The following recap will be using information from the 2023 remake of Ishin!, as well as spoilers. Proceed with caution.
Prologue
December 10, 1867
Third Year of the Keio Era
A group of Shinsengumi approach an inn on a stormy night, charging in and attacking the men inside. As three of their number fight off the guards, the viewpoint character charges upstairs, his compatriots telling him to find Sakamoto Ryoma before he can escape. The viewpoint character continues on to find the upper level of the inn seemingly empty, narrowly avoiding an ambush from a gunman before cutting the attacker down. The viewpoint character finds another injured samurai in the room before a third man sitting at the window draws his attention. The third man says it's ironic that a man so set on moving to the future would get cut down by another stuck so firmly in the past, a man who isn't supposed to exist killing a man with two lives... the real Sakamoto Ryoma (Kazuma Kiryu).
"Sakamoto Ryoma", famed hero of the Ishin period, was murdered that night. The real Ryoma narrates what lead up to that point: for 300 years Japan had been under the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate (the Bakufu), but the arrival of American warships under command of Commodore Matthew Perry destabilized and would ultimately undo the Bakufu. Powerless against the advanced Western weapons, the samurai and the shogunate realized how weak their rule was, and as samurai do not serve weak rulers civil unrest began to form among the populace.
Third Year of the Keio Era
A group of Shinsengumi approach an inn on a stormy night, charging in and attacking the men inside. As three of their number fight off the guards, the viewpoint character charges upstairs, his compatriots telling him to find Sakamoto Ryoma before he can escape. The viewpoint character continues on to find the upper level of the inn seemingly empty, narrowly avoiding an ambush from a gunman before cutting the attacker down. The viewpoint character finds another injured samurai in the room before a third man sitting at the window draws his attention. The third man says it's ironic that a man so set on moving to the future would get cut down by another stuck so firmly in the past, a man who isn't supposed to exist killing a man with two lives... the real Sakamoto Ryoma (Kazuma Kiryu).
"Sakamoto Ryoma", famed hero of the Ishin period, was murdered that night. The real Ryoma narrates what lead up to that point: for 300 years Japan had been under the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate (the Bakufu), but the arrival of American warships under command of Commodore Matthew Perry destabilized and would ultimately undo the Bakufu. Powerless against the advanced Western weapons, the samurai and the shogunate realized how weak their rule was, and as samurai do not serve weak rulers civil unrest began to form among the populace.
Chapter 1: Escaping Home
One Year Earlier
Ryoma returns to his home in Tosa after spending a year training his swordsmanship in Edo (modern day Tokyo). As he wanders into town, there is a commotion ahead: a young girl doubles over in pain while her mother calls for help. A nearby doctor inspects her and tells the girl's mother that it's her appendix, and she'll need Western medicine if she is to get better. Before the mother can leave to find help, though, a pair of joshi (higher-caste samurai) begin strolling through town, and the townsfolk (being lower-caste goshi) must part and bow to them as they pass by. Ryoma joins the crowds in paying respects to the joshi, but ultimately the mother cannot take the cries from her daughter and breaks ranks to try and get some medicine.
The joshi stop her and ask what she thinks she's doing. The mother apologizes and begs mercy for herself and her daughter, but the joshi don't care and smack the mother to the ground, saying that if the girl dies then that's just fate and she should know better than to break ranks and try to defy them. The mother recovers and bitterly asks if the joshi are really all that special, wishing she had never moved to Tosa from Ozu as the samurai there would have gladly helped her and her daughter- do they really expect her to put them over her own flesh and blood? One of the joshi draws his sword and asks the woman who she thinks she is, talking to them like that, but before he can strike the woman Ryoma breaks ranks, grabs the sword, and decks the guy. As Ryoma growls that Tosa hasn't changed in the slightest, the second joshi draws his weapon and asks who Ryoma is, and why he isn't bowing like the other goshi. With this opening, Ryoma tells the mother to take her daughter and run for it- he's a Tosa native, and he knows the joshi well enough to know they are beyond reasoning with. The mother takes Ryoma's opening and runs while Ryoma faces off against the joshi.
The second joshi yells that Ryoma doesn't know what he's dealing with, with Ryoma countering as he tosses the first joshi's sword away- if he were to raise a blade against a member of the higher caste, their fellow joshi scumbags would retaliate and raze the surrounding village to the ground. Ryoma is more than willing to take his punishment for stepping out of line... just after he beats the shit out of the two joshi for striking a woman. He does so, with the other goshi mumbling about how Ryoma is really deep in it now that he's attacked a joshi. Ryoma yells that he's clearly aware of what he's done and what the consequences of his actions are, just as local police arrive to arrest Ryoma.
Ryoma is stripped of his weapons and clothes and thrown in jail, the guard asking why Ryoma would start causing trouble after having just gotten back from Edo. The guard decides to "remind" Ryoma that in Tosa class trumps everything- anyone disrespects a joshi, even a desperate mother, that is a crime punishable by death. The guard makes to leave, but Ryoma asks if if he's okay with all this- after all, the guard is a goshi just like him and has to bow to the joshi all the same. The guard opens up Ryoma's cell and draws his sword, telling him they are nothing alike- he is a higher ranked goshi than Ryoma, and he could easily kill Ryoma and no one would bat an eye. Before he can strike Ryoma, an older man steps out and says by that logic, he could kill the guard without issue. The guard asks who he is before the realization hits him, the man introducing himself as the Tosa Domain Magistrate and right hand to daimyo Yamauchi Yodo, Yoshida Toyo (Shintaro Kazama). The guard backs away in respect, with Toyo declaring he'll take over Ryoma's case from here; when the guard objects, Toyo glares at him and reminds him that he's a man of perfect order and respect- men like Ryoma aren't worth a proper trial, so he'll dispose of him personally. The guard departs, with Toyo sizing up Ryoma... before dropping the stern façade and welcoming his adopted son home.
Toyo tells Ryoma to get dressed and get out of the jail- he's engineered a window for Ryoma to sneak away, but they'll both get in trouble if they get caught. He tells Ryoma to go get something to eat before meeting him back at their old hideout- the Kengoshi Schoolhouse where Ryoma grew up (Ryoma can ask the townsfolk for directions in case he gets lost). The two part ways and Ryoma heads back to the docks where he first arrived in town, getting a snack from the nearby restaurant. Before he leaves, another goshi asks if Ryoma's the guy that stood up to the joshi, but his friend says that guy's probably long dead by now- the Black Ships may have thrown Japan into chaos, but Tosa never changes. The goshi apologizes to Ryoma for the mix up, but says that if he is interested in making a change he should consider joining the Tosa Loyalist Party. Ryoma starts off his search for the Kengoshi Schoolhouse.
Ryoma eventually finds the abandoned schoolhouse with Toyo waiting inside with a flask of sake. He invites Ryoma in for a drink, commenting that even after a year in Edo Ryoma has barely changed. Ryoma counters that it's the joshi that haven't changed, as Edo has opened his eyes to how backwards Tosa is politically and culturally- for his part, Toyo laughs and guesses perhaps some of the training did pay off in the end. Ryoma asks if Toyo will be alright after when he pulled at the prison, as if word got out the magistrate of Tosa let a prisoner walk free someone could use it to blackmail him. Toyo, though, is not worried that this would get to Tosa's ruling council- the guard was a "high goshi" in between the ranks of Toyo and Ryoma. If anything were to happen on his watch, the guard would be demoted and lose his status, and a man who suckles at power like that wouldn't do anything to risk his position. Men like Ryoma who don't kowtow to the caste system, though, those men are truly dangerous.
Toyo takes a moment to reminisce on the schoolhouse, now abandoned and dilapidated. He says it's been ten years since Ryoma and many others were orphaned by the joshi. Toyo created the school so as to shield the orphans from the joshi, with Ryoma asking why he (also a joshi) would do such a thing. Toyo isn't sure why, but he does know one thing: he's grown to hate Tosa more with every passing day he lives there. Class is law, and even the classes have classes (joshi, "high goshi", and goshi for the samurai), all barriers so the ruling classes can keep their power over the domain. But at the end of the day, they're all just flesh and blood, so Toyo created the schoolhouse to raise up people who can challenge the system and change Tosa for the better (those beaten down by the caste system would be useless in that endeavor). Toyo's philosophy is thus- in order to change Tosa, one must love and hate Tosa more than anything else; Ryoma's home was burned to the ground by the joshi fifteen years prior, so surely he wants change as much as anyone else does.
Ryoma asks if Toyo's philosophy is true, why does he work for the Domain? Why take the role of Magistrate, whose job it is to enforce the caste system? Toyo agrees that it's his role to maintain order and stability (and the castes) in Tosa... at least on the surface. Toyo asks if Ryoma has met with Takechi (Ryoma's adopted brother) yet, and when Ryoma admits he hasn't had the time Toyo explains that Takechi has taken up an important role within Tosa; during the time Ryoma had been away, Toyo had Takechi form the Tosa Loyalist Party, a group of 500 or so men (mostly goshi) who have grown disillusioned with and seek the abolishment of the caste system of Tosa. Toyo wants the Tosa Loyalists to destroy Tosa, and he wants Ryoma and Takechi to lead the charge. He orders Ryoma to go speak with Takechi and have the latter fill him in on the details while he heads back to the castle to attend to the rest of his duties. Ryoma asks where Takechi is, with Toyo telling him that while everyone knows about Takechi and the Loyalists actually meeting with him might be trickier, suggesting he might want to ask around first before speaking with him.
Ryoma wanders around town asking if anyone knows where Takechi might be, with one man pointing him towards the dojo on the northern side of town. The man warns Ryoma that Takechi and the Loyalists are training right now and won't be taking visitors, with Ryoma thanking the man before heading that way. Sure enough, the guard out front refuses to allow Ryoma to enter, saying he could be anyone trying to get in and take a swing at Takechi. Ryoma decides to go back into town to try and find some other way to meet Takechi, but while in town he sees some ronin harassing a shopkeep in the name of the Tosa Loyalists. The man protests that Takechi would never allow his men to act like common thugs, but the ronin take issue with this and draw their swords. Ryoma steps in and pulls out his own weapon, showing off his newly learned skills from Edo before defeating the ronin. The ronin admit they're fakes as all the Loyalists are up at the dojo, running off before Ryoma can hurt them more. As the ronin run off, a newcomer approaches and praises Ryoma for his technique, introducing himself as Shimada Yahei of the Tosa Loyalists. Shimada says Ryoma is just like how Takechi-sensei described him, saying that Takechi has been training up the goshi to learn respect and proper living along with combat skills. Ronin like the fakes have been causing some trouble for them, but that's a matter for another time as Takechi has been looking for Ryoma. The Loyalists are in the middle of training, but Ryoma has special permission to enter the dojo to speak with Takechi. Shimada will just let the guard at the front gate know and Ryoma can enter at his leisure.
Ryoma returns to the dojo and is let inside. Inside, Takechi Hanpeita (Keiji Shibusawa) is drilling his men in marksmanship, and he greets Ryoma once he makes his appearance. Takechi explains who Ryoma is to his men, with Ryoma stepping up and saying that Toyo told him everything about the organization. Takechi takes this to mean Ryoma is ready for the next step, announcing to his men that starting today Ryoma is the official Party Representative, making him de facto second in command to the entire organization. Some of the other Loyalists express shock and confusion at this, but Takechi gives Ryoma a reassuring smile.
After the others have departed, Ryoma and Takechi sit down to chat and catch up. Takechi says that making Ryoma Party Rep will shake things up a bit and prevent the Loyalists from becoming too rigid, but Ryoma expresses doubts as longtime Loyalists might take issue with Ryoma getting promoted so high so quickly. Takechi is unconcerned, saying a little fire under their asses will get the others more motivated- otherwise, the Loyalists might collapse in on themselves (using Tosa as a point of reference). Ryoma agrees and decides to change topics, asking Takechi if the scar on his back is still hurting. Takechi says he's feeling fine, and Ryoma should really stop beating himself up over something that happened fifteen years ago... though when your house is burned down by the joshi, who can blame Ryoma from holding something of a grudge? Ryoma still blames himself for Takechi getting burned, as if Takechi hadn't gone back to save Ryoma he would have died in the fire like his parents while Takechi would have gotten away without issue. Takechi tells Ryoma to stop apologizing for something that wasn't his fault- it was the joshi that started the fire, after all.
Takechi tells Ryoma that he and Toyo are going to change Tosa for the better, and they want Ryoma to be a part of it. Ryoma asks what exactly the plan is, and Takechi tells him that they are going to take all 500 Loyalists and storm Kochi Castle. They're not going there for violence, though- the 500 will surround the castle and Toyo will send an ultimatum for the Council to step down, and if they refuse the Loyalists will be prepared. Ryoma asks if the Loyalists intend to replace the Council, and Takechi says yes- they need the joshi to fear for their lives and see the error of their ways. Like the Black Ships arriving and throwing Japan into its current state, the people need to have their backs against the wall if they are to truly change for the better. Ryoma asks if Toyo had this planned out ever since he started the schoolhouse, with Takechi saying it's a possibility- he had Ryoma learn swordplay while Takechi learned politics, and all that preparation had to be for this new plan. Ryoma doubts if he'll be of much use, though, as the days of swordsmen are fading and even Takechi was training his men to use guns when Ryoma arrived. Takechi says that's only because his men lack talent- the moves are one thing when it comes to swords, and there's a whole extra layer of skill and talent that makes a swordsman truly effective. Guns, though, don't require the same level of skill, levelling the playing field.
Takechi sadly admits that while he wants to destroy Tosa's class system, people will never truly be equal- there will always be a divide between those who have talent and those who do not, and while the old walls may fall new one will rise up to take their place. Takechi wants to create a world where the uneducated, those who can't wield a sword, those kind of people can have a true shot at happiness. He gives Ryoma a gun, telling him the Loyalists will be happy to have him as they strive for a world where they won't have to rely on guns and swords, a world where they can be truly equal. Once more Takechi asks Ryoma to join him, and Ryoma takes the gun before agreeing to join. Takechi is happy to hear that, telling Ryoma that he and Toyo are meeting that night at the castle to discuss their next moves, and he suggests Ryoma join them. Ryoma asks if Takechi can just waltz in and meet the Magistrate like that, with Takechi reassuring Ryoma that one of Toyo's men will show them inside without issue. They've got time before the meeting and Takechi has some business to take care of, so he suggests Ryoma take some more time to settle in before they head out to meet Toyo.
While out and about, Ryoma is approached by the ronin from earlier, who have come seeking revenge for the beating Ryoma gave them earlier. Ryoma takes this time to test his skills with his pistol, even merging his swordman skills for a Dual Wielding style. The ronin beat a hasty retreat, with Ryoma deciding to head back to the dojo to meet Takechi. As he approaches, though, he is cut off by a group of Tosa Loyalists led by a man named Okada Izo (Akira Nishikiyama), who are angry that newcomer Ryoma got the Number 2 Position in the Party instead of him. Izo draws his sword while his flunkies praise him as the best swordsman in the party, Ryoma drawing his own blade and saying he won't hold back then. Ryoma fights Izo and his men, ultimately defeating them. With Izo down for the count, Ryoma tells them man that if he joined the Loyalists solely to kill people, he'd best leave and find a different group to sate his urges as that's not the kind of organization Takechi set up, and if he or anyone else has a problem with Ryoma, they can take it up with him personally. Beaten, Izo and his men retreat.
Takechi steps out of the dojo and apologizes for Izo, Ryoma asking what the other man's deal is. Takechi explains that's just the reality of the goshi in Tosa- few of them are educated, and even fewer can get decent jobs, so the Tosa Loyalists are their best shot at a better life. As such, they are jealous that Ryoma got such a high ranking position so quickly, but Takechi encourages Ryoma to forgive them as they all have their hopes and dreams for the future- that's why Takechi recruited them in the first place. Better to do away with all the class issues and start working towards the future. Ryoma admits that's probably too complex for a man like him, but he does know one thing- he, the Loyalists, Tosa, they all have room to grow.
That night, Ryoma and Takechi arrive at Kochi Castle, Ryoma telling Takechi it's the first time he's ever set foot within its grounds. Takechi says that's to be expect of them as goshi, and he's only been inside a few times himself. They head inside to a private room and are joined soon after by Toyo, the older man greeting them before taking a seat. He asks Takechi if Ryoma has been brought up to speed on the plan, saying that once they have their ultimatum they will force the Tosa Council to abolish the castes. Takechi says his men are ready and asks when they will strike, with Toyo saying he's not a particularly patient man and they will launch their plan the following night. Ryoma notes things are moving quite fast, but Toyo and Takechi disagree- they've been plotting this for almost a year, waiting for Ryoma to return from Edo before they could act. The 500 Loyalists are to surround the castle and hold their ground no matter what, to show the Council they mean business and will not be dissuaded- once they're in place, Toyo will take over affairs within the castle and steer the encounter to a favorable conclusion. Ryoma asks if it will be that simple, but Takechi counters that while it most certainly will not they have been planning for any unforeseen circumstances that arise.
Toyo does have one concern, though; Ryoma was just appointed Party Representative, and he asks Takechi if he's the one who did so. Takechi asks if that is a problem, with Toyo explaining that if their plan works and they overthrow the Council, the Loyalists will have unprecedented power within Tosa, but he does not think Ryoma is up to the task of wielding that power. Takechi protests that the plan was always for the three of them to work together, but Ryoma cuts in and says it's no problem to him- he never cared for fancy titles or positions of power, so if he's unworthy he's more than happy to step down. Takechi continues to protest, but Toyo cuts in and says that he thinks both of them are looking at this wrongly. Before he can explain, though, Ryoma spots motion at the door just before a man dressed in ninja garb steps in. The newcomer rushes in and slashes Toyo before the others can react, and when Ryoma rushes to the older man's aid the assassin easily beats him back before striking Toyo again. The assassin makes his escape, with Takechi telling Ryoma to take care of Toyo while he pursues the assassin. Ryoma rushes to Toyo's side, the older man asking who could have done this before he hears the sound of guards approaching. Toyo tells Ryoma to run for it, as if the guards find him like this they'll think Ryoma murdered Toyo and all their plans will be ruined. Ryoma hesitates, though, with Toyo telling him the fate of Tosa rests on his shoulders before he expires. Just then the castle guards rush in and see Ryoma with Toyo's dead body, drawing their weapons and attacking him for the Magistrate's murder.
Ryoma fights off the guards in an effort to both escape and catch up to Takechi and the assassin. When he gets to the main courtyard, he finds all the remaining guards dead and Takechi wounded, Takechi telling Ryoma that the assassin (who is still waiting by the door) killed them all. Ryoma moves to fight the masked man, but Takechi warns him the guy is a pro unlike any of the local thugs he's fought before, and he fights using a style unlike any Takechi has ever seen. Ryoma is undeterred and attacks, but the masked man proves just as dangerous as Takechi warned, fighting Ryoma to a standstill before knocking him back with a blow to the head. Takechi recovers and attacks, but the masked man slashes him across the arm before making his escape, throwing down a torch and starting a fire to prevent Ryoma from pursuing.
Ryoma moves to help Takechi, who is bleeding badly from a deep wound in his arm. He'll survive, asking Ryoma what happened to Toyo, with Ryoma sadly informing Takechi that Toyo is dead. Ryoma asks what happened and who the man in the mask was, but Takechi doesn't have a clue as to who he is or why he attacked them- perhaps one of the elders caught wise to their plan and hired an assassin to kill them and stop the Loyalists dead in their tracks. With Toyo dead, though, there's no way they can confirm a culprit, though Ryoma asks if catching the masked man might lead them to the one responsible. Ryoma declares he'll pursue the assassin and bring him in, but Takechi tells him not to- the assassin's probably long gone by now, and if Ryoma leaves Tosa even to pursue him everyone will think he's responsible for killing Toyo. Ryoma counters he's a wanted man already as the men at the castle already saw him with Toyo's body- they'll come after him whether he runs away or not. The two hear the guards inside raising an alarm, and Ryoma helps Takechi back to his feet before they make a break for it while they still can.
The two run off into the countryside, but Takechi's wounds begin to get the better of him and he collapses just shy of an old shrine. Ryoma runs to his brother's side, but Takechi urges him to keep going and leave him behind. Ryoma insists they can make it to the safety of nearby Awa, but Takechi refuses to slow Ryoma down; he'll stay back and explain everything to the authorities, and when Ryoma asks if he thinks they'll just accept that Takechi admits they probably won't... but Ryoma will escape, which is all that matters right now. Toyo may be dead, but the Tosa Loyalist Party lives on, and will continue to survive so long as one of them lives. Ryoma helps Takechi back to his feet, declaring that if it's the case where one of them must live, then there's one thing left for him to do. He leads Takechi to the shrine and locks him inside, saying that Tosa needs Takechi to survive- the guards are searching for him and him alone, and no one knows Takechi was at the castle during the attack, leaving him and the Loyalists free to save Tosa and the country.
Ryoma hears shouting, guessing the guards have caught up to them by now. Takechi begs Ryoma not to do this, but Ryoma refuses to back down before he goes to face the guards. The guards accuse Ryoma of murdering the Magistrate, demanding he surrender before drawing their swords. Ryoma declares he did not kill Toyo, but knowing that they will not believe him he declares that he will abandon Tosa and not return until he has the culprit in hand. As the guards ask what he means by this, Ryoma runs and leaps off a nearby cliff, plunging into the river below while Takechi and the guards look on.
Ryoma returns to his home in Tosa after spending a year training his swordsmanship in Edo (modern day Tokyo). As he wanders into town, there is a commotion ahead: a young girl doubles over in pain while her mother calls for help. A nearby doctor inspects her and tells the girl's mother that it's her appendix, and she'll need Western medicine if she is to get better. Before the mother can leave to find help, though, a pair of joshi (higher-caste samurai) begin strolling through town, and the townsfolk (being lower-caste goshi) must part and bow to them as they pass by. Ryoma joins the crowds in paying respects to the joshi, but ultimately the mother cannot take the cries from her daughter and breaks ranks to try and get some medicine.
The joshi stop her and ask what she thinks she's doing. The mother apologizes and begs mercy for herself and her daughter, but the joshi don't care and smack the mother to the ground, saying that if the girl dies then that's just fate and she should know better than to break ranks and try to defy them. The mother recovers and bitterly asks if the joshi are really all that special, wishing she had never moved to Tosa from Ozu as the samurai there would have gladly helped her and her daughter- do they really expect her to put them over her own flesh and blood? One of the joshi draws his sword and asks the woman who she thinks she is, talking to them like that, but before he can strike the woman Ryoma breaks ranks, grabs the sword, and decks the guy. As Ryoma growls that Tosa hasn't changed in the slightest, the second joshi draws his weapon and asks who Ryoma is, and why he isn't bowing like the other goshi. With this opening, Ryoma tells the mother to take her daughter and run for it- he's a Tosa native, and he knows the joshi well enough to know they are beyond reasoning with. The mother takes Ryoma's opening and runs while Ryoma faces off against the joshi.
The second joshi yells that Ryoma doesn't know what he's dealing with, with Ryoma countering as he tosses the first joshi's sword away- if he were to raise a blade against a member of the higher caste, their fellow joshi scumbags would retaliate and raze the surrounding village to the ground. Ryoma is more than willing to take his punishment for stepping out of line... just after he beats the shit out of the two joshi for striking a woman. He does so, with the other goshi mumbling about how Ryoma is really deep in it now that he's attacked a joshi. Ryoma yells that he's clearly aware of what he's done and what the consequences of his actions are, just as local police arrive to arrest Ryoma.
Ryoma is stripped of his weapons and clothes and thrown in jail, the guard asking why Ryoma would start causing trouble after having just gotten back from Edo. The guard decides to "remind" Ryoma that in Tosa class trumps everything- anyone disrespects a joshi, even a desperate mother, that is a crime punishable by death. The guard makes to leave, but Ryoma asks if if he's okay with all this- after all, the guard is a goshi just like him and has to bow to the joshi all the same. The guard opens up Ryoma's cell and draws his sword, telling him they are nothing alike- he is a higher ranked goshi than Ryoma, and he could easily kill Ryoma and no one would bat an eye. Before he can strike Ryoma, an older man steps out and says by that logic, he could kill the guard without issue. The guard asks who he is before the realization hits him, the man introducing himself as the Tosa Domain Magistrate and right hand to daimyo Yamauchi Yodo, Yoshida Toyo (Shintaro Kazama). The guard backs away in respect, with Toyo declaring he'll take over Ryoma's case from here; when the guard objects, Toyo glares at him and reminds him that he's a man of perfect order and respect- men like Ryoma aren't worth a proper trial, so he'll dispose of him personally. The guard departs, with Toyo sizing up Ryoma... before dropping the stern façade and welcoming his adopted son home.
Toyo tells Ryoma to get dressed and get out of the jail- he's engineered a window for Ryoma to sneak away, but they'll both get in trouble if they get caught. He tells Ryoma to go get something to eat before meeting him back at their old hideout- the Kengoshi Schoolhouse where Ryoma grew up (Ryoma can ask the townsfolk for directions in case he gets lost). The two part ways and Ryoma heads back to the docks where he first arrived in town, getting a snack from the nearby restaurant. Before he leaves, another goshi asks if Ryoma's the guy that stood up to the joshi, but his friend says that guy's probably long dead by now- the Black Ships may have thrown Japan into chaos, but Tosa never changes. The goshi apologizes to Ryoma for the mix up, but says that if he is interested in making a change he should consider joining the Tosa Loyalist Party. Ryoma starts off his search for the Kengoshi Schoolhouse.
Ryoma eventually finds the abandoned schoolhouse with Toyo waiting inside with a flask of sake. He invites Ryoma in for a drink, commenting that even after a year in Edo Ryoma has barely changed. Ryoma counters that it's the joshi that haven't changed, as Edo has opened his eyes to how backwards Tosa is politically and culturally- for his part, Toyo laughs and guesses perhaps some of the training did pay off in the end. Ryoma asks if Toyo will be alright after when he pulled at the prison, as if word got out the magistrate of Tosa let a prisoner walk free someone could use it to blackmail him. Toyo, though, is not worried that this would get to Tosa's ruling council- the guard was a "high goshi" in between the ranks of Toyo and Ryoma. If anything were to happen on his watch, the guard would be demoted and lose his status, and a man who suckles at power like that wouldn't do anything to risk his position. Men like Ryoma who don't kowtow to the caste system, though, those men are truly dangerous.
Toyo takes a moment to reminisce on the schoolhouse, now abandoned and dilapidated. He says it's been ten years since Ryoma and many others were orphaned by the joshi. Toyo created the school so as to shield the orphans from the joshi, with Ryoma asking why he (also a joshi) would do such a thing. Toyo isn't sure why, but he does know one thing: he's grown to hate Tosa more with every passing day he lives there. Class is law, and even the classes have classes (joshi, "high goshi", and goshi for the samurai), all barriers so the ruling classes can keep their power over the domain. But at the end of the day, they're all just flesh and blood, so Toyo created the schoolhouse to raise up people who can challenge the system and change Tosa for the better (those beaten down by the caste system would be useless in that endeavor). Toyo's philosophy is thus- in order to change Tosa, one must love and hate Tosa more than anything else; Ryoma's home was burned to the ground by the joshi fifteen years prior, so surely he wants change as much as anyone else does.
Ryoma asks if Toyo's philosophy is true, why does he work for the Domain? Why take the role of Magistrate, whose job it is to enforce the caste system? Toyo agrees that it's his role to maintain order and stability (and the castes) in Tosa... at least on the surface. Toyo asks if Ryoma has met with Takechi (Ryoma's adopted brother) yet, and when Ryoma admits he hasn't had the time Toyo explains that Takechi has taken up an important role within Tosa; during the time Ryoma had been away, Toyo had Takechi form the Tosa Loyalist Party, a group of 500 or so men (mostly goshi) who have grown disillusioned with and seek the abolishment of the caste system of Tosa. Toyo wants the Tosa Loyalists to destroy Tosa, and he wants Ryoma and Takechi to lead the charge. He orders Ryoma to go speak with Takechi and have the latter fill him in on the details while he heads back to the castle to attend to the rest of his duties. Ryoma asks where Takechi is, with Toyo telling him that while everyone knows about Takechi and the Loyalists actually meeting with him might be trickier, suggesting he might want to ask around first before speaking with him.
Ryoma wanders around town asking if anyone knows where Takechi might be, with one man pointing him towards the dojo on the northern side of town. The man warns Ryoma that Takechi and the Loyalists are training right now and won't be taking visitors, with Ryoma thanking the man before heading that way. Sure enough, the guard out front refuses to allow Ryoma to enter, saying he could be anyone trying to get in and take a swing at Takechi. Ryoma decides to go back into town to try and find some other way to meet Takechi, but while in town he sees some ronin harassing a shopkeep in the name of the Tosa Loyalists. The man protests that Takechi would never allow his men to act like common thugs, but the ronin take issue with this and draw their swords. Ryoma steps in and pulls out his own weapon, showing off his newly learned skills from Edo before defeating the ronin. The ronin admit they're fakes as all the Loyalists are up at the dojo, running off before Ryoma can hurt them more. As the ronin run off, a newcomer approaches and praises Ryoma for his technique, introducing himself as Shimada Yahei of the Tosa Loyalists. Shimada says Ryoma is just like how Takechi-sensei described him, saying that Takechi has been training up the goshi to learn respect and proper living along with combat skills. Ronin like the fakes have been causing some trouble for them, but that's a matter for another time as Takechi has been looking for Ryoma. The Loyalists are in the middle of training, but Ryoma has special permission to enter the dojo to speak with Takechi. Shimada will just let the guard at the front gate know and Ryoma can enter at his leisure.
Ryoma returns to the dojo and is let inside. Inside, Takechi Hanpeita (Keiji Shibusawa) is drilling his men in marksmanship, and he greets Ryoma once he makes his appearance. Takechi explains who Ryoma is to his men, with Ryoma stepping up and saying that Toyo told him everything about the organization. Takechi takes this to mean Ryoma is ready for the next step, announcing to his men that starting today Ryoma is the official Party Representative, making him de facto second in command to the entire organization. Some of the other Loyalists express shock and confusion at this, but Takechi gives Ryoma a reassuring smile.
After the others have departed, Ryoma and Takechi sit down to chat and catch up. Takechi says that making Ryoma Party Rep will shake things up a bit and prevent the Loyalists from becoming too rigid, but Ryoma expresses doubts as longtime Loyalists might take issue with Ryoma getting promoted so high so quickly. Takechi is unconcerned, saying a little fire under their asses will get the others more motivated- otherwise, the Loyalists might collapse in on themselves (using Tosa as a point of reference). Ryoma agrees and decides to change topics, asking Takechi if the scar on his back is still hurting. Takechi says he's feeling fine, and Ryoma should really stop beating himself up over something that happened fifteen years ago... though when your house is burned down by the joshi, who can blame Ryoma from holding something of a grudge? Ryoma still blames himself for Takechi getting burned, as if Takechi hadn't gone back to save Ryoma he would have died in the fire like his parents while Takechi would have gotten away without issue. Takechi tells Ryoma to stop apologizing for something that wasn't his fault- it was the joshi that started the fire, after all.
Takechi tells Ryoma that he and Toyo are going to change Tosa for the better, and they want Ryoma to be a part of it. Ryoma asks what exactly the plan is, and Takechi tells him that they are going to take all 500 Loyalists and storm Kochi Castle. They're not going there for violence, though- the 500 will surround the castle and Toyo will send an ultimatum for the Council to step down, and if they refuse the Loyalists will be prepared. Ryoma asks if the Loyalists intend to replace the Council, and Takechi says yes- they need the joshi to fear for their lives and see the error of their ways. Like the Black Ships arriving and throwing Japan into its current state, the people need to have their backs against the wall if they are to truly change for the better. Ryoma asks if Toyo had this planned out ever since he started the schoolhouse, with Takechi saying it's a possibility- he had Ryoma learn swordplay while Takechi learned politics, and all that preparation had to be for this new plan. Ryoma doubts if he'll be of much use, though, as the days of swordsmen are fading and even Takechi was training his men to use guns when Ryoma arrived. Takechi says that's only because his men lack talent- the moves are one thing when it comes to swords, and there's a whole extra layer of skill and talent that makes a swordsman truly effective. Guns, though, don't require the same level of skill, levelling the playing field.
Takechi sadly admits that while he wants to destroy Tosa's class system, people will never truly be equal- there will always be a divide between those who have talent and those who do not, and while the old walls may fall new one will rise up to take their place. Takechi wants to create a world where the uneducated, those who can't wield a sword, those kind of people can have a true shot at happiness. He gives Ryoma a gun, telling him the Loyalists will be happy to have him as they strive for a world where they won't have to rely on guns and swords, a world where they can be truly equal. Once more Takechi asks Ryoma to join him, and Ryoma takes the gun before agreeing to join. Takechi is happy to hear that, telling Ryoma that he and Toyo are meeting that night at the castle to discuss their next moves, and he suggests Ryoma join them. Ryoma asks if Takechi can just waltz in and meet the Magistrate like that, with Takechi reassuring Ryoma that one of Toyo's men will show them inside without issue. They've got time before the meeting and Takechi has some business to take care of, so he suggests Ryoma take some more time to settle in before they head out to meet Toyo.
While out and about, Ryoma is approached by the ronin from earlier, who have come seeking revenge for the beating Ryoma gave them earlier. Ryoma takes this time to test his skills with his pistol, even merging his swordman skills for a Dual Wielding style. The ronin beat a hasty retreat, with Ryoma deciding to head back to the dojo to meet Takechi. As he approaches, though, he is cut off by a group of Tosa Loyalists led by a man named Okada Izo (Akira Nishikiyama), who are angry that newcomer Ryoma got the Number 2 Position in the Party instead of him. Izo draws his sword while his flunkies praise him as the best swordsman in the party, Ryoma drawing his own blade and saying he won't hold back then. Ryoma fights Izo and his men, ultimately defeating them. With Izo down for the count, Ryoma tells them man that if he joined the Loyalists solely to kill people, he'd best leave and find a different group to sate his urges as that's not the kind of organization Takechi set up, and if he or anyone else has a problem with Ryoma, they can take it up with him personally. Beaten, Izo and his men retreat.
Takechi steps out of the dojo and apologizes for Izo, Ryoma asking what the other man's deal is. Takechi explains that's just the reality of the goshi in Tosa- few of them are educated, and even fewer can get decent jobs, so the Tosa Loyalists are their best shot at a better life. As such, they are jealous that Ryoma got such a high ranking position so quickly, but Takechi encourages Ryoma to forgive them as they all have their hopes and dreams for the future- that's why Takechi recruited them in the first place. Better to do away with all the class issues and start working towards the future. Ryoma admits that's probably too complex for a man like him, but he does know one thing- he, the Loyalists, Tosa, they all have room to grow.
That night, Ryoma and Takechi arrive at Kochi Castle, Ryoma telling Takechi it's the first time he's ever set foot within its grounds. Takechi says that's to be expect of them as goshi, and he's only been inside a few times himself. They head inside to a private room and are joined soon after by Toyo, the older man greeting them before taking a seat. He asks Takechi if Ryoma has been brought up to speed on the plan, saying that once they have their ultimatum they will force the Tosa Council to abolish the castes. Takechi says his men are ready and asks when they will strike, with Toyo saying he's not a particularly patient man and they will launch their plan the following night. Ryoma notes things are moving quite fast, but Toyo and Takechi disagree- they've been plotting this for almost a year, waiting for Ryoma to return from Edo before they could act. The 500 Loyalists are to surround the castle and hold their ground no matter what, to show the Council they mean business and will not be dissuaded- once they're in place, Toyo will take over affairs within the castle and steer the encounter to a favorable conclusion. Ryoma asks if it will be that simple, but Takechi counters that while it most certainly will not they have been planning for any unforeseen circumstances that arise.
Toyo does have one concern, though; Ryoma was just appointed Party Representative, and he asks Takechi if he's the one who did so. Takechi asks if that is a problem, with Toyo explaining that if their plan works and they overthrow the Council, the Loyalists will have unprecedented power within Tosa, but he does not think Ryoma is up to the task of wielding that power. Takechi protests that the plan was always for the three of them to work together, but Ryoma cuts in and says it's no problem to him- he never cared for fancy titles or positions of power, so if he's unworthy he's more than happy to step down. Takechi continues to protest, but Toyo cuts in and says that he thinks both of them are looking at this wrongly. Before he can explain, though, Ryoma spots motion at the door just before a man dressed in ninja garb steps in. The newcomer rushes in and slashes Toyo before the others can react, and when Ryoma rushes to the older man's aid the assassin easily beats him back before striking Toyo again. The assassin makes his escape, with Takechi telling Ryoma to take care of Toyo while he pursues the assassin. Ryoma rushes to Toyo's side, the older man asking who could have done this before he hears the sound of guards approaching. Toyo tells Ryoma to run for it, as if the guards find him like this they'll think Ryoma murdered Toyo and all their plans will be ruined. Ryoma hesitates, though, with Toyo telling him the fate of Tosa rests on his shoulders before he expires. Just then the castle guards rush in and see Ryoma with Toyo's dead body, drawing their weapons and attacking him for the Magistrate's murder.
Ryoma fights off the guards in an effort to both escape and catch up to Takechi and the assassin. When he gets to the main courtyard, he finds all the remaining guards dead and Takechi wounded, Takechi telling Ryoma that the assassin (who is still waiting by the door) killed them all. Ryoma moves to fight the masked man, but Takechi warns him the guy is a pro unlike any of the local thugs he's fought before, and he fights using a style unlike any Takechi has ever seen. Ryoma is undeterred and attacks, but the masked man proves just as dangerous as Takechi warned, fighting Ryoma to a standstill before knocking him back with a blow to the head. Takechi recovers and attacks, but the masked man slashes him across the arm before making his escape, throwing down a torch and starting a fire to prevent Ryoma from pursuing.
Ryoma moves to help Takechi, who is bleeding badly from a deep wound in his arm. He'll survive, asking Ryoma what happened to Toyo, with Ryoma sadly informing Takechi that Toyo is dead. Ryoma asks what happened and who the man in the mask was, but Takechi doesn't have a clue as to who he is or why he attacked them- perhaps one of the elders caught wise to their plan and hired an assassin to kill them and stop the Loyalists dead in their tracks. With Toyo dead, though, there's no way they can confirm a culprit, though Ryoma asks if catching the masked man might lead them to the one responsible. Ryoma declares he'll pursue the assassin and bring him in, but Takechi tells him not to- the assassin's probably long gone by now, and if Ryoma leaves Tosa even to pursue him everyone will think he's responsible for killing Toyo. Ryoma counters he's a wanted man already as the men at the castle already saw him with Toyo's body- they'll come after him whether he runs away or not. The two hear the guards inside raising an alarm, and Ryoma helps Takechi back to his feet before they make a break for it while they still can.
The two run off into the countryside, but Takechi's wounds begin to get the better of him and he collapses just shy of an old shrine. Ryoma runs to his brother's side, but Takechi urges him to keep going and leave him behind. Ryoma insists they can make it to the safety of nearby Awa, but Takechi refuses to slow Ryoma down; he'll stay back and explain everything to the authorities, and when Ryoma asks if he thinks they'll just accept that Takechi admits they probably won't... but Ryoma will escape, which is all that matters right now. Toyo may be dead, but the Tosa Loyalist Party lives on, and will continue to survive so long as one of them lives. Ryoma helps Takechi back to his feet, declaring that if it's the case where one of them must live, then there's one thing left for him to do. He leads Takechi to the shrine and locks him inside, saying that Tosa needs Takechi to survive- the guards are searching for him and him alone, and no one knows Takechi was at the castle during the attack, leaving him and the Loyalists free to save Tosa and the country.
Ryoma hears shouting, guessing the guards have caught up to them by now. Takechi begs Ryoma not to do this, but Ryoma refuses to back down before he goes to face the guards. The guards accuse Ryoma of murdering the Magistrate, demanding he surrender before drawing their swords. Ryoma declares he did not kill Toyo, but knowing that they will not believe him he declares that he will abandon Tosa and not return until he has the culprit in hand. As the guards ask what he means by this, Ryoma runs and leaps off a nearby cliff, plunging into the river below while Takechi and the guards look on.
Chapter 2: A Man Called Saito Hajime
One Year Later
Kyo
Ryoma narrates that the Loyalist Party has evolved into a national force in the year since Toyo's death. Now, they seek the overthrow of the Bakufu and the elevation of the Emperor as supreme ruler over Japan, and as such many of them have gathered in the royal capital of Kyo (Kyoto), where the Emperor resides. Some have even gone as far as to murder Bakufu officials and generally disturb the peace of the city.
Along the waterfront is an inn called Teradaya, where attendant Narasaki Oryo (Yuki) is prepping lunch for the guests. The proprietress of the inn, Otose (Mirei Park), tells Oryo to go wake up their lazybones customer upstairs, saying they won't be able to clean up properly if he doesn't eat at a regular time when Oryo protests. Oryo heads upstairs and enters the room of "Saito Hajime" (Ryoma under an alias), chiding him that if he has enough time to drink, gamble, and sleep, the very least he can do is pay his rent. Otose tells Oryo to lay off Hajime, though she does tell him she'll put the rent on his tab. Oryo tells Ryoma lunch is ready, but he says he's heading out as the "dice are calling his name". He'll be back late so there's no need to leave dinner for him, with Oryo saying that won't lower his rent any before she leaves.
As Ryoma heads out for the day, Otose stops him and tells him to be careful; as a ronin (and a suspicious one at that) he's likely to attract unwanted attention from some of the folks around town. Ryoma asks if she means the Shinsegumi will just cut him down in the street, to which Otose replies they will- they talk big about protecting order within the city, but ever since the Bakufu let them loose they've been on a rampage against anyone that crosses them and have only made the violence in the city worse. It'd be a shame if Ryoma just drank and gambled away his money only to end up dead in the street, but Ryoma is unperturbed and asks of she's only looking out for him in order to ensure she'll get his rent money. Otose tells Ryoma to think whatever he wants, and with that Ryoma is off. He makes a show of staggering through the street as a tired wastrel, drawing mocking laughter from the citizens of Kyo, but once he's out of sight he drops the act and strides off with purpose.
The next cut shows Ryoma beating down a member of a local dojo, the other members complimenting him on his strength. Ryoma tosses aside the bokken he was using and declares no, these people are just too weak. The men take umbrage at this as Ryoma turns to leave, surrounding him and asking him where he thinks he's going. Ryoma asks them a question before he sticks around- do they know anyone that uses the Tennen Rishin style of sword fighting, a countryside technique taught at a dojo called Shieikan in Edo. Tennen Rishin draws from various assets such as jujutsu, staff combat, and old martial arts, with a focus on function over form. Ryoma is looking for a man who uses that style (the masked assassin), and he has already visited a number of dojos around town without success. The men in this dojo have not heard of Tennen Rishin, the leader asking if that's all Ryoma came there for. Ryoma says yes and continues to try to leave, but the men all prepare their bokken and attack Ryoma.
Ryoma trashes them in the ensuing fight. Shortly after another man enters, Ryoma identifying him as an information broker named "Ginji the Crow". Ryoma asks the Crow how he found him, with the Crow saying he has eyes and ears all over town and asks how todays hunt went. Ryoma says this dojo was a waste- they didn't even give him a decent fight afterward. All he has to go on is that the assassin used the Tennen Rishin style, and a guess that perhaps he would be hanging around one of the many dojos in Kyo. The Crow points out that he's been doing this for months now, with Ryoma admitting he's hit a dead end before asking the Crow if he's heard anything. The Crow admits he has not as Tennen Rishin is pretty obscure, asking Ryoma if he's certain the man he's looking for is even in Kyo in the first place. Ryoma says that Tennen Rishin comes from a dojo in Edo, but that dojo closed down some time ago and all its members relocated to Kyo- by that logic, Ryoma has been searching in Kyo. The Crow says that's all well and good, but lately Kyo has been flooded by hundreds of Loyalist shishi, each one claiming their own obscure style and making Ryoma's search that much harder. Ryoma asks if it's normal for information brokers to whine about their jobs as much as the Crow does, but the Crow reassures Ryoma that he'll redouble his efforts to get Ryoma what he's looking for. Unbeknownst to either of them, a third man has been eavesdropping on them through a nearby window, departing shortly before Ryoma leaves.
Frustrated by his lack of progress, Ryoma decides to roam the streets in search of more clues. As he wanders through town, he passes a pair of ronin trying to stiff a barmaid on their tab, saying that since they're fighting against the Bakufu they don't need to pay. One of them bumps into Ryoma and demands he apologize, but Ryoma has neither money nor an apology for scum like them. This angers the two ronin and they draw their swords, but Ryoma proves the better fighter and sends them running. The barmaid thanks Ryoma for his help, as they have had to deal with men like that with increasing frequency around town. The woman pays Ryoma one ryo for his trouble and sends him on his way, Ryoma continuing his search around town for more information. As he continues down the main drag, he sees a few shady ronin stop when they spot Shinsengumi troopers, running off so as to not draw their attention. Ryoma goes to do the same, but before he can he's stopped by a familiar face: Shimada Yahei from Tosa, who happily greets Ryoma unaware that he's in Kyo under an alias. Ryoma tries to insist that he's got the wrong guy, but Shimada continue to claim he's Ryoma. This draws the attention of the Shinsengumi, Ryoma and Shimada running when the troopers begin pursuing them.
Ryoma manages to lose the Shinsengumi by ducking into an alley, however it turns out he's not alone. Hiding in the shadows is the man from the dojo, who steps out and tells Ryoma it can be pretty easy to lose rubes like the Shinsengumi in town. Ryoma asks who the man is before going for his sword, but the man quickly says he's not a friend of the Shinsengumi and Ryoma can drop the suspicion. As for him, he's just another man on the run, which satisfies Ryoma and he prepares to leave. Before he does so, the man asks if Ryoma found his Tennen Rishin swordsman yet, with Ryoma asking who he is and how he knew about that. The man tells Ryoma he was at the dojo, though he did his best not to stand out. That still doesn't tell Ryoma who he is, with the man finally introducing himself as Niibori Matsusuke of the Choshu Domain (Shun Akiyama), and while he may not look it he's actually a Loyalist with a price on his head. Ryoma asks if "Niibori" is an alias, to which Niibori says it's not like he can trust anyone with his real name in this day and age, but if Ryoma were to join him he'd gladly tell him his true name in due time. Ryoma is confused, with Niibori explaining he's in Kyo in search of skilled fighters (that's why he was at the dojo when Ryoma stopped in). Ryoma asks why, and Niibori says he's looking to cause a "disturbance", and he only wants the best of the best to ensure his plan goes through. Ryoma isn't interested, so Niibori offers a favor instead- he's one of the best informants back in Choshu, and he wants to offer Ryoma some better information than what he's been getting from the Crow. If he really wants to find the Tennen Rishin user, Niibori can introduce him to the best information broker in Kyo. All he wants in return is that he and Ryoma leave on good terms, which Ryoma accepts.
Niibori tells Ryoma that the man lives in the slums called Purgatory. He goes by the name "the Bathkeeper of Sai", because he always meets his clients in a bathhouse (switching it up so as to cover his tracks). Niibori will go ask the Bathkeeper to look into the Tennen Rishin user, and when night falls Ryoma is to go to the bathhouse in South Yashikimachi and introduce himself as Niibori Matsusuke- then, they will send him to meet the Bathkeeper. Ryoma asks what the catch is, with Niibori saying even if there was a catch Ryoma would still be getting more out of this than he would. All Ryoma has to do is go to the bathhouse in South Yashikimachi after dark and say he's Niibori, and that will be that. It's a long time until then, though, so Niibori suggests he steer clear of the Shinsengumi until then... not that he really needs reminding. Ryoma turns to leave again, with Niibori asking if he can at least get his name. Ryoma tells him he might be using an alias too, which Niibori says is only fair . Ryoma introduces himself as Saito Hajime, which Niibori accepts before departing. With nothing better to do, Ryoma heads back to Teradaya to rest until nightfall.
That night, Ryoma heads to the bathhouse Niibori directed him to, heading inside and giving the false name to the attendant. The attendant welcomes in and tells him to head on in, where the Bathkeeper (the Florist of Sai) is waiting for him. Ryoma enters the bath with the Bathkeeper, the Bathkeeper reassuring Ryoma that he's booked the whole place and no one will interrupt them. Ryoma guesses that Niibori already filled the Bathkeeper in as to why he's here, with the Bathkeeper affirming before asking why he's on the hunt for a Tennen Rishin user. Ryoma declines to answer even if it costs him more money, which the Bathkeeper says it would if Niibori wasn't footing the bill for their meeting. Ryoma asks just who Niibori is, but the Bathkeeper declines to tell him anything more than Ryoma already knows, which Ryoma flips back on him as the Bathkeeper seems interested in learning motives. The Bathkeeper admits he's a naturally curious man, and so retracts his question on Ryoma's motive.
They start back at the beginning, the Bathkeeper recapping all the info on Tennen Rishin Ryoma already has. What Ryoma doesn't know, though, is that after moving from Edo to Kyo, the Tennen Rishin practitioners set up a certain organization backed by the Bakufu to maintain order and stability in Kyo: the Shinsengumi. The head of the Shinsengumi, Kondo Isami, is the fourth heir to the Tennen Rishin style- he and six other masters make up the top brass of the Shinsengumi: Deputy Chief Hijikata Toshizo, General Secretary Yamanami Keisuke, First Division Captain Okita Soji, Second Division Captain Nagakura Shinpachi, Sixth Division Captain Inoue Genzaburo, and Eigth Division Captain Todo Heisuke. At first they were mocked for their "rube swordplay", but that all changed when they started getting results and massacring Loyalists by the dozens. The Shinsengumi is roughly a thousand strong as of now, and with the officers at the head they could even put the armies of the Sengoku period to shame. Ryoma asks if any of the officers mentioned travelled to Tosa in the last year, but the Bathkeeper doesn't know that- one would have to get really close to the officers to learn that information, and that would take a lot of time. The Bathkeepr can do it for a substantial fee, but Ryoma declines as he now has a clear idea of just where his target is. The Bathkeeper asks what his plan is, but before Ryoma can answer they hear a commotion outside as the attendant tries to keep a new arrival from entering. From the sound of the slap, it doesn't go well.
