going? Worried, I decided to secretly follow them. ~Next Scene~ The two arrived at Mibu Temple. Perhaps because it was almost dinnertime, there was no sign of anyone in the temple grounds. I hid in the shadows and observed the two of them. Kanryusai Takeda: "I never imagined things would turn out like this... Tani, what exactly is going on?" "Surely, we won’t get punished, will we?" Sanjyuro Tani: "Hey, calm down man. What did Hijikata ask you? And how did you respond?" Kanryusai Takeda: "He asked about that marching record. ...Of course, I couldn't just reveal the whole story." "I had no choice but to give a plausible explanation and gloss over it." Sanjyuro Tani: "Hijikata has a strangely sharp intuition. He might have noticed something was up..." "Well, there's no evidence, so we'll probably get away with it." "...But I gotta say, I never imagined Nagakura would get the Aizu domain involved." "I thought it would be great if we could just sow discord among the Edo-born executives." Kanryusai Takeda: "What are we going to do now?" "If this incident damages the Aizu domain's reputation, we'll have no chance of recovering." Sanjyuro Tani: "There's nothing we can do about it now. What's done is done." "Anyway, we just have to insist that Kondo was aware that those two had to be removed." "...We also have to somehow finalize the matter of Shuhei's adoption." Kanryusai Takeda: "Regarding that adoption… isn't it a bit early to act on that?" "If it becomes public knowledge, the Shiei Hall faction will surely oppose it." "Especially Okita will absolutely be against it." Sanjyuro Tani: "That's why it's important to gradually build up a false narrative." "Besides, I’m pretty sure Okita is aware that he won’t be the next Chief of the Shinsengumi." As the two of them were talking– people who appeared to be worshippers entered the temple grounds. Sanjyuro Tani: "...There are people coming. Let's move this conversation to the Maekawa residence." Kanryusai Takeda: "...Yes, let's do that." The two turned around and left the grounds of Mibu Temple. ...What should I do? I'm curious about what’s going to happen next, but... What if Tani or Takeda notice me midway through...? How should I proceed? Amidst all this, I decided... To get a little more information. It's too dangerous to go any further.

So I decided to– Stop Nagakura Raise my voice Chizuru Yukimura: "Nagakura, stop!" I cried out, trying to cling to Nagakura's hand, but— ~Picture~ He had already grabbed Tani by the collar. Shinpachi Nagakura: "...You know, back when I lived at home, my old man used to say this all the time." "People who hang around the lord and enrich themselves—" "Are pests that show up in every domain." Sanjyuro Tani: "Hey, don't lump me in with those kinds of guys—" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Just shut up and listen." "Remember this. The Shinsengumi has us." "We will never tolerate anyone trying to flatter Kondo, use him, and profit from it—no matter what!" Sanjyuro Tani: "What are you getting at, man? And what’s up with these hands?" "What, are you gonna hit me or something? Well, come on then, I'm ready to take you on." Shinpachi Nagakura: "You...!" Chizuru Yukimura: "Nagakura, don’t!" It was clear what Tani was trying to do— To anger Nagakura and make him lash out, causing him to violate the Code of Conduct. [One must not engage in a private fight.] If he violates the Code, Nagakura might actually get demoted. Nagakura glared at Tani for a while, radiating a furious aura... Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Yeah, I know. I'll be fine." ~END PICTURE~ Nagakura roughly shoves Tani back. Shinpachi Nagakura: "I'm a generous guy, so I'll let you off the hook for today." "But never forget. If you ever cause trouble for the Shinsengumi..." Nagakura glares unblinkingly at Tani— He draws his sword from his waist in one swift motion. Shinpachi Nagakura: “There will be no more excuses. I will cut you down with this very sword!” Tani adjusted his collar lightly, deflecting Nagakura's murderous intent with a defiant smile. Sanjyuro Tani: "I thought the Shinsengumi Regulations had a clause saying that we're not allowed to engage in personal conflicts" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hah, do I look like I give a damn?" After saying that, Nagakura sheathed his sword. Shinpachi Nagakura: "More importantly, you better prepare yourself. Hijikata and the others are also investigating this matter." "You know better than anyone how shady your actions have been lately." Sanjuro Tani: "Go ahead and investigate me all you like." "As I said before, I haven't done anything to cause trouble for the Shinsengumi." Tani remained evasive until the end and disappeared from our sight. Chizuru Yukimura: "Nagakura... are you alright?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Yeah, thanks for stopping me. I almost smashed his head in." Chizuru Yukimura: "You're welcome..." "More importantly, what Tani said earlier..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Yeah. We better report this to Hijikata." Chizuru Yukimura: "I'll go with you." Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Are you sure?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes. I'll also tell Hijikata what I've heard." "And besides, wouldn't it be better to have multiple witnesses’ reports?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "...I see. Thanks for everything." "I really can't thank you enough." ~Next Scene~ Toshizo Hijikata: "I see... I get it now. Thanks for looking into it." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hijikata, you talked with Tani and Takeda, right? What did they say?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Well, they answered like you'd expected them to." "They said they excluded you to make you reflect on your actions, and that Heisuke already had plans to go to Edo." Shinpachi Nagakura: "That’s probably the best excuse they’d come up with. ...So, what do you think their real intentions are?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Well, my guess is that they want to cause a rift between us, or create an opportunity to curry favor with Kondo." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Speaking of curry favor with Kondo... there's talk of Kondo adopting Tani's younger brother, Shuhei." Toshizo Hijikata: "Oh, that. Did he say anything about it?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Actually, I just heard about it..." Nagakura then explained what Tani told us earlier about Shuhei’s background. Toshizo Hijikata: "I see... In other words, it sounds suspicious." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Right? Rumors about someone being a lord's illegitimate child are the kind that could be found in any domain." "Even we know people with rumors like that. Like Heisuke" Toshizo Hijikata: "We’re probably better off asking Tani himself. Yukimura–" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hang on a second, Hijikata, it's better not to question him directly." Toshizo Hijikata: "What do you mean?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Despite everything, the signature on that Marching Record was undoubtedly Kondo's handwriting." "Even if he was forced to write it while drunk, Kondo is also partly to blame for being tricked." "If we corner Tani over this, Kondo's position will also worsen." "...And there isn’t really anybody else who’s fit to be the Chief of the Shinsengumi besides Kondo, right?" "A bad reputation doesn't suit Kondo." Toshizo Hijikata: "...Yeah, you’re right. Kondo seems to also feel remorseful about this incident." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Kondo? Really?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Of course." "After sticking together for so many years, there's no way he wouldn’t be affected by something like this." Shinpachi Nagakura: "I see. Yeah, that makes sense." "Speaking of which, Hijikata, you were summoned by the Aizu domain this morning, right? How did it go?" Toshizo Hijikata: "I explained to them that it was a misunderstanding, and they seemed to understand." "Once I report today's events, I’m sure they'll be relieved." Shinpachi Nagakura: “That’s great! I guess this matter is settled then." "Thanks, Chizuru! You were a great help." Chizuru Yukimura: "No, I didn't do anything..." ???: "Aw~? So all’s well that ends well?" ???: "Why do you look so disappointed?" ???: "Cuz I was planning to be the one to perform the ritual beheading on Shinpachi. I wonder if it's still possible to hold him accountable now?" Chizuru Yukimura: "That voice..." Toshizo Hijikata: "I already know you guys are there, so come in already." Hijikata said, half-exasperated, and the door to the room slid open. Heisuke Toudou: "Men Shinpachi, you're lucky to be alive! I was really worried about you for a second there." Shinpachi Nagakura: "What?! You all heard that?!" Souji Okita: "I fully expected that the order to dispose of Shinpachi had come from the Aizu domain." Shinpachi Nagakura: "What are you talking about?! The Shinsengumi wouldn't function without me!" Toshizo Hijikata: "...Well, I do bear some responsibility for this incident as well, since I let Tani and Takeda do as they please." Heisuke Toudou: "Once Itou joins, I’m sure those two will surely not be able to do whatever they want anymore." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Who is Itou, Heisuke?" Heisuke Toudou: "He's someone I knew from back in Edo. He runs the Hokushin Itto-ryu dojo, and is also very learned." "I don't think he'll butter up to Kondo like Tani and Takeda." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Aren’t there a lot of pro-imperialist part of the Hokushin dojo... You sure that’s gonna be okay?" Sanosuke Harada: "Hearing that Heisuke was the one who introduced him makes me a little uneasy." "What if we end up with two Master forerunners?" Heisuke Toudou: "It'll be fine! Apparently, he's enlisting after fully understanding our situation." Toshizo Hijikata: "...Well, I can't say anything for sure until I actually meet the guy." Sanosuke Harada: "In any case, it's good that Shinpachi didn't end up having to gut himself." Toshizo Hijikata: "If things had gone south, we might’ve had to gut ourselves too because you used our names without our permission!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "W-without permission?! You guys agreed to sign it!" Sanosuke Harada: "That was obviously just to keep you from freaking out." Heisuke Toudou: "If you were going to submit a letter of opinion to the Aizu domain, you could have just done it by yourself, Shin!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Y-you guys...! Don't you have a shred of sympathy towards me!?" "Take a cue from Saito! He has the integrity to not dwell on the past! That’s what makes a true warrior!" Hajime Saito: "Well, if I had ended up being implicated as the instigator," "I was planning to kill you and then commit seppuku to take responsibility." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Saito... you..." Sanosuke Harada: "Lucky you, Shinpachi. Saito would have really killed you if you’d fucked up." Toshizo Hijikata: "In any case, Sannan and I will rewrite the marching log. I'll also make sure to warn Kondo about the matter surrounding Shuhei." Shinpachi Nagakura: "What about the rumors Tani has been spreading among the warriors?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Just pretend it’s just some grand tale Tani made up." "If you take the warriors out for drinks and talk about it, I’m sure the rumors will disappear in no time." Shinpachi Nagakura: “Sure, but… how much money do you got to take them out drinking?” Toshizo Hijikata: "...*Sigh* I guess it can’t be helped. Here, I can give you at least this much." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Ah, thanks Hijikata! You’re the best" Souji Okita: “Ah men, it’s so boring when everything works out fine.” "Anyway, I'm going to tell Kondo that the two of you have made up." Sanosuke Harada: "I don’t think that’ll be necessary, Souji. Look over there." And there, where Harada was looking was... Isami Kondo: "H-hello everyone, did you finish your conversation?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Kondo! You were here!" Nagakura looked away in embarrassment but... Kondo firmly grasped Nagakura's hand. Isami Kondo: "...I'm sorry." “When Tani and the others told me that it was for the Shinsengumi, I was swayed by their words.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "You'd better be more careful from now on. You're too trusting and don't know how to be suspicious of people." "Well, as long as we're around, we won't let you do something like this again!" They looked at each other as they talked, with not a single hint of resentment in their eyes anymore. Eventually, Nagakura turned to look at me... And gave me a smile as bright as the midsummer sun. ...I’m happy for you, Nagakura. I smiled back, as those words resonated from my heart. ~Next Scene~ Then, one day, after some time had passed. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Ahh... Summer's almost over..." "In the end, I feel like I didn't get to do anything this summer except for inspecting new recruits, patrolling, and sword training." "Those cicadas are as noisy as ever. I want to turn them all into tsukudani and eat them all." Heisuke Toudou: "Wouldn't tsukudani made from cicadas give even you an upset stomach?" Sanosuke Harada: "Men, it's hot again today. I think I'll take a bath. Should I use the well water here?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Is that alright?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "The Yagi family seems to be out, so it should be okay for today, right?" Heisuke Toudou: "Right! Let's make it a special case just for today!" Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, speaking of special things..." Hajime Saito: "What's the matter, Yukimura?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Please wait a moment. I've prepared something special for you all." I ran to the well. And took out something that had been cooling in the well. ~Next Scene~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Wow, you prepared a watermelon for us!" "As expected of our Chizuru! You're so thoughtful!" Chizuru Yukimura: "No, this watermelon isn't from me; it's a gift from Hijikata." Souji Okita: "Wow, that's quite unusual." "I wonder if he's actually worried about the fact that he's unpopular with the corps because of his bad personality." Chizuru Yukimura: "I don't think Hijikata is unpopular..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well whatever, let's eat it quickly!" "Since we've got a watermelon, why don't we split it open?" Sanosuke Harada: "Well, this isn’t the most ideal spot. What if we break something in the house?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Then let's go somewhere open! Good things come to those who wait!" Chizuru Yukimura: "The grounds of Mibu Temple are spacious, so that might be a good spot." "I'll check with the temple to see if we can borrow it for a little while." ~Next Scene~ Hajime Saito: "Just keep going straight, Shinpachi." Shinpachi Nagakura: "You sure? Are you really sure this is the right direction?" Souji Okita: "Oh man, if only Hijikata had been here, it would have been even more fun." Hajime Saito: "...Knowing you, you'd probably try to lead Shinpachi to hit the commander over the head with a stick." Souji Okita: "Aw man, how did you know?" Hajime Saito: "I can guess what you're thinking." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, answer me! This is the right direction, right?" Sanosuke Harada: "Yeah, you’re doing fine. It’s just a little further to the right..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Right here?! HYAAAAAAA—!" "All right, I did it! I hit it right in the center! Everyone, let's eat some watermelon with all our might!" ~Picture~ Sanosuke Harada: "Mmm, delicious. Watermelons really are the best thing in summer, aren't they?" Heisuke Toudou: "Hey, Sano, don't hog the entire watermelon!" Sanosuke Harada: "Oh, relax. We still have plenty left, you know?" Chuji Matsubara: "Everyone, please stop fighting. There's plenty." Chizuru Yukimura: "That's right, please calm down!" Hajime Saito: "We’re with quite a lot of people, so it's not like it's a huge amount." "Therefore, I'll eat as much as I can." Chizuru Yukimura: "Even you, Saito…?!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "What do you think you're doing, taking the watermelon away from me, the one who made a great contribution?!" Sanosuke Harada: "What do you mean, a great contribution? You just split the watermelon." Souji Okita: "Plus, this whole incident caused trouble for the Shinsengumi." Shinpachi Nagakura: "That's over now! Why are you still dwelling on it?!" "But you're eating it right after I said that! If that's how it is, then–" ~END PICTURE~ Nagakura shouted and ran off. Soon, he returned with something in his hand. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Eat this! You gluttons!" He spills water, apparently drawn from a well, all over everyone. Sanosuke Harada: "...Now he's done it." "They say I've mellowed out a lot lately, but..." "I'm not human enough to be so unfazed by being interrupted while I'm eating!