Into the bath comes a giant of a man (Ryuji Goda), with the Bathkeeper asking if he saw the sign saying the whole place had been reserved. The large man dismisses that as something the Bathkeeper could have said to his face, revealing he knows who the man is as well. He steps into the bath, only to immediately hop back out and yell at the attendant for running the water too hot. The large man grabs the attendant and pitches him into the bath, Ryoma telling the man that he doesn't care for his attitude. Ryoma bids the Bathkeeper farewell and goes to leave, but the large man grabs him and asks him to repeat what he said about having an attitude. Ryoma swats him off and tells him this will get ugly, but the large man sees this as a challenge and the two square off. Ryoma warns the Bathkeeper, who complains about them ruining his bath before the two men start fighting. Ryoma and the man fight each other to a standstill, each one asking just who the other is. Before they can start up again, the Bathkeeper pitches a bucket of hot water on them, telling them that if they want round two they'd best take it outside. The man offers to take Ryoma out for a drink instead, Ryoma agreeing to the proposal.
The two head out to a nearby brothel, where they enjoy sake and entertainment from the local courtesans. As they drink, Ryoma comments that the man is surprisingly generous. The man replies he rarely takes other men out on the town, so it must be that he's taken a shine to Ryoma. He asks Ryoma where he's from, which Ryoma counters by saying he's not drunk enough to talk about his past. The man points out Ryoma's drinking more than he is, but when Ryoma continues to stonewall he changes questions and asks what he wanted from the Bathkeeper. Ryoma says he could have found out for himself, guessing the man was there to hire the Bathkeeper himself; the man confirms this, and would have gotten everything he wanted if Ryoma wasn't there. He offers a trade of why he was there for why Ryoma was there, but again Ryoma declines the offer. the large man laughs this off and says he has nothing to hide at least, and tells Ryoma why he sought out the Bathkeeper: he wanted information on the Shinsengumi's leader, Kondo Isami.
The man explains that Kondo was the reason he was so pissed off at the bathhouse. Ryoma asks if this means the man has met Kondo, which he confirms- they had actually met a few hours prior to his fight with Ryoma. The man took an instant dislike to Kondo, seeing him as a puffed-up wannabe samurai with only his fancy Tennen Rishin style to go off of. Still, interesting that he'd run into Kondo and then Ryoma, two strong men out on the town. Ryoma asks how he got a meeting with Kondo in the first place, with the man asking if Ryoma wants to meet him as well. Still, it's not like you can just invite a killer like Kondo out for tea- you'd have to do something like break into the Shinsengumi barracks or (as Ryoma finishes) join the Shinsengumi itself. Ryoma asks what route the man took, which the man counters he wasn't looking for Kondo- Kondo was looking for him.
Ryoma asks why Kondo was looking for him, but the man says he should have asked sooner before the sake kicked in. Now, he wants a girl, taking one of the courtesans towards the backroom. Before he leaves, though, he does introduce himself properly as Saigo Kichinosuke, commander of the Satsuma army. With that he leaves, the remaining courtesan explaining that Saigo is a man who generally calls the shots around here- that has made him a lot of enemies, so he puts on the Osaka accent and usually refrains from telling others his name. From the way things have gone that night, it seems like Saigo does in fact like Ryoma.
After finishing his drinks, Ryoma decides to head back to Teradaya to sleep. On his way back, though, he spots a crowd of people gathered around something, going over to investigate. It's the dead body of a ronin, with the crowd questioning if the Shinsengumi are responsible. Ryoma takes a closer look, recoiling when he sees that it's Shimada Yahei. As he draws back, a man in a straw hat approaches him and tell him Shimada's lips were too loose and he needed to be silenced. Ryoma asks if the man is responsible for killing him, but the man says they need not be enemies before identifying him as Ryoma. Ryoma grabs his sword, but the man tells him not to make a scene here- if he wants to settle things, they can meet in Mukurogai later. The man tells Ryoma to ask the innkeepers at Teradaya for directions if needed, but will say nothing more until Ryoma arrives in Mukurogai. With that the man leaves, Ryoma deciding to head back to Teradaya for information.
Ryoma returns to Teradaya, where he is greeted by Oryo. Ryoma asks Oryo how to get to Mukurogai, but Oryo says you don't go to Mukurogai- you end up there, as Mukurogai is a desolate slum that not even government law enforcement would dare enter. It's full of criminals and vagrants, with Oryo saying there may even be corpses piled there that pickpockets loot for anything valuable. Ryoma asks a nearby boatman if he'll take him to Mukurogai, with Oryo protesting that Ryoma shouldn't go. The boatman, though, is perfectly fine for taking Ryoma in, saying he'll just cut and run in case there's any trouble. Seeing that she can't dissuade him, Oryo says she'll just pretend she heard nothing while the two men get ready to depart.
On the ride in, the boatman asks Ryoma what his business in Mukurogai is. Ryoma says he was invited in by a man looking to meet with him, with the boatman saying there's no point in trying to stay far away then. He asks Ryoma if he wants to know why the slums are called "Mukurogai"; it's real name is Rokumoncho, and it used to host the largest temple in all of Rakugai (the suburbs of Kyoto). A famous priest used to live there, turning it into a refuge for the sick and lost, but a plague hit the temple and killed everyone inside. The bodies were buried quickly due to the plague, and even a little digging will reveal enough bones to fill a crypt. That's where it got the name "Mukurogai"- the Dead Man's Quarter. Nowadays its a haven for outlaws of all sorts, so the boatman suggest Ryoma not stay long inside as they arrive.
Ryoma steps off the boat and thanks the boatman for the risky journey, telling him he can head back and Ryoma will find his own way out of Mukurogai. Ryoma heads deep into the complex, where he is stopped by some local ronin asking him to turn over his valuables. Ryoma says he's here to meet a man in a straw hat, which the man confirms as he steps out of the shadows and reveals himself to be Izo. Ryoma asks if this means Takechi is in Mukurogai as well, which Izo declines to answer before drawing his sword and challenging him to a fight. Ryoma fights and defeats Izo and his men, with Izo complimenting Ryoma for fighting like a real killer now. He sheaths his sword as Ryoma asks what the meaning of all this was, with Izo saying he just wanted to see how Ryoma has improved himself since they let met. That, and he can't bring someone to Takechi if he hasn't seen him in a year. This confirms that Takechi is in Kyo, and Izo adds that the Shinsengumi are hunting him down so they have to remain in hiding. Ryoma confirms that Takechi is deeper in Mukurogai, but Izo refuses to lead Ryoma to him on account of Ryoma pissing him off.
Ryoma heads out on his own and finds Takechi hunkered down in one of the many shacks within Mukurogai. The two greet each other and Ryoma sits with Takechi, Takechi apologizing for siccing Izo on him when he arrived- in a city like Kyo, you can't be too careful. Ryoma asks when Takechi arrived, with Takechi saying he's actually been in Kyo longer than Ryoma has. Ryoma asks if this means he committed dappan too, asking what has happened in Tosa since his departure. Takechi clarifies that he did not renounce Tosa- in fact, he's been promoted to joshi and now serves as Tosa's official representative in Kyo. Thanks to Ryoma the Loyalist Party survived, with Takechi having allied with the Tosa Elders to ensure the party would last.
Ryoma is shocked to learn that Takechi willingly joined with the men who may have killed Toyo, but Takechi states things have changed: Tosa alone isn't in need of change, but Japan as a whole, and they need to eliminate the Bakufu that set in motion the system that allows places like Tosa to exist. That was the endgame of what he and Toyo were planning, and if he has to ally with the old men of Tosa then so be it. Takechi says that power for reformation must come from the Emperor, so every Loyalist in Japan is gathering in Kyo to form a fighting force that can overthrow the Bakufu and restore the Emperor to full power. Ryoma asks if Takechi thinks numbers alone will be enough to overthrow the Bakufu, which Takechi does believe as did Toyo (so he claims). The Tokugawa power base is crumbling as they speak, and the Black Ships did more than just shock the nation with fear- it reinvigorated it's spirit, and now is the time to act. Already a plan is working its way through the Imperial Court to oust the Bakufu, and Takechi is on the run due to his part in the scheme (explaining why he's in Mukurogai).
But enough about him, Takechi wants to know what Ryoma has been up to since last they met. Ryoma says he's been busy trying to locate Toyo's killer, explaining to Takechi that he only had the man's fighting style to go off of at first. But then he learned of the Tennen Rishin style, and just the other day he learned that all the practitioners were in the Shinsengumi, with the heir Kondo as their leader. Takechi asks if Ryoma thinks Kondo himself came down to Tosa to kill Toyo, but Ryoma counters that a number of his captains know it as well- any one of them could be the culprit. Be that as it may, Ryoma is tired of merely guessing, so he intends to join the Shinsengumi and find out who it is for himself.
Takechi cannot believe that Ryoma is serious about joining the Shinsengumi, but Ryoma holds fast to his plan. Takechi says it's too dangerous, especially now with his position- he could easily get Ryoma back into Tosa without any further issues, and there's no need to waste his life trying to hunt down a killer. Even if he did join, how would he identify the masked man without knowing his voice or face? Ryoma knows the man's fighting style, and if he crosses blades with him again he'll identify him that way. Takechi tells Ryoma to forget about that and rejoin the Loyalists with him, as that's what Toyo would have wanted for them. Ryoma refuses, saying he would never work with the men who ordered Toyo's death, asking Takechi if he would really use everyone and everything to achieve his goal. Takechi insists they must take down the Bakufu to ensure Tosa's freedom, as there's no other way for goshi like them. Ryoma yells that Takechi is missing the point- if Toyo was there right now would Takechi be able to tell him that everything he's doing is for the best of Tosa? Could he lie to Toyo like that? Takechi says he would, and it would be the truth. He flips the question back and asks Ryoma if he is proud of what he is doing, running after some half-baked revenge scheme. Toyo gave them the tools to make a great future, not some rage-fueled passion project that keeps them stuck in the past. Ryoma asks if Takechi would just let Toyo's killer go free and move on, but Takechi says they need to look at the bigger picture first. Ryoma moves to leave, saying that next time they meet Takechi may be too far gone and he may not be able to call him "brother"; ultimately, he can't see the big picture like Takechi, and he needs to find out who ordered Toyo killed and why, and until he does so he'll never be at peace. Ryoma leaves, and when Takechi goes to get more sake he ends up smashing the jar in frustration.
Kyo
Ryoma narrates that the Loyalist Party has evolved into a national force in the year since Toyo's death. Now, they seek the overthrow of the Bakufu and the elevation of the Emperor as supreme ruler over Japan, and as such many of them have gathered in the royal capital of Kyo (Kyoto), where the Emperor resides. Some have even gone as far as to murder Bakufu officials and generally disturb the peace of the city.
Along the waterfront is an inn called Teradaya, where attendant Narasaki Oryo (Yuki) is prepping lunch for the guests. The proprietress of the inn, Otose (Mirei Park), tells Oryo to go wake up their lazybones customer upstairs, saying they won't be able to clean up properly if he doesn't eat at a regular time when Oryo protests. Oryo heads upstairs and enters the room of "Saito Hajime" (Ryoma under an alias), chiding him that if he has enough time to drink, gamble, and sleep, the very least he can do is pay his rent. Otose tells Oryo to lay off Hajime, though she does tell him she'll put the rent on his tab. Oryo tells Ryoma lunch is ready, but he says he's heading out as the "dice are calling his name". He'll be back late so there's no need to leave dinner for him, with Oryo saying that won't lower his rent any before she leaves.
As Ryoma heads out for the day, Otose stops him and tells him to be careful; as a ronin (and a suspicious one at that) he's likely to attract unwanted attention from some of the folks around town. Ryoma asks if she means the Shinsegumi will just cut him down in the street, to which Otose replies they will- they talk big about protecting order within the city, but ever since the Bakufu let them loose they've been on a rampage against anyone that crosses them and have only made the violence in the city worse. It'd be a shame if Ryoma just drank and gambled away his money only to end up dead in the street, but Ryoma is unperturbed and asks of she's only looking out for him in order to ensure she'll get his rent money. Otose tells Ryoma to think whatever he wants, and with that Ryoma is off. He makes a show of staggering through the street as a tired wastrel, drawing mocking laughter from the citizens of Kyo, but once he's out of sight he drops the act and strides off with purpose.
The next cut shows Ryoma beating down a member of a local dojo, the other members complimenting him on his strength. Ryoma tosses aside the bokken he was using and declares no, these people are just too weak. The men take umbrage at this as Ryoma turns to leave, surrounding him and asking him where he thinks he's going. Ryoma asks them a question before he sticks around- do they know anyone that uses the Tennen Rishin style of sword fighting, a countryside technique taught at a dojo called Shieikan in Edo. Tennen Rishin draws from various assets such as jujutsu, staff combat, and old martial arts, with a focus on function over form. Ryoma is looking for a man who uses that style (the masked assassin), and he has already visited a number of dojos around town without success. The men in this dojo have not heard of Tennen Rishin, the leader asking if that's all Ryoma came there for. Ryoma says yes and continues to try to leave, but the men all prepare their bokken and attack Ryoma.
Ryoma trashes them in the ensuing fight. Shortly after another man enters, Ryoma identifying him as an information broker named "Ginji the Crow". Ryoma asks the Crow how he found him, with the Crow saying he has eyes and ears all over town and asks how todays hunt went. Ryoma says this dojo was a waste- they didn't even give him a decent fight afterward. All he has to go on is that the assassin used the Tennen Rishin style, and a guess that perhaps he would be hanging around one of the many dojos in Kyo. The Crow points out that he's been doing this for months now, with Ryoma admitting he's hit a dead end before asking the Crow if he's heard anything. The Crow admits he has not as Tennen Rishin is pretty obscure, asking Ryoma if he's certain the man he's looking for is even in Kyo in the first place. Ryoma says that Tennen Rishin comes from a dojo in Edo, but that dojo closed down some time ago and all its members relocated to Kyo- by that logic, Ryoma has been searching in Kyo. The Crow says that's all well and good, but lately Kyo has been flooded by hundreds of Loyalist shishi, each one claiming their own obscure style and making Ryoma's search that much harder. Ryoma asks if it's normal for information brokers to whine about their jobs as much as the Crow does, but the Crow reassures Ryoma that he'll redouble his efforts to get Ryoma what he's looking for. Unbeknownst to either of them, a third man has been eavesdropping on them through a nearby window, departing shortly before Ryoma leaves.
Frustrated by his lack of progress, Ryoma decides to roam the streets in search of more clues. As he wanders through town, he passes a pair of ronin trying to stiff a barmaid on their tab, saying that since they're fighting against the Bakufu they don't need to pay. One of them bumps into Ryoma and demands he apologize, but Ryoma has neither money nor an apology for scum like them. This angers the two ronin and they draw their swords, but Ryoma proves the better fighter and sends them running. The barmaid thanks Ryoma for his help, as they have had to deal with men like that with increasing frequency around town. The woman pays Ryoma one ryo for his trouble and sends him on his way, Ryoma continuing his search around town for more information. As he continues down the main drag, he sees a few shady ronin stop when they spot Shinsengumi troopers, running off so as to not draw their attention. Ryoma goes to do the same, but before he can he's stopped by a familiar face: Shimada Yahei from Tosa, who happily greets Ryoma unaware that he's in Kyo under an alias. Ryoma tries to insist that he's got the wrong guy, but Shimada continue to claim he's Ryoma. This draws the attention of the Shinsengumi, Ryoma and Shimada running when the troopers begin pursuing them.
Ryoma manages to lose the Shinsengumi by ducking into an alley, however it turns out he's not alone. Hiding in the shadows is the man from the dojo, who steps out and tells Ryoma it can be pretty easy to lose rubes like the Shinsengumi in town. Ryoma asks who the man is before going for his sword, but the man quickly says he's not a friend of the Shinsengumi and Ryoma can drop the suspicion. As for him, he's just another man on the run, which satisfies Ryoma and he prepares to leave. Before he does so, the man asks if Ryoma found his Tennen Rishin swordsman yet, with Ryoma asking who he is and how he knew about that. The man tells Ryoma he was at the dojo, though he did his best not to stand out. That still doesn't tell Ryoma who he is, with the man finally introducing himself as Niibori Matsusuke of the Choshu Domain (Shun Akiyama), and while he may not look it he's actually a Loyalist with a price on his head. Ryoma asks if "Niibori" is an alias, to which Niibori says it's not like he can trust anyone with his real name in this day and age, but if Ryoma were to join him he'd gladly tell him his true name in due time. Ryoma is confused, with Niibori explaining he's in Kyo in search of skilled fighters (that's why he was at the dojo when Ryoma stopped in). Ryoma asks why, and Niibori says he's looking to cause a "disturbance", and he only wants the best of the best to ensure his plan goes through. Ryoma isn't interested, so Niibori offers a favor instead- he's one of the best informants back in Choshu, and he wants to offer Ryoma some better information than what he's been getting from the Crow. If he really wants to find the Tennen Rishin user, Niibori can introduce him to the best information broker in Kyo. All he wants in return is that he and Ryoma leave on good terms, which Ryoma accepts.
Niibori tells Ryoma that the man lives in the slums called Purgatory. He goes by the name "the Bathkeeper of Sai", because he always meets his clients in a bathhouse (switching it up so as to cover his tracks). Niibori will go ask the Bathkeeper to look into the Tennen Rishin user, and when night falls Ryoma is to go to the bathhouse in South Yashikimachi and introduce himself as Niibori Matsusuke- then, they will send him to meet the Bathkeeper. Ryoma asks what the catch is, with Niibori saying even if there was a catch Ryoma would still be getting more out of this than he would. All Ryoma has to do is go to the bathhouse in South Yashikimachi after dark and say he's Niibori, and that will be that. It's a long time until then, though, so Niibori suggests he steer clear of the Shinsengumi until then... not that he really needs reminding. Ryoma turns to leave again, with Niibori asking if he can at least get his name. Ryoma tells him he might be using an alias too, which Niibori says is only fair . Ryoma introduces himself as Saito Hajime, which Niibori accepts before departing. With nothing better to do, Ryoma heads back to Teradaya to rest until nightfall.
That night, Ryoma heads to the bathhouse Niibori directed him to, heading inside and giving the false name to the attendant. The attendant welcomes in and tells him to head on in, where the Bathkeeper (the Florist of Sai) is waiting for him. Ryoma enters the bath with the Bathkeeper, the Bathkeeper reassuring Ryoma that he's booked the whole place and no one will interrupt them. Ryoma guesses that Niibori already filled the Bathkeeper in as to why he's here, with the Bathkeeper affirming before asking why he's on the hunt for a Tennen Rishin user. Ryoma declines to answer even if it costs him more money, which the Bathkeeper says it would if Niibori wasn't footing the bill for their meeting. Ryoma asks just who Niibori is, but the Bathkeeper declines to tell him anything more than Ryoma already knows, which Ryoma flips back on him as the Bathkeeper seems interested in learning motives. The Bathkeeper admits he's a naturally curious man, and so retracts his question on Ryoma's motive.
They start back at the beginning, the Bathkeeper recapping all the info on Tennen Rishin Ryoma already has. What Ryoma doesn't know, though, is that after moving from Edo to Kyo, the Tennen Rishin practitioners set up a certain organization backed by the Bakufu to maintain order and stability in Kyo: the Shinsengumi. The head of the Shinsengumi, Kondo Isami, is the fourth heir to the Tennen Rishin style- he and six other masters make up the top brass of the Shinsengumi: Deputy Chief Hijikata Toshizo, General Secretary Yamanami Keisuke, First Division Captain Okita Soji, Second Division Captain Nagakura Shinpachi, Sixth Division Captain Inoue Genzaburo, and Eigth Division Captain Todo Heisuke. At first they were mocked for their "rube swordplay", but that all changed when they started getting results and massacring Loyalists by the dozens. The Shinsengumi is roughly a thousand strong as of now, and with the officers at the head they could even put the armies of the Sengoku period to shame. Ryoma asks if any of the officers mentioned travelled to Tosa in the last year, but the Bathkeeper doesn't know that- one would have to get really close to the officers to learn that information, and that would take a lot of time. The Bathkeepr can do it for a substantial fee, but Ryoma declines as he now has a clear idea of just where his target is. The Bathkeeper asks what his plan is, but before Ryoma can answer they hear a commotion outside as the attendant tries to keep a new arrival from entering. From the sound of the slap, it doesn't go well.
Into the bath comes a giant of a man (Ryuji Goda), with the Bathkeeper asking if he saw the sign saying the whole place had been reserved. The large man dismisses that as something the Bathkeeper could have said to his face, revealing he knows who the man is as well. He steps into the bath, only to immediately hop back out and yell at the attendant for running the water too hot. The large man grabs the attendant and pitches him into the bath, Ryoma telling the man that he doesn't care for his attitude. Ryoma bids the Bathkeeper farewell and goes to leave, but the large man grabs him and asks him to repeat what he said about having an attitude. Ryoma swats him off and tells him this will get ugly, but the large man sees this as a challenge and the two square off. Ryoma warns the Bathkeeper, who complains about them ruining his bath before the two men start fighting. Ryoma and the man fight each other to a standstill, each one asking just who the other is. Before they can start up again, the Bathkeeper pitches a bucket of hot water on them, telling them that if they want round two they'd best take it outside. The man offers to take Ryoma out for a drink instead, Ryoma agreeing to the proposal.
The two head out to a nearby brothel, where they enjoy sake and entertainment from the local courtesans. As they drink, Ryoma comments that the man is surprisingly generous. The man replies he rarely takes other men out on the town, so it must be that he's taken a shine to Ryoma. He asks Ryoma where he's from, which Ryoma counters by saying he's not drunk enough to talk about his past. The man points out Ryoma's drinking more than he is, but when Ryoma continues to stonewall he changes questions and asks what he wanted from the Bathkeeper. Ryoma says he could have found out for himself, guessing the man was there to hire the Bathkeeper himself; the man confirms this, and would have gotten everything he wanted if Ryoma wasn't there. He offers a trade of why he was there for why Ryoma was there, but again Ryoma declines the offer. the large man laughs this off and says he has nothing to hide at least, and tells Ryoma why he sought out the Bathkeeper: he wanted information on the Shinsengumi's leader, Kondo Isami.
The man explains that Kondo was the reason he was so pissed off at the bathhouse. Ryoma asks if this means the man has met Kondo, which he confirms- they had actually met a few hours prior to his fight with Ryoma. The man took an instant dislike to Kondo, seeing him as a puffed-up wannabe samurai with only his fancy Tennen Rishin style to go off of. Still, interesting that he'd run into Kondo and then Ryoma, two strong men out on the town. Ryoma asks how he got a meeting with Kondo in the first place, with the man asking if Ryoma wants to meet him as well. Still, it's not like you can just invite a killer like Kondo out for tea- you'd have to do something like break into the Shinsengumi barracks or (as Ryoma finishes) join the Shinsengumi itself. Ryoma asks what route the man took, which the man counters he wasn't looking for Kondo- Kondo was looking for him.
Ryoma asks why Kondo was looking for him, but the man says he should have asked sooner before the sake kicked in. Now, he wants a girl, taking one of the courtesans towards the backroom. Before he leaves, though, he does introduce himself properly as Saigo Kichinosuke, commander of the Satsuma army. With that he leaves, the remaining courtesan explaining that Saigo is a man who generally calls the shots around here- that has made him a lot of enemies, so he puts on the Osaka accent and usually refrains from telling others his name. From the way things have gone that night, it seems like Saigo does in fact like Ryoma.
After finishing his drinks, Ryoma decides to head back to Teradaya to sleep. On his way back, though, he spots a crowd of people gathered around something, going over to investigate. It's the dead body of a ronin, with the crowd questioning if the Shinsengumi are responsible. Ryoma takes a closer look, recoiling when he sees that it's Shimada Yahei. As he draws back, a man in a straw hat approaches him and tell him Shimada's lips were too loose and he needed to be silenced. Ryoma asks if the man is responsible for killing him, but the man says they need not be enemies before identifying him as Ryoma. Ryoma grabs his sword, but the man tells him not to make a scene here- if he wants to settle things, they can meet in Mukurogai later. The man tells Ryoma to ask the innkeepers at Teradaya for directions if needed, but will say nothing more until Ryoma arrives in Mukurogai. With that the man leaves, Ryoma deciding to head back to Teradaya for information.
Ryoma returns to Teradaya, where he is greeted by Oryo. Ryoma asks Oryo how to get to Mukurogai, but Oryo says you don't go to Mukurogai- you end up there, as Mukurogai is a desolate slum that not even government law enforcement would dare enter. It's full of criminals and vagrants, with Oryo saying there may even be corpses piled there that pickpockets loot for anything valuable. Ryoma asks a nearby boatman if he'll take him to Mukurogai, with Oryo protesting that Ryoma shouldn't go. The boatman, though, is perfectly fine for taking Ryoma in, saying he'll just cut and run in case there's any trouble. Seeing that she can't dissuade him, Oryo says she'll just pretend she heard nothing while the two men get ready to depart.
On the ride in, the boatman asks Ryoma what his business in Mukurogai is. Ryoma says he was invited in by a man looking to meet with him, with the boatman saying there's no point in trying to stay far away then. He asks Ryoma if he wants to know why the slums are called "Mukurogai"; it's real name is Rokumoncho, and it used to host the largest temple in all of Rakugai (the suburbs of Kyoto). A famous priest used to live there, turning it into a refuge for the sick and lost, but a plague hit the temple and killed everyone inside. The bodies were buried quickly due to the plague, and even a little digging will reveal enough bones to fill a crypt. That's where it got the name "Mukurogai"- the Dead Man's Quarter. Nowadays its a haven for outlaws of all sorts, so the boatman suggest Ryoma not stay long inside as they arrive.
Ryoma steps off the boat and thanks the boatman for the risky journey, telling him he can head back and Ryoma will find his own way out of Mukurogai. Ryoma heads deep into the complex, where he is stopped by some local ronin asking him to turn over his valuables. Ryoma says he's here to meet a man in a straw hat, which the man confirms as he steps out of the shadows and reveals himself to be Izo. Ryoma asks if this means Takechi is in Mukurogai as well, which Izo declines to answer before drawing his sword and challenging him to a fight. Ryoma fights and defeats Izo and his men, with Izo complimenting Ryoma for fighting like a real killer now. He sheaths his sword as Ryoma asks what the meaning of all this was, with Izo saying he just wanted to see how Ryoma has improved himself since they let met. That, and he can't bring someone to Takechi if he hasn't seen him in a year. This confirms that Takechi is in Kyo, and Izo adds that the Shinsengumi are hunting him down so they have to remain in hiding. Ryoma confirms that Takechi is deeper in Mukurogai, but Izo refuses to lead Ryoma to him on account of Ryoma pissing him off.
Ryoma heads out on his own and finds Takechi hunkered down in one of the many shacks within Mukurogai. The two greet each other and Ryoma sits with Takechi, Takechi apologizing for siccing Izo on him when he arrived- in a city like Kyo, you can't be too careful. Ryoma asks when Takechi arrived, with Takechi saying he's actually been in Kyo longer than Ryoma has. Ryoma asks if this means he committed dappan too, asking what has happened in Tosa since his departure. Takechi clarifies that he did not renounce Tosa- in fact, he's been promoted to joshi and now serves as Tosa's official representative in Kyo. Thanks to Ryoma the Loyalist Party survived, with Takechi having allied with the Tosa Elders to ensure the party would last.
Ryoma is shocked to learn that Takechi willingly joined with the men who may have killed Toyo, but Takechi states things have changed: Tosa alone isn't in need of change, but Japan as a whole, and they need to eliminate the Bakufu that set in motion the system that allows places like Tosa to exist. That was the endgame of what he and Toyo were planning, and if he has to ally with the old men of Tosa then so be it. Takechi says that power for reformation must come from the Emperor, so every Loyalist in Japan is gathering in Kyo to form a fighting force that can overthrow the Bakufu and restore the Emperor to full power. Ryoma asks if Takechi thinks numbers alone will be enough to overthrow the Bakufu, which Takechi does believe as did Toyo (so he claims). The Tokugawa power base is crumbling as they speak, and the Black Ships did more than just shock the nation with fear- it reinvigorated it's spirit, and now is the time to act. Already a plan is working its way through the Imperial Court to oust the Bakufu, and Takechi is on the run due to his part in the scheme (explaining why he's in Mukurogai).
But enough about him, Takechi wants to know what Ryoma has been up to since last they met. Ryoma says he's been busy trying to locate Toyo's killer, explaining to Takechi that he only had the man's fighting style to go off of at first. But then he learned of the Tennen Rishin style, and just the other day he learned that all the practitioners were in the Shinsengumi, with the heir Kondo as their leader. Takechi asks if Ryoma thinks Kondo himself came down to Tosa to kill Toyo, but Ryoma counters that a number of his captains know it as well- any one of them could be the culprit. Be that as it may, Ryoma is tired of merely guessing, so he intends to join the Shinsengumi and find out who it is for himself.
Takechi cannot believe that Ryoma is serious about joining the Shinsengumi, but Ryoma holds fast to his plan. Takechi says it's too dangerous, especially now with his position- he could easily get Ryoma back into Tosa without any further issues, and there's no need to waste his life trying to hunt down a killer. Even if he did join, how would he identify the masked man without knowing his voice or face? Ryoma knows the man's fighting style, and if he crosses blades with him again he'll identify him that way. Takechi tells Ryoma to forget about that and rejoin the Loyalists with him, as that's what Toyo would have wanted for them. Ryoma refuses, saying he would never work with the men who ordered Toyo's death, asking Takechi if he would really use everyone and everything to achieve his goal. Takechi insists they must take down the Bakufu to ensure Tosa's freedom, as there's no other way for goshi like them. Ryoma yells that Takechi is missing the point- if Toyo was there right now would Takechi be able to tell him that everything he's doing is for the best of Tosa? Could he lie to Toyo like that? Takechi says he would, and it would be the truth. He flips the question back and asks Ryoma if he is proud of what he is doing, running after some half-baked revenge scheme. Toyo gave them the tools to make a great future, not some rage-fueled passion project that keeps them stuck in the past. Ryoma asks if Takechi would just let Toyo's killer go free and move on, but Takechi says they need to look at the bigger picture first. Ryoma moves to leave, saying that next time they meet Takechi may be too far gone and he may not be able to call him "brother"; ultimately, he can't see the big picture like Takechi, and he needs to find out who ordered Toyo killed and why, and until he does so he'll never be at peace. Ryoma leaves, and when Takechi goes to get more sake he ends up smashing the jar in frustration.
Chapter 3: Mibu Wolves
The next day, Oryo expresses outrage when Ryoma announces he plans on joining the Shinsengumi, drawing Otose's attention. Ryoma confirms this, with Otose joining Oryo's assessment that Ryoma has lost his mind before asking why he decided to sign on out of the blue. Ryoma says he heard the Shinsengumi pay well and being a member comes with societal perks as well, and being essentially ronin they won't ask too much about Ryoma's background or social status as long as he has skill. Otose asks if Ryoma is being stupid, if his plan to pay for his rent is to go about killing people as part of the Mibu Wolves (a nickname the Shinsengumi picked up from their earlier days when they were known as the Miburoshigumi and prone to infighting, which claimed the life of one of its co-founders Serizawa Kamo), ultimately saying that Ryoma will get eaten alive if he joins up. Ryoma takes this to mean they don't approve, with Otose saying having a Shinsengumi as a guest would kill business at her inn, and does Ryoma even know his way around a sword? Ryoma says he's not too bad with a blade before departing, only to be stopped by Oryo who asks if maybe he could have found some other line of work. Ryoma brushes her off, but promises not to cause the two women any trouble. As he leaves, Otose sighs about how men like Ryoma are so stubborn while Oryo looks on in disappointment.
Ryoma heads north to Rakunai, where the Shinsengumi barracks are located. He reaches the barracks and tells the guards out front he's there to enlist, with the guards saying he's welcome to try as they are having tryouts today. Before they let Ryoma inside, though, one asks Ryoma to state his hometown; when Ryoma asks why as the Shinsengumi care only for skill, the guard says they need a place to send his body after he fails the tryouts. Ryoma tells him to save that question for the next guy and heads inside. In the courtyard, Ryoma watches as the latest would-be Shinsengumi is dispatched by a beefy captain (Taiga Saejima) while the observing Shinshengumi troopers size up Ryoma. Ryoma steps around the injured reject and comments it's no wonder the Shinsengumi get compared to wolves, with the captain saying that anyone that isn't up to snuff gets the bite, which will happen to Ryoma if he isn't prepared. Ryoma says he's been misinterpreted- he's worried that if he puts the captain down in their fight, he'll fail the test. The captain chuckles and notes his observers would probably like to see that, and would probably even give Ryoma his title, formally introducing himself as Nagakura Shinpachi of the Second Division.
Nagakura lays out the rules for the test: beat him in combat, using whatever weapon or fighting style Ryoma likes. Before they get started, Ryoma asks if Nagakura has been in the Shinsengumi long, with Nagakura saying he's been around since its formation. Ryoma takes this to mean he's a founding member, and one of the Tennen Rishin users to boot. Nagakura asks if this means Ryoma came along just to test his skills, but Ryoma deflects that he was just curious. Nagakura says he usually doesn't go that hard during tryouts, but if Ryoma is so curious he doesn't mind showing off a few of his moves on the newcomer before taking up the same fighting stance the masked man used during the fight in Tosa. Ryoma prepares himself, and the two men begin their duel.
Ryoma is able to hold his own against Nagakura, with the captain even complimenting him as he's never seen anyone last so long against his Tennen Rishin. He stands down and declares that Ryoma has passed the test, with Ryoma asking why as the rules were he had to beat Nagakura; Nagakura clarifies that he's here to weed out the Glory Hound recruits who join for fame and die quickly, but from what he's seen Ryoma is not one of them. Ryoma says he gets the tryouts now- they weed out the weak and ineffectual while forcing those who really want it to give their all to succeed, with Nagakura adding that if they let just anyone in they'd be signing death warrants for many of them. Nagakura asks what Ryoma thought of his Tennen Rishin, with Ryoma saying Nagakura is quite skilled but he could tell Nagakura was not out to kill him. He says he wants to learn everything from the captains like Nagakura and introduces himself as Saito, with Nagakura asking if Ryoma made that up on the spot before going to offer a handshake.
Before Ryoma can accept, a sword is thrown in between them. Out of the shadows comes another Shinsengumi captain with an eyepatch and blood-splattered jacket (Goro Majima), the man asking if the Shinsengumi has become a children's friendship club. The man introduces himself as First Captain Okita Soji, with Ryoma noting that Okita looks nothing like the dashing rogue people have been describing him as. Okita says perhaps Ryoma just has shit taste before asking Nagakura why Ryoma isn't dead. Nagakura says they don't recruit corpses. Okita asks if they aren't supposed to put a little fear in the recruits first, with Nagakura countering that unlike some people he doesn't mind keeping his clothes clean. Okita says that swords are meant for killing people- show him a good swordsman and he'll show Nagakura a butcher in the making. Nagakura counters he's only interested in seeing the Chief's goals through to the end.
Okita turns his attention to Ryoma, saying that if he were in Nagakura's place he'd be sure to have a lot more fun before pulling out his sword and slashing at Ryoma. Ryoma deflects the attack and breaks away, Okita commenting that Ryoma really is that good while Nagakura protests that Ryoma has already passed the test. Okita ignores his fellow captain before asking if Ryoma wants to test his Tennen Rishin style, which Ryoma agrees to before taking up a fighting stance. Ryoma charges in, only for Okita to hurl his katana at Ryoma before pouncing on him with his tanto. Fortunately, Okita only holds the blade at Ryoma's eye instead of stabbing him, declaring himself the winner of their little scuffle. Nagakura, though, says it's actually a draw, Okita looking down to see Ryoma has his own tanto at Okita's chest. Okita asks when Ryoma pulled that off while Nagakura asks if he's had enough.
Another voice calls out and tells Okita and Nagakura to stand down. A new captain steps out of the building, introducing himself as Hijikata Toshizo, Deputy Chief of the Shinsengumi (Yoshitaka Mine) as Okita and Nagakura back off. Hijikata helps Ryoma back to his feet and says he showed incredible skill in his fights with Nagakura and Okita, saying there is something he would like to discuss with Ryoma. But now is not the place or time, with Hijikata asking Ryoma to meet him at Tsubakiro in Gion for a private discussion. Ryoma agrees, and Hijikata departs.
After Hijikata departs, Okita admits that Ryoma's a good swordsman. Ryoma says that their fight isn't over before asking if Okita would like to continue, but Okita says the moment has passed, so they'll have to fight again some other time before he too departs. Nagakura apologizes for Okita, with Ryoma saying he really hoped to finish their fight first. Nagakura says that Okita is more for speed than he is for power (the reverse of Nagakura), which Ryoma might have noticed in his Tennen Rishin style. Ryoma admits he was more focused on not dying than the fighting style, but he thinks back to his fight with the masked man and becomes pensive. Nagakura asks what's wrong, but Ryoma explains it away as him thinking he had a better chance at beating Okita in their fight. Nagakura has his doubts, as Okita wasn't taking Ryoma seriously during their fight- if he had, Ryoma would be dead right now just like Kamo. Ryoma asks who that is, with Nagakura clarifying that he means Serizawa Kamo, the deputy chief they had back in the old days. Ryoma asks if that means Okita had something to do with Kamo's death, but Nagakura says it's none of his concern. For what it's worth, it seems that Okita is taking a shine to Ryoma, though he shouldn't take that as a compliment as Okita is likely to kill men like him regardless of whether or not they're on the same side.
Ryoma turns to leave when he is stopped by a Shinsengumi trooper, telling him the Deputy Chief has a message for him and tells him to follow. Ryoma follows the trooper to a room on the far end of the complex, the trooper telling him that the Chief has given him this room to use for the future (a fairly generous offer which the trooper doesn't fully understand). Ryoma rests until evening when he heads out to meet Hijikata at Tsubakiro. He reaches the location and heads inside, where Hijikata is sitting alone in a large room with some sake. He welcomes Ryoma to the Shinsengumi, though Ryoma notes it's a rather odd place to welcome a man into an organization and not even provide him somewhere to sit. Hijikata tells him to pay that no mind, as there are other rooms to sit in... and the owners probably wouldn't want to get blood on their cushions. Hijikata stands up and says he knows Ryoma's been interested in Tennen Rishin users, which Ryoma dismisses as a passing curiosity. Hijikata says that most people wouldn't go deep enough in their interest to reach Tennen Rishin, but he senses Ryoma's different. With that, he steps over to a side panel, opening it to reveal a man dressed in white (Masaru Sera) waiting on the other side. Ryoma asks what he's doing there, with Hijikata explaining the man is also versed in Tennen Rishin, ordering Ryoma to fight him to the death. The man draws his sword while Ryoma says the whole thing is ridiculous, with Hijikata countering that Shinsengumi are ordered to kill without hesitation- mortality and emotions will only slow him down. Hijikata senses Ryoma has a soft heart, normally a death sentence in their line of work, so he should consider this a test of his character as Ryoma should have no hesitations about killing a man. With that Ryoma draws his sword, Hijikata warning Ryoma that the man will be doing his level best to kill him, so he should step up to preserve his life. With that, the two fight, and Ryoma manages to best the man in white.
Rather than kill the man, though, Ryoma pulls his strike at the last minute and declares the fight is over, putting away his sword and turning to leave. As Ryoma reaches the door, Hijikata steps up and stabs the man in white through the throat, killing him. Ryoma asks why, with Hijikata repeating that this was supposed to be a fight to the death. Regardless, the man was going to die one way or another- a few days prior he had attempted to desert the Shinsengumi, a crime punishable by death. Hijikata decided to use him as a test rather than waste his talents in an execution, and Ryoma asks just who he was. Hijikata explains he was General Secretary and Third Division Captain Yamanami Keisuke; he and Hijikata were very close, going back to the days in the Shieikan dojo, and he told Yamanami that if he managed to kill Ryoma he would spare his life- that way, Yamanami would go at Ryoma with everything he had. Ryoma asks why go through such lengths to test him, with Hijikata says he wanted to offer Ryoma a position that just opened up- Yamanami's position as Third Captain. With that said, Hijikata suggests they go somewhere with nicer atmosphere to discuss Ryoma's future with the Shinsengumi.
Ryoma heads north to Rakunai, where the Shinsengumi barracks are located. He reaches the barracks and tells the guards out front he's there to enlist, with the guards saying he's welcome to try as they are having tryouts today. Before they let Ryoma inside, though, one asks Ryoma to state his hometown; when Ryoma asks why as the Shinsengumi care only for skill, the guard says they need a place to send his body after he fails the tryouts. Ryoma tells him to save that question for the next guy and heads inside. In the courtyard, Ryoma watches as the latest would-be Shinsengumi is dispatched by a beefy captain (Taiga Saejima) while the observing Shinshengumi troopers size up Ryoma. Ryoma steps around the injured reject and comments it's no wonder the Shinsengumi get compared to wolves, with the captain saying that anyone that isn't up to snuff gets the bite, which will happen to Ryoma if he isn't prepared. Ryoma says he's been misinterpreted- he's worried that if he puts the captain down in their fight, he'll fail the test. The captain chuckles and notes his observers would probably like to see that, and would probably even give Ryoma his title, formally introducing himself as Nagakura Shinpachi of the Second Division.
Nagakura lays out the rules for the test: beat him in combat, using whatever weapon or fighting style Ryoma likes. Before they get started, Ryoma asks if Nagakura has been in the Shinsengumi long, with Nagakura saying he's been around since its formation. Ryoma takes this to mean he's a founding member, and one of the Tennen Rishin users to boot. Nagakura asks if this means Ryoma came along just to test his skills, but Ryoma deflects that he was just curious. Nagakura says he usually doesn't go that hard during tryouts, but if Ryoma is so curious he doesn't mind showing off a few of his moves on the newcomer before taking up the same fighting stance the masked man used during the fight in Tosa. Ryoma prepares himself, and the two men begin their duel.
Ryoma is able to hold his own against Nagakura, with the captain even complimenting him as he's never seen anyone last so long against his Tennen Rishin. He stands down and declares that Ryoma has passed the test, with Ryoma asking why as the rules were he had to beat Nagakura; Nagakura clarifies that he's here to weed out the Glory Hound recruits who join for fame and die quickly, but from what he's seen Ryoma is not one of them. Ryoma says he gets the tryouts now- they weed out the weak and ineffectual while forcing those who really want it to give their all to succeed, with Nagakura adding that if they let just anyone in they'd be signing death warrants for many of them. Nagakura asks what Ryoma thought of his Tennen Rishin, with Ryoma saying Nagakura is quite skilled but he could tell Nagakura was not out to kill him. He says he wants to learn everything from the captains like Nagakura and introduces himself as Saito, with Nagakura asking if Ryoma made that up on the spot before going to offer a handshake.
Before Ryoma can accept, a sword is thrown in between them. Out of the shadows comes another Shinsengumi captain with an eyepatch and blood-splattered jacket (Goro Majima), the man asking if the Shinsengumi has become a children's friendship club. The man introduces himself as First Captain Okita Soji, with Ryoma noting that Okita looks nothing like the dashing rogue people have been describing him as. Okita says perhaps Ryoma just has shit taste before asking Nagakura why Ryoma isn't dead. Nagakura says they don't recruit corpses. Okita asks if they aren't supposed to put a little fear in the recruits first, with Nagakura countering that unlike some people he doesn't mind keeping his clothes clean. Okita says that swords are meant for killing people- show him a good swordsman and he'll show Nagakura a butcher in the making. Nagakura counters he's only interested in seeing the Chief's goals through to the end.
Okita turns his attention to Ryoma, saying that if he were in Nagakura's place he'd be sure to have a lot more fun before pulling out his sword and slashing at Ryoma. Ryoma deflects the attack and breaks away, Okita commenting that Ryoma really is that good while Nagakura protests that Ryoma has already passed the test. Okita ignores his fellow captain before asking if Ryoma wants to test his Tennen Rishin style, which Ryoma agrees to before taking up a fighting stance. Ryoma charges in, only for Okita to hurl his katana at Ryoma before pouncing on him with his tanto. Fortunately, Okita only holds the blade at Ryoma's eye instead of stabbing him, declaring himself the winner of their little scuffle. Nagakura, though, says it's actually a draw, Okita looking down to see Ryoma has his own tanto at Okita's chest. Okita asks when Ryoma pulled that off while Nagakura asks if he's had enough.
Another voice calls out and tells Okita and Nagakura to stand down. A new captain steps out of the building, introducing himself as Hijikata Toshizo, Deputy Chief of the Shinsengumi (Yoshitaka Mine) as Okita and Nagakura back off. Hijikata helps Ryoma back to his feet and says he showed incredible skill in his fights with Nagakura and Okita, saying there is something he would like to discuss with Ryoma. But now is not the place or time, with Hijikata asking Ryoma to meet him at Tsubakiro in Gion for a private discussion. Ryoma agrees, and Hijikata departs.
After Hijikata departs, Okita admits that Ryoma's a good swordsman. Ryoma says that their fight isn't over before asking if Okita would like to continue, but Okita says the moment has passed, so they'll have to fight again some other time before he too departs. Nagakura apologizes for Okita, with Ryoma saying he really hoped to finish their fight first. Nagakura says that Okita is more for speed than he is for power (the reverse of Nagakura), which Ryoma might have noticed in his Tennen Rishin style. Ryoma admits he was more focused on not dying than the fighting style, but he thinks back to his fight with the masked man and becomes pensive. Nagakura asks what's wrong, but Ryoma explains it away as him thinking he had a better chance at beating Okita in their fight. Nagakura has his doubts, as Okita wasn't taking Ryoma seriously during their fight- if he had, Ryoma would be dead right now just like Kamo. Ryoma asks who that is, with Nagakura clarifying that he means Serizawa Kamo, the deputy chief they had back in the old days. Ryoma asks if that means Okita had something to do with Kamo's death, but Nagakura says it's none of his concern. For what it's worth, it seems that Okita is taking a shine to Ryoma, though he shouldn't take that as a compliment as Okita is likely to kill men like him regardless of whether or not they're on the same side.
Ryoma turns to leave when he is stopped by a Shinsengumi trooper, telling him the Deputy Chief has a message for him and tells him to follow. Ryoma follows the trooper to a room on the far end of the complex, the trooper telling him that the Chief has given him this room to use for the future (a fairly generous offer which the trooper doesn't fully understand). Ryoma rests until evening when he heads out to meet Hijikata at Tsubakiro. He reaches the location and heads inside, where Hijikata is sitting alone in a large room with some sake. He welcomes Ryoma to the Shinsengumi, though Ryoma notes it's a rather odd place to welcome a man into an organization and not even provide him somewhere to sit. Hijikata tells him to pay that no mind, as there are other rooms to sit in... and the owners probably wouldn't want to get blood on their cushions. Hijikata stands up and says he knows Ryoma's been interested in Tennen Rishin users, which Ryoma dismisses as a passing curiosity. Hijikata says that most people wouldn't go deep enough in their interest to reach Tennen Rishin, but he senses Ryoma's different. With that, he steps over to a side panel, opening it to reveal a man dressed in white (Masaru Sera) waiting on the other side. Ryoma asks what he's doing there, with Hijikata explaining the man is also versed in Tennen Rishin, ordering Ryoma to fight him to the death. The man draws his sword while Ryoma says the whole thing is ridiculous, with Hijikata countering that Shinsengumi are ordered to kill without hesitation- mortality and emotions will only slow him down. Hijikata senses Ryoma has a soft heart, normally a death sentence in their line of work, so he should consider this a test of his character as Ryoma should have no hesitations about killing a man. With that Ryoma draws his sword, Hijikata warning Ryoma that the man will be doing his level best to kill him, so he should step up to preserve his life. With that, the two fight, and Ryoma manages to best the man in white.
Rather than kill the man, though, Ryoma pulls his strike at the last minute and declares the fight is over, putting away his sword and turning to leave. As Ryoma reaches the door, Hijikata steps up and stabs the man in white through the throat, killing him. Ryoma asks why, with Hijikata repeating that this was supposed to be a fight to the death. Regardless, the man was going to die one way or another- a few days prior he had attempted to desert the Shinsengumi, a crime punishable by death. Hijikata decided to use him as a test rather than waste his talents in an execution, and Ryoma asks just who he was. Hijikata explains he was General Secretary and Third Division Captain Yamanami Keisuke; he and Hijikata were very close, going back to the days in the Shieikan dojo, and he told Yamanami that if he managed to kill Ryoma he would spare his life- that way, Yamanami would go at Ryoma with everything he had. Ryoma asks why go through such lengths to test him, with Hijikata says he wanted to offer Ryoma a position that just opened up- Yamanami's position as Third Captain. With that said, Hijikata suggests they go somewhere with nicer atmosphere to discuss Ryoma's future with the Shinsengumi.
Chapter 4: Joint Struggle
The next day, an emergency meeting of the Shinsengumi Captains is called. Nagakura asks where Chief Kondo is, with Hijikata saying Kondo had other business to attend to and will not be present, again. Shinsengumi Advisor Ito Kashitaro (Daisaku Kuze) says it's disrespectful for the leader of a thousand-man organization to never show his face, but Hijikata says he sees no problem relaying the chief's wishes to the captains. Besides, they've still been operating pretty effectively, so is there a specific problem Ito has? Ito says they may be doing fine now, but when push comes to shove he'd rather have a leader directing them from the front in a time of crisis. Ninth Division Captain Suzuki Mikisaburo (Kanji Koshimizu) suggests they should just get a new chief, as they need a leader they can all look up to, and if Kondo isn't going to fight on the front lines why should he expect them to do the same for him? Hijikata asks if he means to replace Kondo with Ito, with Suzuki saying he never said that specifically. Hijikata, though, knows how indebted Suzuki feels towards Ito since he's responsible for making Suzuki a captain. Suzuki withdraws his point, with Hijikata saying the Shinsengumi has always operated with Kondo as the head and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. As for Ito's concerns, Hijikata suggests he set them aside for now, with Ito saying he wishes good health for the Chief wherever he is... or if he's still even alive. Hijikata asks what Ito is implying, with Ito saying there's a rumor going around that Kondo's actually been dead for a long time, but they dismiss these as idle gossip and nothing more. Still, its something to keep an eye on, since few people have ever seen Kondo around these days- heck, Ito's only seen Kondo once, and he's third in command of the Shinsengumi. There are people out there making accusations that it's actually Hijikata calling the shots in Kondo's name, but that's all preposterous nonsense... right?
Okita strolls in and asks if they're just going to keep running their mouths, saying he was busy napping when Nagakura says he's late again. He sprawls out over the First and Third Captain's seats, noting that their "sourpuss rookie" is running behind as well. Hijikata says he will be along soon enough, just as Ryoma arrives at the barracks and heads inside. Hijikata welcomes Ryoma and bids him take his seat, all the other captains eyeing up Ryoma as he heads to his spot. After telling Okita to clear out of Ryoma's spot, Hijikata gets the meeting started by formally introducing Ryoma to the captains. Seventh Captain Tani Sanjuro (Akira Mabuchi) asks why a fresh-faced rookie like Ryoma gets to be Third Captain, questioning if he's got what it takes to run with the likes of them. Nagakura vouches for him based on how well Ryoma fought against Okita and himself, with Tani asking if maybe Ryoma just slipped Nagakura a bribe to pass. Fifth Division Captain Takeda Kanryusai (Hiroki Awano) says he doesn't care about the Third Captain and just wants to get back to training his men, so if they can get the meeting over with he would be grateful. Tenth Captain Harada Sanosuke (Masato Aizawa) laughs at this, saying the Fifth Division have been complaining about how hard Takeda's "training" really is, but Sixth Captain Inoue Genzaburo (Osamu Kashiwagi) tells them both to quiet down as this is an official meeting and he will tolerate no childish squabbling. Besides, Sanosuke should look to his own division, which is gaining a reputation for bad manners probably inherited from their captain.
Hijikata declares Ryoma will begin his official duties the following day, tasking Fourth Division Captain Matsubara Chuji (Yu Morinaga) with explaining Ryoma's new role. Matsubara asks why him, with Hijikata saying Matsubara is fairly new to the position of captain as well, so it will serve as a good refresher. Matsubara protests that he doesn't think Ryoma is worthy of being a captain given all the trials he and the others went through, but Hijikata clarifies that was an order, not a request. However, Eighth Division Captain Todo Heisuke (Tianyou Zhao) chimes in and volunteers to take Matsubara's place as Ryoma's teacher if he doesn't want it and Hijikata is alright with the change. Matsubara calls Todo a suck-up, but Hijikata approves the change while Todo happily tells Ryoma they'll talk later. Hijikata then informs the others that Yamanami has been dealt with, saying that he committed seppuku as per the Shinsengumi's laws. Sanosuke says Hijikata went too far, as Yamanami was with them since the Edo days and questioning if he really had to die. Todo points out that Sanosuke wasn't from the Edo days, so why should he care so much, with Sanosuke countering that he was trained by Kondo so he's an Edo man at heart. Hijikata continues that the Shinsengumi's laws are deserters are to be put to death- Yamanami knew this and yet still tried to desert, as did Serizawa Kamo, Hiryama Goro, and Hirama Jusuke the previous year. No exceptions are to be made, which the assembled captains had better remember in case they get any ideas. Hijikata rises and says the Bakufu has put the utmost faith in the Shinsengumi, so he expects the best of all of them before the adjourns the meeting and departs.
As the captains depart, Nagakura goes to Ryoma and tells him that's pretty typical of their meetings. Ryoma asks if Kondo not showing up is also "Typical". Nagakura confirms this, saying he wouldn't be surprised if Ito's rumor is true and Kondo died years ago. As Nagakura leaves, Ryoma goes back over what he learned- he has ruled out Yamanami as the masked man, as while he was going all out against Ryoma he wasn't nearly as good as the assassin, leaving only six other Tennen Rishin users left: Todo, Inoue, Nagakura, Okita, Hijikata, and Kondo. He comments that he has a lot of work to do, heading back outside to the courtyard. On his way out, Todo calls him over and hands him a bag. Inside is his light-blue Shinsengumi haori, the mark of his office as a Shinsengumi Captain (telling Ryoma to remember to wear it tomorrow when he shows up for work). After that Todo departs, allowing Ryoma to head back into town for the day.
Ryoma arrives back at Teradaya and is greeted by Otose, whose surprised at how well Ryoma's first day as Third Captain went. Ryoma asks if she's still worried about him paying rent, which Otose replies she is- she has a business to run and a familiarity with reckless debtors that die without paying, so she won't stop worrying until she has money in hand. She spots the bag and asks what's inside, Ryoma confirming it's his new Captain's Uniform. Otose takes it and says she'll have it stitched up good as new, though it will be another charge on Ryoma's tab for the future. Otose calls Oryo and asks her to patch up the haori, but Oryo refuses. When pressed by Otose, Oryo says she refuses to help those who join with murderers, running off while declaring she hates the Shinsengumi. Ryoma asks if she has a history with the Shinsengumi, with Otose saying Oryo's father was killed by a Bakufu official. Her father was a Loyalist to boot, so she's a mite touchy towards those with a license to kill, and to compound it all she's probably very upset that the man she fancies is joining the very thing she loathes. Ryoma is surprised to learn Oryo has feelings for him, with Otose calling him dense as Oryo wasn't exactly being subtle. For now, though, Otose suggests they drop that matter and tells Ryoma go reconcile with Oryo, pointing him towards the Kamo River where Oryo possibly ran off to.
Ryoma heads to the river and finds Oryo standing alone on a bridge. Ryoma tells Oryo that Otose filled him in on what happened to her father, and Oryo asks him why he chose to join the Shinsengumi. Was it money? Status? Or is he just looking to kill people? Ryoma says no, explaining to Ryoma that he's looking for someone within their ranks and joining was his only option to find them. Oryo asks if Ryoma expects her to believe he's doing all this for one missing person, and Ryoma says it might be hard to swallow. But now, as Third Division Captain, maybe he might be able to affect some change on the organization and turn it to a force for good. Ryoma knows it won't bring her father back, but the best he can do is try and make it so fewer people have to go through the same kind of loss as Oryo did. Oryo says she can live with that, and Ryoma encourages her to head back to Teradaya and check in with Otose. Before she leaves, Oryo thanks Ryoma for speaking with her.
Ryoma returns to Teradaya, where Otose greets him and thanks Ryoma for speaking with Oryo. Also, while Ryoma was out someone stopped by to speak with him, a samurai with a Tosan accent if she recalls correctly. The samurai said he would be waiting for Ryoma at Kiyomizu Temple, even thought Otose told him she had no idea when Ryoma would return. Ryoma rarely gets visitors, so Otose wonders why someone would be coming to look for him- because he made captain, perhaps? Ryoma isn't sure, so he heads back out into the night to find out.
Ryoma arrives at the temple and heads inside, taking a place on a balcony. From behind he hears someone saying he was hoping for Takechi but got quite a catch regardless, and when he turns to face him he finds a scruffy looking samurai doing his best to appear nonthreatening. Ryoma asks if he's the man who wanted to talk to him, and the man confirms before giving his name as Nakaoka Shintaro (Makoto Date), as well as identifying Ryoma by his given name. Ryoma says the man mentioned Takechi, with Nakaoka saying it'll take a bit to explain his relation. Nakaoka explains he was a retainer for Yoshida Toyo when he was alive, and he was present on the night Toyo was murdered (he was one of the samurai that found Ryoma with Toyo's body). They arrived too late to save the Magistrate, and only Ryoma and Takechi were ahead of them when they went to pursue. Ryoma asks how they knew Takechi was there as Ryoma was the only one with Toyo's body, but Nakaoka reminds Ryoma that he was Toyo's retainer- the Magistrate told him ahead of time that Ryoma and Takechi would be there to speak with him. Of course, he was dismissed for failing to protect Toyo- in fact, he was completely ruined by the event. He moved on, eventually, but Nakaoka cannot forgive the man who killed Toyo, whom he fingers as Ryoma.
Ryoma asks if Nakaoka plans to kill him, but Nakaoka says that was just a joke based on official records- the real culprit is still out there somewhere. He says it makes no sense for Ryoma to be the killer- what would Ryoma have to gain from killing his adoptive father besides exile and life under an alias? Ryoma asks if he knows who the killer is, and Nakaoka says he thinks it's Takechi, citing his rapid rise to power and the expansion of the Loyalists (all things that would never have happened under Toyo). Ryoma says Takechi would never do something like that, but when Nakaoka asks if he truly believes that Ryoma hesitates. At the very least, he says, he understands why Nakaoka is after Takechi, with Nakaoka saying that finding Ryoma during his search was a heck of a coincidence. Ryoma says Nakaoka's logic is sound, but there's one crucial fact that Nakaoka isn't privy to: the presence of the masked assassin. Both he and Takechi saw the masked man, and Ryoma plans to bring him to justice and find out why Toyo was murdered. Nakaoka is intrigued by what information Ryoma has and asks for more, with Ryoma warning him it'll be a long story.
Ryoma explains everything with the Shinsengumi, Nakaoka commenting it's dangerous waters he appears to be treading. He also says that now that Ryoma's captain it might be hard for him to gather more information, so he suggests they join forces and collaborate on their case. Ryoma agrees, but just then a squad of men show up, Nakaoka guessing (correctly) that they're Tosa Loyalists looking for him due to his pursuit of Takechi. Nakaoka tells Ryoma to leave him to handle the Loyalists, but Ryoma comments they probably won't let him escape so easily either. The Loyalist declare that anyone that opposes their movement must be eliminated, and they don't think it was coincidence that Nakaoka would run into some random guy late at night in a secluded area. They pull guns on the two samurai, Ryoma and Nakaoka drawing their swords to fight their way through the temple to safety.
Ryoma and Nakaoka fight their way through the hordes of Loyalists, eventually escaping from the temple. The two compliment each other on their fighting skills, with Nakaoka deciding to move his operations to Teradaya so he'll be closer to Ryoma. Ryoma accepts this before asking if Nakaoka is going to continue pursuing Takechi, but Nakaoka says he will put that aside for now; Takechi is back in Tosa, and he wants to refocus his efforts on the Shinsengumi. Ryoma is surprised to learn Takechi is back in Tosa, Nakaoka informing him Takechi was recently summoned back by the Lord of Tosa, who has just returned from Edo. Ryoma asks if he knows why Takechi was summoned back, Nakaoka explains that the Lord of Tosa, Yamauchi Yodo, lost his standing in the Ansei Purge and was forced to retire to the countryside. He originally had Toyo acting in his stead, but now that Toyo is dead Yodo was allowed by the Bakufu to return to Tosa. Ryoma asks why he would summon Takechi, though, and Nakaoka is unsure of that. He does say that Takechi did succeed in taming the Tosa elders and became their de facto leader, something that Yodo is sure to take umbrage at- Nakaoka says that if Yodo had been in Tosa instead of Toyo, the Loyalist Party would never have gotten a chance to take root and grow into what it is today. Ryoma asks if this means Takechi and the Loyalists are in danger, with Nakaoka saying that all depends on what Lord Yodo decides. For now, they need to focus on finding the masked man, and as he leaves Nakaoka reminds Ryoma that Takechi isn't the one infiltrating the Shinsengumi, and Ryoma is in a more dangerous position than Takechi (which Ryoma agrees with).
Okita strolls in and asks if they're just going to keep running their mouths, saying he was busy napping when Nagakura says he's late again. He sprawls out over the First and Third Captain's seats, noting that their "sourpuss rookie" is running behind as well. Hijikata says he will be along soon enough, just as Ryoma arrives at the barracks and heads inside. Hijikata welcomes Ryoma and bids him take his seat, all the other captains eyeing up Ryoma as he heads to his spot. After telling Okita to clear out of Ryoma's spot, Hijikata gets the meeting started by formally introducing Ryoma to the captains. Seventh Captain Tani Sanjuro (Akira Mabuchi) asks why a fresh-faced rookie like Ryoma gets to be Third Captain, questioning if he's got what it takes to run with the likes of them. Nagakura vouches for him based on how well Ryoma fought against Okita and himself, with Tani asking if maybe Ryoma just slipped Nagakura a bribe to pass. Fifth Division Captain Takeda Kanryusai (Hiroki Awano) says he doesn't care about the Third Captain and just wants to get back to training his men, so if they can get the meeting over with he would be grateful. Tenth Captain Harada Sanosuke (Masato Aizawa) laughs at this, saying the Fifth Division have been complaining about how hard Takeda's "training" really is, but Sixth Captain Inoue Genzaburo (Osamu Kashiwagi) tells them both to quiet down as this is an official meeting and he will tolerate no childish squabbling. Besides, Sanosuke should look to his own division, which is gaining a reputation for bad manners probably inherited from their captain.
Hijikata declares Ryoma will begin his official duties the following day, tasking Fourth Division Captain Matsubara Chuji (Yu Morinaga) with explaining Ryoma's new role. Matsubara asks why him, with Hijikata saying Matsubara is fairly new to the position of captain as well, so it will serve as a good refresher. Matsubara protests that he doesn't think Ryoma is worthy of being a captain given all the trials he and the others went through, but Hijikata clarifies that was an order, not a request. However, Eighth Division Captain Todo Heisuke (Tianyou Zhao) chimes in and volunteers to take Matsubara's place as Ryoma's teacher if he doesn't want it and Hijikata is alright with the change. Matsubara calls Todo a suck-up, but Hijikata approves the change while Todo happily tells Ryoma they'll talk later. Hijikata then informs the others that Yamanami has been dealt with, saying that he committed seppuku as per the Shinsengumi's laws. Sanosuke says Hijikata went too far, as Yamanami was with them since the Edo days and questioning if he really had to die. Todo points out that Sanosuke wasn't from the Edo days, so why should he care so much, with Sanosuke countering that he was trained by Kondo so he's an Edo man at heart. Hijikata continues that the Shinsengumi's laws are deserters are to be put to death- Yamanami knew this and yet still tried to desert, as did Serizawa Kamo, Hiryama Goro, and Hirama Jusuke the previous year. No exceptions are to be made, which the assembled captains had better remember in case they get any ideas. Hijikata rises and says the Bakufu has put the utmost faith in the Shinsengumi, so he expects the best of all of them before the adjourns the meeting and departs.
As the captains depart, Nagakura goes to Ryoma and tells him that's pretty typical of their meetings. Ryoma asks if Kondo not showing up is also "Typical". Nagakura confirms this, saying he wouldn't be surprised if Ito's rumor is true and Kondo died years ago. As Nagakura leaves, Ryoma goes back over what he learned- he has ruled out Yamanami as the masked man, as while he was going all out against Ryoma he wasn't nearly as good as the assassin, leaving only six other Tennen Rishin users left: Todo, Inoue, Nagakura, Okita, Hijikata, and Kondo. He comments that he has a lot of work to do, heading back outside to the courtyard. On his way out, Todo calls him over and hands him a bag. Inside is his light-blue Shinsengumi haori, the mark of his office as a Shinsengumi Captain (telling Ryoma to remember to wear it tomorrow when he shows up for work). After that Todo departs, allowing Ryoma to head back into town for the day.
Ryoma arrives back at Teradaya and is greeted by Otose, whose surprised at how well Ryoma's first day as Third Captain went. Ryoma asks if she's still worried about him paying rent, which Otose replies she is- she has a business to run and a familiarity with reckless debtors that die without paying, so she won't stop worrying until she has money in hand. She spots the bag and asks what's inside, Ryoma confirming it's his new Captain's Uniform. Otose takes it and says she'll have it stitched up good as new, though it will be another charge on Ryoma's tab for the future. Otose calls Oryo and asks her to patch up the haori, but Oryo refuses. When pressed by Otose, Oryo says she refuses to help those who join with murderers, running off while declaring she hates the Shinsengumi. Ryoma asks if she has a history with the Shinsengumi, with Otose saying Oryo's father was killed by a Bakufu official. Her father was a Loyalist to boot, so she's a mite touchy towards those with a license to kill, and to compound it all she's probably very upset that the man she fancies is joining the very thing she loathes. Ryoma is surprised to learn Oryo has feelings for him, with Otose calling him dense as Oryo wasn't exactly being subtle. For now, though, Otose suggests they drop that matter and tells Ryoma go reconcile with Oryo, pointing him towards the Kamo River where Oryo possibly ran off to.
Ryoma heads to the river and finds Oryo standing alone on a bridge. Ryoma tells Oryo that Otose filled him in on what happened to her father, and Oryo asks him why he chose to join the Shinsengumi. Was it money? Status? Or is he just looking to kill people? Ryoma says no, explaining to Ryoma that he's looking for someone within their ranks and joining was his only option to find them. Oryo asks if Ryoma expects her to believe he's doing all this for one missing person, and Ryoma says it might be hard to swallow. But now, as Third Division Captain, maybe he might be able to affect some change on the organization and turn it to a force for good. Ryoma knows it won't bring her father back, but the best he can do is try and make it so fewer people have to go through the same kind of loss as Oryo did. Oryo says she can live with that, and Ryoma encourages her to head back to Teradaya and check in with Otose. Before she leaves, Oryo thanks Ryoma for speaking with her.
Ryoma returns to Teradaya, where Otose greets him and thanks Ryoma for speaking with Oryo. Also, while Ryoma was out someone stopped by to speak with him, a samurai with a Tosan accent if she recalls correctly. The samurai said he would be waiting for Ryoma at Kiyomizu Temple, even thought Otose told him she had no idea when Ryoma would return. Ryoma rarely gets visitors, so Otose wonders why someone would be coming to look for him- because he made captain, perhaps? Ryoma isn't sure, so he heads back out into the night to find out.
Ryoma arrives at the temple and heads inside, taking a place on a balcony. From behind he hears someone saying he was hoping for Takechi but got quite a catch regardless, and when he turns to face him he finds a scruffy looking samurai doing his best to appear nonthreatening. Ryoma asks if he's the man who wanted to talk to him, and the man confirms before giving his name as Nakaoka Shintaro (Makoto Date), as well as identifying Ryoma by his given name. Ryoma says the man mentioned Takechi, with Nakaoka saying it'll take a bit to explain his relation. Nakaoka explains he was a retainer for Yoshida Toyo when he was alive, and he was present on the night Toyo was murdered (he was one of the samurai that found Ryoma with Toyo's body). They arrived too late to save the Magistrate, and only Ryoma and Takechi were ahead of them when they went to pursue. Ryoma asks how they knew Takechi was there as Ryoma was the only one with Toyo's body, but Nakaoka reminds Ryoma that he was Toyo's retainer- the Magistrate told him ahead of time that Ryoma and Takechi would be there to speak with him. Of course, he was dismissed for failing to protect Toyo- in fact, he was completely ruined by the event. He moved on, eventually, but Nakaoka cannot forgive the man who killed Toyo, whom he fingers as Ryoma.
Ryoma asks if Nakaoka plans to kill him, but Nakaoka says that was just a joke based on official records- the real culprit is still out there somewhere. He says it makes no sense for Ryoma to be the killer- what would Ryoma have to gain from killing his adoptive father besides exile and life under an alias? Ryoma asks if he knows who the killer is, and Nakaoka says he thinks it's Takechi, citing his rapid rise to power and the expansion of the Loyalists (all things that would never have happened under Toyo). Ryoma says Takechi would never do something like that, but when Nakaoka asks if he truly believes that Ryoma hesitates. At the very least, he says, he understands why Nakaoka is after Takechi, with Nakaoka saying that finding Ryoma during his search was a heck of a coincidence. Ryoma says Nakaoka's logic is sound, but there's one crucial fact that Nakaoka isn't privy to: the presence of the masked assassin. Both he and Takechi saw the masked man, and Ryoma plans to bring him to justice and find out why Toyo was murdered. Nakaoka is intrigued by what information Ryoma has and asks for more, with Ryoma warning him it'll be a long story.
Ryoma explains everything with the Shinsengumi, Nakaoka commenting it's dangerous waters he appears to be treading. He also says that now that Ryoma's captain it might be hard for him to gather more information, so he suggests they join forces and collaborate on their case. Ryoma agrees, but just then a squad of men show up, Nakaoka guessing (correctly) that they're Tosa Loyalists looking for him due to his pursuit of Takechi. Nakaoka tells Ryoma to leave him to handle the Loyalists, but Ryoma comments they probably won't let him escape so easily either. The Loyalist declare that anyone that opposes their movement must be eliminated, and they don't think it was coincidence that Nakaoka would run into some random guy late at night in a secluded area. They pull guns on the two samurai, Ryoma and Nakaoka drawing their swords to fight their way through the temple to safety.
Ryoma and Nakaoka fight their way through the hordes of Loyalists, eventually escaping from the temple. The two compliment each other on their fighting skills, with Nakaoka deciding to move his operations to Teradaya so he'll be closer to Ryoma. Ryoma accepts this before asking if Nakaoka is going to continue pursuing Takechi, but Nakaoka says he will put that aside for now; Takechi is back in Tosa, and he wants to refocus his efforts on the Shinsengumi. Ryoma is surprised to learn Takechi is back in Tosa, Nakaoka informing him Takechi was recently summoned back by the Lord of Tosa, who has just returned from Edo. Ryoma asks if he knows why Takechi was summoned back, Nakaoka explains that the Lord of Tosa, Yamauchi Yodo, lost his standing in the Ansei Purge and was forced to retire to the countryside. He originally had Toyo acting in his stead, but now that Toyo is dead Yodo was allowed by the Bakufu to return to Tosa. Ryoma asks why he would summon Takechi, though, and Nakaoka is unsure of that. He does say that Takechi did succeed in taming the Tosa elders and became their de facto leader, something that Yodo is sure to take umbrage at- Nakaoka says that if Yodo had been in Tosa instead of Toyo, the Loyalist Party would never have gotten a chance to take root and grow into what it is today. Ryoma asks if this means Takechi and the Loyalists are in danger, with Nakaoka saying that all depends on what Lord Yodo decides. For now, they need to focus on finding the masked man, and as he leaves Nakaoka reminds Ryoma that Takechi isn't the one infiltrating the Shinsengumi, and Ryoma is in a more dangerous position than Takechi (which Ryoma agrees with).
Chapter 5: The Iron Code
The next morning, Ryoma wakes up early to head to the barracks. Otose is there to see him off, but reminds him he's forgetting something before asking Oryo to present him with the mended Shinsengumi haori. Ryoma dons the haori and thanks Oryo for her work, though Oryo says paying rent would be a better way of thanking them (Otose commenting that with his new salary, she'd be able to afford a whole new inn if he paid well). with some final words of encouragement, they send Ryoma on his way and he heads to Shinsengumi HQ.
He arrives to find Todo waiting for him at the gate, the Eighth Captain greeting him before starting their tour of the headquarters. First stop is the main temple, where all important meetings are carried out. Next is the large warehouse in the back, which is used for storage and... other things which Todo won't get in to. After that is the captains' quarters, where Ryoma has already been shown his room, and finally the operations desk where the Third Division is assigned to various missions (in this case, clearing bandits from some local caves and hideouts). Todo says that about wraps up their tour, and as it's getting late they should turn in for the night. Ryoma decides to head back to Teradaya, but before he leaves a trooper from the Eighth Division runs over and asks if Todo mentioned the other deserter they learned of. Ryoma says no, and the trooper explains more- during the mess over Yamanami's desertion, another Third Division trooper named Akimoto took time to run off as well. They are still in the process of tracking him down, but once they do it will be up to Ryoma to capture and bring him in. Todo was supposed to tell Ryoma, but obviously it slipped his mind. Ryoma says he'll keep an eye out for Akimoto before he departs the barracks for the day.
As Ryoma walks home, he passes through an alleyway with a number of beggars in the street. One, however, calls out to him by name, Ryoma asking who he is. The beggar reveals he is Inspector Yamazaki Susumu (Joon-gi Han), the leading intelligence operator for the Shinsengumi. Yamazaki has been waiting for Ryoma for some time now, and had selected a spot he know Ryoma would take if he was heading back to Teradaya. Ryoma asks what Yamazaki wants, and Yamazaki reminds Ryoma of the deserter Todo was supposed to tell him about. He's managed to pinpoint Akimoto's location at a brothel called Hinata in Gion, most likely getting drunk with his favorite girl there. Ryoma says he'll get right over there, and Yamazaki wishes Ryoma good luck on his first mission before departing for new haunts.
Ryoma arrives in Gion and heads to Hinata, where he finds Todo waiting outside. Ryoma asks why Todo is there, and he explains Hijikata ordered him to be there as a little insurance for Ryoma on is first mission. Ryoma assures Todo he doesn't need help, which Todo says is good- he'd hate to have another captain die and then have to memorize a new name. Still, Ryoma seems like a capable fighter, so he'll let Ryoma fight the deserter while he blocks the entrance to prevent Akimoto from escaping. Ryoma heads inside and goes to one of the courtesans named Mizuki, asking if she's seen Akimoto. Mizuki whines that no one ever comes to see her, saying that Akimoto's outside picking flowers (read: using the outhouse). She asks if maybe Ryoma would like to get to know her better- she'd been cozying up to Akimoto due to his status as a Shinsengumi, but he's such a cheapskate who only got in via connections rather than genuine skill. But Ryoma, he looks like a man of integrity, and as a Shinsengumi Captain he could probably get whatever or whoever he wants easily.
Before Mizuki can suggest anything more, Akimoto enters and yells at Ryoma to get away from her. Ryoma sees that Akimoto is indeed not a typical ronin, but a bespectacled dweeb who shouldn't be anywhere near the Shinsengumi. Ryoma tells him he's coming back to the barracks, but Akimoto draws his sword and says he plans to skip town with Mizuki and live a happy life in the mountains. Ryoma asks if Akimoto is willing to bet his life on that, and Akimoto says yes before telling Ryoma to eat shit. Ryoma destroys the wayward deserter in their duel, and as Akimoto cowers in fear Ryoma asks how he even got in the Shinsengumi in the first place. Akimoto begs mercy, saying he only joined the Shinsengumi because of his connections, and if it wasn't a good fit he thought he could just leave. Ryoma asks why he even joined, and Akimoto says he just wanted the elevated status to pick up women- no way he wants to be associated with a bunch of deranged killers.
Ryoma finds Akimoto to be beyond pathetic, but he's willing to give the man a chance to escape. However, he needs to be careful- Todo is still waiting outside, and he won't have nearly the same level of mercy as Ryoma. Ryoma suggests Akimoto sneak out the back, and Akimoto cheers in happiness before telling Mizuki to come with him before Ryoma changes his mind. Mizuki hesitates, and this is just long enough for Todo to enter and gut Akimoto, splashing his blood across Mizuki's face. As Mizuki screams in shock, Todo whines that he made a mess and the blood never washes out easy. Ryoma is outraged that Todo killed Akimoto and says the man was harmless, but Todo disagrees- if the Shinsengumi didn't kill deserters and traitors, the entire system would collapse in no time. The Shinsengumi, just like Kyo itself, has no conscience- they kill the Loyalists, and the Loyalists kill them. Such is the age of madness they live in, and there's no place for a conscience in that light. Ryoma asks if Todo is still willing to kill because of that rule, which Todo says yes- in fact, it's a great idea from his point of view. But enough of that, job's done and they can leave now, and with that Todo happily departs... but not before informing Ryoma that he had troopers waiting out back in case Akimoto tried to escape that way. As Todo departs to find a bath and Mizuki weeps over Akimoto's body, Ryoma mutters that this is the true Shinsengumi.
After leaving Hinata, Ryoma decides to head back to the barracks to report to Hijikata. Upon arriving, he sees Tani talking with some of his men from the Seventh Division, saying that they're going to complete their next job solo so they can get the full reward. Ryoma asks if something happened, but Tani tells him it's none of his business before he and his men depart. As they leave, Ryoma is approached by Inoue, who informs him "Izo the Butcher" is in town, Ryoma clarifying that they mean Okada Izo. Inoue confirms, saying Izo has killed several Bakufu officials and the Shinsengumi has been hunting him for some time now. Yamazaki tracked down Izo after he killed a Shinsengumi trooper near the river, but while the local magistrate wants him alive Tani and Suzuki (who are on the case) are just as likely to kill him if they catch him. They have gone to a gambling den in Rakugan where Izo is hiding out, and Inoue suggests, Ryoma join him in getting to the others. But he warns Ryoma that Izo is not to be underestimated, and could easily kill him in a fight. With that, the two captains head off after their compatriots.
Ryoma arrives to find Tani, Suzuki, and Inoue staking out the gambling den Izo is in. Tani asks if Ryoma is as eager to get the bounty as he is, but Inoue says he invited Ryoma as their numbers are too thin. Suzuki dismisses Inoue as nothing but dead weight and tells him and Ryoma to stay out of this, but Tani says he'll be the one to take Izo alone before charging in past the guards. The remaining three captains dispatch the guards, with Suzuki running in next followed by Inoue and Ryoma.
Inside, Tani finds Izo alone. He draws his sword and charges, but Izo cuts his legs out from under him without getting up from his seat. As Suzuki enters the room, Izo rises and stabs Tani through the throat, killing him. Suzuki draws a gun and boasts that even Izo's skill is nothing compared to firearms, but either because of fear or rage Suzuki misses every single shot he takes. Suzuki draws his sword and charges in, but Izo easily sidesteps the Shinsengumi captain and slashes his chest open, Suzuki's body hitting the ground as Ryoma and Inoue enter. Izo "thanks" Tani and Suzuki for teaching him that Shinsengumi captains are nothing special, and he's had a productive day as he's put four captains down. Inoue readies himself, but Ryoma steps up and says he will fight Izo alone. Inoue protests that they must stand together, but Ryoma says that Izo has skill fighting multiple opponents, and due to Inoue's age he might only slow Ryoma down. Inoue reluctantly steps back to allow Ryoma to face Izo alone, with Izo asking if it's true Ryoma is going by Saito Hajime of the Shinsengumi these days. Ryoma confirms this, with Izo saying that is good as he's now duty bound to kill Ryoma- Takechi would surely understand, considering he's now a sworn enemy. Ryoma draws his sword, and the two men do battle.
Ultimately, Ryoma triumphs over Izo again. Inoue congratulates Ryoma on his victory before stepping up to Izo, declaring he must die for the crimes he has committed before drawing his sword to execute Izo. Ryoma, however, steps in and grabs Inoue's hands before he can deliver the blow, saying their orders were to take Izo in alive. Inoue says that after losing Tani and Suzuki they need vengeance to uphold the image of the Shinsengumi, but Ryoma continues to block the strike, saying that if Inoue goes through with executing a defenseless and beaten man they'll only live up to the Shinsengumi's reputation as merciless butchers. Inoue is impressed that Ryoma would come up with such a plausible excuse, but ultimately it's a moot point as the police arrive soon after. Inoue credits Ryoma with the capture and steps aside, allowing the police to arrest Izo and take him away. As he leaves, Izo gives Ryoma a smirk before the police push him outside.
Ryoma and Inoue depart the gambling hall, Ryoma guessing Inoue had called the police well ahead of time. Inoue confirms this, with Ryoma guessing that Inoue never intended to execute Izo in the first place. Inoue confirms this as well, saying he wanted to test Ryoma to see if he was more composed than Tani or Suzuki were. Though it did seem like Izo and Ryoma were quite friendly for being on opposite sides of the Bakufu-Loyalist war, but Ryoma tells Inoue not to look too deep into it. Inoue agrees before asking Ryoma if he would like to know where Izo is headed- Ryoma guesses a jail in Kyo, but Inoue says he's heading back to Tosa; the entire operation was orchestrated by Lord Yodo, who has arranged for Izo to be brought to him alive. Ryoma asks what Yodo wants with Izo, which Inoue can't say for certain- he guesses Yodo wants to crush the Loyalists, using Izo to undermine Takechi's power as Takechi had been using Izo as his personal hitman while Yodo was in Edo. Once Izo arrives in Tosa, Inoue suspects he'll be brutally tortured, and if he confesses that Takechi was his handler it will be enough for Yodo to destroy the Loyalists and have Takechi executed. Inoue muses it might have been better if he'd killed Izo here instead of turning him over to Yodo, as this could spell bad news to the Loyalist Party. As Inoue leaves, Ryoma curses himself for putting Takechi and the Loyalists in danger.
Ryoma returns to Teradaya to rest for the night. As he helps himself to a drink, Nakaoka enters the room to talk, commenting it's ironic that Ryoma's actions against a former ally may have put Takechi in danger. Ryoma remains silent for now, and Nakaoka tries to reassure him that Takechi has probably planned out what to do in Tosa when he was summoned by Lord Yodo. Nakaoka asks if Ryoma is worried about Takechi, which Ryoma denies. Nakaoka sees this as a good thing, as they need to focus on finding the masked man. Ryoma says that's why he took on the job of Shinsengumi in the first place, taking a path he would never allow Takechi to walk as he quietly wishes to Takechi not to die on him like that.
He arrives to find Todo waiting for him at the gate, the Eighth Captain greeting him before starting their tour of the headquarters. First stop is the main temple, where all important meetings are carried out. Next is the large warehouse in the back, which is used for storage and... other things which Todo won't get in to. After that is the captains' quarters, where Ryoma has already been shown his room, and finally the operations desk where the Third Division is assigned to various missions (in this case, clearing bandits from some local caves and hideouts). Todo says that about wraps up their tour, and as it's getting late they should turn in for the night. Ryoma decides to head back to Teradaya, but before he leaves a trooper from the Eighth Division runs over and asks if Todo mentioned the other deserter they learned of. Ryoma says no, and the trooper explains more- during the mess over Yamanami's desertion, another Third Division trooper named Akimoto took time to run off as well. They are still in the process of tracking him down, but once they do it will be up to Ryoma to capture and bring him in. Todo was supposed to tell Ryoma, but obviously it slipped his mind. Ryoma says he'll keep an eye out for Akimoto before he departs the barracks for the day.
As Ryoma walks home, he passes through an alleyway with a number of beggars in the street. One, however, calls out to him by name, Ryoma asking who he is. The beggar reveals he is Inspector Yamazaki Susumu (Joon-gi Han), the leading intelligence operator for the Shinsengumi. Yamazaki has been waiting for Ryoma for some time now, and had selected a spot he know Ryoma would take if he was heading back to Teradaya. Ryoma asks what Yamazaki wants, and Yamazaki reminds Ryoma of the deserter Todo was supposed to tell him about. He's managed to pinpoint Akimoto's location at a brothel called Hinata in Gion, most likely getting drunk with his favorite girl there. Ryoma says he'll get right over there, and Yamazaki wishes Ryoma good luck on his first mission before departing for new haunts.
Ryoma arrives in Gion and heads to Hinata, where he finds Todo waiting outside. Ryoma asks why Todo is there, and he explains Hijikata ordered him to be there as a little insurance for Ryoma on is first mission. Ryoma assures Todo he doesn't need help, which Todo says is good- he'd hate to have another captain die and then have to memorize a new name. Still, Ryoma seems like a capable fighter, so he'll let Ryoma fight the deserter while he blocks the entrance to prevent Akimoto from escaping. Ryoma heads inside and goes to one of the courtesans named Mizuki, asking if she's seen Akimoto. Mizuki whines that no one ever comes to see her, saying that Akimoto's outside picking flowers (read: using the outhouse). She asks if maybe Ryoma would like to get to know her better- she'd been cozying up to Akimoto due to his status as a Shinsengumi, but he's such a cheapskate who only got in via connections rather than genuine skill. But Ryoma, he looks like a man of integrity, and as a Shinsengumi Captain he could probably get whatever or whoever he wants easily.
Before Mizuki can suggest anything more, Akimoto enters and yells at Ryoma to get away from her. Ryoma sees that Akimoto is indeed not a typical ronin, but a bespectacled dweeb who shouldn't be anywhere near the Shinsengumi. Ryoma tells him he's coming back to the barracks, but Akimoto draws his sword and says he plans to skip town with Mizuki and live a happy life in the mountains. Ryoma asks if Akimoto is willing to bet his life on that, and Akimoto says yes before telling Ryoma to eat shit. Ryoma destroys the wayward deserter in their duel, and as Akimoto cowers in fear Ryoma asks how he even got in the Shinsengumi in the first place. Akimoto begs mercy, saying he only joined the Shinsengumi because of his connections, and if it wasn't a good fit he thought he could just leave. Ryoma asks why he even joined, and Akimoto says he just wanted the elevated status to pick up women- no way he wants to be associated with a bunch of deranged killers.
Ryoma finds Akimoto to be beyond pathetic, but he's willing to give the man a chance to escape. However, he needs to be careful- Todo is still waiting outside, and he won't have nearly the same level of mercy as Ryoma. Ryoma suggests Akimoto sneak out the back, and Akimoto cheers in happiness before telling Mizuki to come with him before Ryoma changes his mind. Mizuki hesitates, and this is just long enough for Todo to enter and gut Akimoto, splashing his blood across Mizuki's face. As Mizuki screams in shock, Todo whines that he made a mess and the blood never washes out easy. Ryoma is outraged that Todo killed Akimoto and says the man was harmless, but Todo disagrees- if the Shinsengumi didn't kill deserters and traitors, the entire system would collapse in no time. The Shinsengumi, just like Kyo itself, has no conscience- they kill the Loyalists, and the Loyalists kill them. Such is the age of madness they live in, and there's no place for a conscience in that light. Ryoma asks if Todo is still willing to kill because of that rule, which Todo says yes- in fact, it's a great idea from his point of view. But enough of that, job's done and they can leave now, and with that Todo happily departs... but not before informing Ryoma that he had troopers waiting out back in case Akimoto tried to escape that way. As Todo departs to find a bath and Mizuki weeps over Akimoto's body, Ryoma mutters that this is the true Shinsengumi.
After leaving Hinata, Ryoma decides to head back to the barracks to report to Hijikata. Upon arriving, he sees Tani talking with some of his men from the Seventh Division, saying that they're going to complete their next job solo so they can get the full reward. Ryoma asks if something happened, but Tani tells him it's none of his business before he and his men depart. As they leave, Ryoma is approached by Inoue, who informs him "Izo the Butcher" is in town, Ryoma clarifying that they mean Okada Izo. Inoue confirms, saying Izo has killed several Bakufu officials and the Shinsengumi has been hunting him for some time now. Yamazaki tracked down Izo after he killed a Shinsengumi trooper near the river, but while the local magistrate wants him alive Tani and Suzuki (who are on the case) are just as likely to kill him if they catch him. They have gone to a gambling den in Rakugan where Izo is hiding out, and Inoue suggests, Ryoma join him in getting to the others. But he warns Ryoma that Izo is not to be underestimated, and could easily kill him in a fight. With that, the two captains head off after their compatriots.
Ryoma arrives to find Tani, Suzuki, and Inoue staking out the gambling den Izo is in. Tani asks if Ryoma is as eager to get the bounty as he is, but Inoue says he invited Ryoma as their numbers are too thin. Suzuki dismisses Inoue as nothing but dead weight and tells him and Ryoma to stay out of this, but Tani says he'll be the one to take Izo alone before charging in past the guards. The remaining three captains dispatch the guards, with Suzuki running in next followed by Inoue and Ryoma.
Inside, Tani finds Izo alone. He draws his sword and charges, but Izo cuts his legs out from under him without getting up from his seat. As Suzuki enters the room, Izo rises and stabs Tani through the throat, killing him. Suzuki draws a gun and boasts that even Izo's skill is nothing compared to firearms, but either because of fear or rage Suzuki misses every single shot he takes. Suzuki draws his sword and charges in, but Izo easily sidesteps the Shinsengumi captain and slashes his chest open, Suzuki's body hitting the ground as Ryoma and Inoue enter. Izo "thanks" Tani and Suzuki for teaching him that Shinsengumi captains are nothing special, and he's had a productive day as he's put four captains down. Inoue readies himself, but Ryoma steps up and says he will fight Izo alone. Inoue protests that they must stand together, but Ryoma says that Izo has skill fighting multiple opponents, and due to Inoue's age he might only slow Ryoma down. Inoue reluctantly steps back to allow Ryoma to face Izo alone, with Izo asking if it's true Ryoma is going by Saito Hajime of the Shinsengumi these days. Ryoma confirms this, with Izo saying that is good as he's now duty bound to kill Ryoma- Takechi would surely understand, considering he's now a sworn enemy. Ryoma draws his sword, and the two men do battle.
Ultimately, Ryoma triumphs over Izo again. Inoue congratulates Ryoma on his victory before stepping up to Izo, declaring he must die for the crimes he has committed before drawing his sword to execute Izo. Ryoma, however, steps in and grabs Inoue's hands before he can deliver the blow, saying their orders were to take Izo in alive. Inoue says that after losing Tani and Suzuki they need vengeance to uphold the image of the Shinsengumi, but Ryoma continues to block the strike, saying that if Inoue goes through with executing a defenseless and beaten man they'll only live up to the Shinsengumi's reputation as merciless butchers. Inoue is impressed that Ryoma would come up with such a plausible excuse, but ultimately it's a moot point as the police arrive soon after. Inoue credits Ryoma with the capture and steps aside, allowing the police to arrest Izo and take him away. As he leaves, Izo gives Ryoma a smirk before the police push him outside.
Ryoma and Inoue depart the gambling hall, Ryoma guessing Inoue had called the police well ahead of time. Inoue confirms this, with Ryoma guessing that Inoue never intended to execute Izo in the first place. Inoue confirms this as well, saying he wanted to test Ryoma to see if he was more composed than Tani or Suzuki were. Though it did seem like Izo and Ryoma were quite friendly for being on opposite sides of the Bakufu-Loyalist war, but Ryoma tells Inoue not to look too deep into it. Inoue agrees before asking Ryoma if he would like to know where Izo is headed- Ryoma guesses a jail in Kyo, but Inoue says he's heading back to Tosa; the entire operation was orchestrated by Lord Yodo, who has arranged for Izo to be brought to him alive. Ryoma asks what Yodo wants with Izo, which Inoue can't say for certain- he guesses Yodo wants to crush the Loyalists, using Izo to undermine Takechi's power as Takechi had been using Izo as his personal hitman while Yodo was in Edo. Once Izo arrives in Tosa, Inoue suspects he'll be brutally tortured, and if he confesses that Takechi was his handler it will be enough for Yodo to destroy the Loyalists and have Takechi executed. Inoue muses it might have been better if he'd killed Izo here instead of turning him over to Yodo, as this could spell bad news to the Loyalist Party. As Inoue leaves, Ryoma curses himself for putting Takechi and the Loyalists in danger.
Ryoma returns to Teradaya to rest for the night. As he helps himself to a drink, Nakaoka enters the room to talk, commenting it's ironic that Ryoma's actions against a former ally may have put Takechi in danger. Ryoma remains silent for now, and Nakaoka tries to reassure him that Takechi has probably planned out what to do in Tosa when he was summoned by Lord Yodo. Nakaoka asks if Ryoma is worried about Takechi, which Ryoma denies. Nakaoka sees this as a good thing, as they need to focus on finding the masked man. Ryoma says that's why he took on the job of Shinsengumi in the first place, taking a path he would never allow Takechi to walk as he quietly wishes to Takechi not to die on him like that.
Chapter 6: The Ikedaya Incident
Inside the Shinsengumi warehouse, Yamazaki is busy torturing a captured Loyalist with a hot iron while Hijikata looks on. The man pleads that he's told them everything, but Yamazaki doesn't appear interested in stopping before jabbing the man in the chest with the iron. As the torture continues, Hijikata says that tonight is the night the world sees who the Shinsengumi truly are before turning to address the other person in the room: Kondo Isami himself.
The next day an officers' meeting is held, with Todo commenting they are two captains short (Kondo, once again, is not present). Sanosuke says that Tani and Suzuki were dumb enough to get themselves killed and the Shinsengumi doesn't need them (even taking some time to needle Ito for elevating Suzuki on his word alone). Todo tells Sanosuke to lay off, but Sanosuke continues on and implies Todo might be working with Ito to secure a higher-ranked position (despite ostensibly being a part of Kondo's faction). Hijikata tells Sanosuke to back down- there are no factions within the Shinsengumi, and they are all united under a common cause. Ito agrees, as being part of the Shinsengumi means they give up all past allegiances or reputations. Matsubara adds that all this talk of factions is disrespectful for those who signed up for Patriotic Fervor (like him), and with factions like Choshu and Satsuma running rampant in the street they need to stay united.
Matsubara then asks Hijikata if it's true that they've captured a Choshu agent, which Hijikata confirms as the reason behind their meeting today. He explains Yamazaki captured a Loyalist spy named Furutaka Shuntaro. Shuntaro was captured alongside a large cache of gunpowder and explosives, and after a few hours of torture he confessed to quite the dastardly plot- forty Loyalists were conspiring to start a fire to burn down the Imperial Palace. Todo says that makes no sense as the Loyalists swear allegiance to the Emperor, so why would they seek to burn his home down? Hijikata explains that if the palace went up in flames, every Bakufu-aligned force (including the Shinsengumi) would be drawn to one spot, which the Loyalists would then attack and destroy them all in one stroke. Okita comments that it seems the Loyalists are finally looking to attack the Shinsengumi, but Hijikata explains there's more than just that- in the resulting chaos, the Loyalists would break into the palace and kidnap the Emperor, Ito adding that with the Emperor in hand they would force him to issue a decree to attack the Bakufu directly.
Okita asks what they plan to do, with Ito telling him to be patient- Yamazaki is still working to locate the Loyalists base of operations- once the Loyalists find out that one of their number is missing, they will meet again to revise their plans. That, Hijikata says, will be their moment to strike, and the Shinsengumi will take the Loyalists down that very night. Okita is happy to finally be getting some action, though Takeda warns that it won't be an easy target and they'll have to be smart about it, take out the leader rather than charge in swinging like Okita. Takeda asks if they know who the ringleader is, with Hijikata saying their current intelligence says it's a Choshuan named Yoshida Toshimaro. However, there are others involved with the scheme from all over Japan, naming off a few such as Nagai, Sasaki, and Nakaoka. Ryoma reacts to hearing Nakaoka's name called, but claims he misheard what Hijikata said when Inoue asks if something's wrong. With no further questions (aside from Takeda asking if Yoshida, as the leader, has the highest bounty), Hijikata adjourns the meeting so he and Ito can formulate their strategy, telling the other Shinsengumi to not attract suspicion and possibly tip their hand to the Loyalists.
Ryoma decides to go back to Teradaya to confront Nakaoka and see if he is really involved in the plotted arson. He finds Nakaoka in his room and asks him if he's involved in the plot, but Nakaoka is as surprised to hear about it as Ryoma was. Ryoma explains the alleged plot and says the Shinsengumi plan to attack the Loyalists that night, and anyone that they catch will most likely die. Nakaoka thanks Ryoma for the warning, but says he was unaware of any plot and an attempt to burn down the palace would be insane- the collateral damage from such a fire would be too much for the Loyalists to explain away. Ryoma says that the Shinsengumi got a list of names for conspirators, of which Nakaoka was one of them. Nakaoka says there's a lot of Tosans with that name, and it definitely isn't him. Still, he can't sit idly while the Shinsengumi plan a massacre, intending to warn the Loyalists before the attack. Ryoma asks if there's any way he can contact them without being noticed, telling Nakaoka that Yoshida Toshimaro is named as the chief conspirator. Nakaoka says Yoshida is pretty high ranked, enough that Takechi knows him, leading Ryoma to ask if that means Takechi authorized the arson attack. Nakaoka says he's unsure of that, but a plot this big with Tosans involved wouldn't be in motion without Takechi knowing at least something about it. Ryoma can't believe Takechi would ever authorize something so monstrous, with Nakaoka adding it's a bitter pill to swallow, learning that those you grew up with aren't all they appear to be. For now, Nakaoka will warn Yoshida of the attack, and Ryoma should return to the barracks and make it seem like nothing has changed. With that the two part ways, Ryoma heading back to the barracks to check for updates.
On his way back, Ryoma stumbles across Matsubara talking with the Crow. When the Crow seems to recognize Ryoma, Matsubara asks if the two know each other, with the Crow quickly saying no, Ryoma just looks familiar. Ryoma asks if he's interrupting, and Matsubara asks if Ryoma is familiar with the Crow. The Crow tries to take this opportunity to leave the two captains be, but before he gets very far Matsubara cuts him down. Ryoma asks what's going on, but Matsubara says not to worry- if the informant knew Ryoma's face then he likely knew some dirty secrets of his, as he certainly knew some secrets of Matsubara's. But now he's dead, they don't have to worry about anyone else knowing their secrets, so they can all rest easy. Ryoma doesn't appear convinced, with Matsubara saying that if Ryoma didn't show up the Crow would still be alive, but it's not worth worrying over and they should head back to the barracks. Ryoma tells Matsubara he'll find his own way as he'd rather not travel with men who'd kill to keep their secrets, adding that he has nothing to hide. Matsubara says Ryoma should thank him for giving him the chance to tell that lie, but he's done here now and intends to head back to the barracks to rest. Matsubara departs, with Ryoma following soon after.