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "C-calm down, Sano. I’m just joking around." Sanosuke Harada: "Shut up, Shinpachi, prepare yourself!" Harada, losing his composure with rage, grabs Nagakura. Chuji Matsubara: "E-everyone, please calm down! Private fights are, you know, against the rules or something..." Sanosuke Harada: "Excellent! I'll show you Harada Sanosuke's second seppuku!" Chizuru Yukimura: "*Sigh*..." Genzaburou Inoue: "...Oh dear. Well, I guess I'll just let them fight it out." Chizuru Yukimura: "Are they gonna be okay...?" Despite all the turmoil... The summer of 1864 came to a lively close. ~Next Scene~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Men~... I’m stuffed. Now then, let's hurry and clean up." Chizuru Yukimura: "Okay. I'll go get some cleaning supplies." Shinpachi Nagakura: "That should do it. Well, with that done, let's head back." Chizuru Yukimura: "–-Yes!" ~Next Scene~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Thanks to the watermelon, I was truly able to enjoy the summer vibes... but now that it's over, it feels a little anticlimactic." Chizuru Yukimura: "It seems like you didn't get to eat much because everyone was vying for the food..." "Hijikata said that since we couldn't do anything summery this year, we should let you eat your fill." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hmm? Well... everyone seemed happy, so I don't really mind that much." "I did cause a lot of trouble for everyone." Chizuru Yukimura: "...That's very like you, Nagakura." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well... I was hoping the others would be a bit more considerate and let me eat more." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Oh, I see. Then, please wait here for a moment." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hmm? Wait for what?" Chizuru Yukimura: "You'll find out soon!" I ran to the well and returned to Nagakura with the chilled fruit. Chizuru Yukimura: "I anticipated something like this might happen, so I kept one aside." "Hijikata had prepared two of them since he figured one wouldn't be enough for that many people." Shinpachi Nagakura: "So, if I had eaten my fill earlier..." Chizuru Yukimura: "I was planning to share it with the rest." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Then… this is for me? I can eat all of it?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, of course!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Awesome! You really are the best, Chizuru!" Chizuru Yukimura: "Please wait a moment. I'll cut it right away." ~Picture~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Ahhh, this crisp sweetness and juiciness! When you think of summer, you think of watermelon!" Chizuru Yukimura: "You're right." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Kyoto summers are pretty hot and humid, aren't they? Since you can't just take a bath as easily as we can, it must be tough for you, right?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Well, I don't go on patrol or practice swordsmanship in the scorching sun like you all do." Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Come to think of it, I should’ve probably been the one to prepare this watermelon." "I guess I really am no match for Hijikata." Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah well..." "But you know what, I've realized something from this incident." "That you truly deeply care about the Shinsengumi." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Haha... You didn't think I only thought about drinking, swordsmanship, and having fun, did you?" Chizuru Yukimura: "N-no, of course not!" "I just realized you cared more than I had imagined." Shinpachi Nagakura: "I know, I know." "Of course I care. The Shinsengumi isn't just something Kondo and Hijikata built..." "It's something we all built together." Nagakura looked up at the sky— His eyes burned with a fierce determination that rivaled even the midsummer sun… Chizuru Yukimura: "...Please keep doing your best." "I'll help with anything I can." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Thanks! You really are such a good kid. Here, have some of my share of the watermelon too!" No matter what happens to the Shinsengumi in the future... As long as Nagakura is there, everything will surely be alright. Seeing his unclouded smile made me truly believe that. ~END~

Chizuru Yukimura: “I…” I'll go to Nagakura. I'll go to Hijikata. I'm not going to either of them. Chizuru Yukimura: "I'll go ask Nagakura." Genzaburo Inoue: "Alright, I'll leave him to you. I'll go ask Toshi." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, thank you very much." I left the common room and headed towards Nagakura's room. ~Next Scene~ Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... Nagakura, are you there?" I called out from behind the sliding door– Shinpachi Nagakura: "Chizuru... What's up?" Chizuru Yukimura: "You weren't at dinner..." "So I came to check if you wanted any of the food we left for you." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Sorry... I'm busy right now." "I wanna be left alone for a while, so I'll eat it later. Just leave it in the kitchen." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Okay." I returned to the common room. ~Next Scene~ He told me to leave it in the kitchen, but... The miso soup and rice had already gotten cold. I thought it would be better to reheat them when he wanted to eat them... I couldn't bring myself to leave the kitchen. While I was lost in thought... Shinpachi Nagakura: "! Chizuru, why are you here…?!" Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, Nagakura!" "The rice and miso soup have gotten cold..." "So I was waiting for you to come so I could warm them up again." Shinpachi Nagakura: "You’d do that just for me?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, of course." Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Are you sure? It'll be a lot of work." Chizuru Yukimura: "It's fine. I do this all the time." Shinpachi Nagakura: "...I see. I didn't know, sorry." "Well then, I'll take you up on your offer." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, please wait a moment." I used a flint to light the fire in the stove. ~Next Scene~ Afterwards, after reheating the food, I returned to the common room with Nagakura... Chizuru Yukimura: "It seems everyone has already gone back to their rooms." Shinpachi Nagakura: "I don't want to have to worry about what other people think, so this is perfect." "Well then, let's eat!" Nagakura said happily, then brought the rice, pickles, and miso soup to his mouth. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hmm, the food you make is as delicious as ever." Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm glad to hear it." Shinpachi Nagakura: "But I'm surprised there's still some of my food left." "I thought it'd all been eaten by Sano, Heisuke, or even Saito, who's surprisingly quick to grab food." Chizuru Yukimura: "I couldn't leave you without any food." "I made sure to save some for you." Shinpachi Nagakura: "You saved me some? That's so kind of you..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, not at all..." "But Nagakura, what exactly were you doing in your room?" "You said you were busy earlier." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hmm? ...Oh. Actually, I was writing this." Nagakura put down his chopsticks and took something out of his pocket. Then he offered it to me. Chizuru Yukimura: "Is this… a letter?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Yes. –It's a letter addressed to Lord Matsudaira Katamori, the lord of the Aizu domain." Chizuru Yukimura: "Wait… whaaat!?" I couldn't help but be surprised by his unexpected answer. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Shh, you're too loud, Chizuru." Chizuru Yukimura: "I-I'm sorry!" "But why would you write a letter to Lieutenant General Matsudaira...!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Just pretend I’m talking to myself for a sec." "You don't need to react. No, it would be best if you acted like you didn't hear anything at all." "If you don't want to hear it, don't worry, I won't explain." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." From his grave warning, I could sense that what he was about to tell me was something significant. This preamble is probably because he is afraid I would get dragged along with this after hearing what he had to say. But... The fact that he is trying to confide something in me like this... Maybe he is feeling some hesitation deep down. If that's the case... Chizuru Yukimura: "..." I nodded silently. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Chizuru..." Nagakura seemed surprised by my reaction. But then he slowly began to speak. ~Picture~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "The reason I wrote this letter to the Lord of Aizu is..." "Because I wanted him to know more about Kondo's recent actions." Chizuru Yukimura: "...!" That means he had written it to inform him of Kondo's current behavior... And to correct his actions. Shinpachi Nagakura: "I do have some complaints about Kondo..." "But I don't think it's all his fault." "The people around him are filling his head with strange ideas." He was probably talking about Tani and Takeda. Shinpachi Nagakura: "And if we leave things as they are, the Shinsengumi will definitely head in a bad direction." "So, I thought we should have the Aizu Domain keep an eye on them, including that aspect." "Neither Kondo nor Hijikata would dare go against the Aizu Domain, who are backing them." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." I understand where Nagakura is coming from, but... What will the people of the Aizu Domain think of the Shinsengumi after reading that letter? If a harsh judgment is made, the Shinsengumi will... Shinpachi Nagakura: "But, to be honest..." "I'm really struggling with whether it's okay to send this out..." "Once it’s sent out, there's no turning back." "If they read this, their view of the Shinsengumi will surely change." "I know this, but still..." Nagakura lowers his eyes sadly and lets out a sigh. Shinpachi Nagakura: "...All I want is for Kondo to go back to how he used to be." "Like when we were running the Shiei Hall back in Edo... when we all got along well." Chizuru Yukimura: "Like before..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "To be honest, I’m pretty sure Hijikata feels the same way as me." "But with Tani and Takeda around, my voice can't reach them anymore..." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Back in Edo, we were dirt poor..." "There was no one who tried to curry favor with Kondo or flatter him to get what they wanted." "There was hardly anything to eat but pickles, and we rarely got to drink sake." "That’s the life we lived… but the people gathered there were all true swordsmen." "I… came to Kyoto with Kondo." "I never once thought of myself as his subordinate." "As someone who lives by the sword, I consider Kondo and I to be complete equals." "Of course, I understand why Kondo is in the position of Chief Commander." "Only he could manage such a quirky bunch." "But that doesn't mean I've become his subordinate." "We're comrades, so we should be able to say something is wrong when it's wrong." "I'm sure Hijikata feels the same way deep down." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Before… when the Shinsengumi was still called the ‘Rōshigumi’-" "There was a man named Serizawa who was very kind to me." "I thought about what he would do in a situation like this..." "I realised I had to do everything I could before the Shinsengumi fell apart." "So… I decided to send this guy out." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." I wonder what happened to this Serizawa... I was curious, but I couldn't ask. Just like when Heisuke uttered the word ‘Fury’ before. I could sense from every word Nagakura said that it was a topic I shouldn't intrude upon. Eventually, Nagakura put the letter into his pocket... ~Picture End~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Thanks for the meal. It was delicious." "And… thanks for listening to me." Chizuru Yukimura: "You're welcome..." This is probably not what Nagakura truly wants. But, given the current situation, he thinks there's no other way. What kind of decision will the people of the Aizu domain make after receiving Nagakura's letter...? And what will become of the Shinsengumi? Anxiety swelled inside me and won't subside. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Don't make that face… This is my decision." "Whatever happens from here on out, I won’t involve you." Chizuru Yukimura: "No...!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Sorry for making you listen to my moaning." I shook my head at Nagakura's words. Shinpachi Nagakura: "I'll clear the table, so you can go back to your room." Chizuru Yukimura: "But, I..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "It's fine, just do as you're told… got it?" Just as he said that, Nagakura was back to his usual self... Chizuru Yukimura: "..." I felt even more heartbroken. ~Next Scene~ The next day, the sky was unusually overcast since the morning... It was a very gloomy day. While I was cleaning up after dinner, as usual... Shinpachi Nagakura: "Everyone, please hang around for a while. I’ve got something I want to tell you." Toshizo Hijikata: "Oh? What is this about?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "It'll be over in a bit. Please have a seat." All the executives had puzzled looks on their faces, but... Eventually, without anyone's input, everyone sat down on the floor. Nagakura exchanged glances with Harada, Heisuke, and Saito, who were nearby. Shinpachi Nagakura: "This morning, Sano, Heisuke, Saito, and I jointly submitted a letter of opinion to the Aizu clan." "I wanted to report that to you all." Toshizo Hijikata: "You did what?!" Nagakura's words caused a murmur among the executives. Toshizo Hijikata: "...What on earth is going on? Explain." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Here's a copy of the letter. Please take a look." After saying this, Nagakura handed the copy of the letter to Kondo and Hijikata. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Everything we want to say is written there, but basically..." "Kondo's behavior these days has been outrageous." "He treats us like his servants and acts like some kind of a lord..." "He doesn't do much for the Shinsengumi and just messes around." "And to top it all off, he adopted Tani's younger brother without consulting us." "The successor - the next chief of the Shinsengumi - was arbitrarily decided by just a few senior officials." Isami Kondo: "No, wait a minute. That's not my intention at all." Shinpachi Nagakura: "We believe that this behavior violates the Code of Conduct, no matter how you look at it." Toshizo Hijikata: "...I understand what you're trying to say." "But this kind of behavior is outrageous." "Do you think it's okay to go behind our backs and report this to the Aizu clan?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "That's up to the lord of Aizu to decide." "If they say anything, of course I'll respond to their summons." "I don't know what's going to happen from here on out... So, Kondo, you'd better make up your mind." Isami Kondo: "..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Are you going to change your mind and continue as chief?" "Or are you going to continue to favor only those who say things that please your ears?" "I'm not going to run away or hide." "...That's all. Well, I'm going to get back to work." With those words, Nagakura left the hall. The remaining soldiers seemed unable to move from the spot immediately... Despite the large number of people, the room was dead quiet. Kanryusai Takeda: "...You wound my heart, Nagakura. This is a real problem." "I have plans later, so I'll have to excuse myself." Sanjyuro Tani: "I wonder if the lord of Aizu will really take such an opinion seriously...?" "Well, I'm on patrol duty, so I'll be off." And so, Takeda and Tani also left the hall. Chuji Matsubara: "I would have liked to hear a bit more detail, but..." "I have something to do, so I have to take my leave." One by one, the soldiers with other plans left the hall... All that remained were the comrades from Edo. Toshizo Hijikata: "...Saito, it looks like your name is on this opinion paper." Hajime Saito: "Shinpachi asked for my consent, so I lent my name to him so as not to provoke him." "I thought it would be necessary to keep track of Shinpachi's movements in the future." "And yet, my name would end up being included in something like this..." Toshizo Hijikata: "...I see. Harada, Heisuke, I guess the same happened with you guys?" Sanosuke Harada: "Yeah. He's not the kind of guy who would change his mind even if you scold him." Heisuke Toudou: "If we had refused, he would have just left the Shinsengumi..." "But I never thought it would become such a big deal." Toshizo Hijikata: "...For now, I'll go to meet with the Aizu clan and check their reaction." "Harada, Heisuke, you guys keep an eye on Shinpachi to make sure he doesn't do anything strange." Sanosuke Harada: "You got it." Toshizo Hijikata: "Souji, Saito, you guys just carry on as usual." Okita Souji: "Okay~." Hajime Saito: "Understood." Toshizo Hijikata: "...Kondo." "Tani or Takeda might come to talk to you about this." "Please dodge their question so you won't be pinned down." Isami Kondo: "...Yeah, I understand." Toshizo Hijikata: "Geez, Shinpachi, that bastard..." "He's out of his mind, dragging the Aizu clan into this." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." From the serious looks on Hijikata and the executives' faces... It's clear this matter is getting bigger and bigger. I wonder what will happen next... ~Next Scene~ The next morning. Hijikata had received a summons from the Aizu domain... He left early in the morning. And as for Nagakura... He had been practicing his sword swings with a blunted blade all morning. Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... Nagakura. What's your job today...?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "I'm off duty today." Chizuru Yukimura: "But it seems the others are busy dealing with prospective recruits and other things..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "That's not really my job. I’m sure someone else will take care of it." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." Shinpachi Nagakura: “Just so you know, I'm not just upset about being excluded from the marching log." "Even if Kondo had a problem with me, he wouldn't do something so blatant." "I think someone is trying to fill his head with all kinds of weird stuff..." "But Kondo and the others are also responsible for letting them do whatever they wanted in the first place." "If things like this continue, the Shinsengumi will go in a bad direction." "I hope that by letting the Aizu officials know the situation, Hijikata and the others will feel at least a little sense of crisis." Chizuru Yukimura: "...What kind of decision will the Aizu domain make after seeing that letter?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Who knows… but we have to be prepared for the worst." Chizuru Yukimura: "The worst? You don't mean--" The phrase "Violation of regulations results in seppuku" crosses my mind. Shinpachi Nagakura: "I feel bad for dragging Sano, Heisuke, and Saito into this..." "But if we don’t do something now, we won't be able to get the Shinsengumi back on the right track." "...I hope Kondo and the others understand this too." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." The Shinsengumi is shaken to its core by this incident– Even so, they must do everything they can to prevent the Shinsengumi from heading in the wrong direction. Nagakura's unusually serious tone conveyed his earnest desire. ~Next Scene~ It was past noon when Hijikata returned from the Aizu Domain's headquarters... Kai Shimada: "Nagakura, the Commander wants to speak with you. Please head to the Commander's room." Shinpachi Nagakura: "...So it's finally time. Now, let's see how this will play out." Chizuru Yukimura: "Nagakura...!" Could it be that, at the behest of the Aizu Domain, Nagakura will face a harsh punishment...? I watched Nagakura leave, my heart pounding. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, things will work out somehow. Anyway, I'm off for a bit." Nagakura left the hall in his usual manner. ...I wonder if he will be alright. With a heavy heart, I waited for Nagakura to return. It seemed that Heisuke and Harada, who were waiting with me, felt the same way. ~Next Scene~ Heisuke Toudou: "Ah... Shinpachi! How did it go?" Sanosuke Harada: "So, what did Hijikata have to say?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "I fully expected him to yell at me without listening to my side of the story... but it was a bit anticlimactic." "It seems Hijikata also thinks there's something strange about that marching record." Chizuru Yukimura: "Makes sense..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hijikata promised to thoroughly investigate this matter." Chizuru Yukimura: "Hijikata really does care deeply about the Shinsengumi, doesn't he?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "That's true..." Nagakura looked troubled and was deep in thought for a while. And then... Shinpachi Nagakura: "Alright, let’s investigate. I'm off duty right now, so I'll go do some diggin’!" Chizuru Yukimura: "Huh...?" "Hold on, Nagakura. What do you mean by investigate...?" But Nagakura just rushes out of the room. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Chizuru, keep an eye on Shinpachi. He's quick to let things get out of hand." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Yes, I understand." Encouraged by Harada, I followed after Nagakura. ~Next Scene~ And so, after that... Nagakura mainly went around talking to members of the corps who had connections with Tani and Takeda. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, can I ask you something? You were taken out for incense by Tani the other day, weren't you?" According to what Nagakura had heard from the corps members... Apparently, Tani had been spreading rumors that Kondo would soon become a hatamoto (direct retainer) of the shogunate. And it seemed that Tani's younger brother, Shuhei, was almost certainly going to be adopted by Kondo... In preparation for that, Tani was apparently making arrangements to offer Shuhei good treatment if he worked under him... ~Next Scene~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Honestly, I've always thought there was something off about that guy." "He's got some nerve telling lies about Kondo becoming a hatamoto, or his brother getting adopted." Chizuru Yukimura: "Kondo said he hadn't agreed to the adoption, didn't he...?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "That's precisely why he's spreading rumors, trying to put Kondo in a situation where he can't refuse." "He's been sneaking around behind the scenes. And that’s the kind of shit I hate the most." Nagakura stared at the sky for a while with a troubled expression— Then he started running. Chizuru Yukimura: "Wait, Nagakura! Where are you going now...?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "To Tani's place, obviously! I'm going to find out what he's up to!" Chizuru Yukimura: "But wouldn't a private duel cause problems...?" "At the very least, I think it would be better to consult with Hijikata first!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "I can't be bothered with such a drawn-out process!" Saying that, Nagakura runs off. "No, I can't leave him like this--!" And so I chase after Nagakura. ~Next Scene~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Tani, you're here. I got something I want to ask you, you got a sec?" Sanjuro Tani: "...Nagakura, I wondered who it was. I'm tired today, so could we do this tomorrow?" Tani tries to walk past Nagakura, but... Nagakura grabs Tani's shoulder and stops him. Shinpachi Nagakura: "It'll only take a minute. ...So just listen." Sanjuro Tani: "...K-kay." Shinpachi Nagakura: "I hear you've been spreading rumors about Kondo becoming a hatamoto, and your younger brother Shuhei becoming Kondo's adopted son." "What exactly are you planning? I've never heard anything like that from Kondo himself, not even once." Sanjuro Tani: "Ah, that story. It's not exactly a lie." "If the Shinsengumi grows bigger in the future, it's entirely possible, isn't it?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "From what I heard from the members, it wasn't said that way." Sanjuro Tani: "Well, they probably just misunderstood." Shinpachi Nagakura: "What about Shuhei?" "Kondo wouldn't decide something like that without telling Souji or the senior officers, would he?" Sanjuro Tani: "About that... There are some circumstances." "Just between us, Shuhei isn't my real brother. He's the illegitimate son of a certain person of high status..." "Well, I might as well tell you. He's the illegitimate son of Lord Itakura, the former lord of Bitchu Matsuyama." "Though, Shuhei himself doesn't know that." Shinpachi Nagakura: "...That sounds pretty far-fetched. Aren't you just making that up?" Sanjuro Tani: "Come on, you don’t trust me? It's a story only a few people in Itakura's household know, so it's understandable that you don't believe it." "In any case, if Shuhei were to inherit the Shinsengumi in the future, the Bitchu Matsuyama Domain would be a powerful backer." "That's not a bad deal for Kondo either. It's only natural that he would accept." Shinpachi Nagakura: "So? Is your goal to use Shuhei to take over the Shinsengumi?" Sanjuro Tani: "It's not a matter of taking over or anything like that, and Kondo is already aware of this." "If something happens, I've already made an agreement that Shuhei will take over..." "Though, I can't make it public until the time is right." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Neither I, Hijikata, nor Souji have heard a word about that." Sanjuro Tani: "...Isn't the reason you haven't been informed because they don’t trust you?" "I don't think guys who are only good at killing will understand this kind of stuff." Shinpachi Nagakura: "What did you say...!?" Nagakura's eyes widened, and he closed the distance between them with such force that it looked like he might grab him. So I decided to– Stop Nagakura Raise my voice

Chizuru Yukimura: “I…” I'll go to Nagakura. I'll go to Hijikata. I'm not going to either of them. I'm worried about them, but... Chizuru Yukimura: "...Maybe it's best to leave them alone for now." Genzaburou Inoue: "Well… You may be right. They're both probably exhausted and have things they want to think about." Chizuru Yukimura: "Come to think of it, Sanan doesn't seem to be here either." Genzaburou Inoue: "Now that you mention it, I wonder if he's still in his room? Shall I go and get him?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Don’t worry, I’ll go." ~Next Scene~ Chizuru Yukimura: "Sanan, it's dinner time... Would you like to eat in the dining room?" I called out through the door, but there was no reply. The lights are off, so I wonder if he's out somewhere? Sanosuke Harada: "How's it going? Is Sanan in his room?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Harada... Did you come to check on me?" Sanosuke Harada: "I was just curious. So, how are things?" Chizuru Yukimura: "He doesn't seem to be in his room. Perhaps he went out?" Sanosuke Harada: "Really? He's probably not meeting anyone, so maybe he’s out for a walk.” Keisuke Sanan: "What are you two doing in front of my room?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, Sanan! Where are you?" Keisuke Sanan: "In my current situation, I can't even practice swordsmanship properly... So I just went for a walk to relax." Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, I see..." "It's dinnertime, and you weren't here, so I came to get you." Keisuke Sanan: "Given the current situation... Rather than worrying about me, shouldn't you be concerned about Hijikata and Nagakura?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah..." An awkward atmosphere hung in the air as the names of the two people at the center of the conflict were mentioned. Chizuru Yukimura: "Well... they weren't at dinner either..." Keisuke Sanan: "It must be awkward seeing each other after that big fight." Sanosuke Harada: "...Well, I’m sure things will be back to normal in a few days." Keisuke Sanan: "We can't be so optimistic." Chizuru Yukimura: "What do you mean?" Keisuke Sanan: "...If we leave this as it is, it could escalate into a commotion large enough to split the squad in half." Sanosuke Harada: "Divide the squad...?" Keisuke Sanan: "Yes. ...Nagakura has a similar temperament to Serizawa." "There's no guarantee it won't turn out like it did back then." Sanosuke Harada: "That’s impossible! Shinpachi would never—" Keisuke Sanan: "I hope so." "...I never want something like that to happen again." After that, Sanan disappeared into his room. Chizuru Yukimura: "Um, who is Serizawa?" Sanosuke Harada: "..." I was sure Harada would be happy to tell me, however... Sanosuke Harada "...He was the chief back when we were called the Roshigumi." "Sorry, but I can't tell you any more than that." He looked like a completely different person, his expression cold and his voice full of rejection. It was as if he was warning me not to go any further. Yukimura Chizuru: "..." I couldn't ask any further questions. ~Next Scene~ The next day, the sky was unusually overcast since the morning... It was a very gloomy day. While I was cleaning up after dinner, as usual... Shinpachi Nagakura: "Everyone, please hang around for a while. I’ve got something I want to tell you." Toshizo Hijikata: "Oh? What is this about?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "It'll be over in a bit. Please have a seat." All the executives had puzzled looks on their faces, but... Eventually, without anyone's input, everyone sat down on the floor. Nagakura exchanged glances with Harada, Heisuke, and Saito, who were nearby. Shinpachi Nagakura: "This morning, Sano, Heisuke, Saito, and I jointly submitted a letter of opinion to the Aizu clan." "I wanted to report that to you all." Toshizo Hijikata: "You did what?!" Nagakura's words caused a murmur among the executives. Toshizo Hijikata: "...What on earth is going on? Explain." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Here's a copy of the letter. Please take a look." After saying this, Nagakura handed the copy of the letter to Kondo and Hijikata. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Everything we want to say is written there, but basically..." "Kondo's behavior these days has been outrageous." "He treats us like his servants and acts like some kind of a lord..." "He doesn't do much for the Shinsengumi and just messes around." "And to top it all off, he adopted Tani's younger brother without consulting us." "The successor - the next chief of the Shinsengumi - was arbitrarily decided by just a few senior officials." Isami Kondo: "No, wait a minute. That's not my intention at all." Shinpachi Nagakura: "We believe that this behavior violates the Code of Conduct, no matter how you look at it." Toshizo Hijikata: "...I understand what you're trying to say." "But this kind of behavior is outrageous." "Do you think it's okay to go behind our backs and report this to the Aizu clan?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "That's up to the lord of Aizu to decide." "If they say anything, of course I'll respond to their summons." "I don't know what's going to happen from here on out... So, Kondo, you'd better make up your mind." Isami Kondo: "..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Are you going to change your mind and continue as chief?" "Or are you going to continue to favor only those who say things that please your ears?" "I'm not going to run away or hide." "...That's all. Well, I'm going to get back to work." With those words, Nagakura left the hall. The remaining soldiers seemed unable to move from the spot immediately... Despite the large number of people, the room was dead quiet. Kanryusai Takeda: "...You wound my heart, Nagakura. This is a real problem." "I have plans later, so I'll have to excuse myself." Sanjyuro Tani: "I wonder if the lord of Aizu will really take such an opinion seriously...?" "Well, I'm on patrol duty, so I'll be off." And so, Takeda and Tani also left the hall. Chuji Matsubara: "I would have liked to hear a bit more detail, but..." "I have something to do, so I have to take my leave." One by one, the soldiers with other plans left the hall... All that remained were the comrades from Edo. Toshizo Hijikata: "...Saito, it looks like your name is on this opinion paper." Hajime Saito: "Shinpachi asked for my consent, so I lent my name to him so as not to provoke him." "I thought it would be necessary to keep track of Shinpachi's movements in the future." "And yet, my name would end up being included in something like this..." Toshizo Hijikata: "...I see. Harada, Heisuke, I guess the same happened with you guys?" Sanosuke Harada: "Yeah. He's not the kind of guy who would change his mind even if you scold him." Heisuke Toudou: "If we had refused, he would have just left the Shinsengumi..." "But I never thought it would become such a big deal." Toshizo Hijikata: "...For now, I'll go to meet with the Aizu clan and check their reaction." "Harada, Heisuke, you guys keep an eye on Shinpachi to make sure he doesn't do anything strange." Sanosuke Harada: "You got it." Toshizo Hijikata: "Souji, Saito, you guys just carry on as usual." Okita Souji: "Okay~." Hajime Saito: "Understood." Toshizo Hijikata: "...Kondo." "Tani or Takeda might come to talk to you about this." "Please dodge their question so you won't be pinned down." Isami Kondo: "...Yeah, I understand." Toshizo Hijikata: "Geez, Shinpachi, that bastard..." "He's out of his mind, dragging the Aizu clan into this." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." From the serious looks on Hijikata and the executives' faces... It's clear this matter is getting bigger and bigger. I wonder what will happen next... ~Next Scene~ The day after the incident. Hijikata was summoned to the Aizu clan and left early in the morning. He apparently returned around noon, but... Chuji Matsubara: "Oh, there you are, Yukimura." Chizuru Yukimura: "Matsubara... Is there something I can help you with?" Chuji Matsubara: "The commander wants to concentrate on his writing..." "So please stay away from the commander's room today." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Okay, I understand." Chuji Matsubara: "Thank you very much. Well then." ~Next Scene~ And then, as night fell... The main senior officers were summoned to the hall. Toshizo Hijikata: "...I met with a high-ranking official from Aizu today, so I'd like to report back to you." "It seems the Aizu clan has a pretty good idea of ​​what's going on with the Shinsengumi right now." "They've asked me to thoroughly investigate the situation and report back to them." Keisuke Sanan: "...Are they concerned that Nagakura might become the next Serizawa?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Probably." The moment Sanan uttered the name "Serizawa"... It felt as if a murderous aura was spreading throughout the hall. Perhaps because the atmosphere was getting heavier, Nagakura, who was also present, was on guard. Toshizo Hijikata: "The Aizu clan is worried about two things." "Is Kondo really getting too arrogant? And is Shinpachi and his group okay?