Ryoma returns to the barracks to find Hijikata talking with Okita. Hijikata calls to Ryoma and tells him he has a request: Yamazaki has narrowed down the Loyalist base to two locations, Ikedaya and Shikokuya. The meeting on the arson attack will take place at one of them, so to keep tabs Hijikata will be splitting the Shinsengumi into two forces to watch each inn. Ryoma and the Third Division will join Hijikata, and he asks Ryoma which inn they should cover. Ryoma suggest Shikokuya, with Hijikata accepting before Okita guesses that means he's watching Ikedaya. Okita departs and Ryoma asks if that was all, with Hijikata telling Ryoma to stay at the barracks for now so they will all be assembled for the raid. As Ryoma waits, Matsubara approaches him and tells him Hijikata wishes to speak with him at the warehouse. Inside, Ryoma finds Hijikata, Okita, and Nagakura standing around a beaten man, whom Okita identifies as Furutaka Shuntaro. Hijikata asks Furutaka to tell Ryoma what he told the others, with Furutaka weakly saying there are forty conspirators involved, the most dangerous being Yoshida and a man from Choshu named Katsura Kogoro. Nagakura says he hasn't heard of Yoshida, but Katsura's a skilled swordsman and fast (giving him the nickname "Slippery Kogoro"), with Hijikata saying he's clever too and likely the mastermind behind the plot. Orders are to take the two of them alive, if possible, with Hijikata adding that Yoshida and Katsura are only to be engaged by those Shinsengumi captains currently in the room- anyone else would be a waste. Okita and Nagakura suggest they get moving, but Hijikata says that if they all mobilize at once it could tip their enemies off- instead, they are to leave the barracks one at a time and head directly to their targets.
Ryoma leaves the barracks and heads towards Shikokuya. Upon arriving he links up with Hijikata, who tells him he sent a spy inside to scope out the place and alert them when the Loyalists arrive. If the Loyalists arrive, as if they head to Ikedaya then they'll have to regroup quickly to link up with Okita's group. As they wait, Hijikata notices that Ryoma seems pretty composed for the work ahead before asking if he and Matsubara have been talking lately. Ryoma asks why he's interested in that, and Hijikata says Matsubara had been asking questions about Ryoma earlier that day and it seemed a bit conspicuous. Ryoma doesn't answer, so Hijikata asks why he joined the Shinsengumi, with Ryoma replying that Hijikata should have asked him that when he first showed up. He lies and says that he had no real reason, just nowhere else to turn to in life; Hijikata asks if that's true, as with his skill any Loyalist party or Bakufu militia would have taken him, but Ryoma says he'll go wherever he has some value. Hijikata understands- in fact, he sympathizes, as he and Chief Kondo both were born to peasant families. Hijikata personally had no assumptions he would be anything more than a peasant farmer, but the arrival of the Black Ships upended everything and allowed him to pursue his dream. Kondo has a dream as well, and with the Shinsengumi he and others like him have a real chance at seeing that dream come to fruition. Ryoma asks if he means for the benefit of the Bakufu, but Hijikata says it's for the benefit of the country. Some day he'll tell Ryoma the full story, as he holds Ryoma in high esteem- all he needs now is for Ryoma to trust his methods.
Hijikata's spy returns and reports that Shikokuya is quiet, no Loyalists anywhere. Hijikata guess this means they chose the wrong location, ordering his men to hurry to Ikedaya. The Shinsengumi arrive and the regular troopers rush in, with Ryoma and Hijikata following after the latter reminds Ryoma to prioritize Yoshida and Katsura. Before they go inside, though, Ryoma spots Nakaoka in the crowd outside, the ronin giving Ryoma a shake of his head which he interprets as either Nakaoka failed to convince the Loyalists to lay low or the Shinsengumi got there first. With that he runs in, fighting his way through the Loyalists to reach the upper level of the inn. Once there he finds Nagakura injured and knocked against the wall, Nagakura lamenting he got cocky and should have waited. Ryoma gets his first look at the giant bruiser that is Yoshida (Futoshi Shimano), moving in to fight the Loyalist leader as Nagakura recovers. Ryoma steps inside and manages to overpower and defeat Yoshida.
Nagakura congratulates Ryoma on the win, but their battle is not over- Katsura is still out there somewhere, and they need to take him down as well. Ryoma resumes his search, fighting off several ambushes on his way through the inn. finally he reaches the room Katsura is supposedly in, opening it to find Niibori standing onver the dead bodies of several Shinsengumi troopers. Niibori greets Ryoma and confirms that he is Katsura Kogoro, leader of Choshu, with Ryoma asking how a smart man like him could come up with such a stupid plan like the arson attack. Katsura admits this looks really bad, but it's all a misunderstanding; he'd tried to talk some sense into Yoshida, but Yoshida could not be swayed and enough aggressive men had already signed on to make it impossible to steer away from extremism. So he came up with a plan of his own- set up a situation wherein Yamazaki could capture Furutaka. A dirty business, but it's better than seeing Kyo go up in smoke, only now Katsura's neck is on the line. He sheathes his sword and begs Ryoma to let him escape, as killing him here won't save Japan, and this isn't what Takechi would want either. Ryoma lowers his weapon and asks how Katsura knows Takechi, and Katsura reveals he knows Ryoma's real name: Takechi told him everything about Ryoma and why he joined the Shinsengumi, and with their relationship they can ultimately say they're on the same side in this fight.
Ryoma demands Katsura tell him everything, but suddenly Katsura draws his sword again and attacks Ryoma. As the two lock blades, Katsura apologizes for the underhand move before urging Ryoma to look behind him- Nagakura has recovered enough to move and has reached the two of them. Katsura whispers neither of them will die if Ryoma plays along, with Ryoma telling Nagakura to back off and leave Katsura to him. The two fight just enough to make it appear as a true duel to the death, and when Hijikata arrives Katsura whispers he owes Ryoma big before forcing Ryoma into Nagakura, providing enough of a barrier for him to escape before Hijikata can catch him. Katsura leaps out a window and escapes into the night, Ryoma apologizing to Hijikata for letting him get away.
The captains gather in one of the lower rooms of the inn, Hijikata congratulating them on their efforts and (Katsura's escape notwithstanding) declaring the operation a success. Furthermore, he's now learned there is a spy among the Shinsengumi who aided the Loyalists who escaped. Sanosuke asks which one of them is it, with Ryoma eyeing Nagakura in case he saw through his fight with Katsura. Todo, though, speaks up and asks if its Matsubara; Matsubara protests that now is not the time for bad jokes, but Hijikata has a couple of questions for him. Matsubara's a Choshu native, no? Matsubara denies this, but Hijikata reveals he knows Matsubara leaked information to the Choshu via the Crow before silencing him to cover his tracks. Matsubara accuses Ryoma of selling him out, but Hijikata says Yamazaki presented him with that information, and that they've known Matsubara has been at it for over three months now. Matsubara tries to defend himself by revealing Ryoma was familiar with the Crow, but Hijikata draws his sword to silence the captain.
Sensing things are about to get ugly, Takeda, Todo, Inoue, and Sanosuke close up the room to prevent anyone from leaving. Hijikata reminds Matsubara that all traitors must die, and the least he can do is Face Death with Dignity. Hijikata walks over to and hands Ryoma his sword, telling him to kill Matsubara and earn his place in the Shinsengumi. Ryoma's contact with the Crow was from before he joined the Shinsengumi, so he sees no reason to hold it against Ryoma. Ryoma asks how he knew, and Hijikata replies that of course he would hear of a swordsman looking for Tennen Rishin users. But asking around for information is no crime, so if he's willing to raise his sword for their cause then he deserves a chance to prove his loyalty- all he has to do is execute Matsubara, then they can leave as allies. Ryoma takes the sword and turns towards Matsubara, with Matsubara drawing his own weapon and cursing the other Shinsengumi for their loyalty to Kondo, and they will all fall to Choshu in due time. As for Ryoma, Matsubara says the Crow told him everything about him and his real reason for joining the Shinsengumi, but before he can finish Inoue steps up and slashes Matsubara, killing him. Hijikata asks what the meaning of this is, with Inoue saying he could not stand Matsubara's disrespect for his chief and his hometown before apologizing to Ryoma for letting his emotions get the better of him.
Now that that's out of the way, Sanosuke says they should leave, Todo joining him and Takeda as they cheer that with Matsubara out of the way they'll be getting a larger cut of the spoils. The other captains depart until only Ryoma, Nagakura and Hijikata remain. Hijikata tells Ryoma not to let anyone get the better of him in a fight again before leaving. Nagakura tells Ryoma that he would really like to avoid killing him in the future, saying that next time he wants someone to get away he should try not to be so obvious about it. With that he leaves, leaving Ryoma alone with Matsubara's dead body.
The next day an officers' meeting is held, with Todo commenting they are two captains short (Kondo, once again, is not present). Sanosuke says that Tani and Suzuki were dumb enough to get themselves killed and the Shinsengumi doesn't need them (even taking some time to needle Ito for elevating Suzuki on his word alone). Todo tells Sanosuke to lay off, but Sanosuke continues on and implies Todo might be working with Ito to secure a higher-ranked position (despite ostensibly being a part of Kondo's faction). Hijikata tells Sanosuke to back down- there are no factions within the Shinsengumi, and they are all united under a common cause. Ito agrees, as being part of the Shinsengumi means they give up all past allegiances or reputations. Matsubara adds that all this talk of factions is disrespectful for those who signed up for Patriotic Fervor (like him), and with factions like Choshu and Satsuma running rampant in the street they need to stay united.
Matsubara then asks Hijikata if it's true that they've captured a Choshu agent, which Hijikata confirms as the reason behind their meeting today. He explains Yamazaki captured a Loyalist spy named Furutaka Shuntaro. Shuntaro was captured alongside a large cache of gunpowder and explosives, and after a few hours of torture he confessed to quite the dastardly plot- forty Loyalists were conspiring to start a fire to burn down the Imperial Palace. Todo says that makes no sense as the Loyalists swear allegiance to the Emperor, so why would they seek to burn his home down? Hijikata explains that if the palace went up in flames, every Bakufu-aligned force (including the Shinsengumi) would be drawn to one spot, which the Loyalists would then attack and destroy them all in one stroke. Okita comments that it seems the Loyalists are finally looking to attack the Shinsengumi, but Hijikata explains there's more than just that- in the resulting chaos, the Loyalists would break into the palace and kidnap the Emperor, Ito adding that with the Emperor in hand they would force him to issue a decree to attack the Bakufu directly.
Okita asks what they plan to do, with Ito telling him to be patient- Yamazaki is still working to locate the Loyalists base of operations- once the Loyalists find out that one of their number is missing, they will meet again to revise their plans. That, Hijikata says, will be their moment to strike, and the Shinsengumi will take the Loyalists down that very night. Okita is happy to finally be getting some action, though Takeda warns that it won't be an easy target and they'll have to be smart about it, take out the leader rather than charge in swinging like Okita. Takeda asks if they know who the ringleader is, with Hijikata saying their current intelligence says it's a Choshuan named Yoshida Toshimaro. However, there are others involved with the scheme from all over Japan, naming off a few such as Nagai, Sasaki, and Nakaoka. Ryoma reacts to hearing Nakaoka's name called, but claims he misheard what Hijikata said when Inoue asks if something's wrong. With no further questions (aside from Takeda asking if Yoshida, as the leader, has the highest bounty), Hijikata adjourns the meeting so he and Ito can formulate their strategy, telling the other Shinsengumi to not attract suspicion and possibly tip their hand to the Loyalists.
Ryoma decides to go back to Teradaya to confront Nakaoka and see if he is really involved in the plotted arson. He finds Nakaoka in his room and asks him if he's involved in the plot, but Nakaoka is as surprised to hear about it as Ryoma was. Ryoma explains the alleged plot and says the Shinsengumi plan to attack the Loyalists that night, and anyone that they catch will most likely die. Nakaoka thanks Ryoma for the warning, but says he was unaware of any plot and an attempt to burn down the palace would be insane- the collateral damage from such a fire would be too much for the Loyalists to explain away. Ryoma says that the Shinsengumi got a list of names for conspirators, of which Nakaoka was one of them. Nakaoka says there's a lot of Tosans with that name, and it definitely isn't him. Still, he can't sit idly while the Shinsengumi plan a massacre, intending to warn the Loyalists before the attack. Ryoma asks if there's any way he can contact them without being noticed, telling Nakaoka that Yoshida Toshimaro is named as the chief conspirator. Nakaoka says Yoshida is pretty high ranked, enough that Takechi knows him, leading Ryoma to ask if that means Takechi authorized the arson attack. Nakaoka says he's unsure of that, but a plot this big with Tosans involved wouldn't be in motion without Takechi knowing at least something about it. Ryoma can't believe Takechi would ever authorize something so monstrous, with Nakaoka adding it's a bitter pill to swallow, learning that those you grew up with aren't all they appear to be. For now, Nakaoka will warn Yoshida of the attack, and Ryoma should return to the barracks and make it seem like nothing has changed. With that the two part ways, Ryoma heading back to the barracks to check for updates.
On his way back, Ryoma stumbles across Matsubara talking with the Crow. When the Crow seems to recognize Ryoma, Matsubara asks if the two know each other, with the Crow quickly saying no, Ryoma just looks familiar. Ryoma asks if he's interrupting, and Matsubara asks if Ryoma is familiar with the Crow. The Crow tries to take this opportunity to leave the two captains be, but before he gets very far Matsubara cuts him down. Ryoma asks what's going on, but Matsubara says not to worry- if the informant knew Ryoma's face then he likely knew some dirty secrets of his, as he certainly knew some secrets of Matsubara's. But now he's dead, they don't have to worry about anyone else knowing their secrets, so they can all rest easy. Ryoma doesn't appear convinced, with Matsubara saying that if Ryoma didn't show up the Crow would still be alive, but it's not worth worrying over and they should head back to the barracks. Ryoma tells Matsubara he'll find his own way as he'd rather not travel with men who'd kill to keep their secrets, adding that he has nothing to hide. Matsubara says Ryoma should thank him for giving him the chance to tell that lie, but he's done here now and intends to head back to the barracks to rest. Matsubara departs, with Ryoma following soon after.
Ryoma returns to the barracks to find Hijikata talking with Okita. Hijikata calls to Ryoma and tells him he has a request: Yamazaki has narrowed down the Loyalist base to two locations, Ikedaya and Shikokuya. The meeting on the arson attack will take place at one of them, so to keep tabs Hijikata will be splitting the Shinsengumi into two forces to watch each inn. Ryoma and the Third Division will join Hijikata, and he asks Ryoma which inn they should cover. Ryoma suggest Shikokuya, with Hijikata accepting before Okita guesses that means he's watching Ikedaya. Okita departs and Ryoma asks if that was all, with Hijikata telling Ryoma to stay at the barracks for now so they will all be assembled for the raid. As Ryoma waits, Matsubara approaches him and tells him Hijikata wishes to speak with him at the warehouse. Inside, Ryoma finds Hijikata, Okita, and Nagakura standing around a beaten man, whom Okita identifies as Furutaka Shuntaro. Hijikata asks Furutaka to tell Ryoma what he told the others, with Furutaka weakly saying there are forty conspirators involved, the most dangerous being Yoshida and a man from Choshu named Katsura Kogoro. Nagakura says he hasn't heard of Yoshida, but Katsura's a skilled swordsman and fast (giving him the nickname "Slippery Kogoro"), with Hijikata saying he's clever too and likely the mastermind behind the plot. Orders are to take the two of them alive, if possible, with Hijikata adding that Yoshida and Katsura are only to be engaged by those Shinsengumi captains currently in the room- anyone else would be a waste. Okita and Nagakura suggest they get moving, but Hijikata says that if they all mobilize at once it could tip their enemies off- instead, they are to leave the barracks one at a time and head directly to their targets.
Ryoma leaves the barracks and heads towards Shikokuya. Upon arriving he links up with Hijikata, who tells him he sent a spy inside to scope out the place and alert them when the Loyalists arrive. If the Loyalists arrive, as if they head to Ikedaya then they'll have to regroup quickly to link up with Okita's group. As they wait, Hijikata notices that Ryoma seems pretty composed for the work ahead before asking if he and Matsubara have been talking lately. Ryoma asks why he's interested in that, and Hijikata says Matsubara had been asking questions about Ryoma earlier that day and it seemed a bit conspicuous. Ryoma doesn't answer, so Hijikata asks why he joined the Shinsengumi, with Ryoma replying that Hijikata should have asked him that when he first showed up. He lies and says that he had no real reason, just nowhere else to turn to in life; Hijikata asks if that's true, as with his skill any Loyalist party or Bakufu militia would have taken him, but Ryoma says he'll go wherever he has some value. Hijikata understands- in fact, he sympathizes, as he and Chief Kondo both were born to peasant families. Hijikata personally had no assumptions he would be anything more than a peasant farmer, but the arrival of the Black Ships upended everything and allowed him to pursue his dream. Kondo has a dream as well, and with the Shinsengumi he and others like him have a real chance at seeing that dream come to fruition. Ryoma asks if he means for the benefit of the Bakufu, but Hijikata says it's for the benefit of the country. Some day he'll tell Ryoma the full story, as he holds Ryoma in high esteem- all he needs now is for Ryoma to trust his methods.
Hijikata's spy returns and reports that Shikokuya is quiet, no Loyalists anywhere. Hijikata guess this means they chose the wrong location, ordering his men to hurry to Ikedaya. The Shinsengumi arrive and the regular troopers rush in, with Ryoma and Hijikata following after the latter reminds Ryoma to prioritize Yoshida and Katsura. Before they go inside, though, Ryoma spots Nakaoka in the crowd outside, the ronin giving Ryoma a shake of his head which he interprets as either Nakaoka failed to convince the Loyalists to lay low or the Shinsengumi got there first. With that he runs in, fighting his way through the Loyalists to reach the upper level of the inn. Once there he finds Nagakura injured and knocked against the wall, Nagakura lamenting he got cocky and should have waited. Ryoma gets his first look at the giant bruiser that is Yoshida (Futoshi Shimano), moving in to fight the Loyalist leader as Nagakura recovers. Ryoma steps inside and manages to overpower and defeat Yoshida.
Nagakura congratulates Ryoma on the win, but their battle is not over- Katsura is still out there somewhere, and they need to take him down as well. Ryoma resumes his search, fighting off several ambushes on his way through the inn. finally he reaches the room Katsura is supposedly in, opening it to find Niibori standing onver the dead bodies of several Shinsengumi troopers. Niibori greets Ryoma and confirms that he is Katsura Kogoro, leader of Choshu, with Ryoma asking how a smart man like him could come up with such a stupid plan like the arson attack. Katsura admits this looks really bad, but it's all a misunderstanding; he'd tried to talk some sense into Yoshida, but Yoshida could not be swayed and enough aggressive men had already signed on to make it impossible to steer away from extremism. So he came up with a plan of his own- set up a situation wherein Yamazaki could capture Furutaka. A dirty business, but it's better than seeing Kyo go up in smoke, only now Katsura's neck is on the line. He sheathes his sword and begs Ryoma to let him escape, as killing him here won't save Japan, and this isn't what Takechi would want either. Ryoma lowers his weapon and asks how Katsura knows Takechi, and Katsura reveals he knows Ryoma's real name: Takechi told him everything about Ryoma and why he joined the Shinsengumi, and with their relationship they can ultimately say they're on the same side in this fight.
Ryoma demands Katsura tell him everything, but suddenly Katsura draws his sword again and attacks Ryoma. As the two lock blades, Katsura apologizes for the underhand move before urging Ryoma to look behind him- Nagakura has recovered enough to move and has reached the two of them. Katsura whispers neither of them will die if Ryoma plays along, with Ryoma telling Nagakura to back off and leave Katsura to him. The two fight just enough to make it appear as a true duel to the death, and when Hijikata arrives Katsura whispers he owes Ryoma big before forcing Ryoma into Nagakura, providing enough of a barrier for him to escape before Hijikata can catch him. Katsura leaps out a window and escapes into the night, Ryoma apologizing to Hijikata for letting him get away.
The captains gather in one of the lower rooms of the inn, Hijikata congratulating them on their efforts and (Katsura's escape notwithstanding) declaring the operation a success. Furthermore, he's now learned there is a spy among the Shinsengumi who aided the Loyalists who escaped. Sanosuke asks which one of them is it, with Ryoma eyeing Nagakura in case he saw through his fight with Katsura. Todo, though, speaks up and asks if its Matsubara; Matsubara protests that now is not the time for bad jokes, but Hijikata has a couple of questions for him. Matsubara's a Choshu native, no? Matsubara denies this, but Hijikata reveals he knows Matsubara leaked information to the Choshu via the Crow before silencing him to cover his tracks. Matsubara accuses Ryoma of selling him out, but Hijikata says Yamazaki presented him with that information, and that they've known Matsubara has been at it for over three months now. Matsubara tries to defend himself by revealing Ryoma was familiar with the Crow, but Hijikata draws his sword to silence the captain.
Sensing things are about to get ugly, Takeda, Todo, Inoue, and Sanosuke close up the room to prevent anyone from leaving. Hijikata reminds Matsubara that all traitors must die, and the least he can do is Face Death with Dignity. Hijikata walks over to and hands Ryoma his sword, telling him to kill Matsubara and earn his place in the Shinsengumi. Ryoma's contact with the Crow was from before he joined the Shinsengumi, so he sees no reason to hold it against Ryoma. Ryoma asks how he knew, and Hijikata replies that of course he would hear of a swordsman looking for Tennen Rishin users. But asking around for information is no crime, so if he's willing to raise his sword for their cause then he deserves a chance to prove his loyalty- all he has to do is execute Matsubara, then they can leave as allies. Ryoma takes the sword and turns towards Matsubara, with Matsubara drawing his own weapon and cursing the other Shinsengumi for their loyalty to Kondo, and they will all fall to Choshu in due time. As for Ryoma, Matsubara says the Crow told him everything about him and his real reason for joining the Shinsengumi, but before he can finish Inoue steps up and slashes Matsubara, killing him. Hijikata asks what the meaning of this is, with Inoue saying he could not stand Matsubara's disrespect for his chief and his hometown before apologizing to Ryoma for letting his emotions get the better of him.
Now that that's out of the way, Sanosuke says they should leave, Todo joining him and Takeda as they cheer that with Matsubara out of the way they'll be getting a larger cut of the spoils. The other captains depart until only Ryoma, Nagakura and Hijikata remain. Hijikata tells Ryoma not to let anyone get the better of him in a fight again before leaving. Nagakura tells Ryoma that he would really like to avoid killing him in the future, saying that next time he wants someone to get away he should try not to be so obvious about it. With that he leaves, leaving Ryoma alone with Matsubara's dead body.
Chapter 7: The Two Ryomas
At the Kyo-Satsuma Consulate, Saigo is meeting with two men. He asks one, Bakufu Admiral Katsu Rintaro (Masato Arakawa), if he is speaking with him because he intends to retire to Satsuma, but Katsu says he's not there to discuss retirement at this time. Rather, he is here because he disapproves of Satsuma's leadership- the idealists of Choshu will not be able to directly challenge the Bakufu, and will require Satsuma's military forces to get anything accomplished. Saigo wonders if the Bakufu would take kindly to what he is saying, but Katsu reminds Saigo that he should be keenly aware of which side he is on- he had pled with the shogunate to modernize and build a Western-style nation, but his concerns were ignored. So he will take matters into his own hands and undermine the Bakufu, and he wants Satsuma's support in this endeavor. With Katsu destabilizing the interior and Saigo's army pushing the defenses, the Bakufu will fall and Japan will be Saigo's for the taking. As a token of his goodwill, Katsu has brought a weapon for Saigo to use- a man who has made deep inroad with the British to bring weapons and money into Japan, weapons that could overthrow Edo Castle in a day if applied properly. The man's name? Sakamoto Ryoma.
Meanwhile, the real Ryoma has finished meeting with Nakaoka and intends to return to the Shinsengumi barracks. Before he leave, Nakaoka says there's something that's bothering him- Katsura mentioned that Takechi revealed Ryoma's identity to him, meaning he could reveal his identity to the Shinsengumi at any time. Ryoma asks why, with Nakaoka saying that the men of Choshu are no friends of the Shinsengumi- if they wanted to cause chaos in the ranks, what better way than to reveal one of their number is close to the leading Loyalist in the nation? Ryoma doesn't think Katsura would operate like that, and regardless his days with the Shinsengumi are numbered now that his motive is out in the open- they can still use him for now, but eventually they'll tire of him and kill him as they did Matsubara before him. Nakaoka says he'll need to make the most of his time, then, and Ryoma says he'll need to make the most of that time if he's to get close to the man he believes is responsible: the ever elusive Kondo Isami. Even if Kondo wasn't the man in the mask, he may know who was as he trained them all, and eventually he'll have to make his presence known. So Ryoma needs to head back to the barracks, as that's his best bet at finding a way to Kondo.
When Ryoma arrives at the barracks, he finds the guards and Ito arguing with a group of samurai in black uniforms, the leader demanding that Kondo show himself. Ito tells Ryoma to come inside before telling the leader of the other samurai that Kondo is very busy when the leader demands to be let in again. The leader, identified as Sasaki Tadasaburo (Masaru Watase), says that they are the Mimawarigumi, and they will not be bossed around by ronin like the Shinsengumi, with Ito countering that if Sasaki wants respect he better do something to earn it. Sasaki throws back that the Shinsengumi allowed Katsura of Choshu to escape, and as the two leaders argue Ryoma take this time to continue on ahead.
Inside the Shinsengumi compound, Nagakura fills in Ryoma on who the Mimawarigumi are- they are essentially "high born" Shinsengumi, retainers of the Bakufu on special assignment compared to the ronin of the Shinsengumi. Because of this class divide, the Mimawarigumi are spiteful of the Shinsengumi, though Nagakura concedes that their leader Sasaki does have some skill about him. He warns Ryoma to keep an eye out for Sasaki, just in case. Ryoma decides to change topics and asks how Nagakura is recovering from his wounds from Ikedaya, with Nagakura replying that he's on the mend and grateful for Ryoma taking on Yoshida. Ryoma says that he is the one that should be grateful, saying he owes Nagakura one for covering him on Katsura. Nagakura, though, says Ryoma owes him nothing; he has honestly grown tired of killing their own, which Ryoma guesses means the incident with Serizawa Kamo. Ryoma asks what happened that day, and Nagakura tells him the story; before they were the Shinsengumi, they were known as the Miburoshigumi, and there were ten Tennen Rishin users including Nagakura, the other surviving captains, Kamo, and his followers Hirama Jusuke and Hirayama Goro. A power struggle arose between those three and the other Tennen Rishin users, with control of the Miburoshigumi up for grabs. Kamo wasn't just a brilliant swordsman, but well educated as well, Nagakura saying he was the only one who could have challenged Kondo for control of a group like this. Hijikata disagreed, with Ryoma asking if that meant Hijikata killed Kamo; Nagakura says no, he never learned who killed Kamo and honestly he doesn't care, warning Ryoma that no one talks about Kamo if they want to survive in the Shinsengumi. Ryoma asks Nagakura why a man like him joined the Shinsengumi, with Nagakura saying he owes Kondo his life for covering him when Nagakura killed a man by mistake. If he can see Kondo's dream through to the end, then he'll be happy with himself. Ryoma says Kondo sounds like a remarkable man, with Nagakura saying that one day Ryoma should see that for himself. Ryoma expresses interest in meeting Kondo, with Nagakura directing him to Kondo's room in the deepest part in the compound, though he warns him that no one is likely in at this time.
Ryoma heads to Kondo's room, recalling Takechi's questioning if Kondo was the one who killed Toyo. When he tries to go into the room, though, Ito spots him and asks what he thinks he's doing. Ryoma backs off and says he wasn't up to anything, but Ito remains unconvinced and reminds Ryoma he said the chief was unavailable today. Ryoma asks how he can meet the chief, with Ito saying Kondo will call Ryoma if he is needed, and if he asked anyone else they would say the same thing. With that avenue closed, Ryoma heads out to speak with the other Shinsengumi to see if any of them might give him some insight.
First, he goes to speak with Hijikata. Hijikata asks why Ryoma wants to meet the chief, with Ryoma saying that he's the only Shinsengumi captain that hasn't met Kondo yet and would like to pay his respects. Unfortunately, Hijikata repeats what Ito said and says Kondo will meet Ryoma on his time, not Ryoma's. Ryoma asks how long that will take, with Hijikata asking why Ryoma seems so impatient to meet the chief. Kondo isn't like other people where you can just summon at your will- he is the master of the Shinsengumi, ergo he is Ryoma's master as well. With that Hijikata dismisses Ryoma. Ryoma then goes to the courtyard, where he finds Okita and Takeda playing strip mahjong with a couple of troopers. When pressed, neither captain knows where the chief is, leaving Ryoma with only Inoue or Todo to ask, and either of them are present. With no other leads to go off, Ryoma decides to look outside the barracks for any clues as to the chief's whereabouts.
As Ryoma leaves the compound, Inoue arrives and asks if Ryoma would like to see the chief. Ryoma says he's just been curious, nothing more, but Inoue says he's in luck as Kondo has a mission that he feels Ryoma would be perfect for. Ryoma asks what the mission is, and Inoue asks him if he's heard of "Sakamoto Ryoma". Ryoma feigns ignorance, with Inoue explaining his relationship with Takechi and his role as Loyalist Party Rep, and how Ryoma is believed to be the killer of Yoshida Toyo. Kondo's orders are for Ryoma to learn everything there is about "Ryoma", with Ryoma asking where he should start. Inoue says Sakamoto Ryoma was reported at the Satsuma consulate, explaining further that after fleeing Tosa he was taken in by a Bakufu Admiral named Katsu Rintaro. Katsu has even giving Ryoma a ship, which he apparently uses as a means to purchase weapons from the British in Nagasaki through a merchant by the name of Thomas Glover. Ryoma asks what "Ryoma" is planning to do with British weapons, with Inoue saying that's what the chief wants him to find out. He suggests Ryoma go to the Satsuma Consulate first and see if he can learn anything, as Katsu apparently brought "Ryoma" there to introduce him to Saigo Kichinosuke, and if Saigo is meeting with Katsu perhaps he might speak with Ryoma as well. Any information Ryoma gets, he can report directly to Kondo.
As Inoue leaves, Ryoma is wracked with questions: who is using his name and why? Why did Kondo single Ryoma out on this mission? With no other answers, Ryoma decides to go back to Teradaya and ask Nakaoka if he knew about the fake. He confronts the ronin with the information about his double, his activities with the British and his discussions with Satsuma, and how the Shinsengumi has tasked Ryoma with hunting down "Ryoma". Nakaoka has heard nothing about a second Ryoma, saying he would have told the real Ryoma if he had heard anything. He then asks why someone would use Ryoma's name instead of their own, with Ryoma guessing maybe they're trying to set him up to take the fall for something. When he tells Nakaoka that Kondo specifically chose him to hunt down the other Ryoma, Nakaoka asks if maybe that means Kondo knows Ryoma's true identity. Ryoma reasons that if Kondo was the assassin that killed Toyo, then perhaps he remembers Ryoma's face and is trying to maneuver him into a position where he can expose himself. But Ryoma can't refuse the order, so he'll focus on finding the fake Ryoma and Saigo of the Satsuma is his best lead so far.
Nakaoka warns that Saigo will be a difficult challenge to face- Satsuma has grown powerful and wealthy from centuries of foreign trade, such that even the Bakufu tread lightly when dealing with them lest they side with the Loyalists. And if there is anyone leading the Satsuma, it's Saigo, who keeps his own counsel and is long on trust. Ostensibly the Bakufu and Satsuma are allies against Choshu (whom Satsuma has a longstanding grudge against), but eventually the Satsuma might take a shot at the shogunate and the Loyalists would most likely have to fall in line for that. However, Choshu is filled with radical idealists, so the rank-and-file of either side is more likely to try and kill the other rather than cooperate. Still, they need to figure out how Ryoma fits into this all- if the fake has access to British weapons, he's likely to have a great deal of leverage. Nakaoka will poke around and see if there is anything he can learn, while he suggests Ryoma stay the course and conduct his investigation into the fake.
Ryoma leaves Teradaya and heads to the Satsuma Consulate to speak with Saigo. He reaches the consulate and asks the guard out front if he might speak with Saigo about the fake Ryoma, with the guard saying he'll show Ryoma inside before taking him down the street towards another entrance. Ryoma begins to sense something is wrong when they stray far from the consulate, when the guard leads him to a nearby shrine, and when three other Satsuma men come out and surround him. It's an ambush, as the Satsuma are seeking vengeance on Ryoma for several of their loved ones dying in conflicts with the Shinsengumi. Ryoma says they can still take him to Saigo before things get ugly, but the Satsuma men laugh him off before attacking. Unfortunately Ryoma proves to be the better warrior, and he manages to defeat the Satsuma men with ease. Ryoma tells the guards if they take him to Saigo he'll forget the whole thing happened, as his men would probably take umbrage at some Satsuma guards trying to kill their Captain. He's just trying to do his job, and he suggests the Satsuma men do much the same.
The guards let Ryoma inside and take him to a room to meet with Saigo. Ryoma properly introduces himself as Saito Hajime to Saigo, apologizing for not doing so last time they met. Saigo laughs it off, saying he believed they would beet up again sooner or later and asking if Kondo was all Ryoma hoped he was. Ryoma isn't here for chit-chat, though, and asks Saigo if he knows of the fake Ryoma. Saigo, though, says he does not know a "Sakamoto Ryoma"; Ryoma says that he came here with Admiral Katsu, but Saigo can't recall such a meeting and apologizes to Ryoma for his memory being "fuzzy". Ryoma insists he'll wait while Saigo puzzles it out, but when he sees Saigo is stalling Ryoma concludes Saigo doesn't trust him. He remains adamant that he will wait, but Saigo says once more that he does not know Sakamoto Ryoma. Ryoma asks what the fake is worth to him, but Saigo dismisses Ryoma as a terrible negotiator. Ryoma continues on about the fake having access to British weapons, asking if perhaps he is planning on selling weapons to Satsuma, but again Saigo denies knowing anything. A guard arrives and Saigo tells Ryoma he should leave now, but offers to get another drink with him next time Ryoma's out on the town. Saigo leaves, and the guard escorts Ryoma back to the front gate.
With nothing to show for his investigation, Ryoma decides to go back to the barracks to rest. Just before he leaves, though, Yamazaki (in his beggar disguise) calls him over and gives him a message: Kondo would like to speak with him, as he's very interested in what Ryoma has to say about his investigation. Ryoma asks where Kondo is, and Yamazaki tells him to head to a Gion ryotei called Asahi. He must not tell this to anyone, not even his fellow Shinsengumi, and with a quick word of thanks Ryoma heads off to speak with Kondo.
Ryoma heads to Asahi to find Kondo. Inside, Kondo (Koichi Adachi) is playing blindfolded tag with a couple of courtesans when he senses Ryoma's entrance. He introduces himself and invites Ryoma to sit with him and report his findings. Ryoma explains that Saigo was uncooperative, with Kondo saying he saw that coming and that Saigo wouldn't have been of much use to them anyway. Ryoma asks what he means by that, and Kondo tells him "Ryoma" is already on his way to Nagasaki and thus the Satsuma have complete deniability. Still, Kondo tells Ryoma not to beat himself up over it as Saigo tends to keep his cards close to his chest. But Kondo has seen enough, pouring Ryoma a drink and saying it's all because of him, actually. Ryoma is confused, and Kondo says that Saigo did meet with Sakamoto Ryoma... a fake Sakamoto Ryoma, because the real one is sitting right in front of him.
Kondo explains that he heard of Toyo's murder and how the man held responsible fled to Edo and began looking for Tennen Rishin users. That man is sitting in front of him now, so the Sakamoto Ryoma down in Nagasaki is a fake buying weapons from the British. Ryoma fakes ignorance, which Kondo commends him on before reassuring Ryoma that his secret identity will not leave the room and the Shinsengumi won't silence him as a traitor. Kondo gets to the point- Ryoma has talent, whether he's Ryoma or Saito, and Kondo would like to recruit him for a little project he has in mind. Ryoma asks what the project is, and Kondo tells him he plans to relocate the capital from Kyo to Edo. He explains to Ryoma that he sees this as the only way to keep Japan from collapsing under the crisis it finds itself in; the Loyalists are hellbent on a fight with the Bakufu, a fight that would leave Japan too weak to resist an Imperialistic invasion from the British or Americans. Ryoma asks how moving the capital to Edo solves that problem, with Kondo explaining Kyo must die and the Royal Family with it. Ryoma is outraged as that's the exact same plan the Loyalists have, but Kondo counters that the Loyalist saw the Emperor as a means for war- he'll use the Emperor as a means for peace by destroying the divide between the Bakufu and the Emperor. Right now, both sides of the conflict have their own claims to power separated by a gap, but what if that gap were closed? Kyo is the seat of imperial power, but how can one reconcile that with the Bakufu located in Edo? Wouldn't it make more sense to have one seat of power rather than two? Ryoma asks if Kondo realizes what he's saying, and Kondo says yes- once Kyo is razed the Emperor will have nothing left and be forced to move his court to Edo. The Loyalists will have no one to back and no way to reach the Emperor if he is in the clutches of the Bakufu, and Japan's governing authority would be consolidated in one place.
Ryoma counters that if Kondo topples the Imperial Court, people across Japan will want revenge against the Bakufu. Kondo replies that's why he chose a fire as his vector of change, to best cover their tracks and deflect blame, and the Shinsengumi are well trained to act quickly and get the job done. In fact, that's why the Shinsengumi even exist- to assemble those with the skill to annihilate a city. Of course, not every officer can be trusted with the plan, with Ryoma asking why Kondo chose him to discuss this with. Kondo says Ryoma has proven his worth, and he has something to offer Ryoma to sweeten the deal- the identity of the man who killed Toyo. Ryoma asks if Kondo really knows who it was, with Kondo replying yes- he's the chief of the Shinsengumi, and no one in the Shinsengumi does anything without his knowledge. If Ryoma wants that information, all he has to do is sign on to Kondo's plan to move the capital. But Ryoma is unconvinced and calls the plan idiotic, saying Kondo cares not for the people of Kyo and would be sacrificing all of them for his political gains. Kondo counters that more people would die in a civil war and some sacrifices need to be made to impart great change. Still, Ryoma refuses and makes to leave, telling Kondo he is unlike him and isn't going to be tearing apart more families.
As Ryoma leaves, he asks Kondo if that is really the only way, if in order to enact change you have to be willing to sacrifice everything else. Kondo says Ryoma is naïve to think that, adding that Toyo was right and Ryoma couldn't carry the weight of the Party Rep. Ryoma asks how Kondo could have known what Toyo said that night, to which Kondo just smirks. Readying his sword, Ryoma says that if Kondo was the assassin it just made his job a whole lot easier- all he has to do is kill Kondo and desert the Shinsengumi, then all his problems will be over. Kondo says he's welcome to try, if he can even manage to land a hit on the fourth heir to the Tennen Rishin style. Ryoma draws his sword and takes a swing, but Kondo blocks it with his arm- as it turns out, he's wearing iron gauntlets beneath his haori, gauntlets identical to the ones the masked man wore when Ryoma fought him. He guesses this means Kondo really is the assassin, which Kondo replies he might get his answer before he bleeds out, drawing his own sword and getting into position. The two face off, with Kondo saying it's been a year since his first real fight and he intends to enjoy this one. With that, the two fight.
Their fight is long and exhausting, but ultimately Ryoma defeats Kondo. Kondo laments he's gotten rusty, with Ryoma telling him to practice more than once a year before declaring Kondo isn't the man in the mask- whoever it was, he was stronger than even Kondo, something Kondo takes umbrage with. Ryoma asks that Kondo tell him who it was underneath the mask, but Kondo once again reiterates that his asking price is Ryoma's assistance in his plan. Rather than answer right away, Ryoma puts away his blade and tells Kondo that he was right- Ryoma is a naïve kid who asks a lot of questions and has to accept the answers he's given, but in finding out Toyo's killer Ryoma will carve his own path to the truth. Kondo can call him whatever he likes, but Ryoma is not leaving until he finds the man in the mask, even if that means staying in the Shinsengumi. Kondo does have a problem with that, but given he lost their fight he's got nothing to stand on in that regard and allows Ryoma to stay. Ryoma declares that he will stay with the Third Division and departs, but before he leaves he tells Kondo he did learn one thing- Tennen Rishin is known by only first-class swordsmen, and the one he is looking for might be controlling the masked man from the shadows. With that Ryoma leaves, Kondo taking a moment to think about it before asking aloud if Inoue (who was hiding in the other room) got all that. Inoue asks if letting Ryoma go was a wise decision as the man knows too much now, but Kondo says he's looking forward to seeing what Ryoma uncovers in his search.
Unbeknownst to Ryoma, Okita was also waiting outside Asahi, the one-eyed captain giving a small smirk as he watches Ryoma disappear into the night.
Meanwhile, the real Ryoma has finished meeting with Nakaoka and intends to return to the Shinsengumi barracks. Before he leave, Nakaoka says there's something that's bothering him- Katsura mentioned that Takechi revealed Ryoma's identity to him, meaning he could reveal his identity to the Shinsengumi at any time. Ryoma asks why, with Nakaoka saying that the men of Choshu are no friends of the Shinsengumi- if they wanted to cause chaos in the ranks, what better way than to reveal one of their number is close to the leading Loyalist in the nation? Ryoma doesn't think Katsura would operate like that, and regardless his days with the Shinsengumi are numbered now that his motive is out in the open- they can still use him for now, but eventually they'll tire of him and kill him as they did Matsubara before him. Nakaoka says he'll need to make the most of his time, then, and Ryoma says he'll need to make the most of that time if he's to get close to the man he believes is responsible: the ever elusive Kondo Isami. Even if Kondo wasn't the man in the mask, he may know who was as he trained them all, and eventually he'll have to make his presence known. So Ryoma needs to head back to the barracks, as that's his best bet at finding a way to Kondo.
When Ryoma arrives at the barracks, he finds the guards and Ito arguing with a group of samurai in black uniforms, the leader demanding that Kondo show himself. Ito tells Ryoma to come inside before telling the leader of the other samurai that Kondo is very busy when the leader demands to be let in again. The leader, identified as Sasaki Tadasaburo (Masaru Watase), says that they are the Mimawarigumi, and they will not be bossed around by ronin like the Shinsengumi, with Ito countering that if Sasaki wants respect he better do something to earn it. Sasaki throws back that the Shinsengumi allowed Katsura of Choshu to escape, and as the two leaders argue Ryoma take this time to continue on ahead.
Inside the Shinsengumi compound, Nagakura fills in Ryoma on who the Mimawarigumi are- they are essentially "high born" Shinsengumi, retainers of the Bakufu on special assignment compared to the ronin of the Shinsengumi. Because of this class divide, the Mimawarigumi are spiteful of the Shinsengumi, though Nagakura concedes that their leader Sasaki does have some skill about him. He warns Ryoma to keep an eye out for Sasaki, just in case. Ryoma decides to change topics and asks how Nagakura is recovering from his wounds from Ikedaya, with Nagakura replying that he's on the mend and grateful for Ryoma taking on Yoshida. Ryoma says that he is the one that should be grateful, saying he owes Nagakura one for covering him on Katsura. Nagakura, though, says Ryoma owes him nothing; he has honestly grown tired of killing their own, which Ryoma guesses means the incident with Serizawa Kamo. Ryoma asks what happened that day, and Nagakura tells him the story; before they were the Shinsengumi, they were known as the Miburoshigumi, and there were ten Tennen Rishin users including Nagakura, the other surviving captains, Kamo, and his followers Hirama Jusuke and Hirayama Goro. A power struggle arose between those three and the other Tennen Rishin users, with control of the Miburoshigumi up for grabs. Kamo wasn't just a brilliant swordsman, but well educated as well, Nagakura saying he was the only one who could have challenged Kondo for control of a group like this. Hijikata disagreed, with Ryoma asking if that meant Hijikata killed Kamo; Nagakura says no, he never learned who killed Kamo and honestly he doesn't care, warning Ryoma that no one talks about Kamo if they want to survive in the Shinsengumi. Ryoma asks Nagakura why a man like him joined the Shinsengumi, with Nagakura saying he owes Kondo his life for covering him when Nagakura killed a man by mistake. If he can see Kondo's dream through to the end, then he'll be happy with himself. Ryoma says Kondo sounds like a remarkable man, with Nagakura saying that one day Ryoma should see that for himself. Ryoma expresses interest in meeting Kondo, with Nagakura directing him to Kondo's room in the deepest part in the compound, though he warns him that no one is likely in at this time.
Ryoma heads to Kondo's room, recalling Takechi's questioning if Kondo was the one who killed Toyo. When he tries to go into the room, though, Ito spots him and asks what he thinks he's doing. Ryoma backs off and says he wasn't up to anything, but Ito remains unconvinced and reminds Ryoma he said the chief was unavailable today. Ryoma asks how he can meet the chief, with Ito saying Kondo will call Ryoma if he is needed, and if he asked anyone else they would say the same thing. With that avenue closed, Ryoma heads out to speak with the other Shinsengumi to see if any of them might give him some insight.
First, he goes to speak with Hijikata. Hijikata asks why Ryoma wants to meet the chief, with Ryoma saying that he's the only Shinsengumi captain that hasn't met Kondo yet and would like to pay his respects. Unfortunately, Hijikata repeats what Ito said and says Kondo will meet Ryoma on his time, not Ryoma's. Ryoma asks how long that will take, with Hijikata asking why Ryoma seems so impatient to meet the chief. Kondo isn't like other people where you can just summon at your will- he is the master of the Shinsengumi, ergo he is Ryoma's master as well. With that Hijikata dismisses Ryoma. Ryoma then goes to the courtyard, where he finds Okita and Takeda playing strip mahjong with a couple of troopers. When pressed, neither captain knows where the chief is, leaving Ryoma with only Inoue or Todo to ask, and either of them are present. With no other leads to go off, Ryoma decides to look outside the barracks for any clues as to the chief's whereabouts.
As Ryoma leaves the compound, Inoue arrives and asks if Ryoma would like to see the chief. Ryoma says he's just been curious, nothing more, but Inoue says he's in luck as Kondo has a mission that he feels Ryoma would be perfect for. Ryoma asks what the mission is, and Inoue asks him if he's heard of "Sakamoto Ryoma". Ryoma feigns ignorance, with Inoue explaining his relationship with Takechi and his role as Loyalist Party Rep, and how Ryoma is believed to be the killer of Yoshida Toyo. Kondo's orders are for Ryoma to learn everything there is about "Ryoma", with Ryoma asking where he should start. Inoue says Sakamoto Ryoma was reported at the Satsuma consulate, explaining further that after fleeing Tosa he was taken in by a Bakufu Admiral named Katsu Rintaro. Katsu has even giving Ryoma a ship, which he apparently uses as a means to purchase weapons from the British in Nagasaki through a merchant by the name of Thomas Glover. Ryoma asks what "Ryoma" is planning to do with British weapons, with Inoue saying that's what the chief wants him to find out. He suggests Ryoma go to the Satsuma Consulate first and see if he can learn anything, as Katsu apparently brought "Ryoma" there to introduce him to Saigo Kichinosuke, and if Saigo is meeting with Katsu perhaps he might speak with Ryoma as well. Any information Ryoma gets, he can report directly to Kondo.
As Inoue leaves, Ryoma is wracked with questions: who is using his name and why? Why did Kondo single Ryoma out on this mission? With no other answers, Ryoma decides to go back to Teradaya and ask Nakaoka if he knew about the fake. He confronts the ronin with the information about his double, his activities with the British and his discussions with Satsuma, and how the Shinsengumi has tasked Ryoma with hunting down "Ryoma". Nakaoka has heard nothing about a second Ryoma, saying he would have told the real Ryoma if he had heard anything. He then asks why someone would use Ryoma's name instead of their own, with Ryoma guessing maybe they're trying to set him up to take the fall for something. When he tells Nakaoka that Kondo specifically chose him to hunt down the other Ryoma, Nakaoka asks if maybe that means Kondo knows Ryoma's true identity. Ryoma reasons that if Kondo was the assassin that killed Toyo, then perhaps he remembers Ryoma's face and is trying to maneuver him into a position where he can expose himself. But Ryoma can't refuse the order, so he'll focus on finding the fake Ryoma and Saigo of the Satsuma is his best lead so far.
Nakaoka warns that Saigo will be a difficult challenge to face- Satsuma has grown powerful and wealthy from centuries of foreign trade, such that even the Bakufu tread lightly when dealing with them lest they side with the Loyalists. And if there is anyone leading the Satsuma, it's Saigo, who keeps his own counsel and is long on trust. Ostensibly the Bakufu and Satsuma are allies against Choshu (whom Satsuma has a longstanding grudge against), but eventually the Satsuma might take a shot at the shogunate and the Loyalists would most likely have to fall in line for that. However, Choshu is filled with radical idealists, so the rank-and-file of either side is more likely to try and kill the other rather than cooperate. Still, they need to figure out how Ryoma fits into this all- if the fake has access to British weapons, he's likely to have a great deal of leverage. Nakaoka will poke around and see if there is anything he can learn, while he suggests Ryoma stay the course and conduct his investigation into the fake.
Ryoma leaves Teradaya and heads to the Satsuma Consulate to speak with Saigo. He reaches the consulate and asks the guard out front if he might speak with Saigo about the fake Ryoma, with the guard saying he'll show Ryoma inside before taking him down the street towards another entrance. Ryoma begins to sense something is wrong when they stray far from the consulate, when the guard leads him to a nearby shrine, and when three other Satsuma men come out and surround him. It's an ambush, as the Satsuma are seeking vengeance on Ryoma for several of their loved ones dying in conflicts with the Shinsengumi. Ryoma says they can still take him to Saigo before things get ugly, but the Satsuma men laugh him off before attacking. Unfortunately Ryoma proves to be the better warrior, and he manages to defeat the Satsuma men with ease. Ryoma tells the guards if they take him to Saigo he'll forget the whole thing happened, as his men would probably take umbrage at some Satsuma guards trying to kill their Captain. He's just trying to do his job, and he suggests the Satsuma men do much the same.
The guards let Ryoma inside and take him to a room to meet with Saigo. Ryoma properly introduces himself as Saito Hajime to Saigo, apologizing for not doing so last time they met. Saigo laughs it off, saying he believed they would beet up again sooner or later and asking if Kondo was all Ryoma hoped he was. Ryoma isn't here for chit-chat, though, and asks Saigo if he knows of the fake Ryoma. Saigo, though, says he does not know a "Sakamoto Ryoma"; Ryoma says that he came here with Admiral Katsu, but Saigo can't recall such a meeting and apologizes to Ryoma for his memory being "fuzzy". Ryoma insists he'll wait while Saigo puzzles it out, but when he sees Saigo is stalling Ryoma concludes Saigo doesn't trust him. He remains adamant that he will wait, but Saigo says once more that he does not know Sakamoto Ryoma. Ryoma asks what the fake is worth to him, but Saigo dismisses Ryoma as a terrible negotiator. Ryoma continues on about the fake having access to British weapons, asking if perhaps he is planning on selling weapons to Satsuma, but again Saigo denies knowing anything. A guard arrives and Saigo tells Ryoma he should leave now, but offers to get another drink with him next time Ryoma's out on the town. Saigo leaves, and the guard escorts Ryoma back to the front gate.
With nothing to show for his investigation, Ryoma decides to go back to the barracks to rest. Just before he leaves, though, Yamazaki (in his beggar disguise) calls him over and gives him a message: Kondo would like to speak with him, as he's very interested in what Ryoma has to say about his investigation. Ryoma asks where Kondo is, and Yamazaki tells him to head to a Gion ryotei called Asahi. He must not tell this to anyone, not even his fellow Shinsengumi, and with a quick word of thanks Ryoma heads off to speak with Kondo.
Ryoma heads to Asahi to find Kondo. Inside, Kondo (Koichi Adachi) is playing blindfolded tag with a couple of courtesans when he senses Ryoma's entrance. He introduces himself and invites Ryoma to sit with him and report his findings. Ryoma explains that Saigo was uncooperative, with Kondo saying he saw that coming and that Saigo wouldn't have been of much use to them anyway. Ryoma asks what he means by that, and Kondo tells him "Ryoma" is already on his way to Nagasaki and thus the Satsuma have complete deniability. Still, Kondo tells Ryoma not to beat himself up over it as Saigo tends to keep his cards close to his chest. But Kondo has seen enough, pouring Ryoma a drink and saying it's all because of him, actually. Ryoma is confused, and Kondo says that Saigo did meet with Sakamoto Ryoma... a fake Sakamoto Ryoma, because the real one is sitting right in front of him.
Kondo explains that he heard of Toyo's murder and how the man held responsible fled to Edo and began looking for Tennen Rishin users. That man is sitting in front of him now, so the Sakamoto Ryoma down in Nagasaki is a fake buying weapons from the British. Ryoma fakes ignorance, which Kondo commends him on before reassuring Ryoma that his secret identity will not leave the room and the Shinsengumi won't silence him as a traitor. Kondo gets to the point- Ryoma has talent, whether he's Ryoma or Saito, and Kondo would like to recruit him for a little project he has in mind. Ryoma asks what the project is, and Kondo tells him he plans to relocate the capital from Kyo to Edo. He explains to Ryoma that he sees this as the only way to keep Japan from collapsing under the crisis it finds itself in; the Loyalists are hellbent on a fight with the Bakufu, a fight that would leave Japan too weak to resist an Imperialistic invasion from the British or Americans. Ryoma asks how moving the capital to Edo solves that problem, with Kondo explaining Kyo must die and the Royal Family with it. Ryoma is outraged as that's the exact same plan the Loyalists have, but Kondo counters that the Loyalist saw the Emperor as a means for war- he'll use the Emperor as a means for peace by destroying the divide between the Bakufu and the Emperor. Right now, both sides of the conflict have their own claims to power separated by a gap, but what if that gap were closed? Kyo is the seat of imperial power, but how can one reconcile that with the Bakufu located in Edo? Wouldn't it make more sense to have one seat of power rather than two? Ryoma asks if Kondo realizes what he's saying, and Kondo says yes- once Kyo is razed the Emperor will have nothing left and be forced to move his court to Edo. The Loyalists will have no one to back and no way to reach the Emperor if he is in the clutches of the Bakufu, and Japan's governing authority would be consolidated in one place.
Ryoma counters that if Kondo topples the Imperial Court, people across Japan will want revenge against the Bakufu. Kondo replies that's why he chose a fire as his vector of change, to best cover their tracks and deflect blame, and the Shinsengumi are well trained to act quickly and get the job done. In fact, that's why the Shinsengumi even exist- to assemble those with the skill to annihilate a city. Of course, not every officer can be trusted with the plan, with Ryoma asking why Kondo chose him to discuss this with. Kondo says Ryoma has proven his worth, and he has something to offer Ryoma to sweeten the deal- the identity of the man who killed Toyo. Ryoma asks if Kondo really knows who it was, with Kondo replying yes- he's the chief of the Shinsengumi, and no one in the Shinsengumi does anything without his knowledge. If Ryoma wants that information, all he has to do is sign on to Kondo's plan to move the capital. But Ryoma is unconvinced and calls the plan idiotic, saying Kondo cares not for the people of Kyo and would be sacrificing all of them for his political gains. Kondo counters that more people would die in a civil war and some sacrifices need to be made to impart great change. Still, Ryoma refuses and makes to leave, telling Kondo he is unlike him and isn't going to be tearing apart more families.
As Ryoma leaves, he asks Kondo if that is really the only way, if in order to enact change you have to be willing to sacrifice everything else. Kondo says Ryoma is naïve to think that, adding that Toyo was right and Ryoma couldn't carry the weight of the Party Rep. Ryoma asks how Kondo could have known what Toyo said that night, to which Kondo just smirks. Readying his sword, Ryoma says that if Kondo was the assassin it just made his job a whole lot easier- all he has to do is kill Kondo and desert the Shinsengumi, then all his problems will be over. Kondo says he's welcome to try, if he can even manage to land a hit on the fourth heir to the Tennen Rishin style. Ryoma draws his sword and takes a swing, but Kondo blocks it with his arm- as it turns out, he's wearing iron gauntlets beneath his haori, gauntlets identical to the ones the masked man wore when Ryoma fought him. He guesses this means Kondo really is the assassin, which Kondo replies he might get his answer before he bleeds out, drawing his own sword and getting into position. The two face off, with Kondo saying it's been a year since his first real fight and he intends to enjoy this one. With that, the two fight.
Their fight is long and exhausting, but ultimately Ryoma defeats Kondo. Kondo laments he's gotten rusty, with Ryoma telling him to practice more than once a year before declaring Kondo isn't the man in the mask- whoever it was, he was stronger than even Kondo, something Kondo takes umbrage with. Ryoma asks that Kondo tell him who it was underneath the mask, but Kondo once again reiterates that his asking price is Ryoma's assistance in his plan. Rather than answer right away, Ryoma puts away his blade and tells Kondo that he was right- Ryoma is a naïve kid who asks a lot of questions and has to accept the answers he's given, but in finding out Toyo's killer Ryoma will carve his own path to the truth. Kondo can call him whatever he likes, but Ryoma is not leaving until he finds the man in the mask, even if that means staying in the Shinsengumi. Kondo does have a problem with that, but given he lost their fight he's got nothing to stand on in that regard and allows Ryoma to stay. Ryoma declares that he will stay with the Third Division and departs, but before he leaves he tells Kondo he did learn one thing- Tennen Rishin is known by only first-class swordsmen, and the one he is looking for might be controlling the masked man from the shadows. With that Ryoma leaves, Kondo taking a moment to think about it before asking aloud if Inoue (who was hiding in the other room) got all that. Inoue asks if letting Ryoma go was a wise decision as the man knows too much now, but Kondo says he's looking forward to seeing what Ryoma uncovers in his search.
Unbeknownst to Ryoma, Okita was also waiting outside Asahi, the one-eyed captain giving a small smirk as he watches Ryoma disappear into the night.
Chapter 8: The Mad Dog Howls
In his room at Teradaya, Ryoma has compiled a list of Shinsengumi captains and has already crossed out those whom he has determined cannot be the man in the mask, with Kondo being the latest. He hears Oryo coming to wake him and quickly hides his work and hurries back to his futon, passing it off as noisy revelers waking him up at night and being unable to get back to sleep. Oryo spots Ryoma's pen and ink, hinting that something is off with his cover story, but doesn't reveal anything before telling Ryoma that breakfast is ready. Once Oryo leaves, Ryoma pulls his list back out, noting that he only has four Tennen Rishin users left to interrogate, with his focus falling on Okita Soji's name.
Ryoma returns to the Shinsengumi barracks to find Okita waiting for him. Okita tells Ryoma that he has some juicy information for him, telling Ryoma to meet him at the warehouse later to learn more; when Ryoma asks why Okita can't just tell him now, Okita says he wants to keep the discussion private. Ryoma heads to the warehouse and asks Okita why he wanted to meet there. Okita asks if the name "Sengoku Toranojo" rings any bells- when Ryoma says no, Okita explains that Sengoku is a very rich man who made his money in kimono sales, and owns a massive mansion in town. So massive, he's using it to hide dozens of Loyalists that are on his payroll, with Ryoma guessing this means Okita wants to stage a raid on the place. He then asks why Okita told only him instead of the other Shinsengumi, with Okita saying this way they'll get a bigger split of the profit- even Hijikata doesn't know about Okita's plans. He tells Ryoma to meet him at Sengoku's mansion that night for the raid, but Ryoma is skeptical- Okita could have easily gone to one of the other Shinsengumi captains if he really wanted help. Okita counters that Ryoma is just looking for Tennen Rishin users, not money, so he'll be free to take the biggest cut of the loot and both will go home happy. With that he departs, telling Ryoma he'll be expecting him that night.
Ryoma returns to Teradaya to rest before the raid. Once night falls, he departs for the Sengoku mansion, finding Okita and his men waiting outside the front door. Okita happily informs Ryoma that the Loyalists inside have been drinking and are completely unaware of the Shinsengumi, giving them complete surprise. Ryoma asks how many Loyalists they have to fight, but Okita tells Ryoma not to worry about numbers and just have some fun with the whole thing. This leads to Ryoma asking if Okita joined the Shinsengumi solely to kill people, but Okita counters that it's not much of a better reason than Ryoma's. With that settled, the two captains launch their attack.
Ryoma spots a man in a tiger-pattern haori (Toranosuke Sengoku) and guesses that's their target. He continues his fight past Sengoku's guards, even managing to slip past a chokepoint where Sengoku attempt to shoot him with a Gatling gun. Still, the cowardly Sengoku retreats further into his castle, with Ryoma continuing to pursue as he cuts down more of the Loyalist guards (even briefly turning the Gatling gun on some men pursuing him). Ryoma finally corners Sengoku, the man pleading for his life as Ryoma tells him he's coming with the Shinsengumi. Before that can happen, though, Okita steps in and tells Sengoku to drop the act- as it turns out, the two were in cahoots with each other the whole time, and Sengoku got the Loyalists drunk so Okita and Ryoma would have an easy time fighting them. Ryoma asks why Okita didn't tell him about this sooner, with Okita feigning ignorance. Sengoku continues running his mouth, asking why there's no camaraderie between the Shinsengumi- perhaps it has something to do with Kamo? Okita tells Sengoku not to believe everything he hears, with Sengoku giving a quick quip about how Okita was supposed to be pretty before he backtracks and says that the Bakufu could put him to good use as a middleman. Ryoma asks if Sengoku really sold out the Loyalists to join the Bakufu, but Sengoku says he did much more than that- he sold Ryoma out too, eagerly asking Okita if he's going to let the secret out and tell him why he asked Sengoku to lure Ryoma here.
Okita tells Sengoku to shut up and kills him instead.
As Sengoku dies, Ryoma asks Okita why he killed the man. Okita tells him he broke Shinsengumi rules: no one talks about Kamo. But he adds Sengoku did have one good question: why is Ryoma here, which Okita will tell Ryoma if he asks nicely. Ryoma does so, and Okita aims his sword at Ryoma before saying this is how they deal with traitors, revealing he knows Ryoma's true name. He boasts that he figured Ryoma as a fake on day one, coming in looking for Tennen Rishin users. And how would he know this? Because Okita is the man in the mask, taking up his fighting stance and taunting Ryoma about killing Toyo. Ryoma takes up a fighting stance of his own, Okita saying now they will have no distractions as they finish their fight. With that Okita charges in, Ryoma fighting off the mad flurry of blows from the Shinsengumi captain. Part of the way through their fight, Okita hurls his katana at Ryoma, rushing in with his tanto when Ryoma deflects the blade. Eventually, Ryoma breaks Okita's blade and tackles him to the ground, holding his sword to Okita's throat while Okita presses his broken tanto to Ryoma's stomach. Okita lets the weapon tumble from his fingers and compliments Ryoma on his skills, goading him into delivering the killing blow.
But Ryoma stands up and draws his sword back, because Okita is not the masked man either- the man in the mask had perfect technique, while Okita handled his blades like a wild animal. Ryoma asks Okita why he lied, and as he pulls himself up Okita explains he wanted to fight the real Ryoma, asking Ryoma how it felt to be himself instead of "Saito Hajime" for a few minutes. It must be hell, having to pretend he's someone he's not and letting his name be buried, and for that Ryoma and Okita have something in common. Ryoma asks what he means by that, but Okita blows off the question and compliments Ryoma's fighting skills once again, with Ryoma returning the favor. He then asks Okita how he know his real name, with Okita explaining he was listening in to Ryoma's meeting with Kondo. His lips are sealed, though, and he won't go blabbing this to anyone else. Ryoma falls silent again, Okita asking what's up. Ryoma says that after eliminating Okita, that just leaves Hijikata, Inoue, and Todo to face before he determines who the man in the mask is.
As they leave to head back to the barracks, they are stopped by Oryo coming to deliver a message. She says that it's from Nakaoka, handing it to Ryoma to read. Ryoma reads through before crying out in shock and disbelief, drawing the concern of both Okita and Oryo. It's then that Ryoma reveals the contents of the letter: Takechi is dead.
Ryoma returns to the Shinsengumi barracks to find Okita waiting for him. Okita tells Ryoma that he has some juicy information for him, telling Ryoma to meet him at the warehouse later to learn more; when Ryoma asks why Okita can't just tell him now, Okita says he wants to keep the discussion private. Ryoma heads to the warehouse and asks Okita why he wanted to meet there. Okita asks if the name "Sengoku Toranojo" rings any bells- when Ryoma says no, Okita explains that Sengoku is a very rich man who made his money in kimono sales, and owns a massive mansion in town. So massive, he's using it to hide dozens of Loyalists that are on his payroll, with Ryoma guessing this means Okita wants to stage a raid on the place. He then asks why Okita told only him instead of the other Shinsengumi, with Okita saying this way they'll get a bigger split of the profit- even Hijikata doesn't know about Okita's plans. He tells Ryoma to meet him at Sengoku's mansion that night for the raid, but Ryoma is skeptical- Okita could have easily gone to one of the other Shinsengumi captains if he really wanted help. Okita counters that Ryoma is just looking for Tennen Rishin users, not money, so he'll be free to take the biggest cut of the loot and both will go home happy. With that he departs, telling Ryoma he'll be expecting him that night.
Ryoma returns to Teradaya to rest before the raid. Once night falls, he departs for the Sengoku mansion, finding Okita and his men waiting outside the front door. Okita happily informs Ryoma that the Loyalists inside have been drinking and are completely unaware of the Shinsengumi, giving them complete surprise. Ryoma asks how many Loyalists they have to fight, but Okita tells Ryoma not to worry about numbers and just have some fun with the whole thing. This leads to Ryoma asking if Okita joined the Shinsengumi solely to kill people, but Okita counters that it's not much of a better reason than Ryoma's. With that settled, the two captains launch their attack.
Ryoma spots a man in a tiger-pattern haori (Toranosuke Sengoku) and guesses that's their target. He continues his fight past Sengoku's guards, even managing to slip past a chokepoint where Sengoku attempt to shoot him with a Gatling gun. Still, the cowardly Sengoku retreats further into his castle, with Ryoma continuing to pursue as he cuts down more of the Loyalist guards (even briefly turning the Gatling gun on some men pursuing him). Ryoma finally corners Sengoku, the man pleading for his life as Ryoma tells him he's coming with the Shinsengumi. Before that can happen, though, Okita steps in and tells Sengoku to drop the act- as it turns out, the two were in cahoots with each other the whole time, and Sengoku got the Loyalists drunk so Okita and Ryoma would have an easy time fighting them. Ryoma asks why Okita didn't tell him about this sooner, with Okita feigning ignorance. Sengoku continues running his mouth, asking why there's no camaraderie between the Shinsengumi- perhaps it has something to do with Kamo? Okita tells Sengoku not to believe everything he hears, with Sengoku giving a quick quip about how Okita was supposed to be pretty before he backtracks and says that the Bakufu could put him to good use as a middleman. Ryoma asks if Sengoku really sold out the Loyalists to join the Bakufu, but Sengoku says he did much more than that- he sold Ryoma out too, eagerly asking Okita if he's going to let the secret out and tell him why he asked Sengoku to lure Ryoma here.
Okita tells Sengoku to shut up and kills him instead.
As Sengoku dies, Ryoma asks Okita why he killed the man. Okita tells him he broke Shinsengumi rules: no one talks about Kamo. But he adds Sengoku did have one good question: why is Ryoma here, which Okita will tell Ryoma if he asks nicely. Ryoma does so, and Okita aims his sword at Ryoma before saying this is how they deal with traitors, revealing he knows Ryoma's true name. He boasts that he figured Ryoma as a fake on day one, coming in looking for Tennen Rishin users. And how would he know this? Because Okita is the man in the mask, taking up his fighting stance and taunting Ryoma about killing Toyo. Ryoma takes up a fighting stance of his own, Okita saying now they will have no distractions as they finish their fight. With that Okita charges in, Ryoma fighting off the mad flurry of blows from the Shinsengumi captain. Part of the way through their fight, Okita hurls his katana at Ryoma, rushing in with his tanto when Ryoma deflects the blade. Eventually, Ryoma breaks Okita's blade and tackles him to the ground, holding his sword to Okita's throat while Okita presses his broken tanto to Ryoma's stomach. Okita lets the weapon tumble from his fingers and compliments Ryoma on his skills, goading him into delivering the killing blow.
But Ryoma stands up and draws his sword back, because Okita is not the masked man either- the man in the mask had perfect technique, while Okita handled his blades like a wild animal. Ryoma asks Okita why he lied, and as he pulls himself up Okita explains he wanted to fight the real Ryoma, asking Ryoma how it felt to be himself instead of "Saito Hajime" for a few minutes. It must be hell, having to pretend he's someone he's not and letting his name be buried, and for that Ryoma and Okita have something in common. Ryoma asks what he means by that, but Okita blows off the question and compliments Ryoma's fighting skills once again, with Ryoma returning the favor. He then asks Okita how he know his real name, with Okita explaining he was listening in to Ryoma's meeting with Kondo. His lips are sealed, though, and he won't go blabbing this to anyone else. Ryoma falls silent again, Okita asking what's up. Ryoma says that after eliminating Okita, that just leaves Hijikata, Inoue, and Todo to face before he determines who the man in the mask is.
As they leave to head back to the barracks, they are stopped by Oryo coming to deliver a message. She says that it's from Nakaoka, handing it to Ryoma to read. Ryoma reads through before crying out in shock and disbelief, drawing the concern of both Okita and Oryo. It's then that Ryoma reveals the contents of the letter: Takechi is dead.
Chapter 9: Feud of the Ages
Ryoma runs back to Teradaya and finds Nakaoka waiting for him outside. After heading inside, Nakaoka explains that Takechi was forced to commit seppuku by Lord Yodo of Tosa, when his complicacy in Izo's murder of several Bakufu officials came to light. Izo had confessed Takechi's role in the plot shortly after he had been transferred back to Tosa. Ryoma gets up, but Nakaoka asks if this means he plans on going back to Tosa. He warns Ryoma that he's still technically an outlaw- returning to Tosa now would mean a death sentence for him. Nakaoka tells Ryoma to calm down, as he thinks that the man who masterminded Toyo's assassination is also behind the execution of Takechi; Lord Yodo moved quite fast with executing Takechi after Izo was taken into custody, leading him to believe that someone might be whispering in the daimyo's ear. It seems like they're doing their best to wipe out Toyo's faction, and by that logic Nakaoka reasons that Ryoma is their next target and would love to hear he's back in Tosa. Catching the masked man in Kyo, though, would deal a heavy blow against their plans. Ryoma asks if this means the only thing he can do is hunt around Kyo, with Nanaoka adding that he'd hoped Ryoma would just calm down and clear his head first. Nakaoka says he'll go back to Tosa and poke around for information, as he knows he won't be able to rest if he doesn't find out what happened to Toyo and Takechi as well. The best Ryoma can do is stick around town and lay low, since Takechi's death is greatly affecting Ryoma and he doesn't want to draw attention. Ryoma agrees and asks Nakaoka to let him know if he finds anything.
However, the thought of Takechi's death still weighs heavily on Ryoma's mind, and he spends the night drinking heavily. Oryo enters and tries to get Ryoma to stop drinking so much, but Ryoma angrily dismisses her and returns to his sake. Unfortunately he's run dry, so he gets up to head into town and find more booze to drown his sorrows. He heads to a bar in town to continue, but as he drinks he is greeted by a mysterious woman (Hana). The woman notes Ryoma doesn't seem to be enjoying himself and offers to take him to somewhere more private, directing Ryoma to a bar in Kuramachi called Matsunoi. As the woman leaves, Ryoma asks who she is, but the woman says she'll only tell Ryoma if he goes to Matsunoi.
With nothing else to do and his sorrows not sufficiently drowned, Ryoma heads to Matsunoi. He settles in and resumes drinking, but not too long after a new face enters the bar: Katsura Kogoro. Katsura says he still owes Ryoma for the save at Ikedaya, but Ryoma counters by saying he was just paying Katsura back for introducing him to the Bathkeeper. Katsura concedes on that point and says Ryoma will just owe him another favor, but Ryoma doesn't want to talk about that sort of thing and asks why he's here. As it turns out, Katsura owns Matsunoi, and the woman properly introduces herself as Ikumatsu. Katsura explains he really does want to show Ryoma his gratitude for the save, adding that he too heard about Takechi. He adds that Takechi instructed Katsura to look after Ryoma in case something happened to him, a fact that surprises Ryoma. Katsura explains that it happened shortly after Ryoma joined the Shinsengumi, as Takechi had been trying to find a way to get Ryoma back to Tosa for so long and wanted a way to get closer to him without risking his capture at the hands of the Shinsengumi. He comments that for all the groveling he gave the other Loyalists leaders, Takechi much have really cared about Ryoma, even after they parted ways. Katura asks what Ryoma intends to do now, and Ryoma admits he doesn't know- Katsura once again asks Ryoma to join him, and together they can complete Takechi's wishes. Ryoma, though, doesn't care for that sort of thing right now and gets up to leave.
Katsura follows after Ryoma and tells him now's not the time to act without a plan, but they are stopped by a commotion ahead: a gang of thugs is throwing rocks at a stray dog. Katsura steps up to intervene, but just as one of the thugs throws a large rock at the dog Saigo steps in and intercepts the rock. The thugs yell at Saigo for ruining their fun, mistaking him for some foreign-born man. Saigo responds by pitching the rock into the face of the leader, telling the other thugs that he's had a really bad day and it sucks for them that they found him like this. The thugs are not intimidated and charge in, but Saigo flattens them without breaking a sweat. He turns to the injured dog, dropping his stern façade to coo over it. Even when the dog tries to bite him, Saigo continues to praise it for its tenacity and adopts it into the Satsuma. His happiness is short lived when he spots Ryoma and Katsura watching, telling Katsura that he keeps shit company. Ryoma tries to play peacekeeper, but Katsura is defiant and tells Saigo he's being a bit rude. Saigo tells Katsura that if he wants to have a go he's perfectly fine with it, and while Katsura says that normally he wouldn't get offended by Saigo's insults his honor as the leader of Choshu is on the line, so he won't let Saigo walk away from this. Saigo agrees, and the two men throw themselves at each other.
Before the fight can really get going, though, Ryoma grabs and disarms both men. He declares that a pointless turf fight will only piss him off further, but both men are unwilling to back down. Ryoma understands before pitching their swords behind him, declaring that if they are going to fight it will be fisticuffs only, and to make things fun he's joining in to blow off some steam. Saigo laughs at this but agrees to the terms, saying it will get him some payback for the bathhouse fight. Katsura isn't nearly as enthusiastic, but agrees to Ryoma's terms and prepares. With the battle lines set, the three men begin their brawl. Ryoma manages to overpower and defeat the others, and as winner he declares that now the three of them are going to go out and get absolutely shitfaced.
Ryoma leads the two to Rakugai, reaching a bar and declaring that this is where they will be drinking. Both Saigo and Katsura just want to do what's needed to get this over with. Inside, Ryoma orders all the sake they can get, with Saigo asking just how much he plans on drinking (Ryoma replying that he'll drink however much is needed to drink the other two under the table). Katsura is hesitant to indulge that much, but Saigo is more than happy to oblige and the three men start drinking. After clearing out the bar's stock Saigo and Katsura call it quits while Ryoma is still ready to go, Katsura picking up the bill before they depart.
Outside, Ryoma apologizes for sticking Katsura with the bill, but Katsura says that's no trouble for him. Both he and Saigo are ready to call it a night and head home, but Ryoma declares they are not drunk enough and that they must find a new bar. He takes them out to Gion next, Saigo complaining that all this partying alongside Ryoma and Katsura will tank his reputation. Katsura agrees, as many of his men still see Satsuma as the enemy, but Ryoma tells them to shut up and go drink with him. Inside Ryoma continues to demand drink, while Katsura and Saigo continue to protest that drinking with their rival is outrageous. Ryoma asks them how long are they going to continue bickering and allowing death and destruction to continue, which Katsura says is tall talk coming from him. Ryoma says Takechi told him much the same, telling him he should just take up Toyo's cause and move on. He continues and admits that, deep down, he knew Takechi was right, but he also knew he was not like his brother in that regard. He can't let go of things, and what good did that do him now that he sees he cannot protect those close to him. Saigo is confused by all this talk of brothers, with Katsura filling him in on his relationship with Takechi and revealing Ryoma's true name and identity as Tosa Loyalist Party Rep. Saigo is confused (thinking back to his meeting with Katsu and the fake Ryoma) and turns to Ryoma to ask him what's going on, but the alcohol has finally kicked in and Ryoma has passed out.
Later, Ryoma awakens in his room in Teradaya. He looks around and finds Oryo sitting over him, the girl doing her best to fight off sleep. He wakes her and asks how he got back here, with Oryo again chiding Ryoma for drinking so much. He apologizes, and Oryo asked if maybe Ryoma could tell her a little more about Takechi. Ryoma explains that Takechi was essentially his brother since childhood, how they grew up together and went on adventures as they got older, and how Takechi was always the better of the two at everything. Ryoma says he couldn't live without Takechi, considering him his hero, but the last time Ryoma saw him alive was during their argument in Mukurogai, Ryoma cursing himself for speaking as he did. He starts crying and abruptly pulls Oryo close to him, much to the girl's surprise, asking if she might stay with him a little while. Oryo agrees, resting her head on Ryoma's chest and telling him that everyone needs someone to talk to lest they bottle everything up. She notes that Ryoma stinks of booze, with Ryoma admitting he drank until he passed out before again asking how he got here, with Oryo saying that his drinking buddies dropped him off... and gave her strict instructions that Ryoma was cut off for the night. Though they did say one other odd thing- they were going to follow his advice and "let bygones be bygones". She asks if Ryoma had a good night out, but Ryoma admits he can't remember anything that happened before he woke up.
The next morning, Oryo wakes up and finds Ryoma gone. She hurries outside looking for him, spotting him heading down the road dressed in his Shinsengumi uniform. He tells her that he is not going to give up, and there is still something he needs to get done. He chides her for running outside without shoes or socks on before telling her he's looking forward to dinner that night. Oryo wishes him a good day, but as Ryoma departs a new man approaches her and presses a note into her hand. A tip of the hat reveals it is Yamazaki, the Inspector smirking as he disappears into the crowd once more.
However, the thought of Takechi's death still weighs heavily on Ryoma's mind, and he spends the night drinking heavily. Oryo enters and tries to get Ryoma to stop drinking so much, but Ryoma angrily dismisses her and returns to his sake. Unfortunately he's run dry, so he gets up to head into town and find more booze to drown his sorrows. He heads to a bar in town to continue, but as he drinks he is greeted by a mysterious woman (Hana). The woman notes Ryoma doesn't seem to be enjoying himself and offers to take him to somewhere more private, directing Ryoma to a bar in Kuramachi called Matsunoi. As the woman leaves, Ryoma asks who she is, but the woman says she'll only tell Ryoma if he goes to Matsunoi.
With nothing else to do and his sorrows not sufficiently drowned, Ryoma heads to Matsunoi. He settles in and resumes drinking, but not too long after a new face enters the bar: Katsura Kogoro. Katsura says he still owes Ryoma for the save at Ikedaya, but Ryoma counters by saying he was just paying Katsura back for introducing him to the Bathkeeper. Katsura concedes on that point and says Ryoma will just owe him another favor, but Ryoma doesn't want to talk about that sort of thing and asks why he's here. As it turns out, Katsura owns Matsunoi, and the woman properly introduces herself as Ikumatsu. Katsura explains he really does want to show Ryoma his gratitude for the save, adding that he too heard about Takechi. He adds that Takechi instructed Katsura to look after Ryoma in case something happened to him, a fact that surprises Ryoma. Katsura explains that it happened shortly after Ryoma joined the Shinsengumi, as Takechi had been trying to find a way to get Ryoma back to Tosa for so long and wanted a way to get closer to him without risking his capture at the hands of the Shinsengumi. He comments that for all the groveling he gave the other Loyalists leaders, Takechi much have really cared about Ryoma, even after they parted ways. Katura asks what Ryoma intends to do now, and Ryoma admits he doesn't know- Katsura once again asks Ryoma to join him, and together they can complete Takechi's wishes. Ryoma, though, doesn't care for that sort of thing right now and gets up to leave.
Katsura follows after Ryoma and tells him now's not the time to act without a plan, but they are stopped by a commotion ahead: a gang of thugs is throwing rocks at a stray dog. Katsura steps up to intervene, but just as one of the thugs throws a large rock at the dog Saigo steps in and intercepts the rock. The thugs yell at Saigo for ruining their fun, mistaking him for some foreign-born man. Saigo responds by pitching the rock into the face of the leader, telling the other thugs that he's had a really bad day and it sucks for them that they found him like this. The thugs are not intimidated and charge in, but Saigo flattens them without breaking a sweat. He turns to the injured dog, dropping his stern façade to coo over it. Even when the dog tries to bite him, Saigo continues to praise it for its tenacity and adopts it into the Satsuma. His happiness is short lived when he spots Ryoma and Katsura watching, telling Katsura that he keeps shit company. Ryoma tries to play peacekeeper, but Katsura is defiant and tells Saigo he's being a bit rude. Saigo tells Katsura that if he wants to have a go he's perfectly fine with it, and while Katsura says that normally he wouldn't get offended by Saigo's insults his honor as the leader of Choshu is on the line, so he won't let Saigo walk away from this. Saigo agrees, and the two men throw themselves at each other.
Before the fight can really get going, though, Ryoma grabs and disarms both men. He declares that a pointless turf fight will only piss him off further, but both men are unwilling to back down. Ryoma understands before pitching their swords behind him, declaring that if they are going to fight it will be fisticuffs only, and to make things fun he's joining in to blow off some steam. Saigo laughs at this but agrees to the terms, saying it will get him some payback for the bathhouse fight. Katsura isn't nearly as enthusiastic, but agrees to Ryoma's terms and prepares. With the battle lines set, the three men begin their brawl. Ryoma manages to overpower and defeat the others, and as winner he declares that now the three of them are going to go out and get absolutely shitfaced.
Ryoma leads the two to Rakugai, reaching a bar and declaring that this is where they will be drinking. Both Saigo and Katsura just want to do what's needed to get this over with. Inside, Ryoma orders all the sake they can get, with Saigo asking just how much he plans on drinking (Ryoma replying that he'll drink however much is needed to drink the other two under the table). Katsura is hesitant to indulge that much, but Saigo is more than happy to oblige and the three men start drinking. After clearing out the bar's stock Saigo and Katsura call it quits while Ryoma is still ready to go, Katsura picking up the bill before they depart.
Outside, Ryoma apologizes for sticking Katsura with the bill, but Katsura says that's no trouble for him. Both he and Saigo are ready to call it a night and head home, but Ryoma declares they are not drunk enough and that they must find a new bar. He takes them out to Gion next, Saigo complaining that all this partying alongside Ryoma and Katsura will tank his reputation. Katsura agrees, as many of his men still see Satsuma as the enemy, but Ryoma tells them to shut up and go drink with him. Inside Ryoma continues to demand drink, while Katsura and Saigo continue to protest that drinking with their rival is outrageous. Ryoma asks them how long are they going to continue bickering and allowing death and destruction to continue, which Katsura says is tall talk coming from him. Ryoma says Takechi told him much the same, telling him he should just take up Toyo's cause and move on. He continues and admits that, deep down, he knew Takechi was right, but he also knew he was not like his brother in that regard. He can't let go of things, and what good did that do him now that he sees he cannot protect those close to him. Saigo is confused by all this talk of brothers, with Katsura filling him in on his relationship with Takechi and revealing Ryoma's true name and identity as Tosa Loyalist Party Rep. Saigo is confused (thinking back to his meeting with Katsu and the fake Ryoma) and turns to Ryoma to ask him what's going on, but the alcohol has finally kicked in and Ryoma has passed out.
Later, Ryoma awakens in his room in Teradaya. He looks around and finds Oryo sitting over him, the girl doing her best to fight off sleep. He wakes her and asks how he got back here, with Oryo again chiding Ryoma for drinking so much. He apologizes, and Oryo asked if maybe Ryoma could tell her a little more about Takechi. Ryoma explains that Takechi was essentially his brother since childhood, how they grew up together and went on adventures as they got older, and how Takechi was always the better of the two at everything. Ryoma says he couldn't live without Takechi, considering him his hero, but the last time Ryoma saw him alive was during their argument in Mukurogai, Ryoma cursing himself for speaking as he did. He starts crying and abruptly pulls Oryo close to him, much to the girl's surprise, asking if she might stay with him a little while. Oryo agrees, resting her head on Ryoma's chest and telling him that everyone needs someone to talk to lest they bottle everything up. She notes that Ryoma stinks of booze, with Ryoma admitting he drank until he passed out before again asking how he got here, with Oryo saying that his drinking buddies dropped him off... and gave her strict instructions that Ryoma was cut off for the night. Though they did say one other odd thing- they were going to follow his advice and "let bygones be bygones". She asks if Ryoma had a good night out, but Ryoma admits he can't remember anything that happened before he woke up.
The next morning, Oryo wakes up and finds Ryoma gone. She hurries outside looking for him, spotting him heading down the road dressed in his Shinsengumi uniform. He tells her that he is not going to give up, and there is still something he needs to get done. He chides her for running outside without shoes or socks on before telling her he's looking forward to dinner that night. Oryo wishes him a good day, but as Ryoma departs a new man approaches her and presses a note into her hand. A tip of the hat reveals it is Yamazaki, the Inspector smirking as he disappears into the crowd once more.
Chapter 10: True Identities
The body of a Shinsengumi captain is found floating in the river. As the curious crowd gathers to see what's going on, a man in a komuso watches from the shadows before disappearing once more Shinsengumi arrive to disperse the onlookers.
Ryoma heads to the Shinsengumi headquarters to check in, only to be confronted by Nagakura asking where he's been once he arrives. When he asks if Ryoma heard about what happened to Inoue, Ryoma is confused and asks what's wrong. Rather than explain, Nagakura tells Ryoma to go to the barracks and see for himself. He goes inside and finds Inoue's dead body laid out on the training grounds, with Hijikata, Okita, and the other captains holding vigil. Ryoma asks what happened, with Todo explaining Inoue was shot twice in the back before taking a fatal sword blow, with the culprits dumping his body in the river when they were finished. Most likely it was the Loyalists, Sanosuke grumbling that Inoue was getting too old and lost his touch if he were to get killed like this. Hijikata defends Inoue by saying he was still the best swordsmen of them all, guessing that whoever killed him must have ambushed him before he could react, Sanosuke snarking that maybe they should go find the murderer and recruit him for his skills. He goes on to say he feels sorry for the men who served under Tani, Suzuki, and now Inoue, saddled with weak captains who couldn't cut it in the end. When Todo asks if he's being harsh, Sanosuke doubles down by saying the Shinsengumi's reputation has been trashed since they lost three Captains to the Choshu Loyalists and two to infighting and desertion, asking Hijikata if he knows that the Choshu are calling the Shinsengumi pawns to the Bakufu. He then asks if Hijikata forgot his promise from a year prior, that joining the Shinsengumi was a fast track to becoming hatamoto; that was the only reason he joined, to form an elite crew that would rise to the top, but here they are now recruiting strangers like Ryoma and getting slaughtered by the Loyalists. He won't stand for it, and demands that Hijikata set him loose. Hijikata asks him if he means to find Inoue's killer, but Sanosuke says one man alone won't satisfy him- he wants to slaughter the Loyalists to a man, going inn by inn to find and kill any that remain. When Todo points out that would nab Inoue's killer but do nothing to reveal his motive, Sanosuke says he doesn't care- they'll use Inoue's death as justification to purge the Loyalists and perhaps win the Shinsengumi's glory back.
Sanosuke once again pleads for Hijikata to let him loose, but Okita steps behind Sanosuke and draws his sword so it's resting hear the Tenth Captain's neck. He tells Sanosuke that he likes the idea, but there's going to be a change in plans: First Division will handle the manhunt, all but daring Hijikata to stop him. Okita makes to leave, but Sanosuke stops him and begs to be taken along for the hunt. Okita, though, shuts Sanosuke down by telling him that no one here thinks he's a pawn of the Bakufu - he's clearly a pawn of the Shinsengumi, and he would do best to remember that. With that, Okita summons his men and departs.
Sanosuke rages at Hijikata over Okita stepping out of lines, declaring that from now on the Tenth Division will be operating independent of the other Divisions. As he storms off, Todo whines about how things seem to be spiraling before asking Hijikata for orders. Hijikata says that with Okita and Sanosuke on the rampage, the populace might start questioning the Shinsengumi's sanity, so they must be stopped. He orders Ryoma to pursue Okita (carefully, because it's Okita), with Ryoma saying it seems like he'll be getting the worst of it. Sanosuke, though, shouldn't be hard to handle- just get some alcohol in his system and he'll burn himself out quickly enough, an easy enough task for Todo. Todo agrees only when he has assurances that the Shinsengumi will be footing the bill, departing and leaving Ryoma alone with Hijikata. Before he leaves too, Ryoma asks Hijikata why Okita is so invested in Inoue's murder. Hijikata says they were close during their training, but Ryoma counters that Okita knew Yamanami for just as long but wasn't nearly as affected by his death, asking if Inoue and Okita had a history together. Hijikata says that's one way of putting it, but that's a question to ask Okita about rather than him- who knows, it might lead Ryoma to more answers regarding his Tennen Rishin user. Hijikata says Okita's probably heading to where Inoue's body washed up, the harbor at South Hashikimachi, warning Ryoma that getting in Okita's way when he's this mad could be tantamount to suicide.
Ryoma leaves the barracks and heads for the docks to stop Okita before he goes to kill crazy. He heads into town to find some of the First Division harassing a local ronin for information, despite the man's pleas that he knows nothing. Ryoma steps in and asks if this is really how they want to reflect the Shinsengumi, but the leader of the trio says they are following Okita's orders and he told them to give no quarter to suspects... or those that interfere. Ryoma gets the message and beats the trio down, asking them if they know why Okita's so worked up over Inoue. The men, though, don't know anything about Okita's motives, leaving Ryoma with no leads as he heads towards the harbor. He arrives at the harbor and begins looking around before Yamazaki approaches him from the shadows. He has a message from Ito, saying that he wants no further interruptions to the Shinsengumi's plans, and Ryoma must stop Okita at all costs. Ryoma asks if there's any other information, with Yamazaki saying that Okita and the First Division are heading towards Mukurogai- apparently they have a suspect, a komuso (so named for the straw baskets they wear as hats). Ryoma asks how Yamazaki knows a komuso killed Inoue, with Yamazaki saying he doesn't know the full story but Okita must have some kind of lead. Still, having the First Division rampage is bad for everyone, so Yamazaki repeats Ito's orders to take down Okita in Mukurogai. Ryoma accepts, but he has his own message for Ito- one of these days, Ito should get out and do his dirty work himself instead of bossing the likes of Ryoma around.
He arrives at Mukurogai and finds a squad of First Division Troopers waiting outside. The Troopers welcome Ryoma and tell him that Okita is waiting inside to speak with him, saying that they discovered the identity of the komuso and Okita has a few questions for Ryoma. They don't know anything else, so Ryoma heads inside to speak with Okita. He goes to the top of Mukurogai and looks around, spotting Okita just as he exits the shadows and takes a swing at Ryoma. Ryoma asks what the deal is, with Okita furiously declaring Ryoma is the man who killed Inoue. The two fight, with Ryoma asking if they're supposed to be looking for a komuso. Okita says yes, but they learned who the komuso is: Sakamoto Ryoma. All the Loyalists Okita and his men have encountered have said the same thing, and Ryoma has a good motive for wanting to kill Inoue. Ryoma protests that Okita should know about the fake Sakamoto, but Okita says that might be true but it doesn't deny Ryoma's motive: Inoue was the man in the mask that killed Toyo. The two get in a blade lock again, Ryoma asking if it's true Inoue was the masked man, but Okita tells him to stop playing dumb. Ryoma breaks away from Okita and demands to know the truth, but Okita merely gets into position and says all Ryoma deserves is to bleed out in the street, and if he wants answers he's going to have to beat them out of Okita. Ryoma accepts, getting into position and declaring that once he has his answers he can go back to his old life again. Okita praises Ryoma for his spirit before charging in, the two battling in earnest.
Ryoma manages to overpower Okita, the other swordsman wondering if he's getting rusty. As he puts his sword away, Ryoma swears he did not kill Inoue, saying that the fake Ryoma is most likely their man. He then asks if Inoue was really the man in the mask, with Okita countering with a question of his own: what did Ryoma think of his Tennen Rishin now? Ryoma says that Okita fought just like the man in the mask, with the same technique and speed. Okita chuckes that he should be proud of himself- it seems he finally caught up to Inoue's level, after years of worrying he'd never get that far. Ryoma takes this to mean Inoue was Okita's master, but when Okita starts to explain his relationship with Kamo... Inoue, Kondo arrives and interrupts the conversation. Kondo tells Okita (referring to him as "Goro-chan") that perhaps now is the time to let Ryoma in on the secret, turning to Ryoma and saying he's solved his mystery of the Tennen Rishin user, and uncovered the biggest secret of the Shinsengumi.
Kondo takes the two to Asahi and apologizes, as what they are about to discuss is not for public hearing. He decides to start off with clearing out a few aliases and calls Ryoma by name, with Ryoma starting off by asking just what the big secret behind the Shinsengumi is and how does the Tennen Rishin style tie into it. Kondo starts by saying the story begins a year prior; before they were the Shinsengumi, they were known as the Miburoshigumi, and Kondo shared his power with Kamo, a fierce warrior feared throughout the underground world of the ronin. The Miburoshigumi were first formed to act as bodyguards to the Shogun, and seven of the Shieikan dojo signed up for the duty: Hijikata, Yamanami, Okita, Nagakura, Todo, and Kondo himself. However, they also had three founders from the Mito Domain: Serizawa Kamo, Hirayama Goro, and Hirama Jusuke. Ryoma notes that Kondo mentioned Kamo and Goro before, and Kondo says Ryoma's figuring out the big secret: the real Inoue, Okita, and Nagakura have all been dead for some time now, and Kamo, Goro, and Jusuke each took one of their names. He says that all those details are important factors in the mystery of Toyo's death, with Ryoma asking what exactly. Kondo looks away, explaining it all started one year prior.
Kamo (Inoue) had just returned from his assassination of Toyo. Upon entering the Miburoshigumi barracks, he found Goro (Okita) and Jusuke (Nagakura) asleep, and so went to go put away his things. No sooner had he done so that three other men entered the room: Okita (Jun Oda), Nagakura (Saito) and Inoue (Fumiya Ushijima). Okita told Kamo that he had done his research and learned that Kamo was heir to the Mito Tengu Style, the three of them drawing their swords soon after. Kamo guessed they were waiting for him, with Okita saying that Kondo has been far too lenient and trusting with the Mito faction, welcoming them with open arms despite Kamo essentially being a criminal. Unfortunately for Kamo, Okita and the others tired of being sidelined by the Mito faction; Kamo tried to warn them off, but Okita said that if they had been from the Shieikan then they wouldn't have had these kinds of issues. And he cannot expect any backup, as Okita and the others had drugged Goro and Jusuke to make sure they slept while they were murdered. With everything said, Okita and the others rushed Kamo.
Jusuke eventually woke up to the sound of fighting, spotting Kamo and Okita dueling out in the rain (Kamo having already killed Inoue and Nagakura). Jusuke roused Goro to go help Kamo, but Kamo told the two to run for it before Okita killed them. Using that distraction, Okita slashed Kamo across the face (giving him his scar) before going for a killing blow, but Goro and Jusuke got to him first and killed Okita. As the three men pulled themselves back together and Jusuke asked Kamo what happened, Kondo and Hijikata arrived to see what the commotion was about. Kondo was once again impressed with Kamo's skills, while Kamo threw himself at Kondo's feet and took full responsibility for the deaths of the three men, asking Kondo to spare Goro and Jusuke and allow him to commit suicide. Goro and Jusuke both step forward and say it wasn't Kamo's fault Okita and the others attacked, and they claim responsibility to Okita's death, but Kamo says that they betrayed the trust of the man who took them in after they were cast out of Mito and killed his apprentice, and such an action can only be repaid in blood. Goro asked how self defense is a crime, and surprisingly Kondo agreed; he said he should be the one apologizing, as he allowed the fear of the Mito faction to grow in the hearts of the three dead men. But what's done is done, and the three Mito men are just going to have to die- Okita Soji was the best swordsman they had, and as the face of the Miburoshigumi his death would make them a laughingstock among the populace (Hijikata adding that the Bakufu would pull their support and force them to disband). Goro didn't care and both he and Jusuke aimed their swords at Kondo and Hijikata respectively, but Kamo ordered them to stand down. Kondo, for his part, apologized for being callous over the death of his star pupil, saying that all he cared about was protecting and building up Japan- that was why he fooled the Bakufu into allowing the Miburoshigumi to form, and he still needed the Mito faction's skills to ensure his plan would come to fruition.
Thus, Kamo, Goro, and Jusuke became Inoue, Okita, and Nagakura respectively, and the Miburoshigumi died to be replaced by the Shinsengumi. They spread a rumor that Kamo had been executed for his acts of ruthlessness and changed their uniform to the current blue and white, Kondo pausing to joke that Goro got the short straw and has to play as Pretty Boy Okita. From there, they wrote the Iron Code of the Shinsengumi, including that all deserters were to be put to death. Originally it just applied to Kondo and his inner circle, but it was still an effective way to keep the secret safe. Ryoma asks why they went through so much trouble, with Kondo saying he had to get the Mito Tengu style for the Shinsengumi; he had Inoue start training everyone the following day, even renaming it to the Tennen Rishin style with designs to spread it across Kyo and Japan. That is also why they sought out the strongest swordsmen to join, and it produced results- they got Sanosuke, Ito, and Takeda to join up fairly quickly, and Kondo confirms that Ryoma was earmarked for the same training as well. Okita guesses that Inoue might have had some lingering guilt over killing Toyo when Ryoma showed up, also guessing he killed Matsubara to cover Ryoma's alibi as a means of trying to find redemption as Inoue was never one to indulge in literal backstabbing.
Kondo asks Ryoma if there's anything else he wanted to hear, with Ryoma admitting he would like to know why Inoue was sent to kill Toyo. Okita says the order came from Mito, saying that their dappan would be forgiven if they performed the assassination. Ryoma asks if that means whoever wanted Toyo dead was from Mito, but Okita can't say- Kamo never spoke much about the mission, as expected of a shadowy type like him. Unfortunately, this means that Ryoma has no leads once again. Kondo asks Ryoma if he were to find the man who had Toyo killed, would he drop everything and go pursue him; Ryoma admits he's not sure, but he did notice something when he learned who the masked man was. He hasn't been looking for revenge, just the truth and nothing more, a fact that Kondo finds rather comforting, and perhaps that means Ryoma can learn the other secret Kondo knows. See, Inoue ratted Ryoma out to Kondo right away, but he also told him the name of the man who masterminded Toyo's assassination: Sakamoto Ryoma. The fake Ryoma was behind the assassination, and no doubt he murdered Inoue to silence him as well and cover the fake's tracks. What's more, Yamazaki has located the fake in Kyo: he is staying as a guest at Teradaya, though probably not as long as the real Ryoma has. The fake comes and goes from the inn as he pleases, so it's most likely one of his local haunts... So Kondo dispatched Ito, Takeda, and the Fifth Division to take him down. Okita protests that a guy that could take down Serizawa Kamo would butcher the assembled Shinsengumi. Kondo reluctantly agrees, saying that if things go wrong and the fake Ryoma escapes they might not get a chance at him again, so he wants the real Ryoma to continue to play his role as Saito Hajime and bring in "Ryoma" before Ito or Takeda get to him first. Ryoma agrees, and as he and Okita get up to head to Teradaya Ryoma thanks Kondo for telling him the truth about everything.