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "...To be honest, I don't think it's Kondo getting too arrogant." "I think the problem is more that the people around him are sucking up to him and telling him all sorts of strange things." "If you can sort that out, I have no complaints." Toshizo Hijikata: "...I knew I'd have to do something about Tani and Takeda eventually." "I'll take care of those two. ...So, do you have any other complaints?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "No, if you do that, I'll have nothing else to say." "Well, I guess… It was pretty impulsive of me to write that opinion letter." "If Kondo and Hijikata change their ways, I won't complain anymore." Keisuke Sanan: "Why did Tani and Takeda leave Nagakura out of the marching records?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Was it to divide us...?" "Maybe they were trying to turn Shinpachi into the next Serizawa." ...Here we go again. The moment the name "Serizawa" was mentioned, a murderous intent ran through everyone. Toshizo Hijikata: "Maybe Tani hadn't thought that far, but..." "The fact that the Aizu clan was raising such suspicions was a step too far." Souji Okita: "What about that adoption story?" Toshizo Hijikata: "The topic came up over drinks, but Kondo himself doesn't remember it." Kai Shimada: "We also asked the corps members about it..." "It seems that Tani would take regular corps members out drinking and spread the word about the adoption." Toshizo Hijikata: "Shinpachi, Harada, Heisuke. You guys should also take regular corps members out drinking..." "Go around telling people that Tani's story has no basis and is just a tall tale. I'll pay for the food." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Alright, you got it!" Keisuke Sanan: "...What do you plan to do about Tani and Takeda, the cause of this commotion?" Toshizo Hijikata: "We can't take disciplinary action openly." "Even though it happened over drinks, Kondo approved it." "Besides, those two care about their own self-preservation, above anything else." "Once they realize we're trying to put an end to the rumors, they won't do anything more out of the ordinary." "Even if it's just a little bit… we need to separate them from Kondo." Souji Okita: "...Geez, being short-staffed sucks. If we had more capable officers, I'd cut down those two in an instant." Toshizo Hijikata: "Even guys like that are still useful as senior officers." For a while, I wondered what would happen... But it seems things won't escalate any further. ...I'm so relieved. Toshizo Hijikata: "...It means that there's someone in the Shinsengumi who's been leaking information about the group's internal affairs to the Aizu clan." "You guys need to be more vigilant than ever." Hajime Saito: "Understood." Shinpachi Nagakura: "By the way... There's something that's been bothering me." "Kondo, you didn't accidentally tell those guys about that thing while we were drinking… right?" That thing...? Genzaburou Inoue: "This is going to be a while. Yukimura, it'd be better if you wait outside..." Toshizo Hijikata: "No, it's fine. It won't be a very long conversation." Before I knew it, Hijikata's gaze was fixed on me. Toshizo Hijikata: "No matter how drunk he was, I can't imagine Kondo telling Tani or Takeda about that..." "If they did find out, he'd have no choice but to kill them." Chizuru Yukimura: "...!" Hijikata's words seemed to be directed at Tani and Takeda... But also at me, here and now. –If you find out the Shinsengumi's secrets, I will kill you too. His eyes made that crystal clear. Sanosuke Harada: "...For now, can we just call it a day regarding this dispute?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Got any more complaints, Shinpachi?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "...No. I've already said everything I wanted to say to you guys." Heisuke Toudou: "Oh, thank goodness! I was secretly terrified that I'd be forced to commit suicide!" Hajime Saito: "I had no intention of rebelling from the start." "So if that were to happen, I would have had to kill Shinpachi and prove my innocence." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, hey, hey, wait, wait, wait! Don't just joke around with a straight face!" Toshizo Hijikata: "More importantly, Shinpachi... I'm sorry for not going after Tani and Takeda." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well... I was sorry too..." "It was hot, and I was a bit irritated." "You know, well... I was wrong too." Everyone seems to be acting like they did before this whole incident... Suddenly, I realized Sanan was beside me. Keisuke Sanan: "...I'm glad we didn't have to ask anything unnecessary." "If someone had let something slip, I would have had to kill you." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." At first glance, he looks cheerful, but... The eyes behind his glasses were cold and impassive, and he didn't seem to be joking. And then... Sanosuke Harada: "I won't let you do something so dangerous. ...Let's go." Harada took me by the arm and led me out of the hall. ~Next Scene~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, I’ve got to get up early tomorrow, so I'll be heading to bed." "I'm sure Hijikata and the others will have a hard time cleaning up after today." Sanosuke Harada: "Don’t count yourself out, buddy. You’re the one who dragged the Aizu clan into this mess." Shinpachi Nagakura: "What... Me too?" "I mean, I did it with the Shinsengumi's best interests in mind..." Heisuke Toudou: "The way you did it is the problem! If you're going to do it, you should at least do a little more background work." Their voices drifted through the silence of the night. I'm just glad that this turmoil has been resolved... Recalling the ominous atmosphere that hung over the hall earlier, I just can't help but feel a little more cheerful. Did they notice how I was acting...? Sanosuke Harada: "...Don't worry about it. It's nothing you need to know." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Okay." I answered, burying many questions in my mind. ~Next Scene~ Then, one day, after some time had passed. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Ahh... Summer's almost over..." "In the end, I feel like I didn't get to do anything this summer except for inspecting new recruits, patrolling, and sword training." "Those cicadas are as noisy as ever. I want to turn them all into tsukudani and eat them all." Heisuke Toudou: "Wouldn't tsukudani made from cicadas give even you an upset stomach?" Sanosuke Harada: "Men, it's hot again today. I think I'll take a bath. Should I use the well water here?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Is it okay?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "The Yagi family seems to be out, so it should be okay for today, right?" Heisuke Toudou: "Right! Let's make it a special case just for today!" Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, speaking of special things..." Hajime Saito: "What's the matter, Yukimura?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Please wait a moment. I've prepared something special for you all." I ran to the well. And took out something that had been cooling in the well. ~Next Scene~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Wow, you prepared a watermelon for us!" "As expected of our Chizuru! You're so thoughtful!" Chizuru Yukimura: "No, this watermelon isn't from me; it's a gift from Hijikata." Souji Okita: "Wow, that's quite unusual." "I wonder if he's actually worried about the fact that he's unpopular with the corps because of his bad personality." Chizuru Yukimura: "I don't think Hijikata is unpopular..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well whatever, let's eat it quickly!" "Since we've got a watermelon, why don't we split it open?" Sanosuke Harada: "No, it won't taste good here. What if we break something in the house?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Then let's go somewhere open! Good things come to those who wait!" Chizuru Yukimura: "The grounds of Mibu Temple are spacious, so that might be a good spot." "I'll check with the temple to see if we can borrow it for a little while." ~Next Scene~ Hajime Saito: "Just keep going straight, Shinpachi." Shinpachi Nagakura: "You sure? Are you really sure this is the right direction?" Souji Okita: "Oh man, if only Hijikata had been here, it would have been even more fun." Hajime Saito: "...Knowing you, you'd probably try to lead Shinpachi to hit the commander over the head with a stick." Souji Okita: "Aw man, how did you know?" Hajime Saito: "I can guess what you're thinking." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, answer me! This is the right direction, right?" Sanosuke Harada: "Yeah, you’re doing fine. It’s just a little further to the right..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Right here?! HYAAAAAAA—!" "All right, I did it! I hit it right in the center! Everyone, let's eat some watermelon with all our might!" ~Picture~ Sanosuke Harada: "Mmm, delicious. Watermelons really are the best thing in summer, aren't they?" Heisuke Toudou: "Hey, Sano, don't hog the entire watermelon!" Sanosuke Harada: "Oh, relax. We still have plenty left, you know?" Chuji Matsubara: "Everyone, please stop fighting. There's plenty." Chizuru Yukimura: "That's right, please calm down!" Hajime Saito: "We’re with quite a lot of people, so it's not like it's a huge amount." "Therefore, I'll eat as much as I can." Chizuru Yukimura: "Even you, Saito…?!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "What do you think you're doing, taking the watermelon away from me, the one who made a great contribution?!" Sanosuke Harada: "What do you mean, a great contribution? You just split the watermelon." Souji Okita: "Plus, this whole incident caused trouble for the Shinsengumi." Shinpachi Nagakura: "That's over now! Why are you still dwelling on it?!" "But you're eating it right after I said that! If that's how it is, then–" ~END PICTURE~ Nagakura shouted and ran off. Soon, he returned with something in his hand. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Eat this! You gluttons!" He spills water, apparently drawn from a well, all over everyone. Sanosuke Harada: "...Now he's done it." "They say I've mellowed out a lot lately, but..." "I'm not human enough to be so unfazed by being interrupted while I'm eating!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "C-calm down, Sano. I’m just joking around." Sanosuke Harada: "Shut up, Shinpachi, prepare yourself!" Harada, losing his composure with rage, grabs Nagakura. Chuji Matsubara: "E-everyone, please calm down! Private fights are, you know, against the rules or something..." Sanosuke Harada: "Excellent! I'll show you Harada Sanosuke's second seppuku!" Chizuru Yukimura: "Hah..." Genzaburou Inoue: "...Oh dear. Well, I guess I'll just let them fight it out." Chizuru Yukimura: "Is this really okay...?" Despite all the turmoil... The summer of 1864 came to a lively close. ~Next Scene~ One late night, a few days later. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Sorry I'm late. Looks like everyone's already here." Toshizo Hijikata: "It’s fine. I hope no one saw you on the way here." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Yeah, it should be fine." Toshizo Hijikata: "How are Tani and Takeda doing? Are they acting strangely?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, after all that happened, they seem to be behaving quietly for now." "...But I'm still curious as to how much they know about that drug." Toshizo Hijikata: "I checked with Kondo… and he hasn't told those two anything about the drug." Sanosuke Harada: "But Kondo is a kind person… It's possible that he might’ve trusted those two and told them." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Itou of the Hokushin Itto-ryu school is joining us soon, right? Are you going to explain the situation to him?" Toshizo Hijikata: "...I can't really say anything until I actually meet them. I'll wait and see for a while." Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Yeah, that might be for the best." Keisuke Sanan: "By the way, about that medicine... I discovered something interesting." "Not everyone who drinks the water of life goes crazy from the blood." "For some reason, there are some who were able to retain their sanity, and some who were able to return to human form of their own volition." Toshizo Hijikata: "Why is there such a difference?" Keisuke Sanan: "I'm currently investigating, but... Unfortunately, research has been halted since Kodo’s disappearance." Toshizo Hijikata: "How's the search for Kodo going?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "I asked her to join me on my patrols, but..." "Unfortunately, we didn’t find any leads." Toshizo Hijikata: "I see... Maybe Kodo isn't in Kyoto anymore." Keisuke Sanan: "Maybe he got caught up in some kind of incident... Or maybe he was taken away due to some kind of Fury connection?" Toshizo Hijikata: "...If it's the latter, that's troublesome. I can only hope he's not caught by some rogue samurai." "I feel sorry for Yukimura... but I don't think we can let her out of here for a while." Keisuke Sanan: "Fortunately, Yukimura seems to be quite perceptive." "It seems she's also aware that there are circumstances that she shouldn't get involved in." Toshizo Hijikata: "..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "...By the way, about Matsubara." "Are we going to keep the drugs a secret from him?" Keisuke Sanan: "Indeed... What do you think, Hijikata?" Toshizo Hijikata: "...Let's wait and see how things go for a little longer." Shinpachi Nagakura: "I think Matsubara is a trustworthy guy." "He properly executes any job assigned to him, and he keeps his promises." "He also seems to be on good terms with Yamazaki and Shimada, so it'll be easier to move forward if he knows the situation." Toshizo Hijikata: "It's not that I don't trust him." "But, you know..." "I think he's a little too upright to get involved in this kind of thing." "He'd have to kill his former comrades who'd gone mad." Sanosuke Harada: "... Revealing the secret would mean he'd no longer be able to escape." Shinpachi Nagakura: "... I suppose that's true. Maybe he's not cut out for this sort of thing." Keisuke Sanan: "Well, shall we call it a day?" "I look forward to working with you in the future. Hijikata, Nagakura, and Harada." ~END~

As for me... I'll just wait in the courtyard. I'll go check on the front gate. I guess I'll give up. After a while, I came to the courtyard, but... ...I should’ve come after all. I was worried about Nagakura and the others, but I couldn't help them break the rules. Thinking that, I tried to return to my room... Toshizo Hijikata: "...You're still a senior officer! What the hell do you think the Code of Conduct is?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Shut up! Don't think you can get people to listen to you by yelling!" Chizuru Yukimura: "...!" Nagakura has returned...! Unable to stay still, I headed towards the gate. There, I found– Sanosuke Harada: "Chizuru… What are you doing here?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Harada! Matsubara! What happened?" Chuji Matsubara: "I heard the two of them and got curious, so I came over." Sanosuke Harada: “Heisuke and I left the party midway and came back..." "On the way back, the straps on our sandals broke. We had a hard time fixing them, so we ended up being late." "Unlucky for Shinpachi, it looks like he got found by Hijikata." Heisuke Toudou: "Hijikata, can we talk about this later..." Toshizo Hijikata: "Quite! I’m not gonna let this go today!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "I see. So you want to make me commit seppuku? Go ahead and do it if you can!" Hajime Saito: "Shinpachi, you'd better stop." Heisuke and Saito appeared to have joined in as well. The argument seemed to have gotten out of hand. Chuji Matsubara: "...I know Nagakura is a bit of a clumsy guy, but still..." "He didn't have to come back through the front gate so confidently at a time like this." Sanosuke Harada: "...No, I think that was on purpose. I think he was trying to see how Hijikata would react." "In this situation… it seems like nothing can be done unless Kondo gets between them." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." It's true, Harada is right... The relationship between the two of them is now extremely strained. Maybe Kondo will really have to mediate between them. After that, I was sent back to my room first... It seems that Hijikata and Nagakura's argument continued until late into the night. ~Next Scene~ The day after that commotion. Chizuru Yukimura: "There we go..." I carefully wipe the wooden floor with a wrung-out rag. Today, no new people wanting to join have come by... I'd better get the floor mopped while I can. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, Chizuru. You cleaning?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, that's right. ...Umm, Nagakura..." I wonder what happened last night. Should I ask about it...? Shinpachi Nagakura: "I've been watching the new recruits' training since morning." Chizuru Yukimura: "The new recruits..." "How are they doing?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Ah, to be honest, they’re not very good." Chizuru Yukimura: "So their sword skills are still lacking..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well... there are some soldiers who are reasonably skilled..." "Whether it can be used in real combat is a different matter." "It's going to be hard to make them understand that swordsmanship that involves hitting things lightly with a bamboo sword is useless." Chizuru Yukimura: "Is that so..