The two captains go to the inn and find Ito and Takeda waiting outside. Ito tells Ryoma that they were just about to move in and they won't be needing his help, saying that Ryoma is too green and they don't want another slip up like Ikedaya. Ito declares that he's in command of the operation, but Okita steps in and says he'll be taking control from here, telling Ito that Kondo wanted to talk to Ito about his pending retirement. Ito is shocked to hear the chief is considering retiring, Okita claiming that Kondo wants Ito back at the barracks to discuss the matter further and he'll take over from here. Having taken the bait hook, line, and sinker, Ito warns Okita that if he's lying he'll have the First Captain commit seppuku, but Okita dismisses the threat and says Ito better hurry on before Kondo starts worrying. With that, Ito and Takeda depart, Ryoma thanking Okita for his quick thinking- Okita says everyone knows that Ito's been gunning for Kondo's position so lying wasn't too difficult, and now they have free reign to kill the fake Ryoma without anyone else butting in. Ryoma agrees, but there's one thing he wants to do first- he wants to give Otose and Oryo a chance to escape first, as they have treated him well and he doesn't want them caught in the crossfire. Okita's fine with that, but how will they alert the women without also tipping over the fake Ryoma? Ryoma guesses he could sneak around back and deliver a covert message to them, with Okita whining that he wanted to go charging in guns blazing, as usual. Reluctantly he agrees to Ryoma's plan, and the two sneak around back to try and alert Otose and Oryo.
They make their way around back before Ryoma stops by the baths. Okita asks if he wants to take a dip before the raid, but Ryoma says he hears someone inside. He peeks in and sees it's Oryo, Okita almost blowing their cover when he asks who it is. Ryoma tells Oryo that the Shinsengumi have the building surrounded and are here for the fake Ryoma, telling her to get Otose and the others to safety before they strike. Oryo leaves her bath and heads into the inn, with Okita and Ryoma getting ready to break in. Just before they do, though, they hear Oryo calling to the fake Ryoma warning him of the Shinsengumi's attack. With their cover blown, Okita kicks in the door to reveal a squad of Tosa Lotalists forming up to take them on, the two captains drawing their weapons and plunging into the melee. The two men fight their way room by room in search of the fake, finally cornering the komuso in one of the upper rooms.
While the regulars are easy to take care of, the fake Ryoma manages to fight the real one to a standstill; Ryoma asks the fake who he is and what his plans are, but the fake does not answer. As the two get in a blade lock, Okita takes the time to attack from behind and slashes the back of the fake's haori open. It is then, to Ryoma's shock, that he sees the fake Ryoma has scars identical to Takechi's, leaving him too stunned to react when the fake throws a smoke bomb and escapes. Okita tries to get Ryoma to move to follow, but Ryoma continues to stand in shock. Just then, Sasaki and the Mimawarigumi arrive, demanding answers to what Ryoma and Okita are up to. Okita says they're obviously chasing down a fugitive, but Sasaki clarifies his question- the manhunt for the fake Ryoma is now Mimawarigumi business, and the Shinsengumi have been relieved of their duties. Okita rages as the fake killed one of their captains, Sasaki counters that it's out of his hands and if they have any complaints they can take it up with the official that assigned them. As Okita sulks, Ryoma asks who it was that put the Mimawarigumi on the case. Sasaki tells him it was Admiral Katsu Rintaro, but it would be best if Ryoma not even bother- after all, they can't waste their time trying to catch every lowlife with an alias, right "Saito"? With that Sasaki and his men depart, leaving the two Shinsengumi captains to contemplate the new revelations.
Back at the barracks, Okita tries to open up the discussion about the Mimawarigumi stealing their mission, but he notes Ryoma is being quieter than usual. Ryoma says he's fine, but just then they are interrupted by Ito, Takeda, and Todo. Ito is furious about Okita lying about Kondo's intentions of retiring, and when the First Captain tries to play dumb Takeda yells that his little stunt cost them Sakamoto Ryoma. Unimpressed, Okita counters that if catching the fake Ryoma was so important Takeda could have stuck around instead of following Ito like a lost puppy, Todo stepping in to try and calm Takeda and Okita. When Okita asks Todo what his stake in this is, Todo says that while he's not here to take sides he is a bit confused trying to comprehend Kondo's decisions- maybe things would be better under Ito's command instead. Ito tells Todo there's no point in trying to reason with a man like Okita, but he warns Okita that if he does take command, neither his rank or his skill with a sword will save him. If he wants to stay a member of the Shinsengumi, he'd better rethink his attitude before he gets put down like the mad dog he is. With that the three captains depart, Ryoma heading out as well to question Oryo on why she tipped off the fake Ryoma.
Upon returning to the inn, Otose sends Ryoma up to his room, telling him Oryo will be up shortly. The girl arrives, but both are reluctant to speak as Ryoma sits by the window and Oryo takes a spot in the center of the room. Eventually, Ryoma asks for the honest truth as to why Oryo helped the fake get away; Oryo turns away and says she wanted to help a guest that was in danger. Ryoma says that for aiding a target of the Shinsengumi she could easily have been killed, asking Oryo if it's really worth it for "Ryoma"? Oryo says yes, and she would do the same for any guest that was wanted by the Shinsengumi. Ryoma understands before getting up from his seat, declaring that he will be checking out now and will leave Teradaya, as his presence would only bring harm to Oryo and the others. Oryo tries to protest, but Ryoma's mind is set. Before Oryo can make another defense, Otose steps in and says Oryo should come clean now- she's got a secret of her own, and isn't now the perfect time to clear the air? While Oryo hesitates, Ryoma asks Otose just what she means- Otose explains that Ryoma is the only reasons Oryo stays at Teradaya. In fact, Oryo had asked for special permission to take care of "Saito Hajime", and what first seemed to be a passing friendship soon turned out to be much more (Otose catching Oryo tailing Ryoma on his days out and poking through his stuff while she cleaned). There's clearly more going on here than Oryo is letting on, so Ryoma asks if she might clarify some of what has happened. Oryo is silent, with Otose prodding her to tell the truth on whether it has anything to do with "Ryoma"; if she is truly in love with the real Ryoma, she owes it to herself to be honest with him lest she end up losing him. with that prodding, Oryo says she'll tell the full truth.
All this time, even from before she arrived at Teradaya, Oryo has been collaborating with the Loyalists. At first it was just reporting rumors and hearsay to them, and the Loyalists told her she was helping a good cause and paying her well (all so Oryo can afford medicine for her ill mother). But one day, her contact came to her and told her that she was to start tailing a man named Saito Hajime and reporting on his actions, "Ryoma" asking for every little detail on Hajime's movements and the people he met during his time in Kyo. At first Oryo thought nothing of it, but her perception changed that night Ryoma took her in his arms as he slept off his binge drinking. Oryo falls silent, and Otose draws out several stacks of ryo from her sleeve; she says she found this the night after she had hired Oryo, guessing that it was a gift from "Ryoma" for hiring the girl. Ryoma then asks how Oryo met the man, Oryo confessing that her father was a Loyalist until he was killed in a raid by Bakufu men. After that, Loyalists started coming by her house to pay their respects, and "Ryoma" was one of those men. He was kind to Oryo and took care of the family after her father's death, Otose adding that it's always the women and children who get the worst of it when samurai start killing one another. At the end of the day, Oryo didn't join with the Loyalists because she genuinely wanted to, and was only trying to help her sick mother. With that said, she asks Ryoma not to be too harsh on Oryo for what she did.
Ryoma has one more question: if Oryo had been working with the Loyalists all this time, why did "Ryoma" show up today of all days? Oryo confesses she doesn't know, but "Ryoma" did mention he had a job to finish up in Kyo while he was there. As Ryoma contemplates this, Otose asks him what he plans to do with Oryo, with Oryo saying she is willing to take whatever punishment he has in mind. Oryo asks if Ryoma hates her, but Ryoma says he has no right to hate her because he also has his own secrets. He confesses to the two women that he is the real Sakamoto Ryoma, and the "Ryoma" Oryo knows is an imposter that's been using his name. He lays out the fakes crimes, his role in the death of Yoshida Toyo and his dealings with the British, and that he bears the same scars as Takechi Hanpeita. But Takechi was executed, supposedly, and even if he really is the imposter Ryoma has no idea why he would want Toyo dead. He sinks to the ground, lamenting that he is so confused and unsure of himself right now, but Oryo breaks him out by asking of he would like to meet the Sakamoto Ryoma she knows. There is, in fact, another member of the Shinsengumi who knows the fake Ryoma- if he meets that man, perhaps he could lead Ryoma to his double. Ryoma asks who the Shinsengumi member is, with Oryo confessing that it is Yamazaki. With that information, Ryoma immediately grabs his sword and leaves Teradaya.
Ryoma heads to the Shinsengumi headquarters to check in, only to be confronted by Nagakura asking where he's been once he arrives. When he asks if Ryoma heard about what happened to Inoue, Ryoma is confused and asks what's wrong. Rather than explain, Nagakura tells Ryoma to go to the barracks and see for himself. He goes inside and finds Inoue's dead body laid out on the training grounds, with Hijikata, Okita, and the other captains holding vigil. Ryoma asks what happened, with Todo explaining Inoue was shot twice in the back before taking a fatal sword blow, with the culprits dumping his body in the river when they were finished. Most likely it was the Loyalists, Sanosuke grumbling that Inoue was getting too old and lost his touch if he were to get killed like this. Hijikata defends Inoue by saying he was still the best swordsmen of them all, guessing that whoever killed him must have ambushed him before he could react, Sanosuke snarking that maybe they should go find the murderer and recruit him for his skills. He goes on to say he feels sorry for the men who served under Tani, Suzuki, and now Inoue, saddled with weak captains who couldn't cut it in the end. When Todo asks if he's being harsh, Sanosuke doubles down by saying the Shinsengumi's reputation has been trashed since they lost three Captains to the Choshu Loyalists and two to infighting and desertion, asking Hijikata if he knows that the Choshu are calling the Shinsengumi pawns to the Bakufu. He then asks if Hijikata forgot his promise from a year prior, that joining the Shinsengumi was a fast track to becoming hatamoto; that was the only reason he joined, to form an elite crew that would rise to the top, but here they are now recruiting strangers like Ryoma and getting slaughtered by the Loyalists. He won't stand for it, and demands that Hijikata set him loose. Hijikata asks him if he means to find Inoue's killer, but Sanosuke says one man alone won't satisfy him- he wants to slaughter the Loyalists to a man, going inn by inn to find and kill any that remain. When Todo points out that would nab Inoue's killer but do nothing to reveal his motive, Sanosuke says he doesn't care- they'll use Inoue's death as justification to purge the Loyalists and perhaps win the Shinsengumi's glory back.
Sanosuke once again pleads for Hijikata to let him loose, but Okita steps behind Sanosuke and draws his sword so it's resting hear the Tenth Captain's neck. He tells Sanosuke that he likes the idea, but there's going to be a change in plans: First Division will handle the manhunt, all but daring Hijikata to stop him. Okita makes to leave, but Sanosuke stops him and begs to be taken along for the hunt. Okita, though, shuts Sanosuke down by telling him that no one here thinks he's a pawn of the Bakufu - he's clearly a pawn of the Shinsengumi, and he would do best to remember that. With that, Okita summons his men and departs.
Sanosuke rages at Hijikata over Okita stepping out of lines, declaring that from now on the Tenth Division will be operating independent of the other Divisions. As he storms off, Todo whines about how things seem to be spiraling before asking Hijikata for orders. Hijikata says that with Okita and Sanosuke on the rampage, the populace might start questioning the Shinsengumi's sanity, so they must be stopped. He orders Ryoma to pursue Okita (carefully, because it's Okita), with Ryoma saying it seems like he'll be getting the worst of it. Sanosuke, though, shouldn't be hard to handle- just get some alcohol in his system and he'll burn himself out quickly enough, an easy enough task for Todo. Todo agrees only when he has assurances that the Shinsengumi will be footing the bill, departing and leaving Ryoma alone with Hijikata. Before he leaves too, Ryoma asks Hijikata why Okita is so invested in Inoue's murder. Hijikata says they were close during their training, but Ryoma counters that Okita knew Yamanami for just as long but wasn't nearly as affected by his death, asking if Inoue and Okita had a history together. Hijikata says that's one way of putting it, but that's a question to ask Okita about rather than him- who knows, it might lead Ryoma to more answers regarding his Tennen Rishin user. Hijikata says Okita's probably heading to where Inoue's body washed up, the harbor at South Hashikimachi, warning Ryoma that getting in Okita's way when he's this mad could be tantamount to suicide.
Ryoma leaves the barracks and heads for the docks to stop Okita before he goes to kill crazy. He heads into town to find some of the First Division harassing a local ronin for information, despite the man's pleas that he knows nothing. Ryoma steps in and asks if this is really how they want to reflect the Shinsengumi, but the leader of the trio says they are following Okita's orders and he told them to give no quarter to suspects... or those that interfere. Ryoma gets the message and beats the trio down, asking them if they know why Okita's so worked up over Inoue. The men, though, don't know anything about Okita's motives, leaving Ryoma with no leads as he heads towards the harbor. He arrives at the harbor and begins looking around before Yamazaki approaches him from the shadows. He has a message from Ito, saying that he wants no further interruptions to the Shinsengumi's plans, and Ryoma must stop Okita at all costs. Ryoma asks if there's any other information, with Yamazaki saying that Okita and the First Division are heading towards Mukurogai- apparently they have a suspect, a komuso (so named for the straw baskets they wear as hats). Ryoma asks how Yamazaki knows a komuso killed Inoue, with Yamazaki saying he doesn't know the full story but Okita must have some kind of lead. Still, having the First Division rampage is bad for everyone, so Yamazaki repeats Ito's orders to take down Okita in Mukurogai. Ryoma accepts, but he has his own message for Ito- one of these days, Ito should get out and do his dirty work himself instead of bossing the likes of Ryoma around.
He arrives at Mukurogai and finds a squad of First Division Troopers waiting outside. The Troopers welcome Ryoma and tell him that Okita is waiting inside to speak with him, saying that they discovered the identity of the komuso and Okita has a few questions for Ryoma. They don't know anything else, so Ryoma heads inside to speak with Okita. He goes to the top of Mukurogai and looks around, spotting Okita just as he exits the shadows and takes a swing at Ryoma. Ryoma asks what the deal is, with Okita furiously declaring Ryoma is the man who killed Inoue. The two fight, with Ryoma asking if they're supposed to be looking for a komuso. Okita says yes, but they learned who the komuso is: Sakamoto Ryoma. All the Loyalists Okita and his men have encountered have said the same thing, and Ryoma has a good motive for wanting to kill Inoue. Ryoma protests that Okita should know about the fake Sakamoto, but Okita says that might be true but it doesn't deny Ryoma's motive: Inoue was the man in the mask that killed Toyo. The two get in a blade lock again, Ryoma asking if it's true Inoue was the masked man, but Okita tells him to stop playing dumb. Ryoma breaks away from Okita and demands to know the truth, but Okita merely gets into position and says all Ryoma deserves is to bleed out in the street, and if he wants answers he's going to have to beat them out of Okita. Ryoma accepts, getting into position and declaring that once he has his answers he can go back to his old life again. Okita praises Ryoma for his spirit before charging in, the two battling in earnest.
Ryoma manages to overpower Okita, the other swordsman wondering if he's getting rusty. As he puts his sword away, Ryoma swears he did not kill Inoue, saying that the fake Ryoma is most likely their man. He then asks if Inoue was really the man in the mask, with Okita countering with a question of his own: what did Ryoma think of his Tennen Rishin now? Ryoma says that Okita fought just like the man in the mask, with the same technique and speed. Okita chuckes that he should be proud of himself- it seems he finally caught up to Inoue's level, after years of worrying he'd never get that far. Ryoma takes this to mean Inoue was Okita's master, but when Okita starts to explain his relationship with Kamo... Inoue, Kondo arrives and interrupts the conversation. Kondo tells Okita (referring to him as "Goro-chan") that perhaps now is the time to let Ryoma in on the secret, turning to Ryoma and saying he's solved his mystery of the Tennen Rishin user, and uncovered the biggest secret of the Shinsengumi.
Kondo takes the two to Asahi and apologizes, as what they are about to discuss is not for public hearing. He decides to start off with clearing out a few aliases and calls Ryoma by name, with Ryoma starting off by asking just what the big secret behind the Shinsengumi is and how does the Tennen Rishin style tie into it. Kondo starts by saying the story begins a year prior; before they were the Shinsengumi, they were known as the Miburoshigumi, and Kondo shared his power with Kamo, a fierce warrior feared throughout the underground world of the ronin. The Miburoshigumi were first formed to act as bodyguards to the Shogun, and seven of the Shieikan dojo signed up for the duty: Hijikata, Yamanami, Okita, Nagakura, Todo, and Kondo himself. However, they also had three founders from the Mito Domain: Serizawa Kamo, Hirayama Goro, and Hirama Jusuke. Ryoma notes that Kondo mentioned Kamo and Goro before, and Kondo says Ryoma's figuring out the big secret: the real Inoue, Okita, and Nagakura have all been dead for some time now, and Kamo, Goro, and Jusuke each took one of their names. He says that all those details are important factors in the mystery of Toyo's death, with Ryoma asking what exactly. Kondo looks away, explaining it all started one year prior.
Kamo (Inoue) had just returned from his assassination of Toyo. Upon entering the Miburoshigumi barracks, he found Goro (Okita) and Jusuke (Nagakura) asleep, and so went to go put away his things. No sooner had he done so that three other men entered the room: Okita (Jun Oda), Nagakura (Saito) and Inoue (Fumiya Ushijima). Okita told Kamo that he had done his research and learned that Kamo was heir to the Mito Tengu Style, the three of them drawing their swords soon after. Kamo guessed they were waiting for him, with Okita saying that Kondo has been far too lenient and trusting with the Mito faction, welcoming them with open arms despite Kamo essentially being a criminal. Unfortunately for Kamo, Okita and the others tired of being sidelined by the Mito faction; Kamo tried to warn them off, but Okita said that if they had been from the Shieikan then they wouldn't have had these kinds of issues. And he cannot expect any backup, as Okita and the others had drugged Goro and Jusuke to make sure they slept while they were murdered. With everything said, Okita and the others rushed Kamo.
Jusuke eventually woke up to the sound of fighting, spotting Kamo and Okita dueling out in the rain (Kamo having already killed Inoue and Nagakura). Jusuke roused Goro to go help Kamo, but Kamo told the two to run for it before Okita killed them. Using that distraction, Okita slashed Kamo across the face (giving him his scar) before going for a killing blow, but Goro and Jusuke got to him first and killed Okita. As the three men pulled themselves back together and Jusuke asked Kamo what happened, Kondo and Hijikata arrived to see what the commotion was about. Kondo was once again impressed with Kamo's skills, while Kamo threw himself at Kondo's feet and took full responsibility for the deaths of the three men, asking Kondo to spare Goro and Jusuke and allow him to commit suicide. Goro and Jusuke both step forward and say it wasn't Kamo's fault Okita and the others attacked, and they claim responsibility to Okita's death, but Kamo says that they betrayed the trust of the man who took them in after they were cast out of Mito and killed his apprentice, and such an action can only be repaid in blood. Goro asked how self defense is a crime, and surprisingly Kondo agreed; he said he should be the one apologizing, as he allowed the fear of the Mito faction to grow in the hearts of the three dead men. But what's done is done, and the three Mito men are just going to have to die- Okita Soji was the best swordsman they had, and as the face of the Miburoshigumi his death would make them a laughingstock among the populace (Hijikata adding that the Bakufu would pull their support and force them to disband). Goro didn't care and both he and Jusuke aimed their swords at Kondo and Hijikata respectively, but Kamo ordered them to stand down. Kondo, for his part, apologized for being callous over the death of his star pupil, saying that all he cared about was protecting and building up Japan- that was why he fooled the Bakufu into allowing the Miburoshigumi to form, and he still needed the Mito faction's skills to ensure his plan would come to fruition.
Thus, Kamo, Goro, and Jusuke became Inoue, Okita, and Nagakura respectively, and the Miburoshigumi died to be replaced by the Shinsengumi. They spread a rumor that Kamo had been executed for his acts of ruthlessness and changed their uniform to the current blue and white, Kondo pausing to joke that Goro got the short straw and has to play as Pretty Boy Okita. From there, they wrote the Iron Code of the Shinsengumi, including that all deserters were to be put to death. Originally it just applied to Kondo and his inner circle, but it was still an effective way to keep the secret safe. Ryoma asks why they went through so much trouble, with Kondo saying he had to get the Mito Tengu style for the Shinsengumi; he had Inoue start training everyone the following day, even renaming it to the Tennen Rishin style with designs to spread it across Kyo and Japan. That is also why they sought out the strongest swordsmen to join, and it produced results- they got Sanosuke, Ito, and Takeda to join up fairly quickly, and Kondo confirms that Ryoma was earmarked for the same training as well. Okita guesses that Inoue might have had some lingering guilt over killing Toyo when Ryoma showed up, also guessing he killed Matsubara to cover Ryoma's alibi as a means of trying to find redemption as Inoue was never one to indulge in literal backstabbing.
Kondo asks Ryoma if there's anything else he wanted to hear, with Ryoma admitting he would like to know why Inoue was sent to kill Toyo. Okita says the order came from Mito, saying that their dappan would be forgiven if they performed the assassination. Ryoma asks if that means whoever wanted Toyo dead was from Mito, but Okita can't say- Kamo never spoke much about the mission, as expected of a shadowy type like him. Unfortunately, this means that Ryoma has no leads once again. Kondo asks Ryoma if he were to find the man who had Toyo killed, would he drop everything and go pursue him; Ryoma admits he's not sure, but he did notice something when he learned who the masked man was. He hasn't been looking for revenge, just the truth and nothing more, a fact that Kondo finds rather comforting, and perhaps that means Ryoma can learn the other secret Kondo knows. See, Inoue ratted Ryoma out to Kondo right away, but he also told him the name of the man who masterminded Toyo's assassination: Sakamoto Ryoma. The fake Ryoma was behind the assassination, and no doubt he murdered Inoue to silence him as well and cover the fake's tracks. What's more, Yamazaki has located the fake in Kyo: he is staying as a guest at Teradaya, though probably not as long as the real Ryoma has. The fake comes and goes from the inn as he pleases, so it's most likely one of his local haunts... So Kondo dispatched Ito, Takeda, and the Fifth Division to take him down. Okita protests that a guy that could take down Serizawa Kamo would butcher the assembled Shinsengumi. Kondo reluctantly agrees, saying that if things go wrong and the fake Ryoma escapes they might not get a chance at him again, so he wants the real Ryoma to continue to play his role as Saito Hajime and bring in "Ryoma" before Ito or Takeda get to him first. Ryoma agrees, and as he and Okita get up to head to Teradaya Ryoma thanks Kondo for telling him the truth about everything.
The two captains go to the inn and find Ito and Takeda waiting outside. Ito tells Ryoma that they were just about to move in and they won't be needing his help, saying that Ryoma is too green and they don't want another slip up like Ikedaya. Ito declares that he's in command of the operation, but Okita steps in and says he'll be taking control from here, telling Ito that Kondo wanted to talk to Ito about his pending retirement. Ito is shocked to hear the chief is considering retiring, Okita claiming that Kondo wants Ito back at the barracks to discuss the matter further and he'll take over from here. Having taken the bait hook, line, and sinker, Ito warns Okita that if he's lying he'll have the First Captain commit seppuku, but Okita dismisses the threat and says Ito better hurry on before Kondo starts worrying. With that, Ito and Takeda depart, Ryoma thanking Okita for his quick thinking- Okita says everyone knows that Ito's been gunning for Kondo's position so lying wasn't too difficult, and now they have free reign to kill the fake Ryoma without anyone else butting in. Ryoma agrees, but there's one thing he wants to do first- he wants to give Otose and Oryo a chance to escape first, as they have treated him well and he doesn't want them caught in the crossfire. Okita's fine with that, but how will they alert the women without also tipping over the fake Ryoma? Ryoma guesses he could sneak around back and deliver a covert message to them, with Okita whining that he wanted to go charging in guns blazing, as usual. Reluctantly he agrees to Ryoma's plan, and the two sneak around back to try and alert Otose and Oryo.
They make their way around back before Ryoma stops by the baths. Okita asks if he wants to take a dip before the raid, but Ryoma says he hears someone inside. He peeks in and sees it's Oryo, Okita almost blowing their cover when he asks who it is. Ryoma tells Oryo that the Shinsengumi have the building surrounded and are here for the fake Ryoma, telling her to get Otose and the others to safety before they strike. Oryo leaves her bath and heads into the inn, with Okita and Ryoma getting ready to break in. Just before they do, though, they hear Oryo calling to the fake Ryoma warning him of the Shinsengumi's attack. With their cover blown, Okita kicks in the door to reveal a squad of Tosa Lotalists forming up to take them on, the two captains drawing their weapons and plunging into the melee. The two men fight their way room by room in search of the fake, finally cornering the komuso in one of the upper rooms.
While the regulars are easy to take care of, the fake Ryoma manages to fight the real one to a standstill; Ryoma asks the fake who he is and what his plans are, but the fake does not answer. As the two get in a blade lock, Okita takes the time to attack from behind and slashes the back of the fake's haori open. It is then, to Ryoma's shock, that he sees the fake Ryoma has scars identical to Takechi's, leaving him too stunned to react when the fake throws a smoke bomb and escapes. Okita tries to get Ryoma to move to follow, but Ryoma continues to stand in shock. Just then, Sasaki and the Mimawarigumi arrive, demanding answers to what Ryoma and Okita are up to. Okita says they're obviously chasing down a fugitive, but Sasaki clarifies his question- the manhunt for the fake Ryoma is now Mimawarigumi business, and the Shinsengumi have been relieved of their duties. Okita rages as the fake killed one of their captains, Sasaki counters that it's out of his hands and if they have any complaints they can take it up with the official that assigned them. As Okita sulks, Ryoma asks who it was that put the Mimawarigumi on the case. Sasaki tells him it was Admiral Katsu Rintaro, but it would be best if Ryoma not even bother- after all, they can't waste their time trying to catch every lowlife with an alias, right "Saito"? With that Sasaki and his men depart, leaving the two Shinsengumi captains to contemplate the new revelations.
Back at the barracks, Okita tries to open up the discussion about the Mimawarigumi stealing their mission, but he notes Ryoma is being quieter than usual. Ryoma says he's fine, but just then they are interrupted by Ito, Takeda, and Todo. Ito is furious about Okita lying about Kondo's intentions of retiring, and when the First Captain tries to play dumb Takeda yells that his little stunt cost them Sakamoto Ryoma. Unimpressed, Okita counters that if catching the fake Ryoma was so important Takeda could have stuck around instead of following Ito like a lost puppy, Todo stepping in to try and calm Takeda and Okita. When Okita asks Todo what his stake in this is, Todo says that while he's not here to take sides he is a bit confused trying to comprehend Kondo's decisions- maybe things would be better under Ito's command instead. Ito tells Todo there's no point in trying to reason with a man like Okita, but he warns Okita that if he does take command, neither his rank or his skill with a sword will save him. If he wants to stay a member of the Shinsengumi, he'd better rethink his attitude before he gets put down like the mad dog he is. With that the three captains depart, Ryoma heading out as well to question Oryo on why she tipped off the fake Ryoma.
Upon returning to the inn, Otose sends Ryoma up to his room, telling him Oryo will be up shortly. The girl arrives, but both are reluctant to speak as Ryoma sits by the window and Oryo takes a spot in the center of the room. Eventually, Ryoma asks for the honest truth as to why Oryo helped the fake get away; Oryo turns away and says she wanted to help a guest that was in danger. Ryoma says that for aiding a target of the Shinsengumi she could easily have been killed, asking Oryo if it's really worth it for "Ryoma"? Oryo says yes, and she would do the same for any guest that was wanted by the Shinsengumi. Ryoma understands before getting up from his seat, declaring that he will be checking out now and will leave Teradaya, as his presence would only bring harm to Oryo and the others. Oryo tries to protest, but Ryoma's mind is set. Before Oryo can make another defense, Otose steps in and says Oryo should come clean now- she's got a secret of her own, and isn't now the perfect time to clear the air? While Oryo hesitates, Ryoma asks Otose just what she means- Otose explains that Ryoma is the only reasons Oryo stays at Teradaya. In fact, Oryo had asked for special permission to take care of "Saito Hajime", and what first seemed to be a passing friendship soon turned out to be much more (Otose catching Oryo tailing Ryoma on his days out and poking through his stuff while she cleaned). There's clearly more going on here than Oryo is letting on, so Ryoma asks if she might clarify some of what has happened. Oryo is silent, with Otose prodding her to tell the truth on whether it has anything to do with "Ryoma"; if she is truly in love with the real Ryoma, she owes it to herself to be honest with him lest she end up losing him. with that prodding, Oryo says she'll tell the full truth.
All this time, even from before she arrived at Teradaya, Oryo has been collaborating with the Loyalists. At first it was just reporting rumors and hearsay to them, and the Loyalists told her she was helping a good cause and paying her well (all so Oryo can afford medicine for her ill mother). But one day, her contact came to her and told her that she was to start tailing a man named Saito Hajime and reporting on his actions, "Ryoma" asking for every little detail on Hajime's movements and the people he met during his time in Kyo. At first Oryo thought nothing of it, but her perception changed that night Ryoma took her in his arms as he slept off his binge drinking. Oryo falls silent, and Otose draws out several stacks of ryo from her sleeve; she says she found this the night after she had hired Oryo, guessing that it was a gift from "Ryoma" for hiring the girl. Ryoma then asks how Oryo met the man, Oryo confessing that her father was a Loyalist until he was killed in a raid by Bakufu men. After that, Loyalists started coming by her house to pay their respects, and "Ryoma" was one of those men. He was kind to Oryo and took care of the family after her father's death, Otose adding that it's always the women and children who get the worst of it when samurai start killing one another. At the end of the day, Oryo didn't join with the Loyalists because she genuinely wanted to, and was only trying to help her sick mother. With that said, she asks Ryoma not to be too harsh on Oryo for what she did.
Ryoma has one more question: if Oryo had been working with the Loyalists all this time, why did "Ryoma" show up today of all days? Oryo confesses she doesn't know, but "Ryoma" did mention he had a job to finish up in Kyo while he was there. As Ryoma contemplates this, Otose asks him what he plans to do with Oryo, with Oryo saying she is willing to take whatever punishment he has in mind. Oryo asks if Ryoma hates her, but Ryoma says he has no right to hate her because he also has his own secrets. He confesses to the two women that he is the real Sakamoto Ryoma, and the "Ryoma" Oryo knows is an imposter that's been using his name. He lays out the fakes crimes, his role in the death of Yoshida Toyo and his dealings with the British, and that he bears the same scars as Takechi Hanpeita. But Takechi was executed, supposedly, and even if he really is the imposter Ryoma has no idea why he would want Toyo dead. He sinks to the ground, lamenting that he is so confused and unsure of himself right now, but Oryo breaks him out by asking of he would like to meet the Sakamoto Ryoma she knows. There is, in fact, another member of the Shinsengumi who knows the fake Ryoma- if he meets that man, perhaps he could lead Ryoma to his double. Ryoma asks who the Shinsengumi member is, with Oryo confessing that it is Yamazaki. With that information, Ryoma immediately grabs his sword and leaves Teradaya.
Chapter 11: The Great Gamble
Kondo meets Ryoma atop a tower in Kyo, chiding him for losing the imposter. Ryoma blames the Mimawarigumi for interfering, mentioning their orders from Admiral Rintaro. Kondo says that leaves the mystery of "Ryoma" open for a little while longer, Ryoma thinking about seeing Takechi's scars before Kondo asks if Ryoma might have a guess as to the fake's reasons for returning to Kyo. Ryoma doesn't have a clue, but Kondo does (which is why he called him up to the tower in the first place), and now would also be a good time to tell him that it is almost showtime for the Shinsengumi. Ryoma asks what that means, with Kondo explaining he means the end of Japan as they know it; the fake Ryoma was in town seeking to trigger an anti-Bakufu civil war. Ryoma asks what happened that would cause Kondo to think this, and Kondo breaks the news that Saigo and Katsura have formed a truce between Satsuma and Choshu, forming the Satcho Alliance against the Bakufu. He knows a Sakamoto Ryoma helped facilitate the deal, specifically the real one, but apparently Ryoma was bombed out of his skull when he achieved that bit of peacemaking. Ryoma begins to realize what happened the night of his drinking binge, with Kondo lamenting he never thought a night on the town would be enough to bridge a centuries-old feud. Now they are on the brink of war, the two largest Loyalist factions have united, it's all Ryoma's fault, and the fake Ryoma is only making things worse by funneling British weapons and munitions to the Alliance- any day now, they could start a rebellion unlike any Japan has ever faced before, and both the fake Ryoma and the Western Powers will grow rich off the weapons sales they'll be getting as Japan drowns in its own blood. With everything arrayed thusly, Kondo has no choice but to execute his plan to raze Kyo and relocate the Imperial Court.
Ryoma asks if Kondo really believes he is saving Japan with his actions, asking how many innocent women and children will die as he lights the country ablaze (literally in this case). Kondo defends his actions by saying that if he doesn't more people will die and the Europeans will get free reign to do with Japan as they please. And Ryoma has no one to blame but himself, since his actions let to Satsuma and Choshu uniting and he let the imposter escape. With everything arrayed against them, they have no choice if they are to stop the Satcho Alliance.
However, Ryoma has an idea: what if, instead of stopping the Satcho, they stopped the Bakufu? If the Bakufu surrendered, then the Satcho would have no reason to fight. Kondo asks if Ryoma thinks the Bakufu would just roll over for the Loyalists and end 300 years of Shogunate rule, but as he thinks it over he realizes that it just might work- now that they have a legitimate rival to their power, perhaps the Bakufu would be more willing to listen. If the Tokugawa willingly gave their power back to the Emperor before the Loyalists forced them to (under the guise of some "Great Restoration"), then Ryoma's assumption that the Satcho would have no reason for war would make sense. Perhaps if they spoke with the Shogun personally, they could get it to work, but Ryoma asks if speaking to the shogun in person is even possible. Kondo says that under normal circumstances it wouldn't be, but if Ryoma went as himself they might get that chance; not only is he skilled with a blade, unlike any man Kondo has seen, but he has a natural charisma that allows him to get loose cannons like Okita to behave themselves. Ryoma thinks Kondo is just flattering him, but Kondo is sincere in his conviction that Ryoma is their best bet to infiltrate Edo Castle and talk the Shogun into abdicating. He asks if Ryoma is up to the task, suggesting he sneak in under the cover of darkness so he isn't executed on sight, as this will be the only way they can convince the Tokugawa to accept a Great Restoration.
Ryoma asks if Kondo wants him to find the Shogun personally, and Kondo says it is kind of his fault they're in this crisis to begin with. And even if the Shogun agrees to Ryoma's terms, it will likely trigger the imposter to act against the Shinsengumi; the fake has been going out of his way to arm the Satcho Alliance for rebellion, and with all the money he has sank into his scheme he won't take it lightly if the Shinsengumi foil his plan so quickly. Still, Kondo isn't forcing Ryoma to do it and he can always go back to Plan A, but if they do then Ryoma loses his chance to flush the imposter out. Ryoma comments that while he has been to Edo, he's never seen the castle up close, so now might be as good a time as any (with Kondo adding that it might be the last thing he ever sees). However, a Shinsengumi captain departing Kyo during the day would raise suspicion, so he advises Ryoma to wait at the barracks until dawn the next morning before departing. Ryoma says that's good enough, as he'd been meaning to speak with Yamazaki about his ties with the imposter, however Kondo says it's too late for that: Yamazaki was found dead in his quarters, Kondo guessing the fake Ryoma had him killed to silence his connection to the Loyalists.
Ryoma returns to the barracks where he is greeted by Sanosuke, the Tenth Captain furious that once again the Shinsengumi look like weaklings given that their own barracks are no longer safe from attack. If Ryoma is feeling anything, he can go to the warehouse and pay his respects, Sanosuke informing Ryoma that Todo is there investigating the crime scene. Ryoma arrives at the warehouse just as the Shinsengumi are loading Yamazaki's corpse up for burial, Todo greeting him once the body is away. Todo explains that Yamazaki was stabbed though the heart from behind, guessing that whoever did it attacked him at night while he was unaware. Yamazaki was always a cautious person, so whoever killed him must have been someone he trusted, possibly even one of the Shinsengumi captains. On that note, Todo asks Ryoma where he was that night, with Ryoma saying he was staying at Terdaya before flipping the script, saying that if the Shinsengumi captains are suspects then Todo himself is a candidate as well. Todo acknowledges this as a possibility and laughs it off, Ryoma departing soon after.
Ryoma decides to set aside the search for Yamazaki's killer for now, planning to return to Teradaya to rest until it's time for him to leave for Edo. On his way out he's pulled aside by Hijikata, who wants to know how Kondo is doing; he's known for a while that Ryoma has been meeting the chief on the regular, and wants to know what they have been discussing during their meetings. Ryoma tells him that's a question best suited for Kondo himself, but Hijikata says Kondo has been rather lax in updating him on details such as the Satsuma Choshu alliance. While Ryoma lies that Kondo never brought it up, Hijikata says he's surprised Kondo never mentioned it, given he's a man who has always put the country's best interests at the heart of any and all his actions; a Satcho alliance would be immediately crushed, but why hasn't Kondo made a move on the Loyalists yet? To that end, Hijikata orders Ryoma to report to him anything Kondo might say, but Ryoma counters he's not the kind of man to go about repeating what others have told him. That also means he won't tell Kondo about their conversation here, telling Hijikata that if he's so curious he should just go speak with the chief himself before he departs the barracks.
He doesn't get very far before he's stopped by Okita just outside the gate. The one-eyed captain has also learned of Ryoma's talks with Kondo, whining that Ryoma's been having all the fun before declaring he is joining the trip to Edo, and if Ryoma says no he'll kill him and go anyway. Ryoma reminds Okita that it's essentially a suicide mission, but Okita says that's what makes it fun, and it has the added bonus of smoking the fake Ryoma out of hiding. Besides, they have a common goal at the end of all things, so best use that synergy on their trip to Edo. Ryoma reluctantly agrees to bring the Mad Dog with him, but tells him they leave at dawn and it's best not to draw attention before then. Okita is fine with this, commenting that if they go through with this it might be their last chance to do anything fun- he plans on blowing all his money on a wild bender, but Ryoma should take care of a certain someone back at Teradaya before he heads to his possible death... Otose, right? Ryoma quickly corrects him that no, he's not going after Otose, which throws Okita for a loop before he shrugs and tells Ryoma he'll see him tomorrow.
Ryoma returns to Teradaya, telling Otose that he'll be leaving first thing in the morning and asking her to wake him. As he rests in his room, Oryo enters and takes a seat, Ryoma telling her that Yamazaki was murdered (most likely at the hands of the fake Ryoma). He doesn't think she'll be in any danger, but he suggests Oryo not go out in public too much anymore. Oryo tells Ryoma that he shouldn't worry about her, but Ryoma counters that he does worry, as he's the reason she's still stuck in this mess. He turns to her and tells Oryo that he is heading to Edo and won't be back until his mission is complete. Oryo questions if Ryoma should be trusting her with that information- what if she betrays him to the Loyalists while he's away. Ryoma tells her that Teradaya was the first place he ever shared his real name once leaving Tosa, and he really has nothing to hide anymore... also, depending on how things go in Edo, he may never return. Oryo asks what Ryoma plans to do, and Ryoma tells her about his plan to go to Edo and try to convince the Shogun to dissolve the Bakufu. He knows it sounds crazy, but it didn't feel right for him to not tell her, and if he doesn't come back that means he died with but one regret- that he never had a moment to sit down and enjoy a meal Oryo prepared for him. That will keep him motivated on his trip to Edo, and he asks if Oryo would do that for him, which Oryo agrees to before leaving to give Ryoma a chance to rest.
The next morning, Ryoma steps outside and sees Okita waiting for him, Okita teasing if Ryoma got his last tender moments with his special someone. He had a good night himself, producing a letter Kondo drafted for Ryoma to present to the Shogun. The two board a boat heading for Edo, and on their way they decide to take a look at the letter and see what Kondo wrote. Problem is, neither of them can read it- while Ryoma defends himself saying he's not illiterate, Kondo's handwriting and phrasing are far too eloquent for him to decipher. Frustrated, Okita calls over a man on deck and orders him to read it. The man takes the letter (and turns it right side up), skimming through it before reacting in shock at what it says. With Okita's prodding (and Ryoma's assurance that they are not traitors), the man begins to break down what the letter says: First, all power and authority is to be restored to the Imperial Court. Next is a series of orders for the Imperial Court to follow, such as the establishment of a congress to vote on laws and policy, a review of unfavorable treaties with foreign powers, writing a new constitution for the nation, increased funding for the navy, establishment of a city guard for the capital, and aligning Japan with the gold and silver standard of other nations.
Ryoma surmises that the list is a set of instructions on how to rebuild Japan, with Okita asking if that means they can add some of their own stuff to the list and have the Shogun consider it. When Ryoma replies it will be the Imperial Court considering this, Okita counters that his point still stands- Shogun or Emperor, they can use this to get some reward for pulling off their suicide mission. Maybe something like... "Pay Shinsengumi captains enough to live it up for the rest of their lives"? Ryoma shoots that down as too risky and transparent, with Okita asking him what he would add instead. After a moment of thought, Ryoma says he would like equality; he explains about his life in Tosa, how goshi like him were treated as subhuman by the upper classes. Okita counters that's nothing compared to what commoners get, saying that both Kondo and Hijikata were born peasants and could tell Ryoma some pretty wild stories about what they faced. At least they have some understanding on what challenges they face, but Okita asks if equality is really a good enough payment for what they will face; Ryoma says it will be enough for him, as now he can face Toyo in the afterlife with a proud smile. While Okita is confused by this, Ryoma asks the man if he could add something about equality to Kondo's letter, something that would allow anyone regardless of class a chance to prove their worth, and that no one would be able to abuse the rights of others just because they are of a lower class. The man is surprised to hear this, as he had been dreaming of a nation just like that and had come to Kyo for that very reason, though he admits he's not very good with a sword so he'd never really be able to help out. Ryoma says that's fine as now the man has his chance to contribute, and he trusts the man will do his words justice. As evening falls, Ryoma gets the letter back and reads through the new addition: "All ranks of status are henceforth abolished and positions are to be given based on talent, including all court members and lords." With that, he says a small prayer to Toyo, saying that perhaps their dream is closer than they think.
That night, Ryoma approaches Edo Castle and asks to see the Shogun. The guards are clearly suspicious of this unknown warrior approaching at night, and order him to stand down. Ryoma asks again to see the Shogun, telling the guards that if they won't let him in he'll just have to force his way in. The guards are unintimidated and draw there swords, but before a battle can begin Okita tells Ryoma he's wasting his breath and he should get out of the way... he just hijacked a cannon and has turned it around towards the main gate. Ryoma and the guards dive away before Okita blasts a hole through the gate, and with their presence now known the two Shinsengumi captains arm themselves and charge in. Ryoma and Okita battle their way through Edo Castle, tearing their way through squads of swordsman and gunners in their search for the Shogun. As they enter the castle proper, they are attacked by ninja and even more guards, battling into the center of the Bakufu Fortress while dodging dozens of deadly traps and automated defenses. Eventually Okita peels off to hold the line and give Ryoma enough time to talk to the Shogun, though Ryoma still has to cut his way through more guards to reach the Shogun.
Ryoma enter the throne room, where Fifteenth Shogun Tokugawa Yoshinobu (Daigo Dojima) awaits him. Tokugawa takes his sword from a nearby attendant, asking Ryoma what brings him here. When Ryoma asks if he really is the Shogun, Tokugawa takes this to mean Ryoma has never seen his face. That being said, he is impressed by Ryoma and Okita's strength and skill, asking if perhaps Ryoma has come to take his head. Ryoma sheathes his sword and explains that he is there to discuss an important matter with the Shogun that could save the country. The attendant scoffs and asks what a terrorist like Ryoma would know about saving the country, but Tokugawa shuts him up and rises from his throne, saying that neither the attendant nor the squad of ninja that snuck in behind Ryoma are to interfere. After pushing his attendant aside again when the old man tries to stop him, Tokugawa explains that he and his forefathers have faced many assassinations during their 300 years of ruling, but Ryoma is the first to come and say he is doing it to save the country- has the Bakufu really grown so weak as to allow something like this? He draws his sword and tells Ryoma that if he wants Tokugawa to listen to his request, he'll have to force him to do so. He demands Ryoma show him his full strength, stating that his guards will not interfere even if it means dying at Ryoma's hand. Ryoma draws his sword and says that if that's what it takes it's Tokugawa's call, with Tokugawa saying that if Ryoma is truly here to save the country then he best be prepared to die for his cause. But he warns Ryoma that he isn't the Shogun for nothing, and with that the two attack one another.
Ryoma manages to fight Tokugawa until the Shogun is exhausted, but rather than cut him down as the Shogun expects Ryoma merely punches him instead. Killing Tokugawa won't end the Shogunate as they would just find someone else to replace him, but the war the Loyalists are plotting would exterminate his entire family line. Tokugawa asks if he means the Satcho Alliance, explaining that while the Bakufu may be weakened they still have spies everywhere feeding the Shogun information. Ryoma says that someone is acting as the middle man between the Loyalist and the foreign arms dealer Thomas Glover, and thanks to his efforts the Satcho might be better prepared for war than Tokugawa realizes. Tokugawa dismisses them as small minded fools that would destroy Japan with their infighting, asking if Ryoma is one of their number. Ryoma says he's just a delivery man with something that could stop the coming war, stepping up and presenting Kondo's letter to Tokugawa. The attendant rushes to his master's side and begs him not to read it, but Tokugawa says he may be a dead man if he does not. As Tokugawa reads the letter, Okita comes jogging in saying he's all ready to leave, with Ryoma saying he's just about finished with the Shogun as well.
Tokugawa asks Ryoma to clarify that he wants him to end the reign of his family. Ryoma says he is the only man who can, and he does not need an immediate answer- his job was to get the letter to Tokugawa, and he has completed his mission. Ryoma and Okita turn to leave as Tokugawa reads Ryoma's addition on abolishing the caste system, asking Ryoma what he thinks will happen if they do so. Ryoma turns to the shogun and says a lot of good will come of it, as the only ones that will suffer are the corrupt leeches of society. Tokugawa is inclined to agree, ignoring his attendant once more to ask Ryoma his name. Ryoma gives him his real name and says he is from Tosa, departing with Okita as Tokugawa contemplates this. As they leave, Okita asks if Ryoma can believe what they just pulled off, but Ryoma says they're not done yet- now it's the fake Ryoma's move, and they need to be prepared for whatever his plans may be.
A few days later, Admiral Rintaro meets with the fake Ryoma in Kyo, telling him he was not anticipating that Tokugawa would concede defeat and dissolve his regime, thus denying Katsuro and Saigo a motive to start their skirmish. As the fake Ryoma helps himself to some Sake, Rintaro continues by blaming the Shinsengumi and Saito Hajima for this setback, joking that at least now they won't need two Sakamoto Ryomas anymore. But no matter- Choshu and Satsuma still have the weapons the fake provided, and they'd be more than willing to start a war at the slightest provocation even if the Bakufu won't give them one. Now, they can put the Shinsengumi to good use for their cause.
That night, Ito is roaming about with a lantern when a Shinsengumi soldier approaches him. The two talk briefly before the soldier departs, Ito heading towards a nearby storage area and pitching his lantern inside. The lantern quickly catches fire, Ito smirking as the fire grows into a massive blaze.
Ryoma asks if Kondo really believes he is saving Japan with his actions, asking how many innocent women and children will die as he lights the country ablaze (literally in this case). Kondo defends his actions by saying that if he doesn't more people will die and the Europeans will get free reign to do with Japan as they please. And Ryoma has no one to blame but himself, since his actions let to Satsuma and Choshu uniting and he let the imposter escape. With everything arrayed against them, they have no choice if they are to stop the Satcho Alliance.
However, Ryoma has an idea: what if, instead of stopping the Satcho, they stopped the Bakufu? If the Bakufu surrendered, then the Satcho would have no reason to fight. Kondo asks if Ryoma thinks the Bakufu would just roll over for the Loyalists and end 300 years of Shogunate rule, but as he thinks it over he realizes that it just might work- now that they have a legitimate rival to their power, perhaps the Bakufu would be more willing to listen. If the Tokugawa willingly gave their power back to the Emperor before the Loyalists forced them to (under the guise of some "Great Restoration"), then Ryoma's assumption that the Satcho would have no reason for war would make sense. Perhaps if they spoke with the Shogun personally, they could get it to work, but Ryoma asks if speaking to the shogun in person is even possible. Kondo says that under normal circumstances it wouldn't be, but if Ryoma went as himself they might get that chance; not only is he skilled with a blade, unlike any man Kondo has seen, but he has a natural charisma that allows him to get loose cannons like Okita to behave themselves. Ryoma thinks Kondo is just flattering him, but Kondo is sincere in his conviction that Ryoma is their best bet to infiltrate Edo Castle and talk the Shogun into abdicating. He asks if Ryoma is up to the task, suggesting he sneak in under the cover of darkness so he isn't executed on sight, as this will be the only way they can convince the Tokugawa to accept a Great Restoration.