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Gen and the others said they chose people with swordsmanship experience." "Some of them said they had studied for three years when they had only studied for six months..." "That's a real problem." Chizuru Yukimura: "That must be tough." Nagakura's words are the same as always, and I couldn't help but let out a chuckle. However, even while we were chatting about trivial things, the memory of last night came to mind... Chizuru Yukimura: "...Um, Nagakura." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hmm, what is it?" Chizuru Yukimura: "About last night..." Just then, the door opened and someone came into the hall. Appearing before us was... Toshizo Hijikata: "Ah, so here you are, Yukimura." Chizuru Yukimura: "Hello, Hijikata." I greeted him as usual, but Nagaruka–. Shinpachi Nagakura: "...I'm going now. See ya, Chizuru." Just like that, he left the hall, avoiding Hijikata. Toshizo Hijikata: "...There's no way he didn’t see me." "It seems he doesn't even want to say hello to me." Chizuru Yukimura: "Um… Do you think he’s okay?" Toshizo Hijikata: "It has nothing to do with him being okay or not, he's just sulking on his own." "He'll get over it soon." "...Anyway, I'd like to ask you a favor." Chizuru Yukimura: "A favor? What is it?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Actually..." ~Next Scene~ Chizuru Yukimura : "Hup, hup..." Hijikata asked me to weed the garden. Maybe because of the hot weather, the ground is lush with weeds. Chizuru Yukimura: "Phew..." It looks like I’m almost done... Chizuru Yukimura: "...!" Is that... Kondo? He seems a bit depressed... Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... Kondo?" Isami Kondo: "Hah..." I called out to him, but he didn't seem to notice me. Chizuru Yukimura: "What's wrong, Kondo?" I called out to him in a louder voice this time, and he finally turned to face me. Isami Kondo: "...Oh, Yukimura. What are you up to?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Hijikata asked me to weed the garden." "What are you doing here, Kondo?" Kondo looked sad and hung his head. Isami Kondo: "Well... lately, I've been feeling that I'm not strong enough." Chizuru Yukimura: "Not strong enough? That's not true...!" Isami Kondo: "Thank you for your concern. But I know the truth." "It seems that some of the corps members have been unhappy with the way I have been doing things lately." "Because of that, the relationships between the corps members have become strained." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." It's rare to see Kondo so depressed... The bad atmosphere between Hijikata and Nagakura is probably also a factor. Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... I know this might be presumptuous, but..." "I don't think they are dissatisfied with your leadership." "I just think there was a small misunderstanding that caused a strain on everybody’s relationship." "Everyone joined the Shinsengumi with the same aspirations." "If you treat them with sincerity, I'm sure they'll understand." Isami Kondo: "I see. Sincerity, huh.." Kondo nodded deeply, as if pondering my words. But then– Kanryusai Takeda: "So this is where you were, Chief Kondo." Chizuru Yukimura: "Takeda, Tani..." Sanjyuro Tani: "Actually, I wanted to consult you about the marching record that we talked about the other day." Isami Kondo: "Ah, that. About that..." "We were supposed to make a decision after hearing Hijikata and Sanan's opinions." Sanjyuro Tani: "It would be easier for Hijikata and the others to give their opinions if we solidify the plan here." "We want to avoid a situation where a lot of people are throwing around all sorts of ideas and nothing is decided in the end." Kanryusai Takeda: "Regarding this matter, I will take responsibility for proceeding with the discussion as I have studied Koshu-ryu military science, so please rest assured." Isami Kondo: "But still..." Sanjyuro Tani: "You are the head of the Shinsengumi, Kondo. You have no reason to be afraid of them." "...Also, I'd like to get a little more specific about the case regarding Shuhei." Isami Kondo: "Um, well, that's true..." Sanjyuro Tani: "Okay, that's settled. Let's go to our usual restaurant and discuss the details then." Kanryusai Takeda: "By all means, let's do that. I'll go and make the arrangements with the restaurant." Kondo is taken away by Tani and Takeda and walks off. ...What on earth is this "March Record"? And what was that about Shuhei...? Maybe I can find out by asking the others later. But now that things are awkward with Hijikata and Nagakura... It's hard to ask them, but maybe someone else could tell me. I hope there's something that will put everyone at ease... Chizuru Yukimura: "...! That's it, that might help..." I'll talk with Inoue about it later. ~Next Scene~ That night. Around dinner time. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Dinner, dinner, dinner, dinner!" "Finally, my favorite time of the day has come again!" Heisuke Toudou: "Now, as for today's meal..." Chizuru Yukimura: "I hope you all like it." I set out trays of delicious rice in front of everyone. Shinpachi Nagakura: "?! No way, this smell...!" Sanosuke Harada: "This smells like Edo miso soup." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yep. After consulting with Inoue, we tried to recreate the taste of Edo." "We can't get fish from the ocean, but we tried our best with what we had...." Shinpachi Nagakura: "This brings back memories! The saltiness seeps right into my body after a workout." "To someone used to the taste of Edo, the miso here tastes a bit bland." Chizuru Yukimura: "I’m sure you’ve all worked up quite a sweat during sword training and patrols." Heisuke Toudou: "This miso soup is a real hit~" Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm glad you liked it." "...How do you like it, Sanan?" Keisuke Sanan: "You went out of your way to prepare rice balls for me because of my injury." "I feel bad for asking you to do this for me when I haven't been able to contribute anything to the squad..." Chizuru Yukimura: "That's not true..." I wasn’t able to get rid of the awkward atmosphere completely... But I'm glad that everyone is happy like this. Souji Okita: "By the way, where’s Kondo? I can't find him anywhere. He’s missing out on this delicious Edo flavor." Keisuke Sanan: "Is there a reception for a dignitary from the shogunate or the Aizu clan? Have you heard anything, Hijikata?" Toshizo Hijikata: "No, I don't think there was anything planned..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah...!" Toshizo Hijikata: "What is it, Yukimura? Do you know something?" Chizuru Yukimura: "No, actually, during the day..." I told everyone what I heard in the courtyard earlier that day. Heisuke Toudou: "So you're saying he’s out eating with Tani and Takeda? That's crazy!" Souji Okita: "They’re probably at an expensive restaurant." "Even expensive food would taste bad when you’re eating with those guys." Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... so, there is something I wanted to ask." "What exactly is a marching record?" Toshizo Hijikata: "...The marching records are something we created after the Kinmon Incident, since we had trouble figuring out how to move our troops." "I wanted to write down our military movements for times like that, but..." Souji Okita: "Oh, I was wondering what you were doing late every night, so you were secretly doing that?" Toshizo Hijikata: "This is also part of the commander's duties." "But I didn't think Tani or Takeda would be interfering with it..." Souji Okita: "Maybe Takeda wanted to show off his military studies, which he's so proud of?" "Since you always decide everything on your own, he probably wanted to interfere." Chizuru Yukimura: "If anything, I think they'd like to put it all together for Hijikata to take a look at..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, I guess we'll go and see tomorrow." "If the vanguard turns out to be Tani, I'll be laughing out loud." Toshizo Hijikata: "Even if he's that kind of person, he wouldn't do something so obvious." "I don't think they would want to go to a place where they'll be the first to die." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, that's true." "They're just a bunch of people who want to stick with Kondo and have a good time." "So I guess I'll probably be the vanguard and Sano will be guarding the lord." Sanosuke Harada: "If things go as usual, that's probably what will happen." Shinpachi Nagakura: "But when it comes to war... is armor really necessary?" Toshizo Hijikata: "These days, guns are more important than armor." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Guns?! They're so unwieldy, we can't use those." "How many people do you think you can cut with a sword while loading bullets into a gun?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Well, if you put it like that, you’re probably right." Hijikata and Nagakura's conversation seemed to have gone back to the time before any animosity arose... Relieved, I couldn't help but smile. Toshizo Hijikata: "Hmm, what is it, Yukimura? What are you smiling about?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah, nothing..." "I'm glad you two have cleared up the misunderstanding." Hijikata & Nagakura: "...!" My words seemed to have reminded them of their fight. Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Thanks for the food. I'm going to go and practice for a bit." Nagakura roughly put his bowl on the tray,  And then left the hall. In the awkward atmosphere, Hijikata finished his meal in silence... Toshizo Hijikata: "I'm going back to work." After those brief words, he left the hall as well. Souji Okita: "Oh no, you said something unnecessary and got them riled up again." Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm sorry. I just..." Sanosuke Harada: "Don’t worry about it. Fights of that magnitude happened all the time when we were in Edo." Heisuke Toudou: "That's right. It's a regular thing. So here's nothing to worry about." Keisuke Sanan: "That's a bit of an exaggeration, but... fights of that magnitude were quite common." Chizuru Yukimura: "But..." Harada put his hand on my dejected shoulder. Sanosuke Harada: "...Hey, it’ll be fine." "Tani and Takeda are acting like Kondo's entourage and are plotting all sorts of schemes, but..." "Our bond isn't so shallow that it can be ruined by something like this." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Alright." My anxiety hadn't completely disappeared... But still, I'll believe in the bond that they've had for so long. ~Next Scene~ But the next day. Shinpachi Nagakura: "What the hell is this!? What on earth is going on with this ‘March Record’!?" Nagakura's voice echoed throughout the hall where the senior officers were gathered. Toshizo Hijikata: "Those guys... They've made a lot of changes to the draft of the marching record I gave to Kondo." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, hey, mine and Heisuke's names aren't on it anywhere!" "... Surely they couldn't have forgotten to write it down?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Heisuke is scheduled to go to Edo soon, so maybe he's been left out..." "What’s the meaning of this, Kondo? Have you heard anything from them?" Isami Kondo: "I'm sure that opinion was raised during the meeting..." "I made it very clear that I couldn't leave Nagakura out." Shinpachi Nagakura: "But your signature is clearly here, Kondo." Isami Kondo: "That's..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, knowing you, you were probably flattered by those two, as usual." "Maybe you got carried away and they made you sign it?" "And you didn't like my attitude lately, so you left me out from the marching records. Is that right?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Hey Shinpachi, watch your words." "Kondo, this isn't your fault. If something like this had come around, I would have stopped it too." Shinpachi Nagakura: "What would you have done if this had become official before anyone noticed?!" Toshizo Hijikata: "I noticed it before anything happened this time, didn’t I?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "I'm saying there's no guarantee that it will be the same next time!" "And isn't it wrong to decide things only in consultation with Hijikata and Sanan, in the first place?" Toshizo Hijikata: "What are you getting at?" "We've been doing things this way ever since we came to Kyoto." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Just because it's been that way up until now, does that mean it's never going to change?" "Are you saying we should just shut up and go along with whatever you guys decide on your own!?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Have you lost your mind! You know that’s not true!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, whatever... I get it. I don't care what you guys, Tan, or Takeda think." "...I have my own thoughts on this matter." "Sano, Heisuke, let's go!" Nagakura kicked the floor and left the room. Heisuke Toudou: "Sorry, but I feel the same way." Harada and Heisuke also stand up, but... Harada gave Hijikata a wink as he left. And then, just like that, they disappear from the hall. In the oppressive silence that followed, Hijikata spoke. Toshizo Hijikata: "...What is going on, Kondo?" Isami Kondo: "As I said before, I heard that opinion come by once." "I don't remember saying that Nagakura should be removed at all." Toshizo Hijikata: "I figured as much. There's no way you'd say something like that." "Where are Tani and Takeda right now?" Hajime Saito: "They're on patrol duty at the moment, so they'll be back by evening." Toshizo Hijikata: "When they come back, I need to hear more details." Souji Okita: "...I've got one more thing I'm curious about." "Who is this 'Shuhei Kondo’? Shuhei is Tani's younger brother, right?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Now that I think about it, Tani said he wanted his younger brother Shuhei to be adopted by Kondo." "The fact that Tani and his younger brother are stationed near Kondo..." "...Does that mean the Tani brothers are planning to run the Shinsengumi?" Isami Kondo: "Now, wait a minute. That subject never came up during our discussions..." Apparently, Kondo wasn't aware of it either. Toshizo Hijikata: "This method of making decisions before anything has even been officially decided... I don't like it one bit." Keisuke Sanan: "It's a strategy to create accomplished facts and solidify your foothold." "It's bold, and blatant... do they really think we won't notice?" Toshizo Hijikata: "They think that if they can just get Kondo on board, they can do whatever they want after that." "... They've made a fool of us, too." Hajime Saito: "Commander, Shinpachi seems pretty angry..." Toshizo Hijikata: "Yeah. This is giving me a real headache." Souji Okita: "From the looks of it, I don't think it'll end with him getting drunk and blowing off some steam." "How are you going to take responsibility for this, Hijikata?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Even if you say that, there's nothing I can do." "That Tani and Takeda... they did some outrageous things." Isami Kondo: "I'm sorry, Toshi. It's all my fault..." Souji Okita: "It's not your fault, so don't worry about it, Kondo." "Hijikata is in the wrong, so let him take care of this mess." Toshizo Hijikata: "I get it already." "Anyway, don't tell anyone about this. I'll start the marching records from scratch." "I'll talk to Tani and Takeda first." "Don't let them find out, you guys just do what you normally do." Chuji Matsubara: "Understood." Susumu Yamazaki: "Commander, what do you want to do about Nagakura?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Shinpachi, well..." "No matter what I say now, it'll only add fuel to the fire." "Maybe we should wait and see how things go. Just be careful with your movements." Susumu Yamazaki: "Understood." Toshizo Hijikata: "Well then, you're dismissed. If anything happens, let me or the supervisors know right away." All: "Sir!" After that, the executives each left the hall as they pleased. Chizuru Yukimura: "......" As I cleared away the tea I had served... I secretly looked at Hijikata's condition. Toshizo Hijikata: "Really? They're causing one problem after another, at a time like this when we're so busy..." Hijikata seemed to be quite worried. Until now, the relationship between the senior officers has never been this bad... I wonder what will happen from now on... ~Next Scene~ And then, that night. It was time for dinner, and the senior officers gathered together as usual, but... Chizuru Yukimura: "Um, Nagakura...?" Sanosuke Harada: "He has no appetite. If he's not eating, it's probably gonna rain heavily tomorrow." Chizuru Yukimura: "......" Heisuke Toudou: "He seems to have his mind elsewhere, so why don't we just leave him alone for now?" Chizuru Yukimura: "But..." Recalling the events of the day... I was overcome with anxiety that something bad would happen. Sanosuke Harada: "Well, I'm sure he has his own thoughts about it." "He's just that kind of guy, so please be patient with him." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Okay." "How is Hijikata dealing with everything?" Chuji Matsubara: "It seems he's in his room right now." "He's got work to do, and he's in a position where he has to think about how to deal with the situation in the future." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Should I leave some food for the two of them, or have it delivered to their rooms?" He might not feel like eating dinner right now. Genzaburou Inoue: "That's a good idea... Then, let's split up and deliver the food. Who do you want to go to?" Chizuru Yukimura: “I…” I'll go to Nagakura. I'll go to Hijikata. I'm not going to either of them.

As for me... I'll just wait in the courtyard. I'll go check on the front gate. I guess I'll give up. Chizuru Yukimura: "Shimada, wait!" I grabbed Shimada's sleeve and stopped him. Chizuru Yukimura: "I... I'll do it." Kai Shimada: "Are you sure?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes. If things between Hijikata and Nagakura get any worse, it'll be a disaster." Kai Shimada: "...Thank you, you're a big help." "Please be careful not to get spotted by the others." Chizuru Yukimura: "Of course, I’ll be careful." Shimada turned away and headed to Hijikata's room. ...If I stayed inside the gate, I might be noticed by one of the members. I'll wait outside the gate. ~Next Scene~  After that, I continued to wait for Nagakura and the others to return, but... No matter how long I waited, they never returned. Does Nagakura really not care about the curfew? As I was thinking about this... Chizuru Yukimura: "...!" I flinched at the sound of approaching footsteps. Then, I squinted my eyes into the darkness and saw... Shinpachi Nagakura: "Huh? Why is there a beautiful woman hanging around here?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Nagakura!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hold up, is that you, Chizuru?!" "Did you come to greet me this late at night? Man, it sure is tough being popular!" Chizuru Yukimura: "Shh! Please keep quiet, Nagakura!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Oh, my bad. When I drink, I end up talking a lot." "More importantly, how are Sano and Heisuke? Have they made it back yet?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Those two? I haven't seen them..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Huh… really? That's strange." "They said they wouldn't make it to curfew if they stayed much longer." "I’m pretty sure they left the party early." Chizuru Yukimura: "Is that so?" "If they returned first, it’s strange that they haven’t made it bad yet..." "Maybe they took a detour somewhere." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, it's fine! They'll be back soon." "Anyway, why are you out here so late?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Well, um..." I confide in him in a low voice. Chizuru Yukimura: "...Shimada asked me to open the gate for you guys." Shinpachi Nagakura: "I see... I'm sorry!" "Men, sorry for the trouble. Well, let's head inside." Nagakura tried to walk in straight through the gate, but... Chizuru Yukimura: "Hold on a second!" I grabbed him by his kimono to stop him. Shinpachi Nagakura: "What's wrong?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Let's check inside first." "If we get caught, we’ll be in big trouble." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Aren't you worrying too much?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Have you forgotten what Hijikata said? Breaking curfew will result in suspension, and if you're not careful, seppuku!?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Oh, I get it, I get it. You’re right." "Well then, let's check what's going on inside first." Nagakura's words made me feel relieved. And when I tried to peek inside... ~Picture~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Well? Do you see anyone?" Chizuru Yukimura: "It's pretty dark, so it’s hard to tell..." "I don't hear voices or footsteps." Shinpachi Nagakura: "If that’s so, there's probably no one there." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." Maybe because I was so engrossed in investigating the courtyard... But I just noticed how close we are. Nagakura, however, doesn't seem to have noticed it at all... It seems I’m the only one feeling embarrassed. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, I guess the only one who'd be up this late is that workaholic Hijikata." "The other members are probably already asleep." Chizuru Yukimura: "You're right. Well then, let's go inside." As I was about to enter through the gate... Shinpachi Nagakura: "Wait, hold on a sec." His soft but sharp voice stops me in my tracks. Chizuru Yukimura: "Is something wrong?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "...I think I can sense someone's here." Chizuru Yukimura: "Really? I don't sense anything though..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "That's what my intuition is telling me… I can tell even when I'm drunk." "It seems like they're trying to keep a low profile and keep an eye on us." Chizuru Yukimura: "I see..." I tried to sharpen my senses, but I still couldn't sense anything... Nagakura has experienced countless life-risking battles in Kyoto. He may be sensing something that the five senses can't capture. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Only Saito or Hijikata could do something like this." "Souji wouldn't lose his murderous intent even during a sword fight." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." My throat is dry from tension, and I couldn’t get a word out. Shinpachi Nagakura: "...It's probably Hijikata. He must have noticed I was back and came out." After saying this, Nagakura moves away from the gate. ~Picture End~ Chizuru Yukimura: "What are you doing?!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "I don't care if I get found out, but I don’t want you to get into trouble." "I'll go around to the back and enter the courtyard, so you can go in here when you get an opportunity." Chizuru Yukimura: "But what about you, Nagakura?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, I was the one who broke curfew in the first place." "You just happened to get caught up in it. So don't worry about it." Chizuru Yukimura: "But...!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "It'll be fine. Just leave this to me." "Well, be careful not to get caught on your way back." Nagakura tried to go around to the back door, but... I stood in front of him and blocked his path. Chizuru Yukimura: "Wait! I'll get scolded by Hijikata, too!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "You? Scolded…?" "You haven't done anything to deserve that, have you?" Chizuru Yukimura: "But… it's true that I tried to help you break curfew." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Chizuru..." Nagakura lightly scratched his head as if to hide his embarrassment. We both fell silent for a moment, as if to wonder what to say next... Soon, a large, rough hand was placed on my head. Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Thanks. I appreciate your sentiment. Really, I do." Chizuru Yukimura: "Just my sentiment..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "What, there's nothing to worry about." "No matter how strict Hijikata is, he won't make me commit seppuku over something like this." Chizuru Yukimura: "Really?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "At worst, I'll be suspended... or he'll probably just cut my salary in half or something." "I'm fine, so don't look like that." "Well, then, I’ll treat you to a nice meal later!" Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah, Nagakura...!" ...He's gone. Nagakura said that he’ll be fine, but... will he really? I guess it would be better if we went together. Thinking that, I was about to chase after Nagakura.  When suddenly, my arm was grabbed from behind. There was-–. Heisuke Toudou: "Don't. You'll get caught up in it too." Chizuru Yukimura: "Heisuke...! And Harada too." Sanosuke Harada: "We left the restaurant before him... but it looks like we got chased along the way." Harada said this as he looked into the distance. Toshizo Hijikata: "You bastard, have you completely forgotten my warnings?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Who cares!" "How do you expect me to keep to the curfew when I'm drunk!" Chizuru Yukimura: "...Ah... I thought so..." Nagakura has finally been caught. Sanosuke Harada: "...We can't let Shinpachi's sacrifice go to waste. Let's go." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." I'm still worried about Nagakura, however...  If I joined him now, the situation would only get more complicated. I might also end up causing trouble for Shimada. ...I'm sorry, Nagakura. Afterwards, Harada and Heisuke walked me back to my room... It seems the quarrel between Hijikata and Nagakura continued until late into the night. I wonder what will happen to their relationship from now on. I kept thinking about them late into the night. ~Next Scene~ The day after that commotion. Chizuru Yukimura: "There we go..." I carefully wipe the wooden floor with a wrung-out rag. Today, no new people wanting to join have come by... I'd better get the floor mopped while I can. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, Chizuru. You cleaning?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, that's right. ...Umm, Nagakura..." I wonder what happened last night. Should I ask about it...? Shinpachi Nagakura: "I've been watching the new recruits' training since morning." Chizuru Yukimura: "The new recruits..." "How are they doing?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Ah, to be honest, they’re not very good." Chizuru Yukimura: "So their sword skills are still lacking..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well... there are some soldiers who are reasonably skilled..." "Whether it can be used in real combat is a different matter." "It's going to be hard to make them understand that swordsmanship that involves hitting things lightly with a bamboo sword is useless." Chizuru Yukimura: "Is that so..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Gen and the others said they chose people with swordsmanship experience." "Some of them said they had studied for three years when they had only studied for six months..." "That's a real problem." Chizuru Yukimura: "That must be tough." Nagakura's words are the same as always, and I couldn't help but let out a chuckle. However, even while we were chatting about trivial things, the memory of last night came to mind... Chizuru Yukimura: "...Um, Nagakura." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hmm, what is it?" Chizuru Yukimura: "About last night..." Just then, the door opened and someone came into the hall. Appearing before us was... Toshizo Hijikata: "Ah, so here you are, Yukimura." Chizuru Yukimura: "Hello, Hijikata." I greeted him as usual, but Nagaruka–. Shinpachi Nagakura: "...I'm going now. See ya, Chizuru." Just like that, he left the hall, avoiding Hijikata. Toshizo Hijikata: "...There's no way he didn’t see me." "It seems he doesn't even want to say hello to me." Chizuru Yukimura: "Um… Do you think he’s okay?" Toshizo Hijikata: "It has nothing to do with him being okay or not, he's just sulking on his own." "He'll get over it soon." "...Anyway, I'd like to ask you a favor." Chizuru Yukimura: "A favor? What is it?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Actually..." ~Next Scene~ Chizuru Yukimura : "Hup, hup..." Hijikata asked me to weed the garden. Maybe because of the hot weather, the ground is lush with weeds. Chizuru Yukimura: "Phew..." It looks like I’m almost done... Chizuru Yukimura: "...!" Is that... Kondo? He seems a bit depressed... Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... Kondo?" Isami Kondo: "Hah..." I called out to him, but he didn't seem to notice me. Chizuru Yukimura: "What's wrong, Kondo?" I called out to him in a louder voice this time, and he finally turned to face me. Isami Kondo: "...Oh, Yukimura. What are you up to?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Hijikata asked me to weed the garden." "What are you doing here, Kondo?" Kondo looked sad and hung his head. Isami Kondo: "Well... lately, I've been feeling that I'm not strong enough." Chizuru Yukimura: "Not strong enough? That's not true...!" Isami Kondo: "Thank you for your concern. But I know the truth." "It seems that some of the corps members have been unhappy with the way I have been doing things lately." "Because of that, the relationships between the corps members have become strained." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." It's rare to see Kondo so depressed... The bad atmosphere between Hijikata and Nagakura is probably also a factor. Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... I know this might be presumptuous, but..." "I don't think they are dissatisfied with your leadership." "I just think there was a small misunderstanding that caused a strain on everybody’s relationship." "Everyone joined the Shinsengumi with the same aspirations." "If you treat them with sincerity, I'm sure they'll understand." Isami Kondo: "I see. Sincerity, huh.." Kondo nodded deeply, as if pondering my words. But then– Kanryusai Takeda: "So this is where you were, Chief Kondo." Chizuru Yukimura: "Takeda, Tani..." Sanjyuro Tani: "Actually, I wanted to consult you about the marching record that we talked about the other day." Isami Kondo: "Ah, that. About that..." "We were supposed to make a decision after hearing Hijikata and Sanan's opinions." Sanjyuro Tani: "It would be easier for Hijikata and the others to give their opinions if we solidify the plan here." "We want to avoid a situation where a lot of people are throwing around all sorts of ideas and nothing is decided in the end." Kanryusai Takeda: "Regarding this matter, I will take responsibility for proceeding with the discussion as I have studied Koshu-ryu military science, so please rest assured." Isami Kondo: "But still..." Sanjyuro Tani: "You are the head of the Shinsengumi, Kondo. You have no reason to be afraid of them." "...Also, I'd like to get a little more specific about the case regarding Shuhei." Isami Kondo: "Um, well, that's true..." Sanjyuro Tani: "Okay, that's settled. Let's go to our usual restaurant and discuss the details then." Kanryusai Takeda: "By all means, let's do that. I'll go and make the arrangements with the restaurant." Kondo is taken away by Tani and Takeda and walks off. ...What on earth is this "March Record"? And what was that about Shuhei...? Maybe I can find out by asking the others later. But now that things are awkward with Hijikata and Nagakura... It's hard to ask them, but maybe someone else could tell me. I hope there's something that will put everyone at ease... Chizuru Yukimura: "...! That's it, that might help..." I'll talk with Inoue about it later. ~Next Scene~ That night. Around dinner time. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Dinner, dinner, dinner, dinner!" "Finally, my favorite time of the day has come again!" Heisuke Toudou: "Now, as for today's meal..." Chizuru Yukimura: "I hope you all like it." I set out trays of delicious rice in front of everyone. Shinpachi Nagakura: "?! No way, this smell...!" Sanosuke Harada: "This smells like Edo miso soup." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yep. After consulting with Inoue, we tried to recreate the taste of Edo." "We can't get fish from the ocean, but we tried our best with what we had...." Shinpachi Nagakura: "This brings back memories! The saltiness seeps right into my body after a workout." "To someone used to the taste of Edo, the miso here tastes a bit bland." Chizuru Yukimura: "I’m sure you’ve all worked up quite a sweat during sword training and patrols." Heisuke Toudou: "This miso soup is a real hit~" Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm glad you liked it." "...How do you like it, Sanan?" Keisuke Sanan: "You went out of your way to prepare rice balls for me because of my injury." "I feel bad for asking you to do this for me when I haven't been able to contribute anything to the squad..." Chizuru Yukimura: "That's not true..." I wasn’t able to get rid of the awkward atmosphere completely... But I'm glad that everyone is happy like this. Souji Okita: "By the way, where’s Kondo? I can't find him anywhere. He’s missing out on this delicious Edo flavor." Keisuke Sanan: "Is there a reception for a dignitary from the shogunate or the Aizu clan? Have you heard anything, Hijikata?" Toshizo Hijikata: "No, I don't think there was anything planned..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah...!" Toshizo Hijikata: "What is it, Yukimura? Do you know something?" Chizuru Yukimura: "No, actually, during the day..." I told everyone what I heard in the courtyard earlier that day. Heisuke Toudou: "So you're saying he’s out eating with Tani and Takeda? That's crazy!" Souji Okita: "They’re probably at an expensive restaurant." "Even expensive food would taste bad when you’re eating with those guys." Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... so, there is something I wanted to ask." "What exactly is a marching record?" Toshizo Hijikata: "...The marching records are something we created after the Kinmon Incident, since we had trouble figuring out how to move our troops." "I wanted to write down our military movements for times like that, but..." Souji Okita: "Oh, I was wondering what you were doing late every night, so you were secretly doing that?" Toshizo Hijikata: "This is also part of the commander's duties." "But I didn't think Tani or Takeda would be interfering with it..." Souji Okita: "Maybe Takeda wanted to show off his military studies, which he's so proud of?" "Since you always decide everything on your own, he probably wanted to interfere." Chizuru Yukimura: "If anything, I think they'd like to put it all together for Hijikata to take a look at..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, I guess we'll go and see tomorrow." "If the vanguard turns out to be Tani, I'll be laughing out loud." Toshizo Hijikata: "Even if he's that kind of person, he wouldn't do something so obvious." "I don't think they would want to go to a place where they'll be the first to die." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, that's true." "They're just a bunch of people who want to stick with Kondo and have a good time." "So I guess I'll probably be the vanguard and Sano will be guarding the lord." Sanosuke Harada: "If things go as usual, that's probably what will happen." Shinpachi Nagakura: "But when it comes to war... is armor really necessary?" Toshizo Hijikata: "These days, guns are more important than armor." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Guns?! They're so unwieldy, we can't use those." "How many people do you think you can cut with a sword while loading bullets into a gun?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Well, if you put it like that, you’re probably right." Hijikata and Nagakura's conversation seemed to have gone back to the time before any animosity arose... Relieved, I couldn't help but smile. Toshizo Hijikata: "Hmm, what is it, Yukimura? What are you smiling about?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah, nothing..." "I'm glad you two have cleared up the misunderstanding." Hijikata & Nagakura: "...!" My words seemed to have reminded them of their fight. Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Thanks for the food. I'm going to go and practice for a bit." Nagakura roughly put his bowl on the tray,  And then left the hall. In the awkward atmosphere, Hijikata finished his meal in silence... Toshizo Hijikata: "I'm going back to work." After those brief words, he left the hall as well. Souji Okita: "Oh no, you said something unnecessary and got them riled up again." Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm sorry. I just..." Sanosuke Harada: "Don’t worry about it. Fights of that magnitude happened all the time when we were in Edo." Heisuke Toudou: "That's right. It's a regular thing. So here's nothing to worry about." Keisuke Sanan: "That's a bit of an exaggeration, but... fights of that magnitude were quite common." Chizuru Yukimura: "But..." Harada put his hand on my dejected shoulder. Sanosuke Harada: "...Hey, it’ll be fine." "Tani and Takeda are acting like Kondo's entourage and are plotting all sorts of schemes, but..." "Our bond isn't so shallow that it can be ruined by something like this." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Alright." My anxiety hadn't completely disappeared... But still, I'll believe in the bond that they've had for so long. ~Next Scene~ But the next day. Shinpachi Nagakura: "What the hell is this!? What on earth is going on with this ‘March Record’!?" Nagakura's voice echoed throughout the hall where the senior officers were gathered. Toshizo Hijikata: "Those guys... They've made a lot of changes to the draft of the marching record I gave to Kondo." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, hey, mine and Heisuke's names aren't on it anywhere!" "... Surely they couldn't have forgotten to write it down?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Heisuke is scheduled to go to Edo soon, so maybe he's been left out..." "What’s the meaning of this, Kondo? Have you heard anything from them?" Isami Kondo: "I'm sure that opinion was raised during the meeting..." "I made it very clear that I couldn't leave Nagakura out." Shinpachi Nagakura: "But your signature is clearly here, Kondo." Isami Kondo: "That's..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, knowing you, you were probably flattered by those two, as usual." "Maybe you got carried away and they made you sign it?" "And you didn't like my attitude lately, so you left me out from the marching records. Is that right?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Hey Shinpachi, watch your words." "Kondo, this isn't your fault. If something like this had come around, I would have stopped it too." Shinpachi Nagakura: "What would you have done if this had become official before anyone noticed?!" Toshizo Hijikata: "I noticed it before anything happened this time, didn’t I?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "I'm saying there's no guarantee that it will be the same next time!" "And isn't it wrong to decide things only in consultation with Hijikata and Sanan, in the first place?" Toshizo Hijikata: "What are you getting at?" "We've been doing things this way ever since we came to Kyoto." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Just because it's been that way up until now, does that mean it's never going to change?" "Are you saying we should just shut up and go along with whatever you guys decide on your own!?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Have you lost your mind! You know that’s not true!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, whatever... I get it. I don't care what you guys, Tani, or Takeda think." "...I have my own thoughts on this matter." "Sano, Heisuke, let's go!" Nagakura kicked the floor and left the room. Heisuke Toudou: "Sorry, but I feel the same way." Harada and Heisuke also stand up, but... Harada gave Hijikata a wink as he left. And then, just like that, they disappear from the hall. In the oppressive silence that followed, Hijikata spoke. Toshizo Hijikata: "...What is going on, Kondo?" Isami Kondo: "As I said before, I heard that opinion come by once." "I don't remember saying that Nagakura should be removed at all." Toshizo Hijikata: "I figured as much. There's no way you'd say something like that." "Where are Tani and Takeda right now?" Hajime Saito: "They're on patrol duty at the moment, so they'll be back by evening." Toshizo Hijikata: "When they come back, I need to hear more details." Souji Okita: "...I've got one more thing I'm curious about." "Who is this 'Shuhei Kondo’? Shuhei is Tani's younger brother, right?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Now that I think about it, Tani said he wanted his younger brother Shuhei to be adopted by Kondo." "The fact that Tani and his younger brother are stationed near Kondo..." "...Does that mean the Tani brothers are planning to run the Shinsengumi?" Isami Kondo: "Now, wait a minute. That subject never came up during our discussions..." Apparently, Kondo wasn't aware of it either. Toshizo Hijikata: "This method of making decisions before anything has even been officially decided... I don't like it one bit." Keisuke Sanan: "It's a strategy to create accomplished facts and solidify your foothold." "It's bold, and blatant... do they really think we won't notice?" Toshizo Hijikata: "They think that if they can just get Kondo on board, they can do whatever they want after that." "... They've made a fool of us, too." Hajime Saito: "Commander, Shinpachi seems pretty angry..." Toshizo Hijikata: "Yeah. This is giving me a real headache." Souji Okita: "From the looks of it, I don't think it'll end with him getting drunk and blowing off some steam." "How are you going to take responsibility for this, Hijikata?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Even if you say that, there's nothing I can do." "That Tani and Takeda... they did some outrageous things." Isami Kondo: "I'm sorry, Toshi. It's all my fault..." Souji Okita: "It's not your fault, so don't worry about it, Kondo." "Hijikata is in the wrong, so let him take care of this mess." Toshizo Hijikata: "I get it already." "Anyway, don't tell anyone about this. I'll start the marching records from scratch." "I'll talk to Tani and Takeda first." "Don't let them find out, you guys just do what you normally do." Chuji Matsubara: "Understood." Susumu Yamazaki: "Commander, what do you want to do about Nagakura?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Shinpachi, well..." "No matter what I say now, it'll only add fuel to the fire." "Maybe we should wait and see how things go. Just be careful with your movements." Susumu Yamazaki: "Understood." Toshizo Hijikata: "Well then, you're dismissed. If anything happens, let me or the supervisors know right away." All: "Sir!" After that, the executives each left the hall as they pleased. Chizuru Yukimura: "......" As I cleared away the tea I had served... I secretly looked at Hijikata's condition. Toshizo Hijikata: "Really? They're causing one problem after another, at a time like this when we're so busy..." Hijikata seemed to be quite worried. Until now, the relationship between the senior officers has never been this bad... I wonder what will happen from now on... ~Next Scene~ And then, that night. It was time for dinner, and the senior officers gathered together as usual, but... Chizuru Yukimura: "Um, Nagakura...?" Sanosuke Harada: "He has no appetite. If he's not eating, it's probably gonna rain heavily tomorrow." Chizuru Yukimura: "......" Heisuke Toudou: "He seems to have his mind elsewhere, so why don't we just leave him alone for now?" Chizuru Yukimura: "But..." Recalling the events of the day... I was overcome with anxiety that something bad would happen. Sanosuke Harada: "Well, I'm sure he has his own thoughts about it." "He's just that kind of guy, so please be patient with him." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Okay." "How is Hijikata dealing with everything?" Chuji Matsubara: "It seems he's in his room right now." "He's got work to do, and he's in a position where he has to think about how to deal with the situation in the future." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Should I leave some food for the two of them, or have it delivered to their rooms?" He might not feel like eating dinner right now. Genzaburou Inoue: "That's a good idea... Then, let's split up and deliver the food. Who do you want to go to?" Chizuru Yukimura: “I…” I'll go to Nagakura. I'll go to Hijikata. I'm not going to either of them.

As for me... I'll just wait in the courtyard. I'll go check on the front gate. I guess I'll give up. Chizuru Yukimura: "Wait, Shimada!" I grabbed Shimada's sleeve and stopped him. Chizuru Yukimura: "I... I'll do it." Kai Shimada: "Are you sure?" Chizuru Yukimura: "I'll try my best." "It would be terrible if the relationship between Hijikata and Nagakura got any worse." Kai Shimada: "...Thank you, that would be much appreciated." "Please be careful not to get seen by the other soldiers." Chizuru Yukimura: "Okay, I understand." Shimada turned away and headed to Hijikata's room. ...If I were to wait outside the gate, others might see me. I decided to wait for Nagakura and the others in the courtyard, where there were plenty of places to hide. ~Next Scene~ After that, I kept an eye on the outside of the walls from the courtyard, but... There was no sign of Nagakura and the others returning. It's well past curfew already. Why haven't they come back yet? I can't believe he really broke curfew... Chizuru Yukimura: "Huh...!?" Suddenly, I was grabbed from behind, and my heart nearly stopped. Could one of the corps members have noticed me...?! Just as I was thinking that. Toshizo Hijikata: "There's no need to be scared. It's me." Hiji…kata...? I cautiously looked back. ~Picture~ Toshizo Hijikata: "Don't make a fuss, got it?" Chizuru Yukimura: "..." He spoke in a low voice, and I hurriedly nodded in response. Toshizo Hijikata: "There's no need to explain what you're doing here. I can pretty much guess." "By the way, do you always do this kind of thing?" Chizuru Yukimura: "N-No... I don’t! This is the first time I've ever done something like this...!" Toshizo Hijikata: "Shh, don't shout." Chizuru Yukimura: "! I'm so sorry...!" Toshizo Hijikata: "...Well, I guess you’re not a habitual offender." "Someone asked you and you couldn't refuse, so you had no choice." That's Hijikata for you... Once again, I'm amazed at his sharp intuition. When I conveyed my agreement without saying a word, Hijikata seemed to understand immediately. Toshizo Hijikata: "But no matter how much you're asked, there are things you should and shouldn't do." Chizuru Yukimura: "......Alright." Toshizo Hijikata: "Think about it. Even though he is a senior officer..." "If he can just casually break curfew like this, it's a bad example to the new recruits." Chizuru Yukimura: "...I understand..." Toshizo Hijikata: "I told him before he left in the evening, and I thought he understood what I wanted to say." "...It seems I overestimated him." Hijikata sighed, and that's when it happened. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, can you hear me? Open up!" Chizuru Yukimura: "...!" I could hear Nagakura's voice from the other side of the gate. Toshizo Hijikata: "Don't answer." He told me in a stern voice, and his arms tightened as they held me down. Chizuru Yukimura: "O-Okay...!" Of course, I had no intention of running away... I couldn't help but feel nervous at the sound of Hijikata's breathing in my ear and the strength of his arms holding me down. ~Picture End~ In the meantime... Shinpachi Nagakura: "Oh... What's up, Saito! Why are you here?" Chizuru Yukimura: "...Ah" It seems Saito has found Nagakura. We sneakily peek outside the gate. Hajime Saito: "My group is on patrol tonight. By the way, what are you doing here long after curfew?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well... the party's got pretty lively." "It's hard to leave in the middle of a party like that, you know?" "I guess days like this happen every now and then, so can you let this one slide, please?" Hajime Saito: "As a member of the Shinsengumi, I can't do that." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Wait a second. Are you going to forsake us!?" Hajime Saito: "I’m not forsaking you. It's your own fault for breaking the rules." Hijikata looked at the two of them with a serious look on his face, but then... Chizuru Yukimura: "...!" The arms that had been restraining me suddenly loosened. And then Hijikata let go of me. Toshizo Hijikata: "Sorry for being so rough." Chizuru Yukimura: "I-It’s fine...!" My heart was beating so loudly... I was so embarrassed that I couldn't look Hijikata in the face. Toshizo Hijikata: "You should go back to your room. I'll take care of the rest." Chizuru Yukimura: "Eh?! B-but, Nagakura...!" Toshizo Hijikata: "...You weren't here. I didn't see you either." "I'll leave it at that. Got that?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Please wait." "If Nagakura is going to be punished, then I'll be just as guilty." Toshizo Hijikata: "It's fine, just go back to your room and get some sleep." "If Shinpachi says anything to you later, tell him you couldn't help him because I found him." Chizuru Yukimura: "But...!" Toshizo Hijikata: "Officially, you're my page." "If the others find out that you helped break curfew... what do you think will happen?" "What I’m getting at is that now we can still settle this peacefully." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." Hijikata's words... They made me realize the magnitude of the situation that my careless decision had brought about. Chizuru Yukimura: "I understand… but then what about your and Nagakura's relationship..." Toshizo Hijikata: "I'm fine with that. It's the Commander's job to keep the corps under control." Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah..." Without time to stop him, Hijikata leaves for Nagakura and the others. Is it really okay...? What if Hijikata and Nagakura's relationship becomes even more strained than it is now... While I was thinking about that...  Keisuke Sanan: "...Oh dear. Nagakura is in some real trouble." Chizuru Yukimura: "...!" A voice called from behind me, and I quickly turned around to see— Chizuru Yukimura: "Sanan...! You’re there too?" Keisuke Sanan: "I was worried about them as well." Sanan has known Hijikata and the others for much longer than I have.  There's no way he wouldn't be worried about the relationship between the two of them becoming strained... Toshizo Hijikata: "At least think about your position, dammit!" "Don't you think it's embarrassing for a senior officer to take the lead in breaking the rules?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Shut up! Stop talking down to me all the time!" I can hear the two of them arguing all the way here. Keisuke Sanan: "... It must be hard for Hijikata to scold his old comrade." "However, he has to do it because of his current position." "If we allow Nagakura to behave like this, we won't be able to enforce discipline in the future." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." Keisuke Sanan: "I think it’s time you go back to your room." "Don’t worry. I'm sure this will heal with time." Chizuru Yukimura: "... Alright." After bowing to Sanan, I returned to my room. But even after I got into bed, I couldn't help but remember the exchange between Hijikata and Nagakura... That night, I couldn't fall asleep. Sanan said that it would heal with some time, but... I wonder if the two of them will really be able to make up. ~Next Scene~ The day after that commotion. Chizuru Yukimura: "There we go..." I carefully wipe the wooden floor with a wrung-out rag. Today, no new people wanting to join have come by... I'd better get the floor mopped while I can. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, Chizuru. You cleaning?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, that's right. ...Umm, Nagakura..." I wonder what happened last night. Should I ask about it...? Shinpachi Nagakura: "I've been watching the new recruits' training since morning." Chizuru Yukimura: "The new recruits..." "How are they doing?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Ah, to be honest, they’re not very good." Chizuru Yukimura: "So their sword skills are still lacking..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well... there are some soldiers who are reasonably skilled..." "Whether it can be used in real combat is a different matter." "It's going to be hard to make them understand that swordsmanship that involves hitting things lightly with a bamboo sword is useless." Chizuru Yukimura: "Is that so..