Ryoma asks if Kondo wants him to find the Shogun personally, and Kondo says it is kind of his fault they're in this crisis to begin with. And even if the Shogun agrees to Ryoma's terms, it will likely trigger the imposter to act against the Shinsengumi; the fake has been going out of his way to arm the Satcho Alliance for rebellion, and with all the money he has sank into his scheme he won't take it lightly if the Shinsengumi foil his plan so quickly. Still, Kondo isn't forcing Ryoma to do it and he can always go back to Plan A, but if they do then Ryoma loses his chance to flush the imposter out. Ryoma comments that while he has been to Edo, he's never seen the castle up close, so now might be as good a time as any (with Kondo adding that it might be the last thing he ever sees). However, a Shinsengumi captain departing Kyo during the day would raise suspicion, so he advises Ryoma to wait at the barracks until dawn the next morning before departing. Ryoma says that's good enough, as he'd been meaning to speak with Yamazaki about his ties with the imposter, however Kondo says it's too late for that: Yamazaki was found dead in his quarters, Kondo guessing the fake Ryoma had him killed to silence his connection to the Loyalists.
Ryoma returns to the barracks where he is greeted by Sanosuke, the Tenth Captain furious that once again the Shinsengumi look like weaklings given that their own barracks are no longer safe from attack. If Ryoma is feeling anything, he can go to the warehouse and pay his respects, Sanosuke informing Ryoma that Todo is there investigating the crime scene. Ryoma arrives at the warehouse just as the Shinsengumi are loading Yamazaki's corpse up for burial, Todo greeting him once the body is away. Todo explains that Yamazaki was stabbed though the heart from behind, guessing that whoever did it attacked him at night while he was unaware. Yamazaki was always a cautious person, so whoever killed him must have been someone he trusted, possibly even one of the Shinsengumi captains. On that note, Todo asks Ryoma where he was that night, with Ryoma saying he was staying at Terdaya before flipping the script, saying that if the Shinsengumi captains are suspects then Todo himself is a candidate as well. Todo acknowledges this as a possibility and laughs it off, Ryoma departing soon after.
Ryoma decides to set aside the search for Yamazaki's killer for now, planning to return to Teradaya to rest until it's time for him to leave for Edo. On his way out he's pulled aside by Hijikata, who wants to know how Kondo is doing; he's known for a while that Ryoma has been meeting the chief on the regular, and wants to know what they have been discussing during their meetings. Ryoma tells him that's a question best suited for Kondo himself, but Hijikata says Kondo has been rather lax in updating him on details such as the Satsuma Choshu alliance. While Ryoma lies that Kondo never brought it up, Hijikata says he's surprised Kondo never mentioned it, given he's a man who has always put the country's best interests at the heart of any and all his actions; a Satcho alliance would be immediately crushed, but why hasn't Kondo made a move on the Loyalists yet? To that end, Hijikata orders Ryoma to report to him anything Kondo might say, but Ryoma counters he's not the kind of man to go about repeating what others have told him. That also means he won't tell Kondo about their conversation here, telling Hijikata that if he's so curious he should just go speak with the chief himself before he departs the barracks.
He doesn't get very far before he's stopped by Okita just outside the gate. The one-eyed captain has also learned of Ryoma's talks with Kondo, whining that Ryoma's been having all the fun before declaring he is joining the trip to Edo, and if Ryoma says no he'll kill him and go anyway. Ryoma reminds Okita that it's essentially a suicide mission, but Okita says that's what makes it fun, and it has the added bonus of smoking the fake Ryoma out of hiding. Besides, they have a common goal at the end of all things, so best use that synergy on their trip to Edo. Ryoma reluctantly agrees to bring the Mad Dog with him, but tells him they leave at dawn and it's best not to draw attention before then. Okita is fine with this, commenting that if they go through with this it might be their last chance to do anything fun- he plans on blowing all his money on a wild bender, but Ryoma should take care of a certain someone back at Teradaya before he heads to his possible death... Otose, right? Ryoma quickly corrects him that no, he's not going after Otose, which throws Okita for a loop before he shrugs and tells Ryoma he'll see him tomorrow.
Ryoma returns to Teradaya, telling Otose that he'll be leaving first thing in the morning and asking her to wake him. As he rests in his room, Oryo enters and takes a seat, Ryoma telling her that Yamazaki was murdered (most likely at the hands of the fake Ryoma). He doesn't think she'll be in any danger, but he suggests Oryo not go out in public too much anymore. Oryo tells Ryoma that he shouldn't worry about her, but Ryoma counters that he does worry, as he's the reason she's still stuck in this mess. He turns to her and tells Oryo that he is heading to Edo and won't be back until his mission is complete. Oryo questions if Ryoma should be trusting her with that information- what if she betrays him to the Loyalists while he's away. Ryoma tells her that Teradaya was the first place he ever shared his real name once leaving Tosa, and he really has nothing to hide anymore... also, depending on how things go in Edo, he may never return. Oryo asks what Ryoma plans to do, and Ryoma tells her about his plan to go to Edo and try to convince the Shogun to dissolve the Bakufu. He knows it sounds crazy, but it didn't feel right for him to not tell her, and if he doesn't come back that means he died with but one regret- that he never had a moment to sit down and enjoy a meal Oryo prepared for him. That will keep him motivated on his trip to Edo, and he asks if Oryo would do that for him, which Oryo agrees to before leaving to give Ryoma a chance to rest.
The next morning, Ryoma steps outside and sees Okita waiting for him, Okita teasing if Ryoma got his last tender moments with his special someone. He had a good night himself, producing a letter Kondo drafted for Ryoma to present to the Shogun. The two board a boat heading for Edo, and on their way they decide to take a look at the letter and see what Kondo wrote. Problem is, neither of them can read it- while Ryoma defends himself saying he's not illiterate, Kondo's handwriting and phrasing are far too eloquent for him to decipher. Frustrated, Okita calls over a man on deck and orders him to read it. The man takes the letter (and turns it right side up), skimming through it before reacting in shock at what it says. With Okita's prodding (and Ryoma's assurance that they are not traitors), the man begins to break down what the letter says: First, all power and authority is to be restored to the Imperial Court. Next is a series of orders for the Imperial Court to follow, such as the establishment of a congress to vote on laws and policy, a review of unfavorable treaties with foreign powers, writing a new constitution for the nation, increased funding for the navy, establishment of a city guard for the capital, and aligning Japan with the gold and silver standard of other nations.
Ryoma surmises that the list is a set of instructions on how to rebuild Japan, with Okita asking if that means they can add some of their own stuff to the list and have the Shogun consider it. When Ryoma replies it will be the Imperial Court considering this, Okita counters that his point still stands- Shogun or Emperor, they can use this to get some reward for pulling off their suicide mission. Maybe something like... "Pay Shinsengumi captains enough to live it up for the rest of their lives"? Ryoma shoots that down as too risky and transparent, with Okita asking him what he would add instead. After a moment of thought, Ryoma says he would like equality; he explains about his life in Tosa, how goshi like him were treated as subhuman by the upper classes. Okita counters that's nothing compared to what commoners get, saying that both Kondo and Hijikata were born peasants and could tell Ryoma some pretty wild stories about what they faced. At least they have some understanding on what challenges they face, but Okita asks if equality is really a good enough payment for what they will face; Ryoma says it will be enough for him, as now he can face Toyo in the afterlife with a proud smile. While Okita is confused by this, Ryoma asks the man if he could add something about equality to Kondo's letter, something that would allow anyone regardless of class a chance to prove their worth, and that no one would be able to abuse the rights of others just because they are of a lower class. The man is surprised to hear this, as he had been dreaming of a nation just like that and had come to Kyo for that very reason, though he admits he's not very good with a sword so he'd never really be able to help out. Ryoma says that's fine as now the man has his chance to contribute, and he trusts the man will do his words justice. As evening falls, Ryoma gets the letter back and reads through the new addition: "All ranks of status are henceforth abolished and positions are to be given based on talent, including all court members and lords." With that, he says a small prayer to Toyo, saying that perhaps their dream is closer than they think.
That night, Ryoma approaches Edo Castle and asks to see the Shogun. The guards are clearly suspicious of this unknown warrior approaching at night, and order him to stand down. Ryoma asks again to see the Shogun, telling the guards that if they won't let him in he'll just have to force his way in. The guards are unintimidated and draw there swords, but before a battle can begin Okita tells Ryoma he's wasting his breath and he should get out of the way... he just hijacked a cannon and has turned it around towards the main gate. Ryoma and the guards dive away before Okita blasts a hole through the gate, and with their presence now known the two Shinsengumi captains arm themselves and charge in. Ryoma and Okita battle their way through Edo Castle, tearing their way through squads of swordsman and gunners in their search for the Shogun. As they enter the castle proper, they are attacked by ninja and even more guards, battling into the center of the Bakufu Fortress while dodging dozens of deadly traps and automated defenses. Eventually Okita peels off to hold the line and give Ryoma enough time to talk to the Shogun, though Ryoma still has to cut his way through more guards to reach the Shogun.
Ryoma enter the throne room, where Fifteenth Shogun Tokugawa Yoshinobu (Daigo Dojima) awaits him. Tokugawa takes his sword from a nearby attendant, asking Ryoma what brings him here. When Ryoma asks if he really is the Shogun, Tokugawa takes this to mean Ryoma has never seen his face. That being said, he is impressed by Ryoma and Okita's strength and skill, asking if perhaps Ryoma has come to take his head. Ryoma sheathes his sword and explains that he is there to discuss an important matter with the Shogun that could save the country. The attendant scoffs and asks what a terrorist like Ryoma would know about saving the country, but Tokugawa shuts him up and rises from his throne, saying that neither the attendant nor the squad of ninja that snuck in behind Ryoma are to interfere. After pushing his attendant aside again when the old man tries to stop him, Tokugawa explains that he and his forefathers have faced many assassinations during their 300 years of ruling, but Ryoma is the first to come and say he is doing it to save the country- has the Bakufu really grown so weak as to allow something like this? He draws his sword and tells Ryoma that if he wants Tokugawa to listen to his request, he'll have to force him to do so. He demands Ryoma show him his full strength, stating that his guards will not interfere even if it means dying at Ryoma's hand. Ryoma draws his sword and says that if that's what it takes it's Tokugawa's call, with Tokugawa saying that if Ryoma is truly here to save the country then he best be prepared to die for his cause. But he warns Ryoma that he isn't the Shogun for nothing, and with that the two attack one another.
Ryoma manages to fight Tokugawa until the Shogun is exhausted, but rather than cut him down as the Shogun expects Ryoma merely punches him instead. Killing Tokugawa won't end the Shogunate as they would just find someone else to replace him, but the war the Loyalists are plotting would exterminate his entire family line. Tokugawa asks if he means the Satcho Alliance, explaining that while the Bakufu may be weakened they still have spies everywhere feeding the Shogun information. Ryoma says that someone is acting as the middle man between the Loyalist and the foreign arms dealer Thomas Glover, and thanks to his efforts the Satcho might be better prepared for war than Tokugawa realizes. Tokugawa dismisses them as small minded fools that would destroy Japan with their infighting, asking if Ryoma is one of their number. Ryoma says he's just a delivery man with something that could stop the coming war, stepping up and presenting Kondo's letter to Tokugawa. The attendant rushes to his master's side and begs him not to read it, but Tokugawa says he may be a dead man if he does not. As Tokugawa reads the letter, Okita comes jogging in saying he's all ready to leave, with Ryoma saying he's just about finished with the Shogun as well.
Tokugawa asks Ryoma to clarify that he wants him to end the reign of his family. Ryoma says he is the only man who can, and he does not need an immediate answer- his job was to get the letter to Tokugawa, and he has completed his mission. Ryoma and Okita turn to leave as Tokugawa reads Ryoma's addition on abolishing the caste system, asking Ryoma what he thinks will happen if they do so. Ryoma turns to the shogun and says a lot of good will come of it, as the only ones that will suffer are the corrupt leeches of society. Tokugawa is inclined to agree, ignoring his attendant once more to ask Ryoma his name. Ryoma gives him his real name and says he is from Tosa, departing with Okita as Tokugawa contemplates this. As they leave, Okita asks if Ryoma can believe what they just pulled off, but Ryoma says they're not done yet- now it's the fake Ryoma's move, and they need to be prepared for whatever his plans may be.
A few days later, Admiral Rintaro meets with the fake Ryoma in Kyo, telling him he was not anticipating that Tokugawa would concede defeat and dissolve his regime, thus denying Katsuro and Saigo a motive to start their skirmish. As the fake Ryoma helps himself to some Sake, Rintaro continues by blaming the Shinsengumi and Saito Hajima for this setback, joking that at least now they won't need two Sakamoto Ryomas anymore. But no matter- Choshu and Satsuma still have the weapons the fake provided, and they'd be more than willing to start a war at the slightest provocation even if the Bakufu won't give them one. Now, they can put the Shinsengumi to good use for their cause.
That night, Ito is roaming about with a lantern when a Shinsengumi soldier approaches him. The two talk briefly before the soldier departs, Ito heading towards a nearby storage area and pitching his lantern inside. The lantern quickly catches fire, Ito smirking as the fire grows into a massive blaze.
Chapter 12: Kyo Ablaze
Ryoma and Okita arrive back in Kyo to find the town in flames, hundreds of panicking civilians running through the streets in search of safety. Okita asks what's going on, with Ryoma asking himself if perhaps they were too late to stop Kondo from executing his plan. They hear two men blaming the Shinsengumi for the inferno, Ryoma hurrying over to them and asking if that's true. One of them says he saw it with his own eyes, but Ryoma is distracted when he sees the flames drawing closer to Teradaya. He rushes in to save Otose and Oryo, but once inside he finds a letter from Otose saying she and Oryo are out of town for a little while and will return soon. Satisfied that his friends are safe, Ryoma heads back into the street to speak with Okita. With Teradaya sorted they need to find Kondo, Ryoma guessing he's either back at the barracks or at Asahi.
They race through the streets in search of Kondo, but are cut off by Sasaki and his Mimawarigumi. Sasaki blames the Shinsengumi for the fire, drawing his sword and saying that while he doesn't know what they are planning he will see they answer for this. Okita grumbles that this will slow them down, but he was looking for an excuse to cut loose and he and Ryoma battle against the Mimawarigumi. The defeat Sasaki and his men, but more Mimawarigumi arrive on the scene, Okita growling that if they had so much time they could have put out the fires instead of just waiting to jump Shinsengumi. As Sasaki recovers, Okita tells Ryoma to keep up his search for Kondo while he handles the Mimawarigumi, Ryoma departing as Okita issues a challenge to his enemies.
Ryoma continues his search, but as he turns down one street he sees Sanosuke and some of the men of Tenth Division in the street. As he nears, he overhears that they are in the process of looting the shops and apartments of anything of value, Sanosuke sending them off to burn the evidence. Ryoma tries to stop them, but Sanosuke dismisses the soldiers so he can face Ryoma himself. Ryoma asks what Sanosuke is doing, with the Tenth Captain replying he is just following Chief Kondo's orders to burn the city to the ground, and about time for the Shinsengumi to take over too. Ryoma asks if the looting was part of the plan as well, with Sanosuke countering it's better than letting everything burn to ash. Sensing Ryoma is trying to "play hero" he readies his spear, saying he sensed they would clash at some point and with everyone running for the hills now is the perfect time to settle this. Ryoma asks why he isn't using a sword, with Sanosuke countering that the spear has better range and Ryoma would have an easier time fighting with his shoes against him than a sword. He gloats that of all the Shinsengumi captains, he's actually the strongest of the lot because he has a secret weapon, pulling out a revolver while boasting that he'll do whatever it takes to win, pride and style be damned. Ryoma "understands", drawing his sword and declaring he'll teach Sanosuke a lesson as to why he uses a sword. Sanosuke is unimpressed, readying his weapons before challenging Ryoma. The two fight, and Ryoma disarms and defeats Sanosuke before sheathing his sword and leaving. As he walks away, Sanosuke tries to pull himself up and asks Ryoma if he has anything to say, anything at all about Sanosuke's strength and skill.
Ryoma does not. In fact, he doesn't even consider Sanosuke to be anything more than a footnote in history, walking away as Sanosuke tries to get back to his feet. He doesn't have long before a nearby watchtower begins to collapse, desperately begging Ryoma to help him before he is crushed beneath a pile of burning rubble. With Sanosuke dead, Ryoma resumes his search for Kondo.
Ryoma arrives at Asahi, but he is too late: upon entering Kondo's usual room, he finds the Shinsengumi Chief in a pool of his own blood, fatally wounded with a strike to the chest. Ryoma asks what happened, and Kondo says that burning Kyo was not his idea. Ryoma then asks who attacked him, but Kondo is unable to identify his attacker. He does have a message from the man: Meet at the Palace. Kondo believes the man seeks to assassinate the Emperor while Kyo deals with the Shinsengumi and the fire, and he may very well be the fake Ryoma putting his plans into motion. While the Bakufu may be dissolving, Kondo says they'll frame him (a Bakufu ally) for the Emperor's assassination, starting the civil war in earnest. Kondo says it's ironic: he came to Kyo to burn it down, but Sakamoto Ryoma convinced him to save the city, and yet he will still be blamed for starting that very fire he was trying to prevent. He has one last favor to ask of Ryoma, passing him a letter and telling him to get it to Hijikata- it is his final strategy. As he dies, Kondo says he's glad to have met Ryoma, as he gave Kondo hope that they really could change the country for the better. With that he orders Ryoma to leave and take down the fake, but before he leaves Ryoma thanks Kondo for his trust, comparing him with Toyo entrusting Ryoma with his own will. He sets Kondo down so he may die in peace, swearing that he will find a way to see Kondo's dream through to the end, and he will do it as Sakamoto Ryoma rather than Saito Hajime. With that he leaves, Kondo offering a short prayer to his comrades before he breathes his last and falls limp.
Ryoma rushes through Kyo to the palace, where he finds the culprit behind Kondo's death: Izo. He asks Izo if he is the fake Ryoma, with Izo saying Ryoma looks relieved to see him and not Takechi waiting for Ryoma to arrive. Ryoma asks why Izo did all this, faking his identity and starting the fire, but Izo only smirks. So Ryoma tries something different and asks Izo why he betrayed Takechi, as it was his confession that got Takechi killed. Izo asks if that means Ryoma thinks he sold out Takechi to Yamauchi Yodo and came up with the grand scheme himself, drawing his sword and telling Ryoma he's just lying to himself: he knows down in his heart that Takechi is the fake Ryoma, and yet he cannot accept that Takechi betrayed Ryoma. Ryoma is afraid to accept the truth, but now it is time they settle their feud once and for all. Izo admits he's been eager to test his skills, not against "Saito Hajime" but against Sakamoto Ryoma himself- that's why he killed Kondo in the first place. Ryoma asks if he means that, should Ryoma defeat him, Izo will tell him everything, and when Izo agrees Ryoma draws his sword and accepts the challenge, telling his opponent that the story of "Izo the Butcher" ends tonight. The challenge thrown, Izo and Ryoma begin their duel.
Overcome by his anger and frustration, Ryoma defeats Izo and deals a fatal blow to the man. As he falls, Izo begins sobbing that this means he would never be able to take Ryoma's place in Takechi's heart. Ryoma asks if Takechi is alive, and if he's the fake Ryoma, which Izo confirms. Izo goes on to say that Takechi has gone to a place where no one can pull him back from, and the only person that might stand a chance is Ryoma himself. Izo begins coughing up blood, Ryoma rushing to his side as Izo admits his true motivation: all he ever wanted was for Takechi to love him as a brother, but only Ryoma could ever truly reach him. He tells Ryoma that Takechi is in Kyo, and as Ryoma tells Izo he will stop Takechi Izo thanks Ryoma and dies. With that, Ryoma sets Izo down and closes his eyes out of respect, turning back to the burning city and asking Takechi if this is what he had in mind about his vision for the future.
The fires are out by the next morning, but Kyo is a smoldering ruin as a result. Ryoma goes to the Shinsengumi barracks and leaves his haori and Kondo's letter outside, a sign of his resignation from the group. Before he leaves he is cut off by Hijikata, Okita, and Nagakura, Hijikata saying that Okita told him why he is doing this as well as all the information behind Ryoma's name and origins. Ryoma is in no mood to talk and brushes past the three, though Okita stops him and asks if he's really running off like this- yeah, he can leave the Shinsengumi, but abandoning his allies to try and solve all his problems alone sure sounds like running away. If he's going to bring the fight to his enemies, he needs backup, with Nagakura agreeing saying it's better to have someone else to share the load than try to do everything by himself- that why, even in his last moments, Kondo never forsook the Shinsengumi. Ryoma tries to argue that this is his fight alone and he has caused them enough trouble already, but Okita rejects his reasoning and says that the Shinsengumi would be getting involved regardless, Nagakura once again agreeing. Hijikata comes over and returns Ryoma's haori to him, saying that he still has unfinished business as "Saito Hajime" to deal with.
Hijikata calls a captains meeting, the four waiting for Ito, Takeda, and Todo to arrive. Once everyone is settled, Ito throws some shade on Kondo's plan to burn down Kyo, saying it doesn't exactly make him feel warm in side to see civilians running in terror like that. Hijikata notes Ito's been rather chatty today, but Ito dismisses it before asking what the meeting is about. Hijikata announces that, given recent events, it is high time they discuss the future of the Shinsengumi- government magistrates came in to investigate rumors that the Shinsengumi were behind the arson, but Hijikata was able to placate them by framing Sanosuke and the Tenth Division as lone wolves that acted without orders from him or Kondo. While Takeda praises Hijikata for throwing Sanosuke under the bus, Hijikata counters that he and the others know Ito, Takeda, and Sanosuke were behind the arson and acted without Kondo's permission- Kondo did have a plan to do so, but he gave no signal to the rest of the Shinsengumi so the order clearly could not have come from him. When Takeda asks what the signal was, Hijikata explains it was to be the disbanding of the Shinsengumi. Hijikata explains that Kondo had been planning this for years, but only a select few of his officers were ever privy to the finer details, which is how he knew the fire was not Kondo's orders and how the Shinsengumi acted to put it out. Ito says he had no idea, and Hijikata says he won't hold it against Ito- he received the order and followed through (even if it was a false order), though perhaps his actions were a bit hasty. Ito grumbles and asks what this has to do with the future.
Hijikata names off those captains that have died recently, saying with their numbers halved and Kondo still absent the Shinsengumi cannot carry on in its current form. So to help reform the group, Hijikata announces that he will name "Saito Hajime" the new Chief of the Shinsengumi, much to Takeda and Ito's surprise and outrage. He asks Ryoma if he has any objections, which Ryoma says he has none before accepting the honor. Takeda, though, explodes that he will not serve a rookie that essentially just arrived as leader, but Okita counters that Ryoma is clearly the strongest of the captains- he's a shoe-in for the role of leader by that metric. Ito turns to Hijikata with a question. Yes, Ryoma's great with a sword and all, but the Shinsengumi Chief must also play politics with the Bakufu, and he must be a man of culture and knowledge (which Hijikata agrees to). Kondo had all these skills, but now that he is dead at the hands of some ronin it would be a heresy to allow the Shinsengumi to fall to ruin. In light of this information, Ito nominates himself to be Chief of the Shinsengumi, promising to shepherd the group back to its former glory. Takeda quickly endorses Ito, but Hijikata says it's interesting.
He never said Kondo was dead.
Hijikata grabs his sword and rises to his feet, looking to Ito and saying he only mentioned Kondo was "absent", not "killed". The Chief being absent is nothing new, but Ito seemed fairly confident he was dead, and he seems to know that it was at the hands of a ronin. Ito asks what Hijikata is implying, with Ryoma, Okita, and Nagakura moving to join Hijikata surrounding Ito; Ito says that Chief Kondo is still alive and well, unless Ito knows something that he and the others do not. The four draw their swords and aim them at Ito, and when he doesn't speak up Hijikata takes this to be an admission of guilt- Ito has been in cahoots with the fake Ryoma and plotting to undermine the Shinsengumi. He reassures Ito that the Shinsengumi will survive after he is purged, the four raising their swords to execute the traitorous advisor.
Before they can, Todo fires a shot into the air, whining that this isn't how he saw his tenure with the Shinsengumi ending. He gets up and aims his pistol at the others, telling them that killing Ito isn't in the best interest of anyone right now. As the four take in Todo's betrayal, Ito laughs before getting up to join Todo and Takeda; he says that he'd hoped a little scheming would get him the Shinsengumi, but at the very least he was able to convince a few others... by "few others", he means a large group of Shinsengumi troopers, the men forming up outside the meeting hall. The three mutinous captains discard their Shinsengumi haori as Ito announces that he will be forming a new organization: the Goryo Eji. He says they will replace the Shinsengumi, and without funds the Shinsengumi will not be long for this world. With that, he bids a mocking farewell as he and the mutineers leave, the four captains watching as the Goryo Eji depart.
They race through the streets in search of Kondo, but are cut off by Sasaki and his Mimawarigumi. Sasaki blames the Shinsengumi for the fire, drawing his sword and saying that while he doesn't know what they are planning he will see they answer for this. Okita grumbles that this will slow them down, but he was looking for an excuse to cut loose and he and Ryoma battle against the Mimawarigumi. The defeat Sasaki and his men, but more Mimawarigumi arrive on the scene, Okita growling that if they had so much time they could have put out the fires instead of just waiting to jump Shinsengumi. As Sasaki recovers, Okita tells Ryoma to keep up his search for Kondo while he handles the Mimawarigumi, Ryoma departing as Okita issues a challenge to his enemies.
Ryoma continues his search, but as he turns down one street he sees Sanosuke and some of the men of Tenth Division in the street. As he nears, he overhears that they are in the process of looting the shops and apartments of anything of value, Sanosuke sending them off to burn the evidence. Ryoma tries to stop them, but Sanosuke dismisses the soldiers so he can face Ryoma himself. Ryoma asks what Sanosuke is doing, with the Tenth Captain replying he is just following Chief Kondo's orders to burn the city to the ground, and about time for the Shinsengumi to take over too. Ryoma asks if the looting was part of the plan as well, with Sanosuke countering it's better than letting everything burn to ash. Sensing Ryoma is trying to "play hero" he readies his spear, saying he sensed they would clash at some point and with everyone running for the hills now is the perfect time to settle this. Ryoma asks why he isn't using a sword, with Sanosuke countering that the spear has better range and Ryoma would have an easier time fighting with his shoes against him than a sword. He gloats that of all the Shinsengumi captains, he's actually the strongest of the lot because he has a secret weapon, pulling out a revolver while boasting that he'll do whatever it takes to win, pride and style be damned. Ryoma "understands", drawing his sword and declaring he'll teach Sanosuke a lesson as to why he uses a sword. Sanosuke is unimpressed, readying his weapons before challenging Ryoma. The two fight, and Ryoma disarms and defeats Sanosuke before sheathing his sword and leaving. As he walks away, Sanosuke tries to pull himself up and asks Ryoma if he has anything to say, anything at all about Sanosuke's strength and skill.
Ryoma does not. In fact, he doesn't even consider Sanosuke to be anything more than a footnote in history, walking away as Sanosuke tries to get back to his feet. He doesn't have long before a nearby watchtower begins to collapse, desperately begging Ryoma to help him before he is crushed beneath a pile of burning rubble. With Sanosuke dead, Ryoma resumes his search for Kondo.
Ryoma arrives at Asahi, but he is too late: upon entering Kondo's usual room, he finds the Shinsengumi Chief in a pool of his own blood, fatally wounded with a strike to the chest. Ryoma asks what happened, and Kondo says that burning Kyo was not his idea. Ryoma then asks who attacked him, but Kondo is unable to identify his attacker. He does have a message from the man: Meet at the Palace. Kondo believes the man seeks to assassinate the Emperor while Kyo deals with the Shinsengumi and the fire, and he may very well be the fake Ryoma putting his plans into motion. While the Bakufu may be dissolving, Kondo says they'll frame him (a Bakufu ally) for the Emperor's assassination, starting the civil war in earnest. Kondo says it's ironic: he came to Kyo to burn it down, but Sakamoto Ryoma convinced him to save the city, and yet he will still be blamed for starting that very fire he was trying to prevent. He has one last favor to ask of Ryoma, passing him a letter and telling him to get it to Hijikata- it is his final strategy. As he dies, Kondo says he's glad to have met Ryoma, as he gave Kondo hope that they really could change the country for the better. With that he orders Ryoma to leave and take down the fake, but before he leaves Ryoma thanks Kondo for his trust, comparing him with Toyo entrusting Ryoma with his own will. He sets Kondo down so he may die in peace, swearing that he will find a way to see Kondo's dream through to the end, and he will do it as Sakamoto Ryoma rather than Saito Hajime. With that he leaves, Kondo offering a short prayer to his comrades before he breathes his last and falls limp.
Ryoma rushes through Kyo to the palace, where he finds the culprit behind Kondo's death: Izo. He asks Izo if he is the fake Ryoma, with Izo saying Ryoma looks relieved to see him and not Takechi waiting for Ryoma to arrive. Ryoma asks why Izo did all this, faking his identity and starting the fire, but Izo only smirks. So Ryoma tries something different and asks Izo why he betrayed Takechi, as it was his confession that got Takechi killed. Izo asks if that means Ryoma thinks he sold out Takechi to Yamauchi Yodo and came up with the grand scheme himself, drawing his sword and telling Ryoma he's just lying to himself: he knows down in his heart that Takechi is the fake Ryoma, and yet he cannot accept that Takechi betrayed Ryoma. Ryoma is afraid to accept the truth, but now it is time they settle their feud once and for all. Izo admits he's been eager to test his skills, not against "Saito Hajime" but against Sakamoto Ryoma himself- that's why he killed Kondo in the first place. Ryoma asks if he means that, should Ryoma defeat him, Izo will tell him everything, and when Izo agrees Ryoma draws his sword and accepts the challenge, telling his opponent that the story of "Izo the Butcher" ends tonight. The challenge thrown, Izo and Ryoma begin their duel.
Overcome by his anger and frustration, Ryoma defeats Izo and deals a fatal blow to the man. As he falls, Izo begins sobbing that this means he would never be able to take Ryoma's place in Takechi's heart. Ryoma asks if Takechi is alive, and if he's the fake Ryoma, which Izo confirms. Izo goes on to say that Takechi has gone to a place where no one can pull him back from, and the only person that might stand a chance is Ryoma himself. Izo begins coughing up blood, Ryoma rushing to his side as Izo admits his true motivation: all he ever wanted was for Takechi to love him as a brother, but only Ryoma could ever truly reach him. He tells Ryoma that Takechi is in Kyo, and as Ryoma tells Izo he will stop Takechi Izo thanks Ryoma and dies. With that, Ryoma sets Izo down and closes his eyes out of respect, turning back to the burning city and asking Takechi if this is what he had in mind about his vision for the future.
The fires are out by the next morning, but Kyo is a smoldering ruin as a result. Ryoma goes to the Shinsengumi barracks and leaves his haori and Kondo's letter outside, a sign of his resignation from the group. Before he leaves he is cut off by Hijikata, Okita, and Nagakura, Hijikata saying that Okita told him why he is doing this as well as all the information behind Ryoma's name and origins. Ryoma is in no mood to talk and brushes past the three, though Okita stops him and asks if he's really running off like this- yeah, he can leave the Shinsengumi, but abandoning his allies to try and solve all his problems alone sure sounds like running away. If he's going to bring the fight to his enemies, he needs backup, with Nagakura agreeing saying it's better to have someone else to share the load than try to do everything by himself- that why, even in his last moments, Kondo never forsook the Shinsengumi. Ryoma tries to argue that this is his fight alone and he has caused them enough trouble already, but Okita rejects his reasoning and says that the Shinsengumi would be getting involved regardless, Nagakura once again agreeing. Hijikata comes over and returns Ryoma's haori to him, saying that he still has unfinished business as "Saito Hajime" to deal with.
Hijikata calls a captains meeting, the four waiting for Ito, Takeda, and Todo to arrive. Once everyone is settled, Ito throws some shade on Kondo's plan to burn down Kyo, saying it doesn't exactly make him feel warm in side to see civilians running in terror like that. Hijikata notes Ito's been rather chatty today, but Ito dismisses it before asking what the meeting is about. Hijikata announces that, given recent events, it is high time they discuss the future of the Shinsengumi- government magistrates came in to investigate rumors that the Shinsengumi were behind the arson, but Hijikata was able to placate them by framing Sanosuke and the Tenth Division as lone wolves that acted without orders from him or Kondo. While Takeda praises Hijikata for throwing Sanosuke under the bus, Hijikata counters that he and the others know Ito, Takeda, and Sanosuke were behind the arson and acted without Kondo's permission- Kondo did have a plan to do so, but he gave no signal to the rest of the Shinsengumi so the order clearly could not have come from him. When Takeda asks what the signal was, Hijikata explains it was to be the disbanding of the Shinsengumi. Hijikata explains that Kondo had been planning this for years, but only a select few of his officers were ever privy to the finer details, which is how he knew the fire was not Kondo's orders and how the Shinsengumi acted to put it out. Ito says he had no idea, and Hijikata says he won't hold it against Ito- he received the order and followed through (even if it was a false order), though perhaps his actions were a bit hasty. Ito grumbles and asks what this has to do with the future.
Hijikata names off those captains that have died recently, saying with their numbers halved and Kondo still absent the Shinsengumi cannot carry on in its current form. So to help reform the group, Hijikata announces that he will name "Saito Hajime" the new Chief of the Shinsengumi, much to Takeda and Ito's surprise and outrage. He asks Ryoma if he has any objections, which Ryoma says he has none before accepting the honor. Takeda, though, explodes that he will not serve a rookie that essentially just arrived as leader, but Okita counters that Ryoma is clearly the strongest of the captains- he's a shoe-in for the role of leader by that metric. Ito turns to Hijikata with a question. Yes, Ryoma's great with a sword and all, but the Shinsengumi Chief must also play politics with the Bakufu, and he must be a man of culture and knowledge (which Hijikata agrees to). Kondo had all these skills, but now that he is dead at the hands of some ronin it would be a heresy to allow the Shinsengumi to fall to ruin. In light of this information, Ito nominates himself to be Chief of the Shinsengumi, promising to shepherd the group back to its former glory. Takeda quickly endorses Ito, but Hijikata says it's interesting.
He never said Kondo was dead.
Hijikata grabs his sword and rises to his feet, looking to Ito and saying he only mentioned Kondo was "absent", not "killed". The Chief being absent is nothing new, but Ito seemed fairly confident he was dead, and he seems to know that it was at the hands of a ronin. Ito asks what Hijikata is implying, with Ryoma, Okita, and Nagakura moving to join Hijikata surrounding Ito; Ito says that Chief Kondo is still alive and well, unless Ito knows something that he and the others do not. The four draw their swords and aim them at Ito, and when he doesn't speak up Hijikata takes this to be an admission of guilt- Ito has been in cahoots with the fake Ryoma and plotting to undermine the Shinsengumi. He reassures Ito that the Shinsengumi will survive after he is purged, the four raising their swords to execute the traitorous advisor.
Before they can, Todo fires a shot into the air, whining that this isn't how he saw his tenure with the Shinsengumi ending. He gets up and aims his pistol at the others, telling them that killing Ito isn't in the best interest of anyone right now. As the four take in Todo's betrayal, Ito laughs before getting up to join Todo and Takeda; he says that he'd hoped a little scheming would get him the Shinsengumi, but at the very least he was able to convince a few others... by "few others", he means a large group of Shinsengumi troopers, the men forming up outside the meeting hall. The three mutinous captains discard their Shinsengumi haori as Ito announces that he will be forming a new organization: the Goryo Eji. He says they will replace the Shinsengumi, and without funds the Shinsengumi will not be long for this world. With that, he bids a mocking farewell as he and the mutineers leave, the four captains watching as the Goryo Eji depart.
Chapter 13: The Assassination of Sakamoto Ryoma
The four remaining captains reconvene in Ryoma's room at Teradaya, Okita asking Hijikata what their plans are now, Nagakura adding that a majority of their forces defected to Ito's faction, leaving them powerless. As Okita whines that he never expected Todo to betray them, Ryoma asks a surprisingly calm Hijikata if the whole meeting earlier was Kondo's "final move" to draw out the traitors in their ranks. Hijikata confirms this, and when Okita asks Ryoma what he's on about Ryoma explains his reasoning: Ito was not exactly subtle in his ambitions to replace Kondo, so Kondo must have seen something like this coming and had made arrangements to counter it. He asks Hijikata if there was anything else Kondo said, and after a pause Hijikata explains that he felt it best to deceive the enemy from within, calling in his man on the inside... Todo. Todo makes himself comfortable as Hijikata explains to the others this was all according to Kondo's plan: Ito's betrayal was revealed, and they exposed the fake Sakamoto Ryoma.
Ryoma asks for details on Kondo's plan, and Hijikata is happy to give them: he and Kondo knew Ito was after the Chief's position since day one, so Kondo allowed Ito free reign of the Shinsengumi so Kondo could see who Ito allied with. Todo was chosen to be Kondo's Mole, as he had studied military tactics under Ito, and Kondo had Todo get close to Ito over the last half of the year to figure out his motives. Even Hijikata wasn't privy to the specifics of the plan, guessing Kondo was plotting this move well in advance. Todo apologizes for keeping the other captains in the dark about everything, adding that he intervened before the four executed Ito so he would not lose his source of information. Okita asks if Todo knows who Ito's been working with, and Todo confirms that it is "Sakamoto Ryoma". But he's got some bigger news: "Ryoma" is planning to meet with the heads of Choshu and Satsuma soon, and Ito's in charge of organizing everything. According to Todo, the Great Restoration plan has sent the fake Ryoma into a panic, with Hijikata guessing that means the fake intends to delude the Satcho Alliance with their desire for a new government and get them to challenge the Bakufu. But Todo says Ito told him "Ryoma" has another objective, and when Okita asks what that is Ryoma guesses the fake wants the Bakufu and the Satcho to tear each other apart, and when both are too weak to fight the Loyalists will rise up and finish both parties off. Hijikata, though, says that Choshu and Satsuma wouldn't be easily duped, which is why (Todo says) Ito was in such a panic to give them a unifying cause to fight. On top of that, he has to find a place where the three leaders can meet in secret. Okita asks if Todo knows where the fake Ryoma is, but Todo admits that's the one thing Ito hasn't told him, but he's confident that the fake would reveal himself if the Satcho meeting were to happen.
Then that will just have to be what they do, Ryoma says. They will make the arrangements for the meeting, and when the fake Ryoma comes out of hiding they will attack and be the ones to jump him for a change. Hijikata asks how Ryoma intends to convince Satsuma and Choshu to meet in the first place, and he says he'll go and speak with Katsura and Saigo himself. Todo, though, says that might be a bit tough- Ito's men are roaming the streets in force, and Ryoma's not exactly an unknown face. If he goes to meet Katsura and Saigo then he's bound to tip off Ito and thus the fake Ryoma. Only Todo can act without suspicion, but with the Great Restoration set in motion Satsuma and Choshu are probably communicating directly with the Emperor and would blow off Todo without a second thought. They'll need to find some way to get Katsura and Saigo on board without tipping off the Goryo Eji.
As the five brainstorm, Nakaoka steps in and asks why they don't let him, Otose, and Oryo arrange it, revealing that the three of them were listening outside as the Shinsengumi talked. Ryoma asks what they mean, and the three civilians take the five to a new, larger inn in town. Otose explains this inn was finished just a few days ago, which she has named Omiya. She leads them inside and explains that after the incidents at Teradaya, her usual customers have been avoiding her place due to not wanting to stay at an inn with a reputation- this new one will be a fresh start for her business. Ryoma asks why she brought them here, and Otose explains that Omiya is up but not running, a perfect place for Satsuma, Choshu, and Tosa to meet and discuss their big plans. Hijikata asks her if she realizes what they are going to do here, but Otose says they are free to use Omiya however they want (they can even burn it to the ground for all she cares). Ryoma asks why Otose is doing this; she and Oryo bow and Otose begs Ryoma to save the city, as it's been nothing but constant bloodshed in the last year (and it's only getting worse), and if they get rid of the fake Ryoma then perhaps things might start getting better again. Ryoma tells Otose to look at him, promising he'll do whatever he can to make sure everything ends here at Omiya. He then looks to Oryo, who says she will do anything to help Ryoma as atonement for her role as the fake's spy. Ryoma tells her she should lift up her head and try to smile, saying that it might be the most important thing they have right now.
The group settles in at Omiya and begin their planning. They have the venue, now all these need is their "guests"; Nakaoka says he will meet with Saigo, as while he is an unknown to Satsuma he's also an unknown to the Goryo Eji. And he has a surprise for them all, producing a piece of paper with a highly detailed image on it. Nakaoka explains that this new thing is a "photograph", and the man in the image is the fake Ryoma. The real one quickly identifies him as Takechi Hanpeita, explaining his history and supposed death to the Shinsengumi captains. Both Oryo and Otose are able to confirm that that's the "Sakamoto Ryoma" they remember, with Okita asking Ryoma if he knew Takechi was running around using his name. Ryoma says he first heard it from Izo, but the photograph just confirms it all the more. Nakaoka explains he plans to show the photo to Saigo to convince him to come: Saigo has met Ryoma and knows what he looks like, but the majority of the Satcho most likely do not. Hopefully, the photo will catch Saigo's interest and give Nakaoka a chance to talk to him. Hijikata says that will sort out Saigo, but what about Katsura? Katsura has a reputation as a hard man to meet, so contacting him might be difficult. Ryoma says there is a way to reach him- they need to get in touch with Ikumatsu, the okami that runs a bar in town Katsura owns, and from there they will be able to reach the man himself. Todo volunteers as he can freely move around town without suspicion, and he can bring up the photograph to strengthen his story. When Nagakura and Okita point out Todo also has to convince Ito to hold the meeting at Omiya, Todo says he'll just make some excuse about needing a drink and slip away. Ryoma warns Todo that he should be careful, as one false move and Ito and the Goryo Eji will be on to him. With their plans settled, Hijikata suggests they return to the barracks before nightfall to rest.
After some exploring around town Ryoma heads back to Teradaya, where Oryo tells him Nakaoka is waiting for him upstairs. He meets Nakaoka in his room, where the samurai reports Saigo was very receptive to the information provided- all that remains is seeing if Katsura will be on board. Ryoma says Todo should be back from Ikumatsu's by now, and sensing something might be wrong the two decide to go looking for him. They don't even get out the door before they hear a commotion downstairs, the two rushing out to see what's going on.
They hurry downstairs and find Todo bleeding out from a gunshot wound to the stomach. As Ryoma rushes to his aid, Todo tells him that Katsura will come to the meeting, but on his way out he was spotted and attacked by Takeda. Ryoma orders Otose to find a doctor, but Todo pleads with Ryoma to find and stop Takeda before he reports the plan to Ito. Ryoma insists on getting Todo help and tells Nakaoka to go warn Hijikata, but Todo once again pleads for Ryoma to stop Takeda- if he reports to Ito, Todo will never be able to face Kondo in the afterlife. He tells Ryoma that Takeda is still at Ikumatsu's, and Ryoma finally agrees to face Takeda. He sets Todo down and instructs Oryo to watch Todo while he's gone, telling Nakaoka to report to the Shinsengumi so they are aware of what happened. The plan agreed upon, the two samurai depart for their destinations.
Ryoma rushes to Matsunoi, where he finds Takeda holding Ikumatsu hostage as he helps himself to a drink. Takeda is surprised to see Ryoma, figuring Todo would go to Hijikata, and Ryoma says he thought Takeda was heading to Ito's faction. Takeda says he'll keep Todo's secret, offering Ryoma a drink so they can talk everything over, but Ryoma wants to know what exactly Takeda's plan is. Takeda drinks and offers Ryoma a deal: he knows that Ito and the Goryo Eji are disposable pawns in the fake Ryoma's plan, and seeing the writing on the wall Takeda is considering defecting to Choshu while the going is good. All he wants from Ryoma is for him to put in a good word with Katsura, or would he rather end up like Todo? This and a few thinly-veiled rape threats towards both Ryoma and Ikumatsu causes Ryoma to draw his sword and slice a nearby sake bottle in half, telling Takeda that this just makes his choice all the more easy- he thought he just had to get Takeda to keep quiet, but now he's got no problem with killing the man. Takeda shoves Ikumatsu aside and gets up, saying he was hoping he wouldn't have to kill Ryoma. He draws a pair of pistols, saying that these are the ones the fake Ryoma used to kill Inoue, a gift from the man himself: high-caliber, fast loading, top of the line hardware, nothing Ryoma can stand against. Ryoma does not care and readies himself, and they two fight out of Matsunoi and into the street, and after a long fight Ryoma kills Takeda.
As Ryoma recovers, he is approached by Okita, Hijikata, and Nagakura, Okita carrying Todo's dead body with him. Okita steps up and lays Todo's body next to Takeda, Hijikata saying that Todo and Takeda killed each other in an argument when Ryoma questions them. Nagakura adds that this was Todo's final request, so that Ito would not be the wiser about the meeting or the Shinsengumi's plans- even at the end, he refused to back down from Kondo's plan. Okita says it's all on Ryoma now- he has to take down the fake, but if Ryoma lets his feelings get the better of him and switches sides Okita will personally kill them both. Ryoma agrees, saying they will settle this once and for all the following night; one way or another, the story of Sakamoto Ryoma ends at Omiya that night.
As Ryoma rests at Teradaya, Oryo enters to speak with him. She says that she will be working at Omiya the night of the ambush, and she will signal the Shinsengumi to begin their attack by lighting a fire downstairs. Ryoma asks if she will be fine, but Oryo reassures Ryoma that she will be okay- this is the only way she can really help out with the plan, after all. Ryoma thanks her for her help, and as Oryo departs she tells Ryoma to get some rest before the ambush the following day. The following night, Ryoma gets up and prepares to head to Omiya. On his way down, he is stopped by Ikumatsu in the lobby, the woman having come with a message from Katsura- he will most definitely be at the meeting, and expresses his sympathies for the loss of Todo. Ikumatsu departs, and Ryoma heads onward to Omiya.
Katsura enters one of the rooms in Omiya, finding Saigo waiting with a bottle of sake. Katsura joins Saigo while expressing that this might be a trap, but Saigo is interested on seeing how the issue of the two Ryomas plays out, asking Katsura if he's not a little bit interested. Katsura does say he's interested, though he declines Saigo's offering of a drink, saying he's exhausted from comforting Ikumatsu after her run-in with Takeda the previous night. Just then Nakaoka enters, thanking the men for waiting as he takes his seat. Saigo asks where Ryoma is, with Nakaoka saying he'll no doubt be along in just a moment. Sure enough, a new figure enters the room, Saigo asking if this is the man they are looking for.
Outside, Nagakura and Hijikata are going over the last of the details, Nagakura pointing out the specific room the four will be meeting in. Just then it begins to rain, Hijikata saying the rain will smother the sound of the fighting just as he spots Oryo's signal. Meanwhile, Ryoma meets with Okita before they are joined by Hijikata and Nagakura, the four rushing off to launch the attack from the prologue. Okita, Nagakura, and Hijikata tear into the guards in the lobby, Hijikata sending Ryoma upstairs to catch and kill the fake Ryoma before he can escape. Ryoma fights his way through the remaining squads of Loyalist guards upstairs. But in the upper levels, Ryoma notices that everything is unusually quiet. After killing an ambushing gunman, he finds Nakaoka badly wounded and alone... or so it seems; Sasaki is sitting at the window, commenting at the unusual circumstances of Ryoma's existence and revealing that the gunman he just killed was the actual fake Ryoma. Nakaoka tells Ryoma that they knew everything, every trap and plot, and turned it against them- the Mimawarigumi surrounded the place and attacked beforehand, and while Nakaoka was able to get Saigo and Katsura to safety he was not so lucky.
As Nakaoka slips into unconsciousness, another voice tells Ryoma that his struggles are useless. Ryoma recognizes the voice, turning as Sasaki and now Ito join Takechi, his face hidden in shadow. Takechi commends Ryoma for continuing to foil his plans (getting the Bakufu to dissolve, foiling his plan to assassinate the Emperor), asking Ryoma why he's being so quiet now. Doesn't he want to know why Takechi had Toyo killed, or why he's been posing as Ryoma, or perhaps why he abandoned his given name and took Ryoma's? Ryoma wants to know only one thing: is the man standing before him really Takechi? When Takechi questions what he means, Ryoma says he wants to know what happened to turn Takechi into the monster he sees now, a lightning flash revealing that Takechi has gone prematurely grey. Ryoma tells Takechi that this is where he will kill him, and he made his mind up the moment he learned Takechi was impersonating him... and yet now he's hesitating, because he can see the pain and suffering Takechi has been through up to this point. Ryoma hates himself for it, but that hate is nothing compared to what he feels towards Takechi, raising his sword and rushing forward in a reckless charge. Both Sasaki and Ito block Ryoma's strike, Takechi telling Ryoma that this is where the man "Sakamoto Ryoma" died, and his legend ends here. Ryoma asks what he means, and Takechi says he can't allow Ryoma to kill him just yet. There is just one more thing he needs from Ryoma, and as Ryoma demands an explanation Takechi slips back into the shadows, telling Ryoma to find him in Tosa if he wants to learn what that is. Ryoma bellows for Takechi to return, but Sasaki and Ito knock him back before escaping with their master.
The other three Shinsengumi arrive, asking what happened as the Goryo Eji and Mimawarigumi have all fled. As Hijikata goes to check on Nakaoka, Nagakura and Okita check to see if the other dead man is Sakamoto Ryoma. Nagakura checks the dead man's face and says no, this guy doesn't match the picture, and Okita demands an answer from Ryoma. But all Ryoma can do is repeat what Takechi said- Sakamoto Ryoma died, in this room, this very night.
Ryoma asks for details on Kondo's plan, and Hijikata is happy to give them: he and Kondo knew Ito was after the Chief's position since day one, so Kondo allowed Ito free reign of the Shinsengumi so Kondo could see who Ito allied with. Todo was chosen to be Kondo's Mole, as he had studied military tactics under Ito, and Kondo had Todo get close to Ito over the last half of the year to figure out his motives. Even Hijikata wasn't privy to the specifics of the plan, guessing Kondo was plotting this move well in advance. Todo apologizes for keeping the other captains in the dark about everything, adding that he intervened before the four executed Ito so he would not lose his source of information. Okita asks if Todo knows who Ito's been working with, and Todo confirms that it is "Sakamoto Ryoma". But he's got some bigger news: "Ryoma" is planning to meet with the heads of Choshu and Satsuma soon, and Ito's in charge of organizing everything. According to Todo, the Great Restoration plan has sent the fake Ryoma into a panic, with Hijikata guessing that means the fake intends to delude the Satcho Alliance with their desire for a new government and get them to challenge the Bakufu. But Todo says Ito told him "Ryoma" has another objective, and when Okita asks what that is Ryoma guesses the fake wants the Bakufu and the Satcho to tear each other apart, and when both are too weak to fight the Loyalists will rise up and finish both parties off. Hijikata, though, says that Choshu and Satsuma wouldn't be easily duped, which is why (Todo says) Ito was in such a panic to give them a unifying cause to fight. On top of that, he has to find a place where the three leaders can meet in secret. Okita asks if Todo knows where the fake Ryoma is, but Todo admits that's the one thing Ito hasn't told him, but he's confident that the fake would reveal himself if the Satcho meeting were to happen.
Then that will just have to be what they do, Ryoma says. They will make the arrangements for the meeting, and when the fake Ryoma comes out of hiding they will attack and be the ones to jump him for a change. Hijikata asks how Ryoma intends to convince Satsuma and Choshu to meet in the first place, and he says he'll go and speak with Katsura and Saigo himself. Todo, though, says that might be a bit tough- Ito's men are roaming the streets in force, and Ryoma's not exactly an unknown face. If he goes to meet Katsura and Saigo then he's bound to tip off Ito and thus the fake Ryoma. Only Todo can act without suspicion, but with the Great Restoration set in motion Satsuma and Choshu are probably communicating directly with the Emperor and would blow off Todo without a second thought. They'll need to find some way to get Katsura and Saigo on board without tipping off the Goryo Eji.
As the five brainstorm, Nakaoka steps in and asks why they don't let him, Otose, and Oryo arrange it, revealing that the three of them were listening outside as the Shinsengumi talked. Ryoma asks what they mean, and the three civilians take the five to a new, larger inn in town. Otose explains this inn was finished just a few days ago, which she has named Omiya. She leads them inside and explains that after the incidents at Teradaya, her usual customers have been avoiding her place due to not wanting to stay at an inn with a reputation- this new one will be a fresh start for her business. Ryoma asks why she brought them here, and Otose explains that Omiya is up but not running, a perfect place for Satsuma, Choshu, and Tosa to meet and discuss their big plans. Hijikata asks her if she realizes what they are going to do here, but Otose says they are free to use Omiya however they want (they can even burn it to the ground for all she cares). Ryoma asks why Otose is doing this; she and Oryo bow and Otose begs Ryoma to save the city, as it's been nothing but constant bloodshed in the last year (and it's only getting worse), and if they get rid of the fake Ryoma then perhaps things might start getting better again. Ryoma tells Otose to look at him, promising he'll do whatever he can to make sure everything ends here at Omiya. He then looks to Oryo, who says she will do anything to help Ryoma as atonement for her role as the fake's spy. Ryoma tells her she should lift up her head and try to smile, saying that it might be the most important thing they have right now.
The group settles in at Omiya and begin their planning. They have the venue, now all these need is their "guests"; Nakaoka says he will meet with Saigo, as while he is an unknown to Satsuma he's also an unknown to the Goryo Eji. And he has a surprise for them all, producing a piece of paper with a highly detailed image on it. Nakaoka explains that this new thing is a "photograph", and the man in the image is the fake Ryoma. The real one quickly identifies him as Takechi Hanpeita, explaining his history and supposed death to the Shinsengumi captains. Both Oryo and Otose are able to confirm that that's the "Sakamoto Ryoma" they remember, with Okita asking Ryoma if he knew Takechi was running around using his name. Ryoma says he first heard it from Izo, but the photograph just confirms it all the more. Nakaoka explains he plans to show the photo to Saigo to convince him to come: Saigo has met Ryoma and knows what he looks like, but the majority of the Satcho most likely do not. Hopefully, the photo will catch Saigo's interest and give Nakaoka a chance to talk to him. Hijikata says that will sort out Saigo, but what about Katsura? Katsura has a reputation as a hard man to meet, so contacting him might be difficult. Ryoma says there is a way to reach him- they need to get in touch with Ikumatsu, the okami that runs a bar in town Katsura owns, and from there they will be able to reach the man himself. Todo volunteers as he can freely move around town without suspicion, and he can bring up the photograph to strengthen his story. When Nagakura and Okita point out Todo also has to convince Ito to hold the meeting at Omiya, Todo says he'll just make some excuse about needing a drink and slip away. Ryoma warns Todo that he should be careful, as one false move and Ito and the Goryo Eji will be on to him. With their plans settled, Hijikata suggests they return to the barracks before nightfall to rest.
After some exploring around town Ryoma heads back to Teradaya, where Oryo tells him Nakaoka is waiting for him upstairs. He meets Nakaoka in his room, where the samurai reports Saigo was very receptive to the information provided- all that remains is seeing if Katsura will be on board. Ryoma says Todo should be back from Ikumatsu's by now, and sensing something might be wrong the two decide to go looking for him. They don't even get out the door before they hear a commotion downstairs, the two rushing out to see what's going on.
They hurry downstairs and find Todo bleeding out from a gunshot wound to the stomach. As Ryoma rushes to his aid, Todo tells him that Katsura will come to the meeting, but on his way out he was spotted and attacked by Takeda. Ryoma orders Otose to find a doctor, but Todo pleads with Ryoma to find and stop Takeda before he reports the plan to Ito. Ryoma insists on getting Todo help and tells Nakaoka to go warn Hijikata, but Todo once again pleads for Ryoma to stop Takeda- if he reports to Ito, Todo will never be able to face Kondo in the afterlife. He tells Ryoma that Takeda is still at Ikumatsu's, and Ryoma finally agrees to face Takeda. He sets Todo down and instructs Oryo to watch Todo while he's gone, telling Nakaoka to report to the Shinsengumi so they are aware of what happened. The plan agreed upon, the two samurai depart for their destinations.
Ryoma rushes to Matsunoi, where he finds Takeda holding Ikumatsu hostage as he helps himself to a drink. Takeda is surprised to see Ryoma, figuring Todo would go to Hijikata, and Ryoma says he thought Takeda was heading to Ito's faction. Takeda says he'll keep Todo's secret, offering Ryoma a drink so they can talk everything over, but Ryoma wants to know what exactly Takeda's plan is. Takeda drinks and offers Ryoma a deal: he knows that Ito and the Goryo Eji are disposable pawns in the fake Ryoma's plan, and seeing the writing on the wall Takeda is considering defecting to Choshu while the going is good. All he wants from Ryoma is for him to put in a good word with Katsura, or would he rather end up like Todo? This and a few thinly-veiled rape threats towards both Ryoma and Ikumatsu causes Ryoma to draw his sword and slice a nearby sake bottle in half, telling Takeda that this just makes his choice all the more easy- he thought he just had to get Takeda to keep quiet, but now he's got no problem with killing the man. Takeda shoves Ikumatsu aside and gets up, saying he was hoping he wouldn't have to kill Ryoma. He draws a pair of pistols, saying that these are the ones the fake Ryoma used to kill Inoue, a gift from the man himself: high-caliber, fast loading, top of the line hardware, nothing Ryoma can stand against. Ryoma does not care and readies himself, and they two fight out of Matsunoi and into the street, and after a long fight Ryoma kills Takeda.
As Ryoma recovers, he is approached by Okita, Hijikata, and Nagakura, Okita carrying Todo's dead body with him. Okita steps up and lays Todo's body next to Takeda, Hijikata saying that Todo and Takeda killed each other in an argument when Ryoma questions them. Nagakura adds that this was Todo's final request, so that Ito would not be the wiser about the meeting or the Shinsengumi's plans- even at the end, he refused to back down from Kondo's plan. Okita says it's all on Ryoma now- he has to take down the fake, but if Ryoma lets his feelings get the better of him and switches sides Okita will personally kill them both. Ryoma agrees, saying they will settle this once and for all the following night; one way or another, the story of Sakamoto Ryoma ends at Omiya that night.
As Ryoma rests at Teradaya, Oryo enters to speak with him. She says that she will be working at Omiya the night of the ambush, and she will signal the Shinsengumi to begin their attack by lighting a fire downstairs. Ryoma asks if she will be fine, but Oryo reassures Ryoma that she will be okay- this is the only way she can really help out with the plan, after all. Ryoma thanks her for her help, and as Oryo departs she tells Ryoma to get some rest before the ambush the following day. The following night, Ryoma gets up and prepares to head to Omiya. On his way down, he is stopped by Ikumatsu in the lobby, the woman having come with a message from Katsura- he will most definitely be at the meeting, and expresses his sympathies for the loss of Todo. Ikumatsu departs, and Ryoma heads onward to Omiya.
Katsura enters one of the rooms in Omiya, finding Saigo waiting with a bottle of sake. Katsura joins Saigo while expressing that this might be a trap, but Saigo is interested on seeing how the issue of the two Ryomas plays out, asking Katsura if he's not a little bit interested. Katsura does say he's interested, though he declines Saigo's offering of a drink, saying he's exhausted from comforting Ikumatsu after her run-in with Takeda the previous night. Just then Nakaoka enters, thanking the men for waiting as he takes his seat. Saigo asks where Ryoma is, with Nakaoka saying he'll no doubt be along in just a moment. Sure enough, a new figure enters the room, Saigo asking if this is the man they are looking for.
Outside, Nagakura and Hijikata are going over the last of the details, Nagakura pointing out the specific room the four will be meeting in. Just then it begins to rain, Hijikata saying the rain will smother the sound of the fighting just as he spots Oryo's signal. Meanwhile, Ryoma meets with Okita before they are joined by Hijikata and Nagakura, the four rushing off to launch the attack from the prologue. Okita, Nagakura, and Hijikata tear into the guards in the lobby, Hijikata sending Ryoma upstairs to catch and kill the fake Ryoma before he can escape. Ryoma fights his way through the remaining squads of Loyalist guards upstairs. But in the upper levels, Ryoma notices that everything is unusually quiet. After killing an ambushing gunman, he finds Nakaoka badly wounded and alone... or so it seems; Sasaki is sitting at the window, commenting at the unusual circumstances of Ryoma's existence and revealing that the gunman he just killed was the actual fake Ryoma. Nakaoka tells Ryoma that they knew everything, every trap and plot, and turned it against them- the Mimawarigumi surrounded the place and attacked beforehand, and while Nakaoka was able to get Saigo and Katsura to safety he was not so lucky.
As Nakaoka slips into unconsciousness, another voice tells Ryoma that his struggles are useless. Ryoma recognizes the voice, turning as Sasaki and now Ito join Takechi, his face hidden in shadow. Takechi commends Ryoma for continuing to foil his plans (getting the Bakufu to dissolve, foiling his plan to assassinate the Emperor), asking Ryoma why he's being so quiet now. Doesn't he want to know why Takechi had Toyo killed, or why he's been posing as Ryoma, or perhaps why he abandoned his given name and took Ryoma's? Ryoma wants to know only one thing: is the man standing before him really Takechi? When Takechi questions what he means, Ryoma says he wants to know what happened to turn Takechi into the monster he sees now, a lightning flash revealing that Takechi has gone prematurely grey. Ryoma tells Takechi that this is where he will kill him, and he made his mind up the moment he learned Takechi was impersonating him... and yet now he's hesitating, because he can see the pain and suffering Takechi has been through up to this point. Ryoma hates himself for it, but that hate is nothing compared to what he feels towards Takechi, raising his sword and rushing forward in a reckless charge. Both Sasaki and Ito block Ryoma's strike, Takechi telling Ryoma that this is where the man "Sakamoto Ryoma" died, and his legend ends here. Ryoma asks what he means, and Takechi says he can't allow Ryoma to kill him just yet. There is just one more thing he needs from Ryoma, and as Ryoma demands an explanation Takechi slips back into the shadows, telling Ryoma to find him in Tosa if he wants to learn what that is. Ryoma bellows for Takechi to return, but Sasaki and Ito knock him back before escaping with their master.
The other three Shinsengumi arrive, asking what happened as the Goryo Eji and Mimawarigumi have all fled. As Hijikata goes to check on Nakaoka, Nagakura and Okita check to see if the other dead man is Sakamoto Ryoma. Nagakura checks the dead man's face and says no, this guy doesn't match the picture, and Okita demands an answer from Ryoma. But all Ryoma can do is repeat what Takechi said- Sakamoto Ryoma died, in this room, this very night.
Finale: Dawn Breaks
The next day, Ryoma has Kondo and Todo buried at the Shinsengumi barracks, using their haori and swords as grave markers while he prays over their bodies. Okita arrives and asks if Ryoma is ready to head to Tosa, Ryoma rising and confirming he is ready. He says it won't be too hard leaving, as his life as "Saito Hajime" was a lie anyhow. When Okita questions him about Oryo, he says she's free to go anywhere and do anything she pleases- nothing is tying her to the city either. Okita says that's all well and good, but wasn't she doing that at Teradaya already? Even after all the business about being a spy and all, she stayed put and waited for Ryoma- that's got to count for something, right? The way Okita sees it, Oryo's not all that different from the Shinsengumi- forced to live a separate life different from who she truly was, but in the end it's all part of who you are, even the fake stuff. That's why he says that her falling for Saito Hajime and chasing after him were real enough. Ryoma's life as Saito Hajime was real: he lived in Kyo, joined and fought as Third Captain of the Shinsengumi, and Ryoma can't just throw it away so easily. Okita encourages Ryoma to give Oryo a proper farewell, as they aren't leaving until the following morning so there is plenty of time. Ryoma agrees and thanks Okita for being a brother to him, which Okita finds to be embarrassing before sending Ryoma on his way.
Ryoma goes to Teradaya and meets Otose, who wants to confirm what she heard from Nakaoka that Ryoma is going to Tosa to confront his double. She encourages him to speak with Oryo before he leaves, as she is very worried about what might happen to him despite putting on a brave face. Otose has actually given Oryo some time off, once again encouraging Ryoma to spend time with her even if for one day. Ryoma agrees, and Otose goes to fetch Oryo so the two can be together. Oryo goes to Ryoma and asks that, if he's interested, would he mind of she walked with him today so he might make some good memories in Kyo. Ryoma does nto mind, and after a brief moment where Oryo goes to get ready the two head out into the town.
First, they stop by a noodle restaurant for some lunch. Ryoma offers to pay, of course, but the owner tells him the food is on the house thanks to how much he has helped them during his time here. Next the two go for some drinks, and once again the bartender says drinks are on the house. Oryo questions if maybe he's being too generous, but Ryoma argues that perhaps he just wants her to feel welcome. After they finish their drinks (and Oryo teases Ryoma about how much they drank), they head to the local music hall to sing. Ryoma sings his heart out, and after commenting on his singing ability Oryo notes how everyone around town seems to live him. then, the two head to the dance hall where Ryoma can show off the dancing moves he has learned in his off hours. Oryo is a little surprised about the idea of Ryoma dancing (thinking he just spent his free time gambling), but he is able to impress her all the same. Finally the two decide to end their day at the Kiyomizu Temple, Oryo asking if there's anything Ryoma's wishing for in particular; he is coy on an answer, and the two start off for the temple.
After they finish praying, Ryoma asks if Oryo is tired from their walk that day. Oryo says that today was nothing like her work at Teradaya, and that she was wondering if Ryoma was tired from all the running around they were doing. As they look over the railing, she admits she wishes they could do this more often. After a pause, Ryoma turns to Oryo and thanks her; she has been the main reason he has been able to do anything on his own, but even knowing that he never got a chance to properly thank her. So he's doing it now, as for all he knows it may be his last chance to thank her for everything. He tells her that a lot will chance with the Bakufu dissolving, and he hopes that Oryo and Otose stick together to support one another. Oryo turns away and tells Ryoma not to talk to her like that; she doesn't want to hear what's coming next, and it may not mean much given that she had spied on Ryoma in the past, but from now on she does not want to leave his side. But if that's the case, why is he making it seem like she will never seen him again? He is coming back, right? Oryo falls into Ryoma's arms and says she will be waiting for him, no matter how long it takes for him to return, asking him to promise he'll come back. Ryoma does so, and Oryo says if he lied she will never cook for him again.
After they return to Teradaya and part ways, Ryoma dons his Shinsengumi haori once more and departs the inn, heading back to the barracks. Upon arriving, Nagakura tells him they have some time to kill, so why don't they practice their fighting a little before they head out? Ryoma agrees, sparring with Nagakura, Okita, and Hijikata to make sure his skills are still sharp. Once they have warmed up and gathered their supplies, the four men board a ship heading for Tosa. As they near land, Okita asks how they are going to find Takechi; Tosa's still a big town, so he could be hiding anywhere. Ryoma, though, has a pretty good idea where Takechi will be waiting for him. As they near, Hijikata spots something... off; the entirety of Tosa has been heavily fortified, with homes and shops having been bulldozed to build stockades and cannon emplacements. Ryoma says that this isn't the Tosa he remembers, asking himself what happened to the city in the year he was gone.
They make landfall and inspect the fortifications, Ryoma looking to Kochi Castle and saying that is where this whole mess began, and that is where Takechi will be waiting for him. Hijikata muses that Ryoma and Tackechi's relationship might not be all that different from his and Kondo's, and if that's true then Ryoma is the only one that can stop Takechi. Okita agrees, and after a pause they draw their swords, Ryoma declaring they are going to take Kochi castle. Waves of Loyalists troopers come to face them, but none are a match for the four Captains as they cut their way towards the castle.
As they approach the first gate, Sasaki and the Mimawarigumi step out to stop them. Nagakura asks why the Mimawarigumi have teamed up with Takechi and betrayed the Bakufu, but Sasaki tells them he doesn't care- all his life he's been cursing his boring, stagnant place in life, but now that Japan is caught up in instability unlike any seen since the Sengoku period he can't be happier. He wants the chaos to continue, and he isn't going to let the four Shinsengumi captains spoil his fun. While Okita is impressed Sasaki wasn't some stuck up noble, the others are not, and Sasaki draws his sword before he and the Mimawarigumi plunge into the fight. Sasaki is able to put up a good fight, and more Mimawarigumi arrive to do battle. Rather than let their advance be slowed down, Nagakura steps up and tells the others to go on ahead- ordering Hijikata and Okita to protect Ryoma on his hunt for Takechi. The remaining three wish Nakagura well, and rush off as he goes to fight the Mimawarigumi.
The three continue their battle, seeking to infiltrate the castle by sneaking in through the basement. They find more enemies below, battling through the narrow caverns as they head deep into the fortress. They fight their way to an engine room, where they find Ito and the Goryo Eji waiting for them. Ito tells Hijikata that he missed a great opportunity- if he had just made Ito Chief, then the Shinsengumi would have grown to new heights. He taunts Hijikata by saying his Goryo Eji are far beyond what the Shinsengumi were, and as he draws his sword he is ready to show him just what that means. The two sides fight, and during the battle the boiler overclocks and fills the room with steam, hiding Ito and the others from one another as they continue their battle. Eventually the Shinsengumi get the better of the Goryo Eji, though Ito himself remains standing, impressed by the Shinsengumi's skills. But he's been training his men hard, and the Goryo Eji are all able to quickly recover and move to fight again. Now it is Hijikata's turn to stay behind, ordering Ryoma to continue onward while he finishes Ito. Takechi is Ryoma's fight, and he needs to get there soon to resolve this whole mess. Ryoma and Okita hurry onward as Hijikata raises his blade in challenge to Ito.
Ryoma and Okita break out of the basement, fighting off more Loyalists in their push. Not only do they face waves of soldiers, but a warship off the coast opens fire on them, the two forced to dodge cannon fire as they clash against swordsmen and spearmen alike. They get aboard the ship where they find a man waiting for them with a large squad of foreign and local soldiers. The man introduces himself as Thomas Glover (Andre Richardson), the arms dealer whom Takechi has been dealing with. He's here to ensure that Takechi's plan comes to fruition and his investment remains secure, ordering his men to surround Ryoma and Okita with rifles and Gatling guns at the ready. Glover says it's a waste to use such fine weaponry on savages like them, but neither Ryoma or Okita are impressed before they draw their swords. They plunge into Glover's men, cutting down many of them, but Glover is able to call in more reinforcements. Okita is having a blast and elects to stay behind, sending Ryoma on to fight Takechi alone. Ryoma departs as cannon and gunfire fills the room, pushing on to find Takechi and end the struggle once and for all.
Ryoma enters Kochi Castle and finds Takechi right where he expected to: the room where they met Toyo the night he was murdered. Takechi explains that while Tosa may have changed, he made sure that this room stayed exactly as it was that night. He goes on to say that that night, Toyo was not going to choose Takechi: he had plans to leave the entirety of the Tosa Loyalist Party in Ryoma's hands. Ryoma is surprised by this, but Takechi is not: Ryoma has not changed, in that he will sacrifice everything for others but is completely blind to his own self. He could never allow Ryoma to be so naïve, and he could never forgive Toyo for passing Tosa on to Ryoma instead of him. Ryoma asks if Takechi had Toyo killed just so he could be in charge, but Takechi counters that in order to change Tosa sacrifices had to be made: bloodshed was always inevitable, and both Ryoma and Toyo were too kind and compassionate to make the hard calls and see the revolution through to the end. Toyo would never see things that way, and so in order to see his vision through Takechi had Toyo killed. Ryoma asks if Takechi expects him to believe that, with Takechi continuing on that Toyo was too caught up in the method of his revolution rather than the end result. Furthermore, they were both raised as tools of Toyo's plans, so Takechi was only carrying out his orders to their logical conclusion.
Ryoma still refuses to believe him, which Takechi doesn't find too surprising. He goes on to say that all of this started around the time he hired Serizawa Kamo to kill Toyo- that was when he first began operating under the alias of "Sakamoto Ryoma". Why? He wants to know which of them is right: if he wins, he'll carry on with his plans for revolution. As part of the Shinsengumi, Ryoma was bound to hear news of a fake and would investigate, so Takechi took the name as a challenge to Ryoma: will Sakamoto Ryoma be remembered as the man who rewrote history with the sword, or will he walk the same path as Yoshida Toyo. The last year holds the answer, and now it is time for them to find out what that answer is- all that is certain is that Sakamoto Ryoma will be remembered as a man who changed history, and whether it's him or the real deal doesn't really matter. Ryoma calls Takechi insane and asks if a fight will really solve anything, but Takechi sees it as only natural. That's why he traced Ryoma's every move, through his spies within the Shinsengumi (Yamazaki) and outside (Oryo). Everything was going perfectly, even the Satcho Alliance played into Takechi's hands, but then Ryoma blindsided him by restoring Imperial Rule, so he was forced to play his trump card and set Kyo ablaze, but even then Ryoma emerged triumphant, killed Izo, and forgave Oryo for her actions. Despite everything Takechi has thrown at him, Ryoma refused to change, so calling him here is meant to end this, one-on-one, no further distractions, and perhaps Takechi can finally prove himself the righteous one. Ryoma once more calls Takechi "brother" which Takechi responds makes him feel genuinely revived inside. However, as he rises from his spot and draws his sword, he says that doesn't matter now- history cannot have two Sakamoto Ryomas, so they must help it along.
After a pause, Ryoma draws his blade to meet Takechi's challenge, saying that he sees a new spark within Takechi; Takechi agrees, not sure what it is but getting to fight Ryoma again has him excited. They both agree to hold back nothing, and with that they charge forward to attack. Their battle is fierce, and after a Blade Lock Takechi knocks Ryoma into another room. As Ryoma recovers, he narrowly cuts through a sliding door Takechi throws at him before deflecting Takechi's follow up strikes. Ryoma breaks away to go for his pistol, but Takechi has grabbed his own gun and tries shooting Ryoma's out of his hand. After a brief pause to gain a better position, the two reengage and continue the fight, eventually following each other up to the roof of Kochi Castle. There, Takechi discards his pistol for a final duel, the two men clashing once more. After a grueling fight, Ryoma defeats Takechi.
As Takechi collapses, Ryoma draws his sword back for the final blow. However, just as he has done before, Ryoma pulls his strike at the last second, sparing Takechi even as the man tries to goad him on, telling him to strike and take back his name for good. Ryoma steps back and reminds Takechi of what he said the night they reunited: Sakamoto Ryoma is dead. Takechi tries to argue against that, but Ryoma says it doesn't matter nor does he care- all that matters is that he has Takechi and Toyo. He asks Takechi if he remembers what he said, that no matter where Ryoma goes he will always protect what's in reach. Hearing it thrown back at him, Takechi admits that Ryoma is right and Takechi wasn't the one to change things; he had tried to change Japan with force, using the same levers of class and hierarchy that he was hoping to destroy. And what's worse, he allowed himself to be used by an even more powerful man; looking at it from that perspective, Takechi guesses this was how Toyo must have felt. Ryoma asks what he means by that, and Takechi says that changing the times needs more than cunning or ruthlessness- it needs love, for only those who respond with love can truly change things. Ryoma showed this when he gave himself unconditionally to protect Takechi on the night Toyo was murdered, and while he chose a path of cruelty they still ended up here, and no wit or tactic could ever compare to that. Takechi admits that even then he had already lost, but it took him until now to realize that. Ryoma says there is still a heart in there somewhere, citing how Takechi sent Katsura to watch over him while he was in Kyo and how he always protected him when they were kids- is that not love? Ryoma continues on, saying that both of them have died once recently (Takechi in Tosa, and Sakamoto Ryoma at Omiya), so there is no more need for bloodshed and they need not hate one another. With that, Ryoma sheathes his sword and tells Takechi he forgives him and will still call him brother.
Ryoma's exhaustion gets the better of him, and he too sinks to his knees. The two pause to watch as the sun breaks over the horizon, enjoying each other's company as brothers once again. Eventually Takechi rises to his feet, telling Ryoma they have a lot of work to do; he intends to disassemble the fortifications around Tosa and restore the town to its original beauty, and he will not allow Yamauchi Yodo to get his hands on them either. Ryoma asks what he means, and Takechi explains that around the time Ryoma joined the Shinsengumi, Lord Yodo hijacked Takechi's operations, using him and Admiral Rintaro to secure weapons and arms from the British. The fortress Tosa has become is all part of his plan, Ryoma saying Yodo intends to start a war. Takechi says it goes beyond that, but before he can explain further he dives in front of Ryoma, taking a bullet to the back in the process.
As Ryoma helps Takechi, they confront the man who shot him: Lord Yodo himself (Kyohei Jingu), who says that you can never trust those that work their way up from the bottom. He asks Takechi if he really didn't see this coming, asking how he would be able to fool the country if he couldn't fool Takechi. Ryoma asks what he means, and Yodo thanks Ryoma for his stunt with Imperial Rule allowing him to keep Tosa intact. As Ryoma asks what he means, Takechi explains that Yodo intends to take Japan and sell it to the British. Yodo "corrects" Takechi by saying he intends to give it to the British, not sell it, with Takechi firing back that all Yodo wants is a cushy throne. Yodo confirms this; he wants to put himself so far above the rabble that there will be no need for class distinction. Even as they speak, a British fleet is steaming towards Japan, and Yodo intends to allow them to land in Tosa; with European forces and his own accumulated weapons, the Imperial Government in Kyo will be powerless against Yodo. He adds that he quite likes the British, with their ways of finding like-minded individuals in secret to forward their plans, and he is just the man able to sell Japan to them while still maintaining "order".
Ryoma rises to face Yodo, Yodo saying that if he grovels he might spare Ryoma. When Ryoma doesn't answer and merely draws his sword, Yodo scoffs and readies his gun, Takechi asking Ryoma what the hell he thinks he's doing. Yodo shoots Ryoma in the side, but the samurai refuses to fall. He shoots Ryoma again, once in the shoulder and once in the leg, but still Ryoma keeps on coming, telling Yodo that this is what it looks like for a man who genuinely loves his country. Yodo loses his nerve and tries to flee, but he is cut off by Nagakura (who grabs him by the face and pitches him back to Ryoma's feet). When he tries to escape again, Yodo is cut off and surrounded by Hijikata and Okita, all the Shinsengumi closing in to trap Yodo. Okita tells him there's no point in running, with Hijikata adding that all of them will be dragging him down to hell. Panicking, Yodo crawls back to Ryoma and begs for mercy, offering him an entire province if Ryoma will let him go.
Problem is, there's no one here that answers to the name "Sakamoto Ryoma".
Yodo continues to beg for mercy, saying that Japan's isolation will not work and only he can bring the nation into the modern era. Saito Hajime counters that even if Japan asked, no one would want Yodo's "help"; Japan walks its own path, a path that isn't determined by him, Yodo, or anyone else present. Yodo argues that their confidence will be their undoing, as the British will be arriving soon and they cannot hope to stand against them. Saito, though, couldn't care less, Yodo continuing to say that unlike these goshi he has done more to ensure Japan's survival than anyone else, so it would be better if they let him run things. But Saito still does not care; this is Japan, and it will take a lot more than a British fleet to bring it to heel; even in the face of Yodo's arguments, he says that while they may lose everything, Japan will rise again and again. The men who follow after them will ensure this, and it's up to this generation to teach them that knowledge, teach them why they call this land home. Japan has a lot of blood to spill, and though his travels and the men he has met (Kondo, Katsura, Saigo, Takechi), Saito knows there are men who understand what spilled blood is actually worth. They may all make mistakes, but no matter what they must keep moving forward and believe in this nation, else what future do they really have? Saito steps forward and raises his sword, and as Yodo continues to beg for mercy he says that Japan's future is in the hands of so many others they will never meet, but they all will have a chance to watch this future. With that, Saito brings the sword down on Yodo's head.
Two years later, Takechi (having stolen the identity of the late Lord Yodo) is resting at a private villa in Hakozaki, Tokyo, when he receives a visitor: it's Katsura, now living under the alias of Kido Takayoshi and a minister in the new Meiji government. Katsura comments a lot has happened in the year since Takechi retired from his position as President of Domestic Affairs: mostly paperwork, but Takechi's work in undoing the damage to Tosa and helping to guide the Meiji Restoration from the shadows has not gone unnoticed... along with his contributions with the late Sakamoto Ryoma. Katsura jokes that now that he's retired Takechi doesn't have to live under the identity of "Yamauchi Yodo" anymore; Katusra, he's shifted identities quite a lot, but not many people get a chance to live a life or two. But no matter how many lives he lives, Takechi can never hide his love for sake. Takechi sets aside his drink, but does not answer Katsura.
Down in Kyo, Nakaoka is shown writing something, but he has not been able to get very far. Otose enters his room and chides him for overworking himself, with Nakaoka countering that he's trying to combine two lives here- not exactly easy work. Otose teases him for his dedication, opening up a window to get some sunlight in while Nakaoka grumbles. It is shown he is working on a biography of Sakamoto Ryoma, under the penname Sakazaki Shinran. As Nakaoka takes a break, Otose comments it's a beautiful day outside, musing whether it's the same over in Aso; Nakaoka adds that's where "they" said they were heading, Otose confirming and saying while they can't get married, they'll still get a chance to create some good memories out there. The last scene shows Saito helping Oryo up to a viewpoint overlooking a vast, forested valley, the two commenting on the gorgeous view. Oryo says he hopes that they'll get more views like this in the future, with Saito saying they will, as a new dawn has risen over Japan.
Fin
Ryoma goes to Teradaya and meets Otose, who wants to confirm what she heard from Nakaoka that Ryoma is going to Tosa to confront his double. She encourages him to speak with Oryo before he leaves, as she is very worried about what might happen to him despite putting on a brave face. Otose has actually given Oryo some time off, once again encouraging Ryoma to spend time with her even if for one day. Ryoma agrees, and Otose goes to fetch Oryo so the two can be together. Oryo goes to Ryoma and asks that, if he's interested, would he mind of she walked with him today so he might make some good memories in Kyo. Ryoma does nto mind, and after a brief moment where Oryo goes to get ready the two head out into the town.
First, they stop by a noodle restaurant for some lunch. Ryoma offers to pay, of course, but the owner tells him the food is on the house thanks to how much he has helped them during his time here. Next the two go for some drinks, and once again the bartender says drinks are on the house. Oryo questions if maybe he's being too generous, but Ryoma argues that perhaps he just wants her to feel welcome. After they finish their drinks (and Oryo teases Ryoma about how much they drank), they head to the local music hall to sing. Ryoma sings his heart out, and after commenting on his singing ability Oryo notes how everyone around town seems to live him. then, the two head to the dance hall where Ryoma can show off the dancing moves he has learned in his off hours. Oryo is a little surprised about the idea of Ryoma dancing (thinking he just spent his free time gambling), but he is able to impress her all the same. Finally the two decide to end their day at the Kiyomizu Temple, Oryo asking if there's anything Ryoma's wishing for in particular; he is coy on an answer, and the two start off for the temple.
After they finish praying, Ryoma asks if Oryo is tired from their walk that day. Oryo says that today was nothing like her work at Teradaya, and that she was wondering if Ryoma was tired from all the running around they were doing. As they look over the railing, she admits she wishes they could do this more often. After a pause, Ryoma turns to Oryo and thanks her; she has been the main reason he has been able to do anything on his own, but even knowing that he never got a chance to properly thank her. So he's doing it now, as for all he knows it may be his last chance to thank her for everything. He tells her that a lot will chance with the Bakufu dissolving, and he hopes that Oryo and Otose stick together to support one another. Oryo turns away and tells Ryoma not to talk to her like that; she doesn't want to hear what's coming next, and it may not mean much given that she had spied on Ryoma in the past, but from now on she does not want to leave his side. But if that's the case, why is he making it seem like she will never seen him again? He is coming back, right? Oryo falls into Ryoma's arms and says she will be waiting for him, no matter how long it takes for him to return, asking him to promise he'll come back. Ryoma does so, and Oryo says if he lied she will never cook for him again.
After they return to Teradaya and part ways, Ryoma dons his Shinsengumi haori once more and departs the inn, heading back to the barracks. Upon arriving, Nagakura tells him they have some time to kill, so why don't they practice their fighting a little before they head out? Ryoma agrees, sparring with Nagakura, Okita, and Hijikata to make sure his skills are still sharp. Once they have warmed up and gathered their supplies, the four men board a ship heading for Tosa. As they near land, Okita asks how they are going to find Takechi; Tosa's still a big town, so he could be hiding anywhere. Ryoma, though, has a pretty good idea where Takechi will be waiting for him. As they near, Hijikata spots something... off; the entirety of Tosa has been heavily fortified, with homes and shops having been bulldozed to build stockades and cannon emplacements. Ryoma says that this isn't the Tosa he remembers, asking himself what happened to the city in the year he was gone.
They make landfall and inspect the fortifications, Ryoma looking to Kochi Castle and saying that is where this whole mess began, and that is where Takechi will be waiting for him. Hijikata muses that Ryoma and Tackechi's relationship might not be all that different from his and Kondo's, and if that's true then Ryoma is the only one that can stop Takechi. Okita agrees, and after a pause they draw their swords, Ryoma declaring they are going to take Kochi castle. Waves of Loyalists troopers come to face them, but none are a match for the four Captains as they cut their way towards the castle.
As they approach the first gate, Sasaki and the Mimawarigumi step out to stop them. Nagakura asks why the Mimawarigumi have teamed up with Takechi and betrayed the Bakufu, but Sasaki tells them he doesn't care- all his life he's been cursing his boring, stagnant place in life, but now that Japan is caught up in instability unlike any seen since the Sengoku period he can't be happier. He wants the chaos to continue, and he isn't going to let the four Shinsengumi captains spoil his fun. While Okita is impressed Sasaki wasn't some stuck up noble, the others are not, and Sasaki draws his sword before he and the Mimawarigumi plunge into the fight. Sasaki is able to put up a good fight, and more Mimawarigumi arrive to do battle. Rather than let their advance be slowed down, Nagakura steps up and tells the others to go on ahead- ordering Hijikata and Okita to protect Ryoma on his hunt for Takechi. The remaining three wish Nakagura well, and rush off as he goes to fight the Mimawarigumi.
The three continue their battle, seeking to infiltrate the castle by sneaking in through the basement. They find more enemies below, battling through the narrow caverns as they head deep into the fortress. They fight their way to an engine room, where they find Ito and the Goryo Eji waiting for them. Ito tells Hijikata that he missed a great opportunity- if he had just made Ito Chief, then the Shinsengumi would have grown to new heights. He taunts Hijikata by saying his Goryo Eji are far beyond what the Shinsengumi were, and as he draws his sword he is ready to show him just what that means. The two sides fight, and during the battle the boiler overclocks and fills the room with steam, hiding Ito and the others from one another as they continue their battle. Eventually the Shinsengumi get the better of the Goryo Eji, though Ito himself remains standing, impressed by the Shinsengumi's skills. But he's been training his men hard, and the Goryo Eji are all able to quickly recover and move to fight again. Now it is Hijikata's turn to stay behind, ordering Ryoma to continue onward while he finishes Ito. Takechi is Ryoma's fight, and he needs to get there soon to resolve this whole mess. Ryoma and Okita hurry onward as Hijikata raises his blade in challenge to Ito.
Ryoma and Okita break out of the basement, fighting off more Loyalists in their push. Not only do they face waves of soldiers, but a warship off the coast opens fire on them, the two forced to dodge cannon fire as they clash against swordsmen and spearmen alike. They get aboard the ship where they find a man waiting for them with a large squad of foreign and local soldiers. The man introduces himself as Thomas Glover (Andre Richardson), the arms dealer whom Takechi has been dealing with. He's here to ensure that Takechi's plan comes to fruition and his investment remains secure, ordering his men to surround Ryoma and Okita with rifles and Gatling guns at the ready. Glover says it's a waste to use such fine weaponry on savages like them, but neither Ryoma or Okita are impressed before they draw their swords. They plunge into Glover's men, cutting down many of them, but Glover is able to call in more reinforcements. Okita is having a blast and elects to stay behind, sending Ryoma on to fight Takechi alone. Ryoma departs as cannon and gunfire fills the room, pushing on to find Takechi and end the struggle once and for all.
Ryoma enters Kochi Castle and finds Takechi right where he expected to: the room where they met Toyo the night he was murdered. Takechi explains that while Tosa may have changed, he made sure that this room stayed exactly as it was that night. He goes on to say that that night, Toyo was not going to choose Takechi: he had plans to leave the entirety of the Tosa Loyalist Party in Ryoma's hands. Ryoma is surprised by this, but Takechi is not: Ryoma has not changed, in that he will sacrifice everything for others but is completely blind to his own self. He could never allow Ryoma to be so naïve, and he could never forgive Toyo for passing Tosa on to Ryoma instead of him. Ryoma asks if Takechi had Toyo killed just so he could be in charge, but Takechi counters that in order to change Tosa sacrifices had to be made: bloodshed was always inevitable, and both Ryoma and Toyo were too kind and compassionate to make the hard calls and see the revolution through to the end. Toyo would never see things that way, and so in order to see his vision through Takechi had Toyo killed. Ryoma asks if Takechi expects him to believe that, with Takechi continuing on that Toyo was too caught up in the method of his revolution rather than the end result. Furthermore, they were both raised as tools of Toyo's plans, so Takechi was only carrying out his orders to their logical conclusion.
Ryoma still refuses to believe him, which Takechi doesn't find too surprising. He goes on to say that all of this started around the time he hired Serizawa Kamo to kill Toyo- that was when he first began operating under the alias of "Sakamoto Ryoma". Why? He wants to know which of them is right: if he wins, he'll carry on with his plans for revolution. As part of the Shinsengumi, Ryoma was bound to hear news of a fake and would investigate, so Takechi took the name as a challenge to Ryoma: will Sakamoto Ryoma be remembered as the man who rewrote history with the sword, or will he walk the same path as Yoshida Toyo. The last year holds the answer, and now it is time for them to find out what that answer is- all that is certain is that Sakamoto Ryoma will be remembered as a man who changed history, and whether it's him or the real deal doesn't really matter. Ryoma calls Takechi insane and asks if a fight will really solve anything, but Takechi sees it as only natural. That's why he traced Ryoma's every move, through his spies within the Shinsengumi (Yamazaki) and outside (Oryo). Everything was going perfectly, even the Satcho Alliance played into Takechi's hands, but then Ryoma blindsided him by restoring Imperial Rule, so he was forced to play his trump card and set Kyo ablaze, but even then Ryoma emerged triumphant, killed Izo, and forgave Oryo for her actions. Despite everything Takechi has thrown at him, Ryoma refused to change, so calling him here is meant to end this, one-on-one, no further distractions, and perhaps Takechi can finally prove himself the righteous one. Ryoma once more calls Takechi "brother" which Takechi responds makes him feel genuinely revived inside. However, as he rises from his spot and draws his sword, he says that doesn't matter now- history cannot have two Sakamoto Ryomas, so they must help it along.
After a pause, Ryoma draws his blade to meet Takechi's challenge, saying that he sees a new spark within Takechi; Takechi agrees, not sure what it is but getting to fight Ryoma again has him excited. They both agree to hold back nothing, and with that they charge forward to attack. Their battle is fierce, and after a Blade Lock Takechi knocks Ryoma into another room. As Ryoma recovers, he narrowly cuts through a sliding door Takechi throws at him before deflecting Takechi's follow up strikes. Ryoma breaks away to go for his pistol, but Takechi has grabbed his own gun and tries shooting Ryoma's out of his hand. After a brief pause to gain a better position, the two reengage and continue the fight, eventually following each other up to the roof of Kochi Castle. There, Takechi discards his pistol for a final duel, the two men clashing once more. After a grueling fight, Ryoma defeats Takechi.
As Takechi collapses, Ryoma draws his sword back for the final blow. However, just as he has done before, Ryoma pulls his strike at the last second, sparing Takechi even as the man tries to goad him on, telling him to strike and take back his name for good. Ryoma steps back and reminds Takechi of what he said the night they reunited: Sakamoto Ryoma is dead. Takechi tries to argue against that, but Ryoma says it doesn't matter nor does he care- all that matters is that he has Takechi and Toyo. He asks Takechi if he remembers what he said, that no matter where Ryoma goes he will always protect what's in reach. Hearing it thrown back at him, Takechi admits that Ryoma is right and Takechi wasn't the one to change things; he had tried to change Japan with force, using the same levers of class and hierarchy that he was hoping to destroy. And what's worse, he allowed himself to be used by an even more powerful man; looking at it from that perspective, Takechi guesses this was how Toyo must have felt. Ryoma asks what he means by that, and Takechi says that changing the times needs more than cunning or ruthlessness- it needs love, for only those who respond with love can truly change things. Ryoma showed this when he gave himself unconditionally to protect Takechi on the night Toyo was murdered, and while he chose a path of cruelty they still ended up here, and no wit or tactic could ever compare to that. Takechi admits that even then he had already lost, but it took him until now to realize that. Ryoma says there is still a heart in there somewhere, citing how Takechi sent Katsura to watch over him while he was in Kyo and how he always protected him when they were kids- is that not love? Ryoma continues on, saying that both of them have died once recently (Takechi in Tosa, and Sakamoto Ryoma at Omiya), so there is no more need for bloodshed and they need not hate one another. With that, Ryoma sheathes his sword and tells Takechi he forgives him and will still call him brother.
Ryoma's exhaustion gets the better of him, and he too sinks to his knees. The two pause to watch as the sun breaks over the horizon, enjoying each other's company as brothers once again. Eventually Takechi rises to his feet, telling Ryoma they have a lot of work to do; he intends to disassemble the fortifications around Tosa and restore the town to its original beauty, and he will not allow Yamauchi Yodo to get his hands on them either. Ryoma asks what he means, and Takechi explains that around the time Ryoma joined the Shinsengumi, Lord Yodo hijacked Takechi's operations, using him and Admiral Rintaro to secure weapons and arms from the British. The fortress Tosa has become is all part of his plan, Ryoma saying Yodo intends to start a war. Takechi says it goes beyond that, but before he can explain further he dives in front of Ryoma, taking a bullet to the back in the process.
As Ryoma helps Takechi, they confront the man who shot him: Lord Yodo himself (Kyohei Jingu), who says that you can never trust those that work their way up from the bottom. He asks Takechi if he really didn't see this coming, asking how he would be able to fool the country if he couldn't fool Takechi. Ryoma asks what he means, and Yodo thanks Ryoma for his stunt with Imperial Rule allowing him to keep Tosa intact. As Ryoma asks what he means, Takechi explains that Yodo intends to take Japan and sell it to the British. Yodo "corrects" Takechi by saying he intends to give it to the British, not sell it, with Takechi firing back that all Yodo wants is a cushy throne. Yodo confirms this; he wants to put himself so far above the rabble that there will be no need for class distinction. Even as they speak, a British fleet is steaming towards Japan, and Yodo intends to allow them to land in Tosa; with European forces and his own accumulated weapons, the Imperial Government in Kyo will be powerless against Yodo. He adds that he quite likes the British, with their ways of finding like-minded individuals in secret to forward their plans, and he is just the man able to sell Japan to them while still maintaining "order".
Ryoma rises to face Yodo, Yodo saying that if he grovels he might spare Ryoma. When Ryoma doesn't answer and merely draws his sword, Yodo scoffs and readies his gun, Takechi asking Ryoma what the hell he thinks he's doing. Yodo shoots Ryoma in the side, but the samurai refuses to fall. He shoots Ryoma again, once in the shoulder and once in the leg, but still Ryoma keeps on coming, telling Yodo that this is what it looks like for a man who genuinely loves his country. Yodo loses his nerve and tries to flee, but he is cut off by Nagakura (who grabs him by the face and pitches him back to Ryoma's feet). When he tries to escape again, Yodo is cut off and surrounded by Hijikata and Okita, all the Shinsengumi closing in to trap Yodo. Okita tells him there's no point in running, with Hijikata adding that all of them will be dragging him down to hell. Panicking, Yodo crawls back to Ryoma and begs for mercy, offering him an entire province if Ryoma will let him go.
Problem is, there's no one here that answers to the name "Sakamoto Ryoma".
Yodo continues to beg for mercy, saying that Japan's isolation will not work and only he can bring the nation into the modern era. Saito Hajime counters that even if Japan asked, no one would want Yodo's "help"; Japan walks its own path, a path that isn't determined by him, Yodo, or anyone else present. Yodo argues that their confidence will be their undoing, as the British will be arriving soon and they cannot hope to stand against them. Saito, though, couldn't care less, Yodo continuing to say that unlike these goshi he has done more to ensure Japan's survival than anyone else, so it would be better if they let him run things. But Saito still does not care; this is Japan, and it will take a lot more than a British fleet to bring it to heel; even in the face of Yodo's arguments, he says that while they may lose everything, Japan will rise again and again. The men who follow after them will ensure this, and it's up to this generation to teach them that knowledge, teach them why they call this land home. Japan has a lot of blood to spill, and though his travels and the men he has met (Kondo, Katsura, Saigo, Takechi), Saito knows there are men who understand what spilled blood is actually worth. They may all make mistakes, but no matter what they must keep moving forward and believe in this nation, else what future do they really have? Saito steps forward and raises his sword, and as Yodo continues to beg for mercy he says that Japan's future is in the hands of so many others they will never meet, but they all will have a chance to watch this future. With that, Saito brings the sword down on Yodo's head.
Two years later, Takechi (having stolen the identity of the late Lord Yodo) is resting at a private villa in Hakozaki, Tokyo, when he receives a visitor: it's Katsura, now living under the alias of Kido Takayoshi and a minister in the new Meiji government. Katsura comments a lot has happened in the year since Takechi retired from his position as President of Domestic Affairs: mostly paperwork, but Takechi's work in undoing the damage to Tosa and helping to guide the Meiji Restoration from the shadows has not gone unnoticed... along with his contributions with the late Sakamoto Ryoma. Katsura jokes that now that he's retired Takechi doesn't have to live under the identity of "Yamauchi Yodo" anymore; Katusra, he's shifted identities quite a lot, but not many people get a chance to live a life or two. But no matter how many lives he lives, Takechi can never hide his love for sake. Takechi sets aside his drink, but does not answer Katsura.
Down in Kyo, Nakaoka is shown writing something, but he has not been able to get very far. Otose enters his room and chides him for overworking himself, with Nakaoka countering that he's trying to combine two lives here- not exactly easy work. Otose teases him for his dedication, opening up a window to get some sunlight in while Nakaoka grumbles. It is shown he is working on a biography of Sakamoto Ryoma, under the penname Sakazaki Shinran. As Nakaoka takes a break, Otose comments it's a beautiful day outside, musing whether it's the same over in Aso; Nakaoka adds that's where "they" said they were heading, Otose confirming and saying while they can't get married, they'll still get a chance to create some good memories out there. The last scene shows Saito helping Oryo up to a viewpoint overlooking a vast, forested valley, the two commenting on the gorgeous view. Oryo says he hopes that they'll get more views like this in the future, with Saito saying they will, as a new dawn has risen over Japan.
Fin