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Gen and the others said they chose people with swordsmanship experience." "Some of them said they had studied for three years when they had only studied for six months..." "That's a real problem." Chizuru Yukimura: "That must be tough." Nagakura's words are the same as always, and I couldn't help but let out a chuckle. However, even while we were chatting about trivial things, the memory of last night came to mind... Chizuru Yukimura: "...Um, Nagakura." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hmm, what is it?" Chizuru Yukimura: "About last night..." Just then, the door opened and someone came into the hall. Appearing before us was... Toshizo Hijikata: "Ah, so here you are, Yukimura." Chizuru Yukimura: "Hello, Hijikata." I greeted him as usual, but Nagaruka–. Shinpachi Nagakura: "...I'm going now. See ya, Chizuru." Just like that, he left the hall, avoiding Hijikata. Toshizo Hijikata: "...There's no way he didn’t see me." "It seems he doesn't even want to say hello to me." Chizuru Yukimura: "Um… Do you think he’s okay?" Toshizo Hijikata: "It has nothing to do with him being okay or not, he's just sulking on his own." "He'll get over it soon." "...Anyway, I'd like to ask you a favor." Chizuru Yukimura: "A favor? What is it?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Actually..." ~Next Scene~ Chizuru Yukimura : "Hup, hup..." Hijikata asked me to weed the garden. Maybe because of the hot weather, the ground is lush with weeds. Chizuru Yukimura: "Phew..." It looks like I’m almost done... Chizuru Yukimura: "...!" Is that... Kondo? He seems a bit depressed... Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... Kondo?" Isami Kondo: "Hah..." I called out to him, but he didn't seem to notice me. Chizuru Yukimura: "What's wrong, Kondo?" I called out to him in a louder voice this time, and he finally turned to face me. Isami Kondo: "...Oh, Yukimura. What are you up to?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Hijikata asked me to weed the garden." "What are you doing here, Kondo?" Kondo looked sad and hung his head. Isami Kondo: "Well... lately, I've been feeling that I'm not strong enough." Chizuru Yukimura: "Not strong enough? That's not true...!" Isami Kondo: "Thank you for your concern. But I know the truth." "It seems that some of the corps members have been unhappy with the way I have been doing things lately." "Because of that, the relationships between the corps members have become strained." Chizuru Yukimura: "..." It's rare to see Kondo so depressed... The bad atmosphere between Hijikata and Nagakura is probably also a factor. Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... I know this might be presumptuous, but..." "I don't think they are dissatisfied with your leadership." "I just think there was a small misunderstanding that caused a strain on everybody’s relationship." "Everyone joined the Shinsengumi with the same aspirations." "If you treat them with sincerity, I'm sure they'll understand." Isami Kondo: "I see. Sincerity, huh.." Kondo nodded deeply, as if pondering my words. But then– Kanryusai Takeda: "So this is where you were, Chief Kondo." Chizuru Yukimura: "Takeda, Tani..." Sanjyuro Tani: "Actually, I wanted to consult you about the marching record that we talked about the other day." Isami Kondo: "Ah, that. About that..." "We were supposed to make a decision after hearing Hijikata and Sanan's opinions." Sanjyuro Tani: "It would be easier for Hijikata and the others to give their opinions if we solidify the plan here." "We want to avoid a situation where a lot of people are throwing around all sorts of ideas and nothing is decided in the end." Kanryusai Takeda: "Regarding this matter, I will take responsibility for proceeding with the discussion as I have studied Koshu-ryu military science, so please rest assured." Isami Kondo: "But still..." Sanjyuro Tani: "You are the head of the Shinsengumi, Kondo. You have no reason to be afraid of them." "...Also, I'd like to get a little more specific about the case regarding Shuhei." Isami Kondo: "Um, well, that's true..." Sanjyuro Tani: "Okay, that's settled. Let's go to our usual restaurant and discuss the details then." Kanryusai Takeda: "By all means, let's do that. I'll go and make the arrangements with the restaurant." Kondo is taken away by Tani and Takeda and walks off. ...What on earth is this "March Record"? And what was that about Shuhei...? Maybe I can find out by asking the others later. But now that things are awkward with Hijikata and Nagakura... It's hard to ask them, but maybe someone else could tell me. I hope there's something that will put everyone at ease... Chizuru Yukimura: "...! That's it, that might help..." I'll talk with Inoue about it later. ~Next Scene~ That night. Around dinner time. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Dinner, dinner, dinner, dinner!" "Finally, my favorite time of the day has come again!" Heisuke Toudou: "Now, as for today's meal..." Chizuru Yukimura: "I hope you all like it." I set out trays of delicious rice in front of everyone. Shinpachi Nagakura: "?! No way, this smell...!" Sanosuke Harada: "This smells like Edo miso soup." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yep. After consulting with Inoue, we tried to recreate the taste of Edo." "We can't get fish from the ocean, but we tried our best with what we had...." Shinpachi Nagakura: "This brings back memories! The saltiness seeps right into my body after a workout." "To someone used to the taste of Edo, the miso here tastes a bit bland." Chizuru Yukimura: "I’m sure you’ve all worked up quite a sweat during sword training and patrols." Heisuke Toudou: "This miso soup is a real hit~" Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm glad you liked it." "...How do you like it, Sanan?" Keisuke Sanan: "You went out of your way to prepare rice balls for me because of my injury." "I feel bad for asking you to do this for me when I haven't been able to contribute anything to the squad..." Chizuru Yukimura: "That's not true..." I wasn’t able to get rid of the awkward atmosphere completely... But I'm glad that everyone is happy like this. Souji Okita: "By the way, where’s Kondo? I can't find him anywhere. He’s missing out on this delicious Edo flavor." Keisuke Sanan: "Is there a reception for a dignitary from the shogunate or the Aizu clan? Have you heard anything, Hijikata?" Toshizo Hijikata: "No, I don't think there was anything planned..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah...!" Toshizo Hijikata: "What is it, Yukimura? Do you know something?" Chizuru Yukimura: "No, actually, during the day..." I told everyone what I heard in the courtyard earlier that day. Heisuke Toudou: "So you're saying he’s out eating with Tani and Takeda? That's crazy!" Souji Okita: "They’re probably at an expensive restaurant." "Even expensive food would taste bad when you’re eating with those guys." Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... so, there is something I wanted to ask." "What exactly is a marching record?" Toshizo Hijikata: "...The marching records are something we created after the Kinmon Incident, since we had trouble figuring out how to move our troops." "I wanted to write down our military movements for times like that, but..." Souji Okita: "Oh, I was wondering what you were doing late every night, so you were secretly doing that?" Toshizo Hijikata: "This is also part of the commander's duties." "But I didn't think Tani or Takeda would be interfering with it..." Souji Okita: "Maybe Takeda wanted to show off his military studies, which he's so proud of?" "Since you always decide everything on your own, he probably wanted to interfere." Chizuru Yukimura: "If anything, I think they'd like to put it all together for Hijikata to take a look at..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, I guess we'll go and see tomorrow." "If the vanguard turns out to be Tani, I'll be laughing out loud." Toshizo Hijikata: "Even if he's that kind of person, he wouldn't do something so obvious." "I don't think they would want to go to a place where they'll be the first to die." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, that's true." "They're just a bunch of people who want to stick with Kondo and have a good time." "So I guess I'll probably be the vanguard and Sano will be guarding the lord." Sanosuke Harada: "If things go as usual, that's probably what will happen." Shinpachi Nagakura: "But when it comes to war... is armor really necessary?" Toshizo Hijikata: "These days, guns are more important than armor." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Guns?! They're so unwieldy, we can't use those." "How many people do you think you can cut with a sword while loading bullets into a gun?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Well, if you put it like that, you’re probably right." Hijikata and Nagakura's conversation seemed to have gone back to the time before any animosity arose... Relieved, I couldn't help but smile. Toshizo Hijikata: "Hmm, what is it, Yukimura? What are you smiling about?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah, nothing..." "I'm glad you two have cleared up the misunderstanding." Hijikata & Nagakura: "...!" My words seemed to have reminded them of their fight. Shinpachi Nagakura: "...Thanks for the food. I'm going to go and practice for a bit." Nagakura roughly put his bowl on the tray,  And then left the hall. In the awkward atmosphere, Hijikata finished his meal in silence... Toshizo Hijikata: "I'm going back to work." After those brief words, he left the hall as well. Souji Okita: "Oh no, you said something unnecessary and got them riled up again." Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm sorry. I just..." Sanosuke Harada: "Don’t worry about it. Fights of that magnitude happened all the time when we were in Edo." Heisuke Toudou: "That's right. It's a regular thing. So here's nothing to worry about." Keisuke Sanan: "That's a bit of an exaggeration, but... fights of that magnitude were quite common." Chizuru Yukimura: "But..." Harada put his hand on my dejected shoulder. Sanosuke Harada: "...Hey, it’ll be fine." "Tani and Takeda are acting like Kondo's entourage and are plotting all sorts of schemes, but..." "Our bond isn't so shallow that it can be ruined by something like this." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Alright." My anxiety hadn't completely disappeared... But still, I'll believe in the bond that they've had for so long. ~Next Scene~ But the next day. Shinpachi Nagakura: "What the hell is this!? What on earth is going on with this ‘March Record’!?" Nagakura's voice echoed throughout the hall where the senior officers were gathered. Toshizo Hijikata: "Those guys... They've made a lot of changes to the draft of the marching record I gave to Kondo." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, hey, mine and Heisuke's names aren't on it anywhere!" "... Surely they couldn't have forgotten to write it down?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Heisuke is scheduled to go to Edo soon, so maybe he's been left out..." "What’s the meaning of this, Kondo? Have you heard anything from them?" Isami Kondo: "I'm sure that opinion was raised during the meeting..." "I made it very clear that I couldn't leave Nagakura out." Shinpachi Nagakura: "But your signature is clearly here, Kondo." Isami Kondo: "That's..." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, knowing you, you were probably flattered by those two, as usual." "Maybe you got carried away and they made you sign it?" "And you didn't like my attitude lately, so you left me out from the marching records. Is that right?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Hey Shinpachi, watch your words." "Kondo, this isn't your fault. If something like this had come around, I would have stopped it too." Shinpachi Nagakura: "What would you have done if this had become official before anyone noticed?!" Toshizo Hijikata: "I noticed it before anything happened this time, didn’t I?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "I'm saying there's no guarantee that it will be the same next time!" "And isn't it wrong to decide things only in consultation with Hijikata and Sanan, in the first place?" Toshizo Hijikata: "What are you getting at?" "We've been doing things this way ever since we came to Kyoto." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Just because it's been that way up until now, does that mean it's never going to change?" "Are you saying we should just shut up and go along with whatever you guys decide on your own!?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Have you lost your mind! You know that’s not true!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, whatever... I get it. I don't care what you guys, Tan, or Takeda think." "...I have my own thoughts on this matter." "Sano, Heisuke, let's go!" Nagakura kicked the floor and left the room. Heisuke Toudou: "Sorry, but I feel the same way." Harada and Heisuke also stand up, but... Harada gave Hijikata a wink as he left. And then, just like that, they disappear from the hall. In the oppressive silence that followed, Hijikata spoke. Toshizo Hijikata: "...What is going on, Kondo?" Isami Kondo: "As I said before, I heard that opinion come by once." "I don't remember saying that Nagakura should be removed at all." Toshizo Hijikata: "I figured as much. There's no way you'd say something like that." "Where are Tani and Takeda right now?" Hajime Saito: "They're on patrol duty at the moment, so they'll be back by evening." Toshizo Hijikata: "When they come back, I need to hear more details." Souji Okita: "...I've got one more thing I'm curious about." "Who is this 'Shuhei Kondo’? Shuhei is Tani's younger brother, right?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Now that I think about it, Tani said he wanted his younger brother Shuhei to be adopted by Kondo." "The fact that Tani and his younger brother are stationed near Kondo..." "...Does that mean the Tani brothers are planning to run the Shinsengumi?" Isami Kondo: "Now, wait a minute. That subject never came up during our discussions..." Apparently, Kondo wasn't aware of it either. Toshizo Hijikata: "This method of making decisions before anything has even been officially decided... I don't like it one bit." Keisuke Sanan: "It's a strategy to create accomplished facts and solidify your foothold." "It's bold, and blatant... do they really think we won't notice?" Toshizo Hijikata: "They think that if they can just get Kondo on board, they can do whatever they want after that." "... They've made a fool of us, too." Hajime Saito: "Commander, Shinpachi seems pretty angry..." Toshizo Hijikata: "Yeah. This is giving me a real headache." Souji Okita: "From the looks of it, I don't think it'll end with him getting drunk and blowing off some steam." "How are you going to take responsibility for this, Hijikata?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Even if you say that, there's nothing I can do." "That Tani and Takeda... they did some outrageous things." Isami Kondo: "I'm sorry, Toshi. It's all my fault..." Souji Okita: "It's not your fault, so don't worry about it, Kondo." "Hijikata is in the wrong, so let him take care of this mess." Toshizo Hijikata: "I get it already." "Anyway, don't tell anyone about this. I'll start the marching records from scratch." "I'll talk to Tani and Takeda first." "Don't let them find out, you guys just do what you normally do." Chuji Matsubara: "Understood." Susumu Yamazaki: "Commander, what do you want to do about Nagakura?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Shinpachi, well..." "No matter what I say now, it'll only add fuel to the fire." "Maybe we should wait and see how things go. Just be careful with your movements." Susumu Yamazaki: "Understood." Toshizo Hijikata: "Well then, you're dismissed. If anything happens, let me or the supervisors know right away." All: "Sir!" After that, the executives each left the hall as they pleased. Chizuru Yukimura: "......" As I cleared away the tea I had served... I secretly looked at Hijikata's condition. Toshizo Hijikata: "Really? They're causing one problem after another, at a time like this when we're so busy..." Hijikata seemed to be quite worried. Until now, the relationship between the senior officers has never been this bad... I wonder what will happen from now on... ~Next Scene~ And then, that night. It was time for dinner, and the senior officers gathered together as usual, but... Chizuru Yukimura: "Um, Nagakura...?" Sanosuke Harada: "He has no appetite. If he's not eating, it's probably gonna rain heavily tomorrow." Chizuru Yukimura: "......" Heisuke Toudou: "He seems to have his mind elsewhere, so why don't we just leave him alone for now?" Chizuru Yukimura: "But..." Recalling the events of the day... I was overcome with anxiety that something bad would happen. Sanosuke Harada: "Well, I'm sure he has his own thoughts about it." "He's just that kind of guy, so please be patient with him." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Okay." "How is Hijikata dealing with everything?" Chuji Matsubara: "It seems he's in his room right now." "He's got work to do, and he's in a position where he has to think about how to deal with the situation in the future." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Should I leave some food for the two of them, or have it delivered to their rooms?" He might not feel like eating dinner right now. Genzaburou Inoue: "That's a good idea... Then, let's split up and deliver the food. Who do you want to go to?" Chizuru Yukimura: “I…” I'll go to Nagakura. I'll go to Hijikata. I'm not going to